Student Spotlight: Maria Lopez Sanchez
Meet Maria Lopez Sanchez, a junior at Texas State University studying for a Bachelor’s in Health Science. Originally from Whitesboro, Texas, Maria chose Texas State because of the opportunities available for veterans and military students. As a member of the Army, she was particularly drawn to the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program, which has allowed her to develop leadership skills, discipline, and confidence while preparing for a future in active military service.
Currently an MIlitary Science Level 3 in her third year of Military Science, Maria rotates through leadership positions such as squad leader, platoon sergeant, and platoon leader. She values the mentorship, student-guided opportunities, and confidence-building experiences ROTC provides. Maria aims to commission as a Second Lieutenant and gain experience in active duty, including unique opportunities like Ranger or Airborne training and shadowing officers in other units.
After graduation, Maria plans to serve on active duty in the U.S. Army before returning to school to pursue a medical degree in respiratory therapy or radiology.
Maria’s accomplishments reflect her dedication and determination. In high school, she contracted for the ROTC program and participated in running events such as the 10-Miler and Norwegian Foot March. At Texas State, she continues to take on leadership roles and excel in ROTC. She credits her motivation to her perseverance, her family and friends, and her commitment to never giving up.
Through her academic and military experiences, Maria has developed skills such as open-mindedness and observation, which helps her lead and inspire others. She is also passionate about running, aiming to participate in more marathons and travel for running events in different locations.
Those who know Maria describe her as motivated, passionate, positive, and driven. A fun fact about her is that she is fluent in Spanish and enjoys helping others by translating for those who do not speak English.
Maria’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and service, qualities that continue to guide her as she works toward her goals on and off campus.
Story by Stelos Fellow, Ainsley Svitenko
