Maria Vazquez
Columns
In defense of romance novels
The Daily Texan
Associate Opinion Editor Maria Vazquez examines how romance novels have become marginalized in academic spaces and argues that we should reconsider their scholarly value.
Jan. 12, 2026
Illustration by Evelyn Zhou
Consequences of the literacy crisis
The Daily Texan
Senior Columnist Maria Vazquez argues as literacy rates decline, so does our ability to think critically, empathize with others and participate in democracy.
Dec. 1, 2025
Illustration by Jacklin Del Rosario
Dear reader
The Daily Texan
Senior Columnist Maria Vazquez argues opinions aren’t fixed conclusions, but evolving reflections of how we learn and engage with the world.
Nov. 18, 2025
Illustration by Anuja Manjrekar
Austin's growth doesn't offer opportunity for everyone
The Daily Texan
Senior Columnist Maria Vazquez argues that Austin’s evolution has given students new opportunities but also stripped away affordability.
Oct. 20, 2025
Illustration by Maxx Perez
Beyond celebration: Hispanic Heritage Month today
The Daily Texan
Senior Columnist Maria Vazquez examines how Hispanic Heritage Month functions as both a cultural celebration and a reflection for UT students and faculty.
Oct. 12, 2025
Illustration by Maxx Perez
The cost of cutting student government agencies
The Daily Texan
Senior Columnist Maria Vazquez argues dissolving Student Government agencies disrupts student programs and limits leadership opportunities across campus.
Sep. 22, 2025
Illustration by Kate Crowder
The case for local journalism
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez argues that local journalism is elemental to civic life and essential for shaping an informed community.
Sep. 14, 2025
Illustration by Maxx Perez
A love letter to em dashes
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez argues when detecting AI usage, we risk erasing the very elements that make writing human — voice and style.
Aug. 21, 2025
Illustration by Chelsea DeRoach
Beyond the byline: why journalism matters now more than ever
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez reflects on what it means to study journalism at a time when the profession is being questioned.
Aug. 4, 2025
Illustration by Audrey Buckley
More than a number: Why belonging at UT matters
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez believes that for a large campus like UT, belonging cannot be left to chance. Students, particularly those from small towns or foreign backgrounds, may feel lost without connection.
Jul. 14, 2025
Illustration by Chelsea DeRoach
Is the way we 'read' changing too fast?
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez argues that the culture of speed reading has impacted how students learn, causing them to overlook deeper understanding as they scan, browse and summarize their way through college.
Jul. 3, 2025
Illustration by Evelyn Zhou
When silence becomes complicity
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez argues that neutrality in the face of injustice fails those who cannot afford to be silent.
Apr. 11, 2025
Illustration by Avery Thorpe
The outrage algorithm: Social media benefits from division
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez argues that social media users must be aware of algorithms and seek fact-based information.
Mar. 31, 2025
Illustration by Madison West
Untold women’s history stories at UT
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez explores the overlooked contributions of women at UT in academia and activism.
Mar. 30, 2025
Illustration by Asher Hagan
The timeless connection of UT architecture
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez highlights how UT Austin’s architecture shapes student life and community.
Mar. 5, 2025
Illustration by Evelyn Zhou
The trouble with tests: Are we learning?
The Daily Texan
Columnist Maria Vazquez argues test-based learning does not benefit student in the long-term.
Feb. 27, 2025
Illustration by Jacklin Del Rosario