Freshman Admissions Counselor Autumn Boyd
Hometown: Stone Mountain, Georgia
College Major: Business Education
Territory: Houston
Office: Houston Admissions Center
Phone: 713-500-3515
E-mail: autumn.boyd@austin.utexas.edu
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born in Dallas, Texas, and moved to Georgia shortly after I was born. I was raised in Stone Mountain, Georgia, which is about 25 minutes east of Atlanta. I then moved to Texas in 2005 to be closer to my family. The humidity and the summers here still take some adjusting to, but there’s nothing quite like Texas!
Q: Where did you go to college? What did you study in college?
A: I am a graduate of the University of Georgia. Deciding on what to major in was a challenge for me because I could never answer the infamous question, “What do you like to do?” I like to do a lot of things, but I couldn’t see myself pursuing a career in any of those areas, so I chose business. After a thought-provoking conversation with one of my close friends, I then thought about what I feel passionate about. I discovered that I felt passionate about the preparation of students for college careers because I felt that more could have been done to assist me in that transition. I then talked to an academic advisor who suggested that I may want to study business education. So, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business education.
Q: How long have you been working in higher education?
A: I have been working in higher education for two years. I was previously an admissions counselor working with transfer and adult students in the private sector, but I prefer the traditional university setting. I enjoy helping students to realize their potential as well as helping students through the college admissions process.
Q: What is your favorite place on campus?
A: My favorite place on campus is the Main Mall and South Mall areas in front of the Tower. On any given day you can find students laying out on the grass reading, talking, or even taking a nap. I am not an “outdoorsy” person, but the scenery is such that it even makes me want to grab a book and sit under a tree. The view from the Main Mall is also a sight to see. Standing in front of the Tower, you have a great view of the state capitol.
Q: What are some of your favorite things about Austin?
A: Austin has many restaurants that are unique to the city. One in particular— Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill—is a must when you visit. Austin is also home to various museums and galleries. One can visit Sixth Street for local entertainment or historic buildings, and the “outdoorsy” person can look to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking.
Q: What is your favorite UT Austin fact?
A: Although not written, the Perry-Castaneda Library (when viewed from overhead) bears a very strong resemblance to the state of Texas. After looking at an aerial shot of the building, let me know what you think!
Advice to Prospective Students
- Do your research. Compare various universities on multiple factors to decide if the school is right for you. You should learn about the quality of the academic program in which you are interested and ask questions during this process.
- Get involved inside and outside of the classroom. There are more than 900 student organizations and hundreds of study abroad programs available. The college years are ones that you won’t get back. Seize these moments and have fun (and make good grades too)!
- Be an individual. There are many pressures for people in general and the transition from high school to college will be no different. This will be a time to grow and learn new things, but stay true to who you are.