"On a mission to promote social justice and human flourishing through the study of mental health."

Maria is Latina student who immigrated from Colombia to Mexico at a young age. Growing up in complex and socially turbulent countries generated a passion for social justice and the importance of mental health as a way to understand and navigate the justice system. She aims to find new ways to enhance wellbeing and promote equality and justice.

Maria attended one of the most prestigious high schools in Mexico City. During her time at the Monterrey Institute of Technology, the Institute endorsed her research project on the use of deception for self-concept maintenance. As a student pursuing a bachelor of arts in psychology, Maria’s interests lie, primarily, in counseling. She is passionate about forensic psychology and the evidence-based application of human flourishing. Her interest in positive psychology led her to working as a student volunteer for the Calgary John Howard Society (CJHS) to aid people who were recently incarcerated reintegrate into society. She is also the Project Assistant at the University of Calgary's Women's Resource Centre, where she works to promote equity and build community.

• Faculty of Arts Dean's List (2021, 2022)
• University of Calgary International Undergraduate Award (2021, 2022)