BA in Foreign Languages

Valeria Veliz-Vargas, 2026

Degree: BA in Foreign Languages (Spanish) and Communication (Public Relations)

Hometown: Springfield, Virginia

Future plans: After graduation, Valeria plans to pursue a career that combines her interests in language and communications. She hopes to work in a role that allows her to connect with people and communities while making a meaningful and lasting impact.

Valeria chose to attend George Mason University for the opportunity to explore a wide range of interests through diverse courses, student organizations, and study abroad programs. During her academic career, she took on leadership roles and engaged in experiences that deepened her connection to language, culture, and community.

Most impactful class: SPAN 485: Spanish in the Schools, where she volunteered in a Spanish immersion classroom. Engaging directly with students and witnessing their enthusiasm for learning Spanish was both inspiring and affirming. The combination of coursework and community involvement strengthened her commitment to promoting multilingualism in her future endeavors.

Favorite George Mason memory: “My favorite George Mason memory has been the opportunity to lead two editions of Hispanic Culture Review. Getting to come up with themes that tie back to the Hispanic/Latine identity and then seeing how different authors and artists interpreted them through their submissions has been both fun and powerful.”

Advice for future Patriots: "College is what you make of it. Take advantage of the different opportunities being offered because you never know, it might take you down a new path you never envisioned."