Alianna Gonzalez, a 2025 graduate of Questa High School, is preparing to leave her small-town roots behind as she heads to Albuquerque to begin her college journey.
Known affectionately as “Boo Boo” to her family and friends, the 17-year-old daughter of Maria and Jason Gonzalez is recognized for her lighthearted spirit and strong work ethic.
Although quiet at first, Gonzalez’s warmth and sincerity shine through. Growing up with three older sisters, she learned early on the value of responsibility, helping care for the family’s farm animals and garden.
“It was a busy household but it was always good and fun,” Gonzalez said. “I have lots of memories of being outside and often we would walk over to my grandma’s and play in the ditch.”
An all-around athlete, Gonzalez has competed in cheer, track, volleyball, basketball, and soccer. Her favorite sport is track, and she found particular success in pole vault —a path inspired by one of her sisters.
In the classroom, Gonzalez enjoys history, particularly the relationship between people and the land, and how different civilizations have lived throughout time.
When she’s not in school or on the field, Gonzalez can be found hiking around local spots like Wild Rivers and Columbine. She also volunteers year-round with the Vida Del Norte Coalition, alongside her mother, something she’s done since the sixth grade. Recently, she started working as a server at Rosie’s BBQ.
“I love my job,” she said. “My bosses and the work atmosphere are fun and welcoming.”
Family remains a major influence in her life. Gonzalez credits her parents and both grandmothers—Nancy Gonzalez and Kathy Cardenas—with shaping who she is. One particularly meaningful role model has been Questa High School educator Ms. Esel.
“Ms. Esel moved so far away from home to Questa and she really cares about the students at Questa High School,” Gonzalez said. “I look up to her because she is so sweet and caring.”
As excited as she is to begin life on her own, Gonzalez said she’ll miss the comforts of home, especially her dad’s pork chops and her mom’s mashed potatoes.
She plans to complete her basic coursework at Central New Mexico Community College before pursuing a degree in marine biology at the University of New Mexico. Her interest in marine life stems from family vacations to Hawaii.
“Jellyfish are my favorite sea creatures and I’ve always wanted to learn more about them and marine life,” she said.
Gonzalez sees her mother as her greatest inspiration.
“My mom and dad have both inspired me and have always supported my journey but my mom is my hero,” she said. “She is so strong and I’ve seen her make it through rough times. I want to be like her when I grow up.”
As for advice to younger students, Gonzalez offered a message of perseverance: “Don’t be afraid, and push your way through any obstacle that comes your way.”
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Experience working with the USDA Forest Service and extensive knowledge of the northern region, while maintaining and fostering strong community relationships remain a big priority.
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