Program Coordinator Stephanie Lewis
Hometown: Rowlett, Texas
College Majors: Communication and Education
Territories: Abilene (Texas), San Angelo (Texas), Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington
Office: West Texas Admissions Center
Phone: 806-798-2386
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born and raised in the Dallas area. Yes, I spent my entire life in one place. I think that is why I value the college experience so much. It's good to get out of your surrounding for a few years and experience new people and places.
Q: Where did you go to college, and what did you study?
A: College was a huge adventure. I started at Navarro College, a junior college in Corsicana, Texas, where I won a national championship for cheerleading (my only claim to fame!). I was the first person in my family to go to college, so I was not completely sure how “majors” worked, but with the help of a great admissions counselor I found my passion: communications! I transferred to Texas Tech University and earned a bachelor of arts in communication with a minor in psychology. Recently, I graduated from Angelo State University with a master of education in guidance and counseling. Majoring in communication, psychology and education has proven to be great assets while working with prospective students.
Q: How long have you been working in higher education?
A: For the last four years I have worked for the U.S. Department of Education TRiO Programs, Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search. My experience consists of advising first-generation, economically-disadvantaged students in regard to postsecondary education opportunities, guiding students through the admissions and financial aid processes, and encouraging a college-going culture. I have loved every minute that I’ve spent working with students to help fulfill their dreams of getting a college education.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in Austin?
A: Shopping! Austin has the best shopping in Texas.
I also love the variety of things to do in Austin. During the summer, Lake Travis is the coolest spot to hang out and water ski, rent a boat with friends or eat at the local restaurants on the water. Of course, the fall brings football games; football season is super fun and exciting for everyone in Austin! There are plenty of educational activities like touring the Texas State Capitol, the LBJ Library and Museum, and you cannot leave the Austin area until you see Inner Space Caverns in Georgetown.
Q: What is your favorite UT Austin fact?
A: Bevo XIV attended one of George W. Bush's Inaugural Balls in Washington, D.C. in January 2005. How cool is that!
Advice for Prospective Students
This is YOUR college experience! You only get to do this ONCE! Make the most of each and every experience. Join clubs, study abroad, go to the games, live in the dorms, study hard, meet new people, take advantage of all that college culture has to offer you!