Maria Villalobos Barriga

Name: Maria Villalobos Barriga
Graduation Term: Spring 2020
Major: Mathematics in Education
CSI3 Undergraduate Program: I was in three programs; Noyce, STEM Scholars, y wise.
Hobbies: I think the most recent is to watch Netflix shows… oh and cooking.
Contact: Mariabarriga2696@gmail.com

What is your current status?
So… I am currently working as a middle school math teacher woohoo. Right after I finished the credential program I applied, with my only zoom experience, and I got hired. I wasn’t too sure I was going to get the job since I was still working to pass one of the parts of the DBEST. But thanks to the governor, I took some undergrad courses y me ayudo. Así que ya tengo mi preliminary credential.

What do you enjoy most about your current status?
I LOVE working with students. I do not see it as a job that I have to go to. It is just great to teach our future and my students are just the best. They do not have any idea that this is my first year teaching. Lol

If you could give your junior/senior year self any words of advice what would you say?
Pursue your dream career! Once you are in the right field, it won’t feel like you HAVE TO DO IT, it will just make you HAPPIER.

What has been one of the biggest lessons you have learned upon graduating?
Life ain’t easy, but if you focus your attention on those small bright and positive moments, it will make everything better.

What keeps you motivated and positive throughout life’s hardships?
That I am in the place for what I worked, cried, and studied so hard.

Is there anyone from the CSI3 programs you would like to thank or give a shout out to?
Shout out to Noemi and Ale, they were my guides, counselors, and the person to talk to when I felt down during my undergrad!

Updated: 12/08/21