More About Marissa

Hometown: Midlothian, Texas

Alma mater: University of Texas at San Antonio

Favorite spot on campus: The Quad

Favorite place in San Antonio: La Cantera or Brackenridge Park

What is your favorite St. Mary’s tradition?
My favorite St. Mary’s tradition is the annual Christmas Tree Lighting & Alumni Social — with caroling, sparkling lights, Santa visits, and a heartwarming toy drive that brings our community together in the holiday spirit. This is definitely something I look forward to!

What would you tell someone considering moving to San Antonio? 
San Antonio is a warm and welcoming city with a small-town feel but big-city amenities. The food, culture, and sense of community are unmatched — plus, you’ll never run out of things to do.

What is your advice to students going through the college search process?
Take the time to do the research and visit campuses in person. Talk to current students, ask lots of questions, figure out what makes the most sense financially and academically. Most importantly, find a place where you feel a sense of community, supported, challenged, and inspired — not just academically, but personally.

What is your favorite place to eat off campus?
Izumi or CiCi’s Pizza — the unlimited buffet is definitely unmatched. From the hibachi style to the fried dumplings and many different types of sushi rolls, you will definitely leave full and happy! CiCi’s is a must on the list — unlimited pizza, pasta, cinnamon rolls and brownies you can’t say no to! And of course, you’ve got to hit the arcade games afterward. The best part? It’s all super affordable, so you can have your fill of food and fun without breaking the bank!

What inspires you? 
What inspires me most is being able to give students second chances and help them see possibilities they may not have imagined for themselves. My heart is especially connected to transfer students and first-generation students who may feel uncertain about how college works or who may think it is ‘too late’ to chase their dreams. Guiding them through those first steps, answering their questions, helping them lay down their foundation in their careers and watching them gain confidence in their path is the most rewarding part of what I do.

Who is someone you admire, and why?
I admire my grandfather deeply. With only a third-grade education, he went straight into hard labor to provide for his family. Through determination and perseverance, he achieved his dream of becoming a U.S. citizen and later retired at the age of 40. From there, he and my grandmother traveled the world — riding elephants in Thailand, walking the streets of London, visiting all seven wonders of the world, and even being baptized in the Jordan River. He truly lived the American dream and built a strong foundation for his four children, who later raised their own families. As a first-generation college graduate Latina, I carry his legacy forward, inspired by the life he built and the doors he opened for generations to come.

What’s something most people don’t know about you? 
Most people don’t know that I’ve been part of some exciting firsts in my community. I helped open the ‘Mi Familia’ restaurant at The Rim, part of the beloved Mi Tierra family owned by the Cortez family. I also helped launch the very first La Quinta hotel in my hometown. One of my proudest moments was giving the grand opening speech for my high school — a full-circle experience that I’ll never forget.

What’s the best concert you ever attended?
Post Malone — his kind energy, amazing talent, and connection with the crowd made it an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

  • Questions?

    For any questions you or your family may have, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you.

    Office of Admission
    Chaminade Tower
    Text us: 210-526-0796
    Call us: 210-436-3126
    uadm@stmarytx.edu

    Office of Graduate Admission
    210-436-3126
    graduate@stmarytx.edu
    Chaminade Tower

    Office of Financial Assistance
    St. Louis Hall, Room 301
    210-436-3141
    finaid@stmarytx.edu

Back to top