After winning the title of Miss Maryland USA in 2019, Mari went on to compete in Miss USA, getting all the way to the top 10. She was "overwhelmed with gratitude" and in a "little bit of shock" while at the competition and was overjoyed at the experience. Mari made clear her work ethic when writing on Instagram that "your dreams don't work unless you do," while also talking about her hope for making the Latina community proud.