There are some students whose brilliance is matched only by their heart, and Carson High School senior Maria Benshoof is one of them. She is tenacious, compassionate, and endlessly curious—a young woman whose presence elevates every space she enters.

Maria first came to Carson High as a thoughtful and quietly determined freshman, unsure of where she fit in. She explored many opportunities for the highest rigor of education, and ultimately decided to pursue the AP and CTE Pathways at Carson High School, believing she could make a difference right here in her own community.

And make a difference she has. Maria has excelled in every academic challenge, balancing a rigorous AP schedule with leadership roles in HOSA–Future Health Professionals and NJROTC, where she now serves as Commanding Officer. She’s also known for her creativity and joy—starring as SpongeBob at Youth Theatre Carson City, volunteering for state-level boards and committees, and stepping up whenever her peers or school community need her. Whether it was helping classmates self-study for an AP course or filling in last-minute for a national ROTC competition, Maria leads with both intelligence and heart. She boasts a 4.9 GPA, is ranked in the top 5 of her class, successfully completed dual credit classes during the summer, and has passed six AP courses with top scores (with 3 more coming this year!). 

Her courage, however, extends far beyond academics. Maria is a leader in her tight knit family, and is cheered on through encouragement from her incredible mother.  Her younger brother is following in her footsteps as well at Carson High School and is already a highly involved member of the Senator Family as a  result. Maria's beloved birds, Peanut and Stacie, are also testament to her commitment to all living things around her. 

 As she looks toward college, Maria plans to pursue higher education with the same drive and purpose that have defined her years at Carson High. She is deeply passionate about learning, leadership, and service—and she dreams of using her education to uplift others, just as she has already done here at CHS. She has applied to the top universities in the nation, and she is currently awaiting results.  Her hope is to pursue a career in the medical field- perhaps in oncology- in order to continue her work helping her community. 

Maria Benshoof is more than an outstanding student; she is a shining example of what it means to face hardship with courage and to use one’s gifts for good. Carson High School is proud to celebrate her as a Senior in the Spotlight.