Hello! My name is Maria. I am a Certified Career Coach and a Certified Professional Résumé Writer. After years of working as an Education and Employment Coach for two US-Department of Labor (DOL) grants, I discovered my deep passion for career coaching and resume writing. I find the most joy in helping career seekers land the job of their dreams. I am beyond ecstatic to do more and help more; hence, the birth of Upward Prize.

​

I live in the Southwest with my husband, Brent, who is a top-producing realtor (of course I'm partial) and an estate liquidator. I am blessed by his business acumen that made Upward Prize happen where he works as my administrative and business partner. 

​

I have a degree in Applied Linguistics from Texas A&M University-Commerce and a graduate certificate from Montclair State University in New Jersey. I also obtained international education in Communication Arts and Computer Education. I am a proud and active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches™ (PARWCC).

Everybody has a dream. Mine is to be able to help job seekers fulfill theirs; through Upward Prize, mine has come true and continues to become so.