Your story could have been written in response to several skill challenges: memorable character, scene description, 'show don't tell' (this week's challenge). What this indicates is that you have a well-crafted story. The story also handles the current prompt/challenge skillfully. The voice of the main character comes through: she is young, apprehensive and hopeful, eager and self-doubting. Your character is motivated not only by personal ambition, but by family. She carries her family and its values wherever she goes.
The arc is good here, and it's fine that we don't know her decision. However, in the spirit of a true critique there is a slight issue with your construction. As you introduce her new conflict (which path to take), you describe that as a 'curve ball' for the protagonist. Which is fine for a writer to do to a protagonist. However, you have not prepared the way for the reader to this new conflict. It comes out of nowhere. It would be better (structurally) for you to lay the groundwork for such a sharp turn. There ought to be some kind of a hint, suggestion that this new conflict exists in her life. (Just a suggestion, an observation that would not be made to the writer of a less sophisticated story)
It is apparent that you took great care in writing. As readers (and curators) we appreciate that care. You do a great job. Thank you for sharing this story with us and introducing us to an interesting character. Thank you for supporting your fellow writers with your comments.
Wow. Thanks for the great feedback, @theinkwell. I do understand what you are talking about when you say of the need to prepare the reader for the "curve ball". The teacher Rafael was introduced in Mara's world in my last short story and I missed re-introducing him in this one, maybe somewhere in the middle, while Mara was in the callback for the interview. Hmmm... I really appreciate this. 🙏😊
!PIZZA