Mariuxi came to the U.S not only for new opportunities but because living in Ecuador was not safe. She recalls not being able to safely walk the streets, not being able to have a phone with you in the car, and constantly worrying about your home or car being broken into. In America she immediately recognized a more safe and secure standard of living, which she is incredibly grateful for to this day.

Mariuxi´s native language is Spanish. When she moved to America she realized her deficit in ability to speak English at a level she would need to succeed professionally. It took Mariuxi a long time before she could speak in full sentences when conversing with friends whose first language is English. Adjusting to American life required a lot of English immersion, hard work, and patience.

Latin cuisine was a big part of Mariuxi’s life growing up. There are many dishes common to Ecuador that are difficult to find in the United States. When Mariuxi’s sisters come to visit they bring the different foods that we don´t have. For example, "Pan de Yuca", a small ball of bread filled with cheese. Her sister’s also bring "Bolon de Verde" another typical Ecuadorian food, that is a mashed green plantain in the shape of a dumpling that is commonly fried.