Meet a Shocker: Mariana Vazquez Serna

Mariana Vazquez Serna got involved at Wichita State, making connections with her peers and professors by joining clubs and attending events on campus, something she advises other students to do during their time at WSU. She will work as an associate for an accounting firm after graduating with her BBA in accounting.

Mariana is one of more than 1,400 students eligible for fall 2023 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.


Hometown

Calvillo, Aguascalientes, Mexico

Major

Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting with minors in Finance and Economics

What made you choose Wichita State University?

One thing that drew me to Wichita State was the affordability. The school offers a wide variety of scholarships for every major. I was able to receive some scholarships from the school that helped me continue with my education, and I even got the opportunity to study abroad, which was something I wanted to do since I was in elementary school.

What has been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge as a student was making new friends. This was particularly challenging for me because I was a transfer student and did not live on campus. I overcame this by getting involved in different clubs and programs at school, like the International Buddy Program and Beta Alpha Psi (BAP). Studying abroad in a group was also helpful, as that is how I met some of my closest friends.

What's your favorite off-campus location in Wichita?

My favorite off-campus location is the Great Plains Nature Center because I love nature.

If you could choose a song to play when you walk across the stage at graduation, what would it be?

If I could choose a song to play when I walk across the stage at graduation, it would be “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day.

What are your plans after graduation?

I will work as an associate for an accounting firm here in Wichita.

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

My advice to other WSU students is to get out of your comfort zone, explore new things, meet new people and get involved. Attending events the school hosts is a great way to network and make new friends. Also, talk to your professors because they can give you invaluable advice that can help you grow personally and professionally. 

And the last thing: Enjoy your time here.


About Wichita State University

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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