Michelle Luna-Lopez: Guided by Family, Driven by Determination

By: Nayeli Alonzo

Edited by Ariana Arias

Word Count: 518

Estimated Reading Time: 2 Minutes

“A roller coaster of emotions” is how Michelle Luna-Lopez describes her journey at Towson University.

Luna-Lopez, who is graduating this May with a degree in computer information systems, has already secured a full-time position as a cybersecurity analyst at Booz Allen Hamilton after graduation.

Although her postgraduation plans are set, her path throughout college was not always linear.

As a first-generation student, Luna-Lopez had to learn how to navigate college independently. Throughout her undergraduate journey, she developed resilience, adaptability and confidence while balancing academics and leadership opportunities on campus.

Being involved in Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., pushed Luna-Lopez to strengthen her time management skills while balancing her academic responsibilities.

Academically, Luna-Lopez’s accomplishments are impressive. During her time at Towson, Luna-Lopez was part of the Hill-Lopes Scholars Program, a program centered on supporting women in STEM through professional development and skill-building opportunities over the course of three years. She also completed two internships in automation and AI, which gave her hands-on experience working with real systems and data. 

She also maintained a strong GPA while actively involved on campus, serving as chapter treasurer for Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., where she managed finances and supported event planning.

Luna-Lopez also successfully completed her capstone project working with a real client through the Department of Computer Information Systems.

Overall, Luna-Lopez said these experiences prepared her to enter the workforce with both technical and professional skills.

Born in the United States to Salvadoran parents, Luna-Lopez said her identity and upbringing played a major role in shaping her perspective, resilience and the way she approaches her goals.

She explained that pursuing higher education was always important to her because of the sacrifices her parents made to provide opportunities they never had themselves.

“I’ve always valued academics and knew I wanted to go to college. My parents worked very hard to give me the opportunities they never had, and I want to honor that by making the most of every opportunity given to me and also make something for myself,” Luna-Lopez said.

She also shared that she hopes to set an example for her younger sister and believes education is something no one can take away from you.

Luna-Lopez said she is motivated by growth and by setting a high standard for herself.

“I like challenging myself and seeing what I’m capable of, especially in environments that push me to think and adapt. I’m also motivated by building a future where I’m stable, successful and able to turn my ideas into something meaningful,” Luna-Lopez said.

As Luna-Lopez prepares to leave Towson, she encourages future seniors to enjoy their time in college while remaining intentional about their future goals.

“My advice would be to really enjoy your time here while also being intentional about your future. Take advantage of the resources available at Towson, whether that’s career services, professors or campus organizations, so you feel prepared going into the workforce,” Luna-Lopez said.

“And most importantly, network — build connections with people around you, because those relationships can open doors later on.”