In 2009, Maria was in her second year on the Foundation Degree in Broadcast Operations and Production at Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication. She progressed from the BTEC National Diploma in Media at Lewisham College, having attended a Taster Day and follow-up tour of Ravensbourne's Broadcasting studios.

As well as studying, Maria held down four part-time jobs, including working as a Student Ambassador at Ravensbourne, and as a volunteer at Choice FM. Maria loves music and felt she would like to work on events in the media sector, for example music awards ceremonies after graduating. In five years' time Maria sees herself starting up her own Events Management business.