Maria was recruited to join the UNLV Rebels Volleyball team. While at UNLV, she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Maria was awarded the UNLV Graduate College Medallion for serving as a graduate ambassador representing the UNLV Graduate College in addition to obtaining mentorship and teaching certificates. Maria also completed the Post-Master’s Career Pathways Program offered in collaboration with the UNLV Graduate College and the Career Services. Maria was awarded the 2019 Outstanding Graduate Student Employee. In 2019, she joined the team of professionals at the Division of Health Sciences Advising Center as an academic advisor and was awarded Outstanding New Advisor for 2020. She continues her personal and professional development as a commitment to her students’ success.