When Maria Garcia de Bustamante ODonnell '25 arrived at SMUS from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 2022, she thought her stay in Victoria would last just one year. Instead, the Grade 12 student’s journey expanded into two years filled with personal growth, leadership opportunities, and academic achievements.
“I thought I’d stay for just one year and then go back to graduate with my class in Mexico,” said Maria. “But I loved it here so much that I decided to stay for my second year. It was a hard decision, but I’m so happy I made it.”
Her decision paid off. Maria has flourished at SMUS. As a boarding student, she has truly embraced stepping out of her comfort zone and took initiative to immerse herself in the extracurricular activities offered at SMUS. She credits the school’s supportive community and diverse opportunities for helping her succeed.
From Challenges to Connections
The transition to boarding life at SMUS didn't come without its challenges. As an only child accustomed to living with her mother, adjusting to life with 40 other girls was a major shift. Maria vividly remembered her initial nervous steps toward the boarding house—and the sense of relief that greeted her upon arrival.
"Everyone was so welcoming," she recalled. "When I first arrived, people immediately offered to help carry my luggage."
Maria quickly found her footing at SMUS, with her involvement shaping the foundation of her experience. As current Co-Head of Symons House, she has focused on encouraging that vibrant and inclusive community among her housemates that she leaned on so much in her first months as a SMUS student.
“Last year, our house didn’t feel as connected. This year, I wanted everyone to feel involved and excited, especially during House Games,” she said.
In addition to her leadership in the house, Maria heads the Spanish Club, where students come together to celebrate Hispanic culture. The club organizes activities such as cooking nights, games, and activities to learn cultural traditions. One of the club's highlights was the creation of a Día de los Muertos altar, a meaningful project that Maria enjoyed sharing with her peers.
Growth and Perseverance
"I was impressed by how education is viewed here – it offers so many more opportunities than back home," said Maria, whose academic journey has been fufilled through exploration and curiosity. "In Mexico, school is very structured, and you don’t have as many choices. Here, I was overwhelmed at first by the freedom to pick my classes."
Despite the initial shock, she found her rhythm and discovered a love for electives like digital art and criminology, which allowed her to explore new-found interests. She also overcame challenges in physics by taking a creative approach to her studies.
“At first I struggled with physics, but for a term project, we tried an unconventional approach by creating a video with interviews and animations. It not only helped me understand the material better but also benefited my classmates. It was such a rewarding way to learn,” Maria described.
Embracing Extracurricular Life
Outside the classroom, Maria eagerly embraced new experiences, including rugby—a sport that was entirely new to her but quickly became a significant part of her journey.
“At first, I didn’t know anything about rugby, but the team was so welcoming,” shared Maria. “They helped me learn the ropes, and now I love the sense of community it brings. It’s amazing to be part of something where everyone supports each other.”
Beyond sports, Maria found joy in the vibrant culture of school-wide events, which became some of the most memorable highlights of her time at SMUS. These events offered unique opportunities to connect with her classmates, celebrate school spirit, and create lasting memories. From lively spirit days to themed meals filled with energy and laughter, they were moments that brought the student body together.
“I have loved those days where everyone was outside, laughing and having fun. They have been such joyful days,” she recalled warmly, reflecting on the sense of connection that defined these experiences.
Looking ahead
Maria is preparing for her next adventure: studying hospitality management at a business school in Spain.
“The program has internships all over the world, and I’m excited to travel and learn hands-on,” she said. “I want to explore, meet new people and grow in ways I can’t even imagine yet.”
Maria encourages other international students to embrace every opportunity SMUS has to offer.
“Don’t just stick with people from your home country—make friends from everywhere and try new things. Whether it’s a sport you’ve never heard of or a club that’s completely different from what you’re used to, take the chance. It’ll make your experience so much richer,” Maria affirmed.
From a hesitant newcomer to a confident leader, Maria's journey at SMUS represents the transformative power of embracing new experiences.
