Freshman Admissions Counselor Lorena Alvarez

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas

College Major: Advertising

Territory: San Antonio

Office: San Antonio Admissions Center

Phone: 210-562-4668

E-mail: lorena.alvarez@mail.utexas.edu

Q: Why did you decide to attend the University of Texas?
A: I decided to attend UT Austin because the first time I set foot on the campus, I felt right at home. I loved the laid-back, hip vibe that Austin gave off. 

Q: Where are you from? 
A: I was born in a small town near Durango, Mexico. When I was two years old, I moved to San Antonio, where I‘ve lived ever since (with the exception of living in Austin during college).

Q: What did you study in college? Why?
A: I decided to study advertising because I had the impression that it was a fun profession with lots of perks (at least that is the way I felt it was portrayed in the movie What Women Want).  Here’s my first tip: Don’t choose a major based on a movie.

Q: What is your favorite place on campus?
A: My favorite place on campus by far has to be the second floor of the Texas Union. It is the best place on campus for naps in between classes! The chairs are super comfortable, the lighting is low and the temperature is always perfect.

Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in Austin?
A: I really enjoy shopping at the boutiques on South Congress (or SoCo as it is now known as). My favorite store is Uncommon Objects; they carry such eccentric purses and jewelry. The other thing that I love to do in Austin is go to Mount Bonnell, especially at night. The view is spectacular!

Advice to Students

Try to visit as many universities as possible, especially the ones that really interest you. It’s important that you feel at home at the college of your choice. Also, apply as early as possible and to as many colleges as you can.