Abigail Mimbela
Abigail Mimbela
Barbara and Alan Dreeben Forty Acres Scholarship
Forty Acres Scholars Class of 2026
Hometown
El Paso, Texas
High School
Pebble Hills High School

The most pivotal parts of life often revolve around conversation. Community meetings, class discussions, and casual conversations, where opinions float freely and ideas have impact. These opportunities for expression evolve and empower the world around us.

I was drawn to major in business honors because of the degree’s ability to prepare the workforce to communicate and innovate industries. I plan to use my education to increase opportunities for women in historically male-dominated fields such as business and law. Though we’ve come a long way, the university’s rigor, community, and experience have given me the confidence to continue pushing for equality through education.

In the past, my actions have been smaller commitments such as creating a nonprofit, Devote-a-Tote, with proceeds going to a women’s education fund in my hometown. I hope to grow my impact throughout my time as a Longhorn and push others to do the same by continuing impactful conversations on topics like gender gaps in educational, professional, and economic opportunities.

It is common among Texas Exes to pay it forward to the next generation and I plan to continue the cycle someday. In the meantime, I am incredibly grateful to be pursuing my dreams of becoming an active community member, advocate, and attorney, in burnt-orange.

Major
Business Honors

Honors Program
Canfield Business Honors

Other Academic Interests
Pre-Law

What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program?
The Forty Acres Scholars Program is more than a financial contribution to one's education—it is a community of Longhorns with various passions and backgrounds dedicated to enriching each others' lives. The cohorts offer a home on campus and a feeling of belonging while still encouraging students to expand their horizons and connections. I am beyond honored to be a part of a cohort with people who inspire and support one another.

What makes your scholar cohort unique?
The Class of 2026 cohort is unique in our ability to return to campus without pandemic-related limitations. Throughout our high school careers, we all faced out-of-the-ordinary circumstances, and we will be entering college as the first cohort in recent years to have (hopefully) four, complete, and in-person, years.

Favorite FASP Memory
On the last night of finalist weekend, we were given the chance to see the Black Pumas, a favorite band of mine, for a community event being held on campus. Even though we all had very important interviews the next morning, most of us decided to walk up the lawn and enjoy the weekend's final event. It was a special moment for me because I realized UT was more than a school, but a staple in Austin's culture.

What do you want prospective students to know about The University of Texas?
The university may be incredibly large, but individual opportunities are limitless. Research, study abroad, internships, and an expansive alumni network make the state's leading school one of the best universities in the nation and the world. In addition, location, culture, and quality make UT the full package.