In 2012, during Maria's 6th-grade elementary school trip to Tokyo Tower, she had the opportunity to meet the famous Hollywood director, Tim Burton, who happened to be touring the tower at the same time. Maria walked up to Mr. Burton, confidently introduced herself in English then started a light conversation. Before long, they were surrounded by a large crowd of Japanese fans and Maria suddenly found herself acting as Mr. Burton's translator. No, she didn't get an offer to play a part in his next big hit, but she did get a photo with him which still hangs on her wall.
