We caught up with Massiel to chat about everything from her favorite fashion trends to the inspiration behind her skating routines.

“Trust the universe’s timing,” she shares as advice for her younger self.

Below, find out what Massiel had to say in these 6 Q & A and get a glimpse into her world on and off the ice!

1)Tell us a little about yourself. Who is Massiel.

Hi everyone! My name is Massiel Gonzalez. I am a Hispanic (half Cuban/half Spaniard) figure skater and student athlete. I’m in my junior year at Florida International University majoring in Political Science in hopes to become a lawyer in the future. I’ve been skating for almost 15 years and I’ve had numerous accomplishments throughout the years. This past season I was the senior women pewter medalist of the South Atlantic region and I placed in the top ten in senior at the 2025 Eastern Sectionals Final. Figure skating is a deep passion of mine and I am forever grateful for everything this sport has given me. Some other fun facts about me: I have a younger brother and Shih Tzu named Miny. I love to travel and exploring new places. Also, in my free time I like to spend time with friends/family, go to the beach, read books and cook/bake.

2) What fashion trends are you loving right now and how do you choose your costumes?

My favorite fashion trend right now are ballerina flats. I’m glad they’re coming back because I think they’re so stylish and you can pair them with many outfits. I also do like that people are adding bag charms to their purses. I think it’s so cute especially the jelly cat ones! When it comes to picking my skating dresses the most important thing for me is that it matches the music. When I’m making a new program/routine I try to tell a story and to convey a feeling to the audience. Everything counts from the choreography, the dress, even your hair and makeup! Therefore, that is how I choose my skating dresses each season.

3)What’s the most memorable place you’ve traveled to for skating?

Last year I had the opportunity to go to Park City, Utah during the spring break to train there and it was so much fun. I got to train with amazing coaches and it was the first time I got to see snow! The rink over there is beautiful and it was very memorable. I’m also excited that Salt Lake City will be hosting the winter Olympics once again in 2034.

4)How do you handle competition pressure? What advice would you give to other skaters?

When I’m at a competition I try to stay the most relaxed I can and follow the little routine I’ve created. I think about all the hours of practice I’ve put in and that all I have to do is go out there and do my thing. Another thing I do is to turn the nerves into excitement. Each time I step on the ice for a competition I try to enjoy my program despite whatever happens. My advice is to create a pre-competition routine that gets you in the right head space for the competition and to not get too much into your head! We as figure skaters (or any athlete in general) think of all the worst outcomes and are thinking too much about what we have to do. Let it all go and just have fun!

5) We’ve all said, “I wish I knew then what I know now.” What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to not be so hard on yourself and judge yourself too much. I would tell her to not get frustrated/stressed when things aren’t going your way and to trust the universe’s timing because everything will happen at the right time.

6)What advice would you give other skaters starting out in the sport?

I would say to enjoy the journey in this beautiful sport. Trust the process, and don’t be afraid to fall because what matters is how we get back up. Finally, if you really love this sport, then give it all you’ve got. Let that passion drive you forward and you’ll see the success you’ll have.

Remember, every step on the ice brings you closer to your goals. Keep pushing, stay passionate, and the rewards will follow. Happy skating!