Senior Maya Garay has always been a kind and hardworking student and athlete. She’s been part of many things during her time at Shadow Ridge and will begin reaching new heights at Southern Utah University (SUU) starting in the fall.
Garay explored several universities and frequently visited The Counselor’s Corner to find the perfect fit for her goals and ambitions. But it wasn’t until a visit from SUU that something clicked, especially when she learned about the Presidential Ambassador Position.
“SUU came to visit the Corner back in August and told us about the Presidential Ambassador Position! The recruiter brought along some girls to talk about the school and when I stayed after to ask some questions they said I’d be a great fit and recommended I check it out and apply if I was interested,” Garay shared.
Although the opportunity was exciting, Garay admitted that the process was full of uncertainty-until she finally received the news.
“I felt honored and relieved because I had been very nervous and anxious throughout the whole process,” Garay stated.
The road to becoming a Presidential Ambassador was no small feat, and Garay’s commitment and drive helped her rise to the occasion.
“The first step was to write a couple essays and answer some short response questions as well as fill out a survey about my extracurriculars and activities. The second was to make a short video about myself and post it on YouTube about why we think we’d be a good fit for the position,” Garay mentioned. “After, if your video was chosen, they’d call you up to the campus for “PA Weekend” where all the candidates spend 2 days and 1 night at the dorms and completed multiple interviews and presentations. Throughout the weekend you’d be evaluated by current Ambassadors and members of the leadership board of the university. Finally, you’d get an email if you received the award and a surprise from your local recruiter if you did get the award!”
Now that she has been offered the position, Garay is excited to do everything she can to represent the school and to contribute to its community.
“I feel that being an ambassador for the school is a great honor and position as I, as well as my team, will be the face of the university and will represent them everywhere we go. It means putting our best foot forward and demonstrating in our everyday lives what it means to be a student of the school,” Garay stated. “I am most excited to share the information and opportunities the school has to offer and possibly open doors and curiosity to SUU. I know that’s how I found out about SUU and it was through passionate ambassadors who were excited to talk and promote the wonderful school.”
Garay doesn’t just want to represent, and contribute, she wants to truly make a difference in the lives of future students by creating meaningful, one-on-one connections.
“I would love to personally connect with students by finding out what they like, what they do, and how they plan on taking on college. I feel that by making a personal connection with the prospective student they feel much more welcome and comfortable because I will make them feel like they matter and aren’t just another person touring the campus. I will make them feel seen and cared for because everyone has a place at SUU,” Garay shared.
This role doesn’t just impact her college experience-it also sets the foundation for her future career and helps her grow into the leader she hopes to become.
“I plan to major in Political Science with an emphasis in Criminal Justice on a law track. I hope to one day be a sports and entertainment lawyer! I feel that being a Presidential Ambassador will not only give me the experience in a leadership role and community but it will also help me by forming connections through networking and improving my communication and public speaking skills, as well as talking with multiple people of different backgrounds and being able to sustain a conversation with anyone,” Garay said.
However, this all wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her parents who always made her see the best in herself.
“My parents have really inspired me and motivated me throughout all of my years in school. Ever since I was in elementary school my parents pushed me to be the best I could be and always strive for excellence,” Garay mentioned. “Since my younger age I have formed that mindset of doing everything I can to be the best I can be and not give up. I’ve developed a wonderful work ethic and determination that I not only apply to school but in all aspects of my life.”
Garay is someone who gives her all in everything she does and never meets anything halfway. She’s authentic, stays true to herself no matter what challenges come her way, and always strives to be the best version of herself. There’s no doubt she’s going to go far-not just as a future lawyer, but as a person.
As someone who’s walked the path herself, Garay encourages others to go for it and to remember that authenticity is what truly sets the students apart.
“I would honestly say to be yourself and be as authentic as you can be. I’ve noticed that what they are truly looking for is the real you. As much as you may think you don’t have what they’re looking for, organizations are always looking for unique qualities and traits, so no, they do not want all the same candidates. As long as you’re yourself they will see your best qualities and take them into account,” Garay stated.
Video Courtesy of Maya Garay: Maya Garay getting surprised during her English 102 class.
