ASU grad, California native ready to make a difference for Arizona learners
Lauren Marvuglio will graduate in spring 2026 with her bachelor's degree in elementary education. Photo courtesy of the ASU Alumni Association
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2026 graduates.
Drawn to creativity and expression from a young age, Lauren Marvuglio always knew she wanted to become an educator. But it wasn’t until she began reflecting on potential careers that she realized an elementary school teaching role would be the perfect outlet for constant creativity — while also helping build a brighter future.
Before even graduating with her bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Marvuglio is set to begin working as a K–8 STEAM immersion teacher at the Arizona State University Preparatory Academy Phoenix location, eager to inspire the next generation of leaders.
Originally from San Diego, Marvuglio chose to cross state lines to pursue higher education at ASU's Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation and Barrett, The Honors College. During her Polytechnic campus tour, she felt an instant connection.
“Having the opportunity to get the small college experience I was looking for while still being able to venture out to the larger ASU campuses was the best fit for me,” Marvuglio said.
Before arriving at ASU, Marvuglio was selected as a recipient of the ASU Alumni Association’s San Diego Alumni Chapter Scholarship, awarded to exceptional students from the area.
“Being a recipient of my chapter scholarship allowed me to connect with peers before coming to college, which was incredibly beneficial, especially as an out-of-state student,” she said.
Her achievements didn’t stop there. Marvuglio also received a scholarship from the Arizona Teachers Association, supporting her ongoing efforts to make a difference at ASU.
“Something I learned about myself while I was at ASU was just how much I’m capable of,” she said.
Since her first year, Marvuglio has moderated panels for prospective students and families, been recognized as an Honors Devil, and led a course teaching Barrett, The Honors College students how to become writing tutors.
“As someone who was on the shyer side in high school, I would have never expected myself to take on these opportunities. However, I was able to prove to myself that I am capable of anything I put my mind to,” she said.
Question: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
Answer: Engage in activities or classes that aren’t directly related to your major. It gives you the opportunity to meet peers outside of your major circle and experiment with new skills. Looking back, I wish I had taken more elective courses while I had the time in my schedule. I took a ballroom dancing class my junior year, and I wish I had started taking fun classes earlier into my academic career!
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?
A: My favorite place on the Polytechnic campus was the third floor of the Peralta building, or the tables outside of the Polymart. I had some of my most memorable moments with my friends in those spots, and it felt like they really became “our” spot. We would typically end our days with a night walk around the campus, concluded by visiting these spots.
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