EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the third in a series of profiles on GCU's Ingram Honors College Student Advisory Council.
Since she was a little girl, Mariana Florez wanted to be a doctor.
But when she went to a community college near her hometown of Clive, Iowa, she quickly found out the medical field is not for her.
When the opportunity arose to participate in the Iowa Legislative Page Program her senior year of high school, a program for youth to work as assistants to the legislative body, Florez’s interest was piqued.
She developed a passion for law and community engagement, which led her to pursue justice studies at Grand Canyon University and serve as the director of public relations for the Ingram Honors College Student Advisory Council.
1. What was your first impression of the Honors College?
The summer before my senior year (of high school), I visited the campus and I met with the president of the Leadership In Action institute at the time. She explained all the different opportunities, the Young Athena program, PAC and more. She even had a little slideshow, and I just fell in love with it.
I was super excited, like, wow, these are super amazing opportunities that will help me grow my future, my capabilities and more. Might as well join.
2. What do you love most about law?
Everyone deserves justice. It’s just about standing up for people and being a voice for them, because a lot of times they don’t know anything about the law.
3. What is the best law show?
I love "Suits." It’s definitely not accurate, but "Suits" is amazing. Great actors, great plotline. I also love "How To Get Away With Murder."
4. Imagine it's the first day of your dream law job. What is your go-to outfit?
I love a unique pantsuit, but I also have this navy blue dress and bright pink blazer and bright pink shoes. I love wearing that because it is a big statement. It's bright and bold.
5. Networking is crucial in college. What is your best tip for networking?
Even if you are nervous, be bold enough to go to all the events to figure it out. Everyone is in the same boat, especially during freshman year, when it may seem super scary.
I was super nervous to go up to anybody, but a lot of people are welcoming here and ready to talk to you, especially upperclassmen. I know a lot of friends from different colleges that are like, "The upperclassmen don’t want to talk to us."
Just starting with Kaylee (Aschbrenner, Student Advisory Council president), at the end of the academic year, she was like, "I am going to help you figure out how PR is going to work best for you." She was just ready and able to help me find a way to personalize PR for myself.
6. What is the best study spot on campus?
I love GCBC at the Student Union because I love to get Stampede infusions. It’s my favorite. But if it’s too loud in there, you can just go straight up to the library, and it’s quiet up there.
7. If you could open an eatery on campus, what would it be?
Definitely In-N-Out. I love In-N-Out so much. We don’t have In-N-Out in Iowa or anywhere close to the Midwest, so I always get it when I am in Arizona, like 24/7.
8. How do you decompress after a long day of juggling student responsibilities?
I love going to get Sweet Disciple treats with my friends. We always go get frozen yogurt or Taco Bell. We just sit, talk about our days and hang out.
I always get chocolate frozen yogurt with cookie dough. Always have to get cookie dough, put some chocolate sauce on there, sprinkles and M&Ms.
9. What is one GCU tradition everyone should try at some point while at GCU?
Midnight breakfast is definitely a must. There is a DJ, there is amazing food, all the different activities, and you can go with your friends, and it goes until midnight.
GCU staff writer Izabela Fogarasi can be reached at [email protected]
***
Related content:
GCU News: Get to know the Ingram Honors Student Advisory Council president
GCU News: Get to know the Ingram Honors Student Advisory Council vice president
