MAS Class of 2026 Senior Spotlight: Miguel Diaz

As Miguel Diaz thinks back on his time at Mission Achievement and Success Charter School, he remembers the people who made the experience meaningful. After enrolling in the fall of 2019 as a 6th grader, he built lasting connections with teachers, friends, and fellow graduates who helped shape his journey.

Miguel credits his teachers with helping prepare him for the future. He is also grateful for the friends who supported him through what he called “the challenging times in school.”

He also says his participation in sports — whether that be basketball, track and field, cross country or soccer — played a large role in his personal growth. “Sports gave me a strong sense of purpose, both in and out of school,” he says, adding, “They also helped me build meaningful relationships and taught me the true value of teamwork.”

Other life lessons Miguel says he picked up during his seven years at MAS include not taking anything for granted and to truly appreciate the value of opportunities presented to him. “I’ve also realized the importance of making the most of my time, because it passes by quickly.”

That knowledge will come in handy for Miguel as he fulfills plans to attend Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) where he will study to become a diesel technician. After that, he wants to continue his education at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) to further his skills in the diesel tech field.

His advice to new high school students? 

“I would encourage incoming freshmen to take responsibility for their actions and not place blame on their teachers. I’d also advise them to always choose to do the right thing, because the decisions they make now will impact their future in positive ways.”

Off campus, Miguel says he enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing video games, experimenting with different fashion trends, going out to eat, and listening to music. “These activities allow me to express myself authentically, and they have helped me develop a better understanding of who I am.” 

In the next 10 years, Miguel plans to build a life that includes a family of his own. “I want to create lasting memories with my children by spending quality time together, exploring, and learning from one another.” He said he also plans to be financially secure in his  chosen field as a diesel technician and have opportunities to travel and experience new cultures.

He credits his parents for the sacrifices they made to provide Miguel with a good quality of life. “Despite their busy schedules, they always make time to pursue and achieve their goals, which inspires me to strive to be a better person every day,” he says.

His favorite restaurant is Birrieria y Tacos Alex Tijuana Style (640 Coors Blvd NW), where he often orders the Quesabirria Combo, which is a taco platter served with consommé. 

Miguel leaves MAS with a stronger sense of who he is and where he wants to go. With his plans taking shape and his goals in focus, we’re confident he is ready for the next chapter.