As the MSCS 2023 graduation season continues, we are spotlighting some of our exceptional seniors. These students exemplify this year’s theme, “The Class of 2023: We Stand Out.” As they prepare to embark on their next endeavors, we celebrate their accomplishments and are inspired by their reflections and aspirations for the future. 

Mariza Castaneda Sanchez, a Memphis native, was raised in Des Moines, Iowa, and moved back to Memphis in 2014. Throughout her journey at Craigmont High School, she has achieved greatness by working hard and combining skills such as prioritization, goal setting, time-tracking, delegation, and minimizing distractions. 

Mariza is an inspiration to others who aspire to become cultural learners. She plans to attend the University of Memphis in the fall and travel the world in the future to learn about other languages and cultures. 

Learn more about Mariza here:    

Are you a Memphis native? If not, where are you from? 
I was born in Memphis, but my childhood was spent in Iowa … Des Moines. In 2014, I moved back to Memphis.  

What are your plans after graduation?   
I plan to attend the University of Memphis. I will major in Business Administration/Management and minor in French.   

What obstacles or hardships have you overcome to be successful in high school? 
An obstacle I had to overcome to be successful in high school was managing my time. I was involved in so many programs and clubs that sometimes I felt like I had to leave one to focus more on school. I had to consider many factors to see if I could really manage it all.  

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?  
Ten years from now, I see myself being in a stable place. For instance, with my career, being financially stable, knowing my plans with starting a family, and owning a house. I also see myself traveling to various places in the world and learning about their language and culture.   

Do you have a quote that inspires you?  
“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” -Yogi Berra   

Mariza, may you achieve success, happiness, and fulfillment in all your future endeavors. Congratulations on your achievements and keep reaching for your dreams!