About Me
Hi, I’m Maria Alejandra Santa Cruz Morales — but you can call me Maria. I’m originally from Lima, Peru, a place known for its vibrant culture and amazing food. For most of my life, I called Peru home, but three years ago, I decided it was time for a change and moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It wasn’t easy to leave behind everything I knew, but I wanted to grow, try new things, and see where life could take me. That decision led me to transfer to the University of Tampa, where I’m currently pursuing my degree in Marketing.
Looking back, I can confidently say it was one of the best choices I’ve ever made. UTampa has been more than just a school for me — it’s been a place where I’ve grown in so many ways. From building friendships that feel like family to taking on opportunities that have challenged me, every experience has shaped the person I am today.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I hope you enjoy exploring my website as much as I enjoyed building it!
My Interests
Baking
Baking is my happy place. The process of creating something from scratch, following a recipe with precision, and adding my own creative twist is deeply satisfying. I especially love baking treats that bring joy to others. My favorite dessert to bake is key lime pie, and I’ve been perfecting my recipe throughout the years.
Traveling
I love immersing myself in new cultures, trying different foods, and going on exciting excursions that allow me to see the world from a new perspective. One of my most memorable experiences was during the summer of 2024 when I traveled to Italy, Greece, and Turkey with my family. It was a trip I’ll never forget.
Exploring Nature
Being in nature gives me a sense of peace and clarity. I love going to the beach, where I often bring my watercolor set and paint during sunset. It’s my way of relaxing and letting my creativity flow. On other days, I enjoy paddleboarding, whether it’s along the shoreline at the beach or at springs near Tampa Bay.
My Values
These values shape the way I approach both my personal and professional life. They’re not just words to me — they’re guiding principles that push me to be the best version of myself every day.
I believe that how you treat people matters just as much as what you achieve. Empathy and compassion are the foundation of everything I do. I make it a priority to treat everyone with kindness, understanding, and patience — no matter their background or circumstances. This value guides my approach in personal relationships, professional collaborations, and leadership roles. I believe that by actively listening and supporting others, we can foster more positive, inclusive, and encouraging environments where everyone feels seen and valued.
I’m naturally curious and always eager to learn something new. Whether it’s developing a marketing strategy, trying a new recipe, or gaining insight from someone else’s experience, I approach each opportunity with an open mind. For me, curiosity is the spark that drives growth, and adaptability is the tool that helps me keep up with an ever-changing world. I see challenges as chances to learn, which is why I’m comfortable navigating unfamiliar territory and embracing change when it comes my way.
Hard work has been a driving force in my professional life. From late nights dedicated to marketing projects to balancing multiple responsibilities, I’ve learned that perseverance is key to growth. I believe that true success comes from effort, consistency, and determination, which is why I’m committed to showing up, doing the work, and pushing forward — even when progress feels slow. It’s this mindset that helps me achieve goals and overcome obstacles.
I believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. This means being transparent, following through on commitments, and maintaining a strong sense of accountability. I approach every task with authenticity, ensuring that my actions align with my values. I hold myself to high ethical standards and work to build trust and credibility in every relationship.