Maria is one of nine children, and will be the first person in her family to receive a college degree.  She lives on the rim of the volcano with her parents, who are subsistence farmers. Maria is a great example of a student who, having no assurance of being able to go to college, worked very hard in high school.  Her drive is contrary to the norm in rural Panama. After two years at university studying business administration, Maria has shed her shy demeanor and has gained wonderful confidence, joy, and hope for the future. We are so proud of her!