Real-World Advice: Consulting Firm Connects With Forty Acres Scholars

Being a Forty Acres Scholar comes with some unique perks. Case in point: the chance to get an inside look into the world of consulting. During an informal lunch last week at the Alumni Center, alumni working at top consulting management firm McKinsey & Company spoke with scholars about the wide range of opportunities in consulting. Friday's lunch is just one of the many events that the scholars have the privilege to attend, including leadership, cultural, and community service programs. This is the first event that the Forty Acres Scholars Program has invited a company to interact with the scholars in such a relaxed setting and make one-on-one professional connections. Saheb Sabharwal, BAr ’11, a speaker from McKinsey & Company, said he enjoyed the dynamics of a smaller setting over a big presentation and hopes that scholars will now be more open to exploring career paths that make sense to them. "I hope that they will be excited about consulting and about McKinsey, and see that there is more to the world than the usual corporate job," Sabharwal says. "Consulting is just one thing, there are so many things out there." He also liked that the event allowed younger students to gain access to different career paths early on in their education. "Looking back, I only found out about [consulting opportunities] when I was a junior or a senior in college, which I think was a little too late," Sabharwal says. "Actually getting to know all this so early and getting a view of the world is remarkable." Katie Mark, a sophomore Forty Acres Scholar studying architecture and architectural engineering, says that she wasn't previously considering a career in consulting, but that the talk changed her mind. "It was really cool to hear about their experiences on such a personal level," Mark says. "Hearing about their projects and what they loved and didn't like about it gave me a better sense of what the real world will be like. This is an incredible opportunity." Illustration by Ashley Solano

Real-World Advice: Consulting Firm Connects With Forty Acres Scholars

Being a Forty Acres Scholar comes with some unique perks. Case in point: the chance to get an inside look into the world of consulting. During an informal lunch last week at the Alumni Center, alumni working at top consulting management firm McKinsey & Company spoke with scholars about the wide range of opportunities in consulting. Friday's lunch is just one of the many events that the scholars have the privilege to attend, including leadership, cultural, and community service programs. This is the first event that the Forty Acres Scholars Program has invited a company to interact with the scholars in such a relaxed setting and make one-on-one professional connections. Saheb Sabharwal, BAr ’11, a speaker from McKinsey & Company, said he enjoyed the dynamics of a smaller setting over a big presentation and hopes that scholars will now be more open to exploring career paths that make sense to them. "I hope that they will be excited about consulting and about McKinsey, and see that there is more to the world than the usual corporate job," Sabharwal says. "Consulting is just one thing, there are so many things out there." He also liked that the event allowed younger students to gain access to different career paths early on in their education. "Looking back, I only found out about [consulting opportunities] when I was a junior or a senior in college, which I think was a little too late," Sabharwal says. "Actually getting to know all this so early and getting a view of the world is remarkable." Katie Mark, a sophomore Forty Acres Scholar studying architecture and architectural engineering, says that she wasn't previously considering a career in consulting, but that the talk changed her mind. "It was really cool to hear about their experiences on such a personal level," Mark says. "Hearing about their projects and what they loved and didn't like about it gave me a better sense of what the real world will be like. This is an incredible opportunity." Illustration by Ashley Solano

Real-World Advice: Consulting Firm Connects With Forty Acres Scholars

Being a Forty Acres Scholar comes with some unique perks. Case in point: the chance to get an inside look into the world of consulting. During an informal lunch last week at the Alumni Center, alumni working at top consulting management firm McKinsey & Company spoke with scholars about the wide range of opportunities in consulting. Friday's lunch is just one of the many events that the scholars have the privilege to attend, including leadership, cultural, and community service programs. This is the first event that the Forty Acres Scholars Program has invited a company to interact with the scholars in such a relaxed setting and make one-on-one professional connections. Saheb Sabharwal, BAr ’11, a speaker from McKinsey & Company, said he enjoyed the dynamics of a smaller setting over a big presentation and hopes that scholars will now be more open to exploring career paths that make sense to them. "I hope that they will be excited about consulting and about McKinsey, and see that there is more to the world than the usual corporate job," Sabharwal says. "Consulting is just one thing, there are so many things out there." He also liked that the event allowed younger students to gain access to different career paths early on in their education. "Looking back, I only found out about [consulting opportunities] when I was a junior or a senior in college, which I think was a little too late," Sabharwal says. "Actually getting to know all this so early and getting a view of the world is remarkable." Katie Mark, a sophomore Forty Acres Scholar studying architecture and architectural engineering, says that she wasn't previously considering a career in consulting, but that the talk changed her mind. "It was really cool to hear about their experiences on such a personal level," Mark says. "Hearing about their projects and what they loved and didn't like about it gave me a better sense of what the real world will be like. This is an incredible opportunity." Illustration by Ashley Solano

Forty Acres Scholars Promote Diversity Through TexasTogether

Because UT is a campus full of people from different walks of life, Forty Acres scholars Mary Elizabeth Guerra and Caroline Meyerson, together with their friends Graham Bailey and Kornel Rady, noticed a disconnect between groups on campus and wanted to find a way to unite students to celebrate their diversity. From those ideas came TexasTogether, a new student organization founded by the four friends with the hopes of promoting respect, empathy, and patience on campus. "TexasTogether is a registered student organization open to UT students with the hope of reaching out and being a group that would center around inclusion and diversity," says Guerra, a sophomore studying neuroscience and Plan II Honors. Meyerson, a Business and Plan II Honors sophomore, explained that the ultimate goal is for students to move away from the characteristics that divide the student body and instead use it to bring people together. In its first official semester, on Nov. 4-7 the group held TogetherWeek, a week dedicated to featuring and discussing diversity on campus. The events included a diverse showcase of student performers, from the Alpha Kappa Psi step team to the Ransom Notes, a discussion panel, and a speaker series. The speaker series that capped off the week included Admiral Bobby R. Inman, BA ’ 50, Life Member; Law School Associate Dean John Beckworth, BA ’80, JD ’83, Life Member; and Austin City Council Member Randi Shade, BA ’88, Life Member. The speakers drew the biggest crowd of the week, Guerra says. "The speaker series was probably the most thought-provoking of the events," Guerra says. "It was interesting to hear their different takes on the topic." Both she and Meyerson admit it's not every day that as a student, you can meet a Navy admiral, a dean, and a city council member, and they credit the connections they made through the Forty Acres Scholars Program in bringing each of them to campus. "There's no way we would have made those personal connections with them or been able to reach out to them like we did without Forty Acres," Meyerson says. Beyond that, Meyerson says the Forty Acres Scholar Program has been influential in motivating the two to create and lead the group because of the program's requirements that strive to make them better students and community members. "Forty Acres constantly inspires me to make a positive difference by becoming more involved on campus and in the community," Meyerson says. "Through TexasTogether, we hope to make a small difference, whether it's with one person, one organization, or hopefully, one university." Going forward, Meyerson and Guerra say they plan for TogetherWeek to become an annual event and will also look to host other events, possibly even a concert in the spring, as the organization grows. They also hope to eventually expand to high schools in the community and other universities in Texas. "We want to consistently hold events in order to unite the campus and encourage students to treat everyone with respect," Meyerson says. From top: Caroline Meyerson; Mary Elizabeth Guerra. Mary Elizabeth Guerra is a recipient of the Stan L. McLelland Forty Acres Scholarship, and Caroline Meyerson is a recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship.

Forty Acres Scholars Promote Diversity Through TexasTogether

Because UT is a campus full of people from different walks of life, Forty Acres scholars Mary Elizabeth Guerra and Caroline Meyerson, together with their friends Graham Bailey and Kornel Rady, noticed a disconnect between groups on campus and wanted to find a way to unite students to celebrate their diversity. From those ideas came TexasTogether, a new student organization founded by the four friends with the hopes of promoting respect, empathy, and patience on campus. "TexasTogether is a registered student organization open to UT students with the hope of reaching out and being a group that would center around inclusion and diversity," says Guerra, a sophomore studying neuroscience and Plan II Honors. Meyerson, a Business and Plan II Honors sophomore, explained that the ultimate goal is for students to move away from the characteristics that divide the student body and instead use it to bring people together. In its first official semester, on Nov. 4-7 the group held TogetherWeek, a week dedicated to featuring and discussing diversity on campus. The events included a diverse showcase of student performers, from the Alpha Kappa Psi step team to the Ransom Notes, a discussion panel, and a speaker series. The speaker series that capped off the week included Admiral Bobby R. Inman, BA ’ 50, Life Member; Law School Associate Dean John Beckworth, BA ’80, JD ’83, Life Member; and Austin City Council Member Randi Shade, BA ’88, Life Member. The speakers drew the biggest crowd of the week, Guerra says. "The speaker series was probably the most thought-provoking of the events," Guerra says. "It was interesting to hear their different takes on the topic." Both she and Meyerson admit it's not every day that as a student, you can meet a Navy admiral, a dean, and a city council member, and they credit the connections they made through the Forty Acres Scholars Program in bringing each of them to campus. "There's no way we would have made those personal connections with them or been able to reach out to them like we did without Forty Acres," Meyerson says. Beyond that, Meyerson says the Forty Acres Scholar Program has been influential in motivating the two to create and lead the group because of the program's requirements that strive to make them better students and community members. "Forty Acres constantly inspires me to make a positive difference by becoming more involved on campus and in the community," Meyerson says. "Through TexasTogether, we hope to make a small difference, whether it's with one person, one organization, or hopefully, one university." Going forward, Meyerson and Guerra say they plan for TogetherWeek to become an annual event and will also look to host other events, possibly even a concert in the spring, as the organization grows. They also hope to eventually expand to high schools in the community and other universities in Texas. "We want to consistently hold events in order to unite the campus and encourage students to treat everyone with respect," Meyerson says. From top: Caroline Meyerson; Mary Elizabeth Guerra. Mary Elizabeth Guerra is a recipient of the Stan L. McLelland Forty Acres Scholarship, and Caroline Meyerson is a recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship.

Forty Acres Scholars Promote Diversity Through TexasTogether

Because UT is a campus full of people from different walks of life, Forty Acres scholars Mary Elizabeth Guerra and Caroline Meyerson, together with their friends Graham Bailey and Kornel Rady, noticed a disconnect between groups on campus and wanted to find a way to unite students to celebrate their diversity. From those ideas came TexasTogether, a new student organization founded by the four friends with the hopes of promoting respect, empathy, and patience on campus. "TexasTogether is a registered student organization open to UT students with the hope of reaching out and being a group that would center around inclusion and diversity," says Guerra, a sophomore studying neuroscience and Plan II Honors. Meyerson, a Business and Plan II Honors sophomore, explained that the ultimate goal is for students to move away from the characteristics that divide the student body and instead use it to bring people together. In its first official semester, on Nov. 4-7 the group held TogetherWeek, a week dedicated to featuring and discussing diversity on campus. The events included a diverse showcase of student performers, from the Alpha Kappa Psi step team to the Ransom Notes, a discussion panel, and a speaker series. The speaker series that capped off the week included Admiral Bobby R. Inman, BA ’ 50, Life Member; Law School Associate Dean John Beckworth, BA ’80, JD ’83, Life Member; and Austin City Council Member Randi Shade, BA ’88, Life Member. The speakers drew the biggest crowd of the week, Guerra says. "The speaker series was probably the most thought-provoking of the events," Guerra says. "It was interesting to hear their different takes on the topic." Both she and Meyerson admit it's not every day that as a student, you can meet a Navy admiral, a dean, and a city council member, and they credit the connections they made through the Forty Acres Scholars Program in bringing each of them to campus. "There's no way we would have made those personal connections with them or been able to reach out to them like we did without Forty Acres," Meyerson says. Beyond that, Meyerson says the Forty Acres Scholar Program has been influential in motivating the two to create and lead the group because of the program's requirements that strive to make them better students and community members. "Forty Acres constantly inspires me to make a positive difference by becoming more involved on campus and in the community," Meyerson says. "Through TexasTogether, we hope to make a small difference, whether it's with one person, one organization, or hopefully, one university." Going forward, Meyerson and Guerra say they plan for TogetherWeek to become an annual event and will also look to host other events, possibly even a concert in the spring, as the organization grows. They also hope to eventually expand to high schools in the community and other universities in Texas. "We want to consistently hold events in order to unite the campus and encourage students to treat everyone with respect," Meyerson says. From top: Caroline Meyerson; Mary Elizabeth Guerra. Mary Elizabeth Guerra is a recipient of the Stan L. McLelland Forty Acres Scholarship, and Caroline Meyerson is a recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship.

Top Faculty Share Advice With Forty Acres Scholars

One of the biggest perks of being a Forty Acres Scholar is the opportunity to rub elbows with some of UT's most talented faculty. Case in point: a series of sit-down Forty Acres Discussions (FADs) that the scholars in the Class of 2017 participated in earlier this semester. Communications professor John Daly, history and public affairs professor Jeremi Suri, and Admiral Bob Inman, former Dean of the LBJ School and Distinguished Alumnus, each had their own opportunity to share wisdom and advice with the scholars. During three two-hour discussions throughout the month of September, held in the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center, the scholars and professors shared a meal and informal conversation before each faculty member stood up to deliver a more formal lecture. Daly says he understands the importance of lectures and classes, but also stresses the often-forgotten value of conversations that happen in between and outside them. Accordingly, he urged the scholars to appreciate the powerful role communication plays in our world. “It’s about talking to teachers, working with groups of students, making headway with administrative folks,” Daly says. He encouraged the group of Forty Acres Scholars to get “adopted” by teachers and become acquainted with the staff in their departments. “It’s all about having a great time socially and intellectually,” Daly says. After meeting the scholars, he says he is convinced that they are already on the right track. “They’re such a diverse group of people in terms of interests and backgrounds. I was surprised by how much they genuinely seem to like each other,” he says. Jeremi Suri, the Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs, was happily surprised by the concern the Forty Acres Scholars—a group he calls “refreshingly bipartisan"—expressed over their role in the future of society. “They seem to really recognize that there are some big problems we may have to face as a society, and that it won’t be easy, but we must fix them,” says Suri. “They had an equal sense of privilege and appreciation for the opportunities that they have been given, but also of responsibility.” While this sense of duty is something Suri admired in the scholars, he encouraged them to not let it dictate every decision they make as students. “Sometimes intelligent risk-taking can yield better results than planning. Take risks. Especially ones that have meaningful value in terms of learning," he says. Forty Acres Scholar Marlene Renz says that discussions like these have become one of her favorite parts of the program. “Sitting down with such experienced and impressive people,” Renz says, "is a real educational experience.” Renz was struck by how approachable the speakers were, and how applicable the topics they discussed were to her own education and future career. “We talked about success, having impact and the working world,” Renz says. “Dr. Daly told us it’s the difference between saying, “It’s great to see you,” instead of, “It’s nice to meet you.” There are a lot of behaviors that are expected of you in the professional world, and it’s great to be taught some of them so early.” Renz says the advice of Admiral Inman, the Centennial Chair in National Policy at the LBJ School, was what resonated most with her. “Admiral Inman used his life experiences as teaching points. Instead of throwing out advice he told us what he did,” Renz says. “The best part of the conversation was discussing travel and work-life balance. He told us flexibility and being willing to try things are essential. He also told us about the importance of reading and staying up to date in the world.”  

Top Faculty Share Advice With Forty Acres Scholars

One of the biggest perks of being a Forty Acres Scholar is the opportunity to rub elbows with some of UT's most talented faculty. Case in point: a series of sit-down Forty Acres Discussions (FADs) that the scholars in the Class of 2017 participated in earlier this semester. Communications professor John Daly, history and public affairs professor Jeremi Suri, and Admiral Bob Inman, former Dean of the LBJ School and Distinguished Alumnus, each had their own opportunity to share wisdom and advice with the scholars. During three two-hour discussions throughout the month of September, held in the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center, the scholars and professors shared a meal and informal conversation before each faculty member stood up to deliver a more formal lecture. Daly says he understands the importance of lectures and classes, but also stresses the often-forgotten value of conversations that happen in between and outside them. Accordingly, he urged the scholars to appreciate the powerful role communication plays in our world. “It’s about talking to teachers, working with groups of students, making headway with administrative folks,” Daly says. He encouraged the group of Forty Acres Scholars to get “adopted” by teachers and become acquainted with the staff in their departments. “It’s all about having a great time socially and intellectually,” Daly says. After meeting the scholars, he says he is convinced that they are already on the right track. “They’re such a diverse group of people in terms of interests and backgrounds. I was surprised by how much they genuinely seem to like each other,” he says. Jeremi Suri, the Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs, was happily surprised by the concern the Forty Acres Scholars—a group he calls “refreshingly bipartisan"—expressed over their role in the future of society. “They seem to really recognize that there are some big problems we may have to face as a society, and that it won’t be easy, but we must fix them,” says Suri. “They had an equal sense of privilege and appreciation for the opportunities that they have been given, but also of responsibility.” While this sense of duty is something Suri admired in the scholars, he encouraged them to not let it dictate every decision they make as students. “Sometimes intelligent risk-taking can yield better results than planning. Take risks. Especially ones that have meaningful value in terms of learning," he says. Forty Acres Scholar Marlene Renz says that discussions like these have become one of her favorite parts of the program. “Sitting down with such experienced and impressive people,” Renz says, "is a real educational experience.” Renz was struck by how approachable the speakers were, and how applicable the topics they discussed were to her own education and future career. “We talked about success, having impact and the working world,” Renz says. “Dr. Daly told us it’s the difference between saying, “It’s great to see you,” instead of, “It’s nice to meet you.” There are a lot of behaviors that are expected of you in the professional world, and it’s great to be taught some of them so early.” Renz says the advice of Admiral Inman, the Centennial Chair in National Policy at the LBJ School, was what resonated most with her. “Admiral Inman used his life experiences as teaching points. Instead of throwing out advice he told us what he did,” Renz says. “The best part of the conversation was discussing travel and work-life balance. He told us flexibility and being willing to try things are essential. He also told us about the importance of reading and staying up to date in the world.”  

Top Faculty Share Advice With Forty Acres Scholars

One of the biggest perks of being a Forty Acres Scholar is the opportunity to rub elbows with some of UT's most talented faculty. Case in point: a series of sit-down Forty Acres Discussions (FADs) that the scholars in the Class of 2017 participated in earlier this semester. Communications professor John Daly, history and public affairs professor Jeremi Suri, and Admiral Bob Inman, former Dean of the LBJ School and Distinguished Alumnus, each had their own opportunity to share wisdom and advice with the scholars. During three two-hour discussions throughout the month of September, held in the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center, the scholars and professors shared a meal and informal conversation before each faculty member stood up to deliver a more formal lecture. Daly says he understands the importance of lectures and classes, but also stresses the often-forgotten value of conversations that happen in between and outside them. Accordingly, he urged the scholars to appreciate the powerful role communication plays in our world. “It’s about talking to teachers, working with groups of students, making headway with administrative folks,” Daly says. He encouraged the group of Forty Acres Scholars to get “adopted” by teachers and become acquainted with the staff in their departments. “It’s all about having a great time socially and intellectually,” Daly says. After meeting the scholars, he says he is convinced that they are already on the right track. “They’re such a diverse group of people in terms of interests and backgrounds. I was surprised by how much they genuinely seem to like each other,” he says. Jeremi Suri, the Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs, was happily surprised by the concern the Forty Acres Scholars—a group he calls “refreshingly bipartisan"—expressed over their role in the future of society. “They seem to really recognize that there are some big problems we may have to face as a society, and that it won’t be easy, but we must fix them,” says Suri. “They had an equal sense of privilege and appreciation for the opportunities that they have been given, but also of responsibility.” While this sense of duty is something Suri admired in the scholars, he encouraged them to not let it dictate every decision they make as students. “Sometimes intelligent risk-taking can yield better results than planning. Take risks. Especially ones that have meaningful value in terms of learning," he says. Forty Acres Scholar Marlene Renz says that discussions like these have become one of her favorite parts of the program. “Sitting down with such experienced and impressive people,” Renz says, "is a real educational experience.” Renz was struck by how approachable the speakers were, and how applicable the topics they discussed were to her own education and future career. “We talked about success, having impact and the working world,” Renz says. “Dr. Daly told us it’s the difference between saying, “It’s great to see you,” instead of, “It’s nice to meet you.” There are a lot of behaviors that are expected of you in the professional world, and it’s great to be taught some of them so early.” Renz says the advice of Admiral Inman, the Centennial Chair in National Policy at the LBJ School, was what resonated most with her. “Admiral Inman used his life experiences as teaching points. Instead of throwing out advice he told us what he did,” Renz says. “The best part of the conversation was discussing travel and work-life balance. He told us flexibility and being willing to try things are essential. He also told us about the importance of reading and staying up to date in the world.”  

The Artist's Way: A Forty Acres Scholar Finds His Voice

Connor Frew spent the summer before college scrounging for paint and supplies and ended up settling for the cheapest material he could find: rejected house paint samples from Home Depot. "I was working with whatever I could get my hands on," says Frew, a freshman in the Forty Acres Scholar Program who is majoring in Studio Art. Frew says he doesn't believe in categorizing his work is in any formal art term and instead he studies art history, reads books from his favorite artists, mixes mediums, and tries out new techniques every time he wants to make something. That unusual approach paid off when Frew was chosen to compete in an event called Artist v Architect which was held in Dallas on Nov. 14. Members of the two disciplines competed and collaborated to celebrate the interplay of modern art and architecture. Frew used the competition to try out a new technique of enlarging photos, applying latex paint, and then removing the paint to expose what he calls "ghostings" in the grains and grooves of the prints. In the spirit of collaboration, Frew worked with architect Andrew Cortez to create a walk-through space from 4-feet-by-6-feet planks of wood, steel bars, and draped fabric to represent a person's connection with a building and space. "We called it 'Portal,'" Frew says. "What was really interesting is after you could see footprints across the bottom and it was like 'Wow, they got it,' when it came to our idea of actually going through it." Audience members were given two tokens at the event in order to vote for their favorite, and while neither of Frew's pieces won, he says he is still grateful for the experience, especially since he was the youngest one competing. "There was a wide range of ages, I'd say mainly between 30s and 50s," he says. "And then there was me."  Even though he's only headed into his second semester at UT, Frew says he is excited for more opportunities that will allow him to immerse himself in his love of art and art history—and he knows the Forty Acres Scholars Program will be a big part of making that possible. "It's knowing that I'm going to have access to everything I need, and knowing that I can be crazy ambitious while still having a support system," Frew says. "It drives me to go out and learn and experience more while I'm here because I know they believe in me." From top: A slideshow of Connor Frew's art portfolio from his Tumblr; Frew's collaborative piece from the Artist v Architect competition, entitled "Portal"; Frew's individual work from the competition, "Ghostings." Photos courtesy Connor Frew.

The Artist's Way: A Forty Acres Scholar Finds His Voice

Connor Frew spent the summer before college scrounging for paint and supplies and ended up settling for the cheapest material he could find: rejected house paint samples from Home Depot. "I was working with whatever I could get my hands on," says Frew, a freshman in the Forty Acres Scholar Program who is majoring in Studio Art. Frew says he doesn't believe in categorizing his work is in any formal art term and instead he studies art history, reads books from his favorite artists, mixes mediums, and tries out new techniques every time he wants to make something. That unusual approach paid off when Frew was chosen to compete in an event called Artist v Architect which was held in Dallas on Nov. 14. Members of the two disciplines competed and collaborated to celebrate the interplay of modern art and architecture. Frew used the competition to try out a new technique of enlarging photos, applying latex paint, and then removing the paint to expose what he calls "ghostings" in the grains and grooves of the prints. In the spirit of collaboration, Frew worked with architect Andrew Cortez to create a walk-through space from 4-feet-by-6-feet planks of wood, steel bars, and draped fabric to represent a person's connection with a building and space. "We called it 'Portal,'" Frew says. "What was really interesting is after you could see footprints across the bottom and it was like 'Wow, they got it,' when it came to our idea of actually going through it." Audience members were given two tokens at the event in order to vote for their favorite, and while neither of Frew's pieces won, he says he is still grateful for the experience, especially since he was the youngest one competing. "There was a wide range of ages, I'd say mainly between 30s and 50s," he says. "And then there was me."  Even though he's only headed into his second semester at UT, Frew says he is excited for more opportunities that will allow him to immerse himself in his love of art and art history—and he knows the Forty Acres Scholars Program will be a big part of making that possible. "It's knowing that I'm going to have access to everything I need, and knowing that I can be crazy ambitious while still having a support system," Frew says. "It drives me to go out and learn and experience more while I'm here because I know they believe in me." From top: A slideshow of Connor Frew's art portfolio from his Tumblr; Frew's collaborative piece from the Artist v Architect competition, entitled "Portal"; Frew's individual work from the competition, "Ghostings." Photos courtesy Connor Frew.

The Artist's Way: A Forty Acres Scholar Finds His Voice

Connor Frew spent the summer before college scrounging for paint and supplies and ended up settling for the cheapest material he could find: rejected house paint samples from Home Depot. "I was working with whatever I could get my hands on," says Frew, a freshman in the Forty Acres Scholar Program who is majoring in Studio Art. Frew says he doesn't believe in categorizing his work is in any formal art term and instead he studies art history, reads books from his favorite artists, mixes mediums, and tries out new techniques every time he wants to make something. That unusual approach paid off when Frew was chosen to compete in an event called Artist v Architect which was held in Dallas on Nov. 14. Members of the two disciplines competed and collaborated to celebrate the interplay of modern art and architecture. Frew used the competition to try out a new technique of enlarging photos, applying latex paint, and then removing the paint to expose what he calls "ghostings" in the grains and grooves of the prints. In the spirit of collaboration, Frew worked with architect Andrew Cortez to create a walk-through space from 4-feet-by-6-feet planks of wood, steel bars, and draped fabric to represent a person's connection with a building and space. "We called it 'Portal,'" Frew says. "What was really interesting is after you could see footprints across the bottom and it was like 'Wow, they got it,' when it came to our idea of actually going through it." Audience members were given two tokens at the event in order to vote for their favorite, and while neither of Frew's pieces won, he says he is still grateful for the experience, especially since he was the youngest one competing. "There was a wide range of ages, I'd say mainly between 30s and 50s," he says. "And then there was me."  Even though he's only headed into his second semester at UT, Frew says he is excited for more opportunities that will allow him to immerse himself in his love of art and art history—and he knows the Forty Acres Scholars Program will be a big part of making that possible. "It's knowing that I'm going to have access to everything I need, and knowing that I can be crazy ambitious while still having a support system," Frew says. "It drives me to go out and learn and experience more while I'm here because I know they believe in me." From top: A slideshow of Connor Frew's art portfolio from his Tumblr; Frew's collaborative piece from the Artist v Architect competition, entitled "Portal"; Frew's individual work from the competition, "Ghostings." Photos courtesy Connor Frew.

Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner Nets $300,000 [Watch]

The Texas Exes Dallas Chapter annual scholarship dinner is always a red-letter day, but this year the chapter took things to the next level. In addition to raising a record-breaking $300,000 for the Forty Acres Scholars Program, last week's fifth-annual dinner had a palpable sense of excitement. "We're in awe," says Jeff Duchin, BBA ’98, Life Member, a chapter leader who co-chaired the event with Monica Murrell, BA ’02, Life Member. "There was a lot of great energy in that room." More than 230 guests filled the Belo Mansion for the event. Among the many Longhorn dignitaries in attendance were UT president Bill Powers, State Rep. Dan Branch, and former U.S. Sen. and Texas Exes president-elect Kay Bailey Hutchison, LLB ’67, BA ’92, Life Member, Distinguished Alumna. The evening's guest of honor was businessman and UT supporter Todd Maclin, BBA ’78, Life Member, whom the chapter named its 2013 Outstanding Dallas Texas Ex. The chairman of consumer and commercial banking at Chase, Maclin is a longtime philanthropist who serves as a director on UT's Development Board and is a member of the advisory council for the McCombs School of Business. Texas Exes CEO and executive director Leslie Cedar told the crowd that coming together to honor Maclin was an opportunity as well as a celebration. "By celebrating him we have the opportunity to bring together so many enormously generous and committed people to advance our scholarships mission," said Cedar, BS ’89, MBA ’98. "That mission’s most noble undertaking is the  Forty Acres Scholars Program, UT’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship program chock-full of enrichment opportunities and for any degree plan on campus." The dinner's silent auction, always stocked with creative burnt-orange prizes, didn't disappoint. Items up for auction ranged from an orange Vespa scooter to the chance to watch opening day of next year's football season from President Powers' private suite. Duchin estimates the dinner raised roughly $300,000—a massive increase over last year's total of $70,000. According to Duchin, the funds raised last week will nearly complete funding for the chapter's second Forty Acres Scholarship. "It gets us over two-thirds there," Duchin says. "It was absolutely amazing." Below, watch the scholarship video that was shown at the dinner: President Bill Powers was a featured speaker at the dinner. Photo by David Duchin / DSPNphotos.com

Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner Nets $300,000 [Watch]

The Texas Exes Dallas Chapter annual scholarship dinner is always a red-letter day, but this year the chapter took things to the next level. In addition to raising a record-breaking $300,000 for the Forty Acres Scholars Program, last week's fifth-annual dinner had a palpable sense of excitement. "We're in awe," says Jeff Duchin, BBA ’98, Life Member, a chapter leader who co-chaired the event with Monica Murrell, BA ’02, Life Member. "There was a lot of great energy in that room." More than 230 guests filled the Belo Mansion for the event. Among the many Longhorn dignitaries in attendance were UT president Bill Powers, State Rep. Dan Branch, and former U.S. Sen. and Texas Exes president-elect Kay Bailey Hutchison, LLB ’67, BA ’92, Life Member, Distinguished Alumna. The evening's guest of honor was businessman and UT supporter Todd Maclin, BBA ’78, Life Member, whom the chapter named its 2013 Outstanding Dallas Texas Ex. The chairman of consumer and commercial banking at Chase, Maclin is a longtime philanthropist who serves as a director on UT's Development Board and is a member of the advisory council for the McCombs School of Business. Texas Exes CEO and executive director Leslie Cedar told the crowd that coming together to honor Maclin was an opportunity as well as a celebration. "By celebrating him we have the opportunity to bring together so many enormously generous and committed people to advance our scholarships mission," said Cedar, BS ’89, MBA ’98. "That mission’s most noble undertaking is the  Forty Acres Scholars Program, UT’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship program chock-full of enrichment opportunities and for any degree plan on campus." The dinner's silent auction, always stocked with creative burnt-orange prizes, didn't disappoint. Items up for auction ranged from an orange Vespa scooter to the chance to watch opening day of next year's football season from President Powers' private suite. Duchin estimates the dinner raised roughly $300,000—a massive increase over last year's total of $70,000. According to Duchin, the funds raised last week will nearly complete funding for the chapter's second Forty Acres Scholarship. "It gets us over two-thirds there," Duchin says. "It was absolutely amazing." Below, watch the scholarship video that was shown at the dinner: President Bill Powers was a featured speaker at the dinner. Photo by David Duchin / DSPNphotos.com

Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner Nets $300,000 [Watch]

The Texas Exes Dallas Chapter annual scholarship dinner is always a red-letter day, but this year the chapter took things to the next level. In addition to raising a record-breaking $300,000 for the Forty Acres Scholars Program, last week's fifth-annual dinner had a palpable sense of excitement. "We're in awe," says Jeff Duchin, BBA ’98, Life Member, a chapter leader who co-chaired the event with Monica Murrell, BA ’02, Life Member. "There was a lot of great energy in that room." More than 230 guests filled the Belo Mansion for the event. Among the many Longhorn dignitaries in attendance were UT president Bill Powers, State Rep. Dan Branch, and former U.S. Sen. and Texas Exes president-elect Kay Bailey Hutchison, LLB ’67, BA ’92, Life Member, Distinguished Alumna. The evening's guest of honor was businessman and UT supporter Todd Maclin, BBA ’78, Life Member, whom the chapter named its 2013 Outstanding Dallas Texas Ex. The chairman of consumer and commercial banking at Chase, Maclin is a longtime philanthropist who serves as a director on UT's Development Board and is a member of the advisory council for the McCombs School of Business. Texas Exes CEO and executive director Leslie Cedar told the crowd that coming together to honor Maclin was an opportunity as well as a celebration. "By celebrating him we have the opportunity to bring together so many enormously generous and committed people to advance our scholarships mission," said Cedar, BS ’89, MBA ’98. "That mission’s most noble undertaking is the  Forty Acres Scholars Program, UT’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship program chock-full of enrichment opportunities and for any degree plan on campus." The dinner's silent auction, always stocked with creative burnt-orange prizes, didn't disappoint. Items up for auction ranged from an orange Vespa scooter to the chance to watch opening day of next year's football season from President Powers' private suite. Duchin estimates the dinner raised roughly $300,000—a massive increase over last year's total of $70,000. According to Duchin, the funds raised last week will nearly complete funding for the chapter's second Forty Acres Scholarship. "It gets us over two-thirds there," Duchin says. "It was absolutely amazing." Below, watch the scholarship video that was shown at the dinner: President Bill Powers was a featured speaker at the dinner. Photo by David Duchin / DSPNphotos.com

My Summers at Camp Texas

Caroline Meyerson is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. Attending Camp Texas as both a camper and a counselor has been one of my most rewarding and favorite UT experiences so far. A three-day retreat for incoming freshmen, Camp Texas gives the newest Longhorns a jump-start to their experience at the University. Thanks to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, I had the opportunity to attend as a camper the summer before my freshman year.  Throughout those three days, I met so many incredible people, participated in the Camp Texas Olympics and Western Luau Dance Party, spoke to various professors, and gained leadership experience. As soon as I left the campsite in Balcones Springs, I knew I wanted to become a Camp Texas counselor. When I received the email that I had been accepted to be a Camp Texas counselor for the summer of 2013, I was ecstatic. I began to attend trainings in the spring at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center every Friday afternoon. During my first training, I quickly realized that I had stepped into a room of talented, kind, and ambitious leaders on campus. The vice president of the student body, Longhorn Band members, spirit organizations and Greek life members, Texas Cowboys, and others representing all sides of campus and life all came together with one purpose in mind: to make the transition to college for the Class of 2017 a fun, exciting, and rewarding experience. Being a counselor exceeded my expectations, which was a pretty difficult task. On the first day, we met the campers at the Alumni Center and loaded the buses to Balcones Springs. I served as the “bus jockey” on the way to camp, in which I facilitated icebreakers and games to make the windy ride go a bit more smoothly. The first day of activities is packed full upon arrival, including a color war, group cheer-off, and administrative panels. On the second day, students are given the opportunity to meet their peers who will be living in the same dorm and studying the same major. My favorite memory of the three-day retreat occurred during the morning of the second day. Each year, the director of Camp Texas leads a Lion King skit. While the speakers blare "The Circle of Life,” the counselors slowly creep throughout the dining hall dressed as animals. At the end of the dance, my fellow counselors lifted me up like Simba (because of my petite size), and the director, John Warder, smeared yogurt on my forehead, as Rafiki smears the juice on Simba. It is memories like these that I will never forget. Camp Texas is about being silly and breaking out of your shell, and I believe it is this overall attitude that makes the campers feel comfortable in a new and different environment. Participating in the Camp Texas program is such a unique opportunity on this campus. Through trainings, I strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills. The most special and valuable aspect of the program, however, was the capacity to meet a diverse group of leaders on campus. I will always treasure this experience, and I thank the Forty Acres Scholars Program for sending me that summer before my freshman year, giving me just a small taste of how amazing my UT experience would truly be.  

My Summers at Camp Texas

Caroline Meyerson is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. Attending Camp Texas as both a camper and a counselor has been one of my most rewarding and favorite UT experiences so far. A three-day retreat for incoming freshmen, Camp Texas gives the newest Longhorns a jump-start to their experience at the University. Thanks to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, I had the opportunity to attend as a camper the summer before my freshman year.  Throughout those three days, I met so many incredible people, participated in the Camp Texas Olympics and Western Luau Dance Party, spoke to various professors, and gained leadership experience. As soon as I left the campsite in Balcones Springs, I knew I wanted to become a Camp Texas counselor. When I received the email that I had been accepted to be a Camp Texas counselor for the summer of 2013, I was ecstatic. I began to attend trainings in the spring at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center every Friday afternoon. During my first training, I quickly realized that I had stepped into a room of talented, kind, and ambitious leaders on campus. The vice president of the student body, Longhorn Band members, spirit organizations and Greek life members, Texas Cowboys, and others representing all sides of campus and life all came together with one purpose in mind: to make the transition to college for the Class of 2017 a fun, exciting, and rewarding experience. Being a counselor exceeded my expectations, which was a pretty difficult task. On the first day, we met the campers at the Alumni Center and loaded the buses to Balcones Springs. I served as the “bus jockey” on the way to camp, in which I facilitated icebreakers and games to make the windy ride go a bit more smoothly. The first day of activities is packed full upon arrival, including a color war, group cheer-off, and administrative panels. On the second day, students are given the opportunity to meet their peers who will be living in the same dorm and studying the same major. My favorite memory of the three-day retreat occurred during the morning of the second day. Each year, the director of Camp Texas leads a Lion King skit. While the speakers blare "The Circle of Life,” the counselors slowly creep throughout the dining hall dressed as animals. At the end of the dance, my fellow counselors lifted me up like Simba (because of my petite size), and the director, John Warder, smeared yogurt on my forehead, as Rafiki smears the juice on Simba. It is memories like these that I will never forget. Camp Texas is about being silly and breaking out of your shell, and I believe it is this overall attitude that makes the campers feel comfortable in a new and different environment. Participating in the Camp Texas program is such a unique opportunity on this campus. Through trainings, I strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills. The most special and valuable aspect of the program, however, was the capacity to meet a diverse group of leaders on campus. I will always treasure this experience, and I thank the Forty Acres Scholars Program for sending me that summer before my freshman year, giving me just a small taste of how amazing my UT experience would truly be.  

My Summers at Camp Texas

Caroline Meyerson is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. Attending Camp Texas as both a camper and a counselor has been one of my most rewarding and favorite UT experiences so far. A three-day retreat for incoming freshmen, Camp Texas gives the newest Longhorns a jump-start to their experience at the University. Thanks to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, I had the opportunity to attend as a camper the summer before my freshman year.  Throughout those three days, I met so many incredible people, participated in the Camp Texas Olympics and Western Luau Dance Party, spoke to various professors, and gained leadership experience. As soon as I left the campsite in Balcones Springs, I knew I wanted to become a Camp Texas counselor. When I received the email that I had been accepted to be a Camp Texas counselor for the summer of 2013, I was ecstatic. I began to attend trainings in the spring at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center every Friday afternoon. During my first training, I quickly realized that I had stepped into a room of talented, kind, and ambitious leaders on campus. The vice president of the student body, Longhorn Band members, spirit organizations and Greek life members, Texas Cowboys, and others representing all sides of campus and life all came together with one purpose in mind: to make the transition to college for the Class of 2017 a fun, exciting, and rewarding experience. Being a counselor exceeded my expectations, which was a pretty difficult task. On the first day, we met the campers at the Alumni Center and loaded the buses to Balcones Springs. I served as the “bus jockey” on the way to camp, in which I facilitated icebreakers and games to make the windy ride go a bit more smoothly. The first day of activities is packed full upon arrival, including a color war, group cheer-off, and administrative panels. On the second day, students are given the opportunity to meet their peers who will be living in the same dorm and studying the same major. My favorite memory of the three-day retreat occurred during the morning of the second day. Each year, the director of Camp Texas leads a Lion King skit. While the speakers blare "The Circle of Life,” the counselors slowly creep throughout the dining hall dressed as animals. At the end of the dance, my fellow counselors lifted me up like Simba (because of my petite size), and the director, John Warder, smeared yogurt on my forehead, as Rafiki smears the juice on Simba. It is memories like these that I will never forget. Camp Texas is about being silly and breaking out of your shell, and I believe it is this overall attitude that makes the campers feel comfortable in a new and different environment. Participating in the Camp Texas program is such a unique opportunity on this campus. Through trainings, I strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills. The most special and valuable aspect of the program, however, was the capacity to meet a diverse group of leaders on campus. I will always treasure this experience, and I thank the Forty Acres Scholars Program for sending me that summer before my freshman year, giving me just a small taste of how amazing my UT experience would truly be.  

Investing in Others: A Forty Acres Scholar's Summer of Service

Tiffany Chan is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship and the Marilyn White Enrichment Award. Last spring, my women’s literature professor, Carol MacKay, introduced me to the Institute on Philanthropy and Voluntary Service. Giving back to the community that continues to give me so much is important to me. I know the difference it has made to have been blessed by the presence of supportive people in my life: my family, my friends, teachers, professors, and, during my time now at The University of Texas, especially the Texas Exes, the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation, and Marilyn White through the Forty Acres Scholars Program. I knew immediately that I had to apply to this summer program in Washington, D.C. offered by the Fund for American Studies. It was an opportunity to discover how my passion could become my profession. With students from universities across the nation and around the world—including a fellow Stamps scholar from the University of Illinois—I quickly became immersed in both theory and hands-on experience. In June, Professor Richard Boyd led our class in an exploration of voluntary associations and how they function within a democratic society. In July, we tackled philosophical problems with Professor Gregory Wolcott through the lenses of utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics to answer the question: What social responsibilities do individuals and organizations have? Additionally this summer, I interned at a nonprofit promoting children’s literacy called Everybody Wins! D.C. It was there that I learned the ins and outs of a nonprofit and discovered what it takes for one to succeed: truly dedicated and passionate people investing their time and energy towards a cause they strongly believe in. This sense of heart is irreplaceable. In the words of Douglas Adams, “To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.” This summer, I also developed an unexpected lifelong friendship. I spent my last night with Alexandra Forte, my best friend, sitting on the other side of the Lincoln Memorial. Looking over the water and skyline, we recounted and reflected on the past two months. I am blessed by her presence in my life and our beautifully strong friendship. It is impossible to imagine the summer without our late night chats, spur-of-the-moment road trips, shared tears, and laughter. My experience in the nation’s capital intensified my love for service, and I returned beyond excited to continue connecting with my home community. I have realized that my passion is not with a cause in the traditional sense. Yes, I enjoy working with kids and facilitating STEM summer camps at the children’s museum; I enjoy interacting with animals and exercising shelter dogs around Town Lake; I enjoy helping to improve the environment and clearing greenbelts of invasive species. But my true desire is to inspire a lifelong dedication to philanthropic service in others. I learned so much this summer: what "business casual" really means, how meaningful a mentor-mentee relationship can be, and to always carry an umbrella in D.C. But, most importantly, I learned that service is not about the number of hours or amount of money you put in. It is about how much heart you invest in others.  Photo courtesy Tiffany Chan. 

Investing in Others: A Forty Acres Scholar's Summer of Service

Tiffany Chan is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship and the Marilyn White Enrichment Award. Last spring, my women’s literature professor, Carol MacKay, introduced me to the Institute on Philanthropy and Voluntary Service. Giving back to the community that continues to give me so much is important to me. I know the difference it has made to have been blessed by the presence of supportive people in my life: my family, my friends, teachers, professors, and, during my time now at The University of Texas, especially the Texas Exes, the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation, and Marilyn White through the Forty Acres Scholars Program. I knew immediately that I had to apply to this summer program in Washington, D.C. offered by the Fund for American Studies. It was an opportunity to discover how my passion could become my profession. With students from universities across the nation and around the world—including a fellow Stamps scholar from the University of Illinois—I quickly became immersed in both theory and hands-on experience. In June, Professor Richard Boyd led our class in an exploration of voluntary associations and how they function within a democratic society. In July, we tackled philosophical problems with Professor Gregory Wolcott through the lenses of utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics to answer the question: What social responsibilities do individuals and organizations have? Additionally this summer, I interned at a nonprofit promoting children’s literacy called Everybody Wins! D.C. It was there that I learned the ins and outs of a nonprofit and discovered what it takes for one to succeed: truly dedicated and passionate people investing their time and energy towards a cause they strongly believe in. This sense of heart is irreplaceable. In the words of Douglas Adams, “To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.” This summer, I also developed an unexpected lifelong friendship. I spent my last night with Alexandra Forte, my best friend, sitting on the other side of the Lincoln Memorial. Looking over the water and skyline, we recounted and reflected on the past two months. I am blessed by her presence in my life and our beautifully strong friendship. It is impossible to imagine the summer without our late night chats, spur-of-the-moment road trips, shared tears, and laughter. My experience in the nation’s capital intensified my love for service, and I returned beyond excited to continue connecting with my home community. I have realized that my passion is not with a cause in the traditional sense. Yes, I enjoy working with kids and facilitating STEM summer camps at the children’s museum; I enjoy interacting with animals and exercising shelter dogs around Town Lake; I enjoy helping to improve the environment and clearing greenbelts of invasive species. But my true desire is to inspire a lifelong dedication to philanthropic service in others. I learned so much this summer: what "business casual" really means, how meaningful a mentor-mentee relationship can be, and to always carry an umbrella in D.C. But, most importantly, I learned that service is not about the number of hours or amount of money you put in. It is about how much heart you invest in others.  Photo courtesy Tiffany Chan. 

Investing in Others: A Forty Acres Scholar's Summer of Service

Tiffany Chan is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship and the Marilyn White Enrichment Award. Last spring, my women’s literature professor, Carol MacKay, introduced me to the Institute on Philanthropy and Voluntary Service. Giving back to the community that continues to give me so much is important to me. I know the difference it has made to have been blessed by the presence of supportive people in my life: my family, my friends, teachers, professors, and, during my time now at The University of Texas, especially the Texas Exes, the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation, and Marilyn White through the Forty Acres Scholars Program. I knew immediately that I had to apply to this summer program in Washington, D.C. offered by the Fund for American Studies. It was an opportunity to discover how my passion could become my profession. With students from universities across the nation and around the world—including a fellow Stamps scholar from the University of Illinois—I quickly became immersed in both theory and hands-on experience. In June, Professor Richard Boyd led our class in an exploration of voluntary associations and how they function within a democratic society. In July, we tackled philosophical problems with Professor Gregory Wolcott through the lenses of utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics to answer the question: What social responsibilities do individuals and organizations have? Additionally this summer, I interned at a nonprofit promoting children’s literacy called Everybody Wins! D.C. It was there that I learned the ins and outs of a nonprofit and discovered what it takes for one to succeed: truly dedicated and passionate people investing their time and energy towards a cause they strongly believe in. This sense of heart is irreplaceable. In the words of Douglas Adams, “To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.” This summer, I also developed an unexpected lifelong friendship. I spent my last night with Alexandra Forte, my best friend, sitting on the other side of the Lincoln Memorial. Looking over the water and skyline, we recounted and reflected on the past two months. I am blessed by her presence in my life and our beautifully strong friendship. It is impossible to imagine the summer without our late night chats, spur-of-the-moment road trips, shared tears, and laughter. My experience in the nation’s capital intensified my love for service, and I returned beyond excited to continue connecting with my home community. I have realized that my passion is not with a cause in the traditional sense. Yes, I enjoy working with kids and facilitating STEM summer camps at the children’s museum; I enjoy interacting with animals and exercising shelter dogs around Town Lake; I enjoy helping to improve the environment and clearing greenbelts of invasive species. But my true desire is to inspire a lifelong dedication to philanthropic service in others. I learned so much this summer: what "business casual" really means, how meaningful a mentor-mentee relationship can be, and to always carry an umbrella in D.C. But, most importantly, I learned that service is not about the number of hours or amount of money you put in. It is about how much heart you invest in others.  Photo courtesy Tiffany Chan. 

Forty Acres Scholar Studies Food Security at German University

Stephanie Eisner has wasted no time in getting real-world experience relevant to her public health major. The junior Forty Acres Scholar spent two months in Germany this summer at the Georg-August University at Göttingen’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, where she studied the market for palm oil in Indonesia and the economic, ecological, and human-rights aspects that play a role in agriculture. Following a lengthy application process, Eisner was selected to be a part of the RISE (Research and Internships in Science Engineering) program, sponsored by the German Exchange Service. The research being conducted explores the food-versus-fuel debate in agriculture in less developed nations. “My supervisor decided it would be interesting to look at food security issues that arise from growing interest in palm oil,” Eisner says. Her research consisted of studying how policies in developed nations—where there is a growing demand for economically and environmentally friendly oils—affect demands in developing nations. Eisner picked about 25 countries from all over the world and compiled statistics regarding imports, exports, development status, and agriculture status before compiling them into a coding program and standardizing the data by calorie intake. “I answered a lot of individual questions, but it was less of one giant question and more of developing understanding for my team and myself,” she says. “In Germany, the actual knowledge that I earned was mostly from interaction in research and the work I was doing at my desk. I learned about a whole different side of public health that I was very intrigued by: agriculture,” Eisner says. The RISE Program provided living, travel, and food expenses for her trip. Eisner also received a scholarship through the College of Natural Sciences that covered her plane ticket. The Forty Acres Scholars Program covered the remainder of her expenses. Forty Acres Scholars are required to complete a community component, a global experience, and a professional growth opportunity during their time at UT. Between her 2013 summer in Germany and her 2012 summer in Bangladesh, Eisner has completed all three requirements. These requirements served as a great motivator for Eisner to pursue global opportunities related to her major, she says. “It was never a question of 'Can I do it?’ or ‘Should I do it?’ but, ‘I’m going to be doing it, what field should do it in?’” Eisner says. “I feel like the sky is the limit.” Now that she's back on campus, Eisner is focusing on her junior year and her responsibilities as Student Government’s Women’s Resource Agency assistant director, and her work as an officer in the Texas Microfinance Group. “I’m absolutely thankful for the kinds of doors [The Forty Acres Scholars Program] opens,” Eisner says. “It’s just immeasurable.” Stephanie Eisner is a recipient of the Founding Donors Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo courtesy Stephanie Eisner.

Forty Acres Scholar Studies Food Security at German University

Stephanie Eisner has wasted no time in getting real-world experience relevant to her public health major. The junior Forty Acres Scholar spent two months in Germany this summer at the Georg-August University at Göttingen’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, where she studied the market for palm oil in Indonesia and the economic, ecological, and human-rights aspects that play a role in agriculture. Following a lengthy application process, Eisner was selected to be a part of the RISE (Research and Internships in Science Engineering) program, sponsored by the German Exchange Service. The research being conducted explores the food-versus-fuel debate in agriculture in less developed nations. “My supervisor decided it would be interesting to look at food security issues that arise from growing interest in palm oil,” Eisner says. Her research consisted of studying how policies in developed nations—where there is a growing demand for economically and environmentally friendly oils—affect demands in developing nations. Eisner picked about 25 countries from all over the world and compiled statistics regarding imports, exports, development status, and agriculture status before compiling them into a coding program and standardizing the data by calorie intake. “I answered a lot of individual questions, but it was less of one giant question and more of developing understanding for my team and myself,” she says. “In Germany, the actual knowledge that I earned was mostly from interaction in research and the work I was doing at my desk. I learned about a whole different side of public health that I was very intrigued by: agriculture,” Eisner says. The RISE Program provided living, travel, and food expenses for her trip. Eisner also received a scholarship through the College of Natural Sciences that covered her plane ticket. The Forty Acres Scholars Program covered the remainder of her expenses. Forty Acres Scholars are required to complete a community component, a global experience, and a professional growth opportunity during their time at UT. Between her 2013 summer in Germany and her 2012 summer in Bangladesh, Eisner has completed all three requirements. These requirements served as a great motivator for Eisner to pursue global opportunities related to her major, she says. “It was never a question of 'Can I do it?’ or ‘Should I do it?’ but, ‘I’m going to be doing it, what field should do it in?’” Eisner says. “I feel like the sky is the limit.” Now that she's back on campus, Eisner is focusing on her junior year and her responsibilities as Student Government’s Women’s Resource Agency assistant director, and her work as an officer in the Texas Microfinance Group. “I’m absolutely thankful for the kinds of doors [The Forty Acres Scholars Program] opens,” Eisner says. “It’s just immeasurable.” Stephanie Eisner is a recipient of the Founding Donors Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo courtesy Stephanie Eisner.

Forty Acres Scholar Studies Food Security at German University

Stephanie Eisner has wasted no time in getting real-world experience relevant to her public health major. The junior Forty Acres Scholar spent two months in Germany this summer at the Georg-August University at Göttingen’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, where she studied the market for palm oil in Indonesia and the economic, ecological, and human-rights aspects that play a role in agriculture. Following a lengthy application process, Eisner was selected to be a part of the RISE (Research and Internships in Science Engineering) program, sponsored by the German Exchange Service. The research being conducted explores the food-versus-fuel debate in agriculture in less developed nations. “My supervisor decided it would be interesting to look at food security issues that arise from growing interest in palm oil,” Eisner says. Her research consisted of studying how policies in developed nations—where there is a growing demand for economically and environmentally friendly oils—affect demands in developing nations. Eisner picked about 25 countries from all over the world and compiled statistics regarding imports, exports, development status, and agriculture status before compiling them into a coding program and standardizing the data by calorie intake. “I answered a lot of individual questions, but it was less of one giant question and more of developing understanding for my team and myself,” she says. “In Germany, the actual knowledge that I earned was mostly from interaction in research and the work I was doing at my desk. I learned about a whole different side of public health that I was very intrigued by: agriculture,” Eisner says. The RISE Program provided living, travel, and food expenses for her trip. Eisner also received a scholarship through the College of Natural Sciences that covered her plane ticket. The Forty Acres Scholars Program covered the remainder of her expenses. Forty Acres Scholars are required to complete a community component, a global experience, and a professional growth opportunity during their time at UT. Between her 2013 summer in Germany and her 2012 summer in Bangladesh, Eisner has completed all three requirements. These requirements served as a great motivator for Eisner to pursue global opportunities related to her major, she says. “It was never a question of 'Can I do it?’ or ‘Should I do it?’ but, ‘I’m going to be doing it, what field should do it in?’” Eisner says. “I feel like the sky is the limit.” Now that she's back on campus, Eisner is focusing on her junior year and her responsibilities as Student Government’s Women’s Resource Agency assistant director, and her work as an officer in the Texas Microfinance Group. “I’m absolutely thankful for the kinds of doors [The Forty Acres Scholars Program] opens,” Eisner says. “It’s just immeasurable.” Stephanie Eisner is a recipient of the Founding Donors Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo courtesy Stephanie Eisner.

A Summer in Spain for Linda Shi

  Linda Shi visits the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, Italy while traveling solo after her study abroad term ended. When Forty Acres Scholar Linda Shi walked into her Spanish Civilization class last spring, she had no intention of studying abroad in Barcelona. But that quickly changed. “After that class, I fell in love with this idea of Spain,” says Shi, a recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship.  “It was something I wanted to explore more.” Shi's four—yes, four—majors in business honors, finance, Plan II honors, and Spanish made it tough to find a study abroad program that would let her earn needed credit toward her degree. But with help from the Forty Acres Scholars Program staff, Shi ended up at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra Language & Culture, taking a class on the history of Catalonia and another on Spanish post-modernism. But classroom knowledge wasn’t all she gained. “I realized during my trip that it's difficult to have a good experience while traveling with people you already know, because you're speaking English,” Shi says. “But when traveling by yourself, you have to meet natives and you can immerse self in the culture much better.” The experience, Shi says, put her language skills on the fast track to being highly proficient and pushed her to meet people from all over the world. Apart from meeting people, the most educational activity Shi did was simply walk. “It took about 50 minutes to get to my school,” Shi says. “Barcelona’s public transit is fantastic, but I thought it was better to walk. There’s something calming and educational about walking, so I didn't bother to figure how public transit worked.” Not bothering to learn the ins and outs of European public transit caught up with her in Italy. One of Shi’s rare public transportation escapades taught her quite a bit about keeping calm in a crisis. While traveling through Italy after her program ended, Shi bought a train ticket and boarded. She learned later that you must validate tickets at a machine in the train station or face fines. It was a learning experience, she says. “I really panicked because of that,” Shi says. “I learned the importance of reacting quickly when you don't speak a language or understand norms. If this doesn't work out, that's fine. Something else will work out. Let strange things happen.” Shi’s ability to go with the flow led her to many solo trips all over Spain, Morocco, and Italy. But she hardly plans on stopping there. “[Study abroad] has made me thirstier,” Shi said. “It’s made me want to travel more. For me, it’s not about how much of the world I haven't seen- but about how many people I haven't met.” The Forty Acres Scholars Program served as more than monetary support for Shi’s summer. The program’s encouragement and emphasis on international experiences served her well, she says. “Study abroad has been a cornerstone of my college experience,” Shi says. “The [Forty Acres Scholars Program] encourages that. College should prepare you for the adult world, and studying abroad is instrumental to that.” Linda Shi is a recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo courtesy Linda Shi.

A Summer in Spain for Linda Shi

  Linda Shi visits the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, Italy while traveling solo after her study abroad term ended. When Forty Acres Scholar Linda Shi walked into her Spanish Civilization class last spring, she had no intention of studying abroad in Barcelona. But that quickly changed. “After that class, I fell in love with this idea of Spain,” says Shi, a recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship.  “It was something I wanted to explore more.” Shi's four—yes, four—majors in business honors, finance, Plan II honors, and Spanish made it tough to find a study abroad program that would let her earn needed credit toward her degree. But with help from the Forty Acres Scholars Program staff, Shi ended up at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra Language & Culture, taking a class on the history of Catalonia and another on Spanish post-modernism. But classroom knowledge wasn’t all she gained. “I realized during my trip that it's difficult to have a good experience while traveling with people you already know, because you're speaking English,” Shi says. “But when traveling by yourself, you have to meet natives and you can immerse self in the culture much better.” The experience, Shi says, put her language skills on the fast track to being highly proficient and pushed her to meet people from all over the world. Apart from meeting people, the most educational activity Shi did was simply walk. “It took about 50 minutes to get to my school,” Shi says. “Barcelona’s public transit is fantastic, but I thought it was better to walk. There’s something calming and educational about walking, so I didn't bother to figure how public transit worked.” Not bothering to learn the ins and outs of European public transit caught up with her in Italy. One of Shi’s rare public transportation escapades taught her quite a bit about keeping calm in a crisis. While traveling through Italy after her program ended, Shi bought a train ticket and boarded. She learned later that you must validate tickets at a machine in the train station or face fines. It was a learning experience, she says. “I really panicked because of that,” Shi says. “I learned the importance of reacting quickly when you don't speak a language or understand norms. If this doesn't work out, that's fine. Something else will work out. Let strange things happen.” Shi’s ability to go with the flow led her to many solo trips all over Spain, Morocco, and Italy. But she hardly plans on stopping there. “[Study abroad] has made me thirstier,” Shi said. “It’s made me want to travel more. For me, it’s not about how much of the world I haven't seen- but about how many people I haven't met.” The Forty Acres Scholars Program served as more than monetary support for Shi’s summer. The program’s encouragement and emphasis on international experiences served her well, she says. “Study abroad has been a cornerstone of my college experience,” Shi says. “The [Forty Acres Scholars Program] encourages that. College should prepare you for the adult world, and studying abroad is instrumental to that.” Linda Shi is a recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo courtesy Linda Shi.

A Summer in Spain for Linda Shi

  Linda Shi visits the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, Italy while traveling solo after her study abroad term ended. When Forty Acres Scholar Linda Shi walked into her Spanish Civilization class last spring, she had no intention of studying abroad in Barcelona. But that quickly changed. “After that class, I fell in love with this idea of Spain,” says Shi, a recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship.  “It was something I wanted to explore more.” Shi's four—yes, four—majors in business honors, finance, Plan II honors, and Spanish made it tough to find a study abroad program that would let her earn needed credit toward her degree. But with help from the Forty Acres Scholars Program staff, Shi ended up at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra Language & Culture, taking a class on the history of Catalonia and another on Spanish post-modernism. But classroom knowledge wasn’t all she gained. “I realized during my trip that it's difficult to have a good experience while traveling with people you already know, because you're speaking English,” Shi says. “But when traveling by yourself, you have to meet natives and you can immerse self in the culture much better.” The experience, Shi says, put her language skills on the fast track to being highly proficient and pushed her to meet people from all over the world. Apart from meeting people, the most educational activity Shi did was simply walk. “It took about 50 minutes to get to my school,” Shi says. “Barcelona’s public transit is fantastic, but I thought it was better to walk. There’s something calming and educational about walking, so I didn't bother to figure how public transit worked.” Not bothering to learn the ins and outs of European public transit caught up with her in Italy. One of Shi’s rare public transportation escapades taught her quite a bit about keeping calm in a crisis. While traveling through Italy after her program ended, Shi bought a train ticket and boarded. She learned later that you must validate tickets at a machine in the train station or face fines. It was a learning experience, she says. “I really panicked because of that,” Shi says. “I learned the importance of reacting quickly when you don't speak a language or understand norms. If this doesn't work out, that's fine. Something else will work out. Let strange things happen.” Shi’s ability to go with the flow led her to many solo trips all over Spain, Morocco, and Italy. But she hardly plans on stopping there. “[Study abroad] has made me thirstier,” Shi said. “It’s made me want to travel more. For me, it’s not about how much of the world I haven't seen- but about how many people I haven't met.” The Forty Acres Scholars Program served as more than monetary support for Shi’s summer. The program’s encouragement and emphasis on international experiences served her well, she says. “Study abroad has been a cornerstone of my college experience,” Shi says. “The [Forty Acres Scholars Program] encourages that. College should prepare you for the adult world, and studying abroad is instrumental to that.” Linda Shi is a recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo courtesy Linda Shi.

Trailblazer

Meet Alejandra Ortega: UT freshman, Forty Acres Scholar, aspiring math teacher, and the first high school graduate in her family. The Houston native explained how UT’s most esteemed full-ride merit scholarship has changed her life. Did your parents push you to aim for college? They never pushed me, but when they saw it was what I wanted, they supported me all the way. My mom got her GED and worked her way up as a teacher’s aide and a secretary, and my dad owns a small contractor business. They’re amazing, the best role models I could have. They must be so proud. My entire family is full of Texas fans now! My aunts and uncles in Monterrey, Mexico, all have UT T-shirts and can do the hook ’em. I’m trying to convince my cousin to come to UT. We need another Longhorn in the family. How did you end up at UT? For a long time, I was convinced I would go to the University of North Texas, because I knew about a full-ride scholarship there. But then I came to UT for UIL [University Interscholastic League], I just had a gut feeling. After that, I knew I was going to do whatever it took to get here. What was your reaction to learning you’d won this scholarship? On the Sunday after Finalists’ Weekend, I waited by my phone all day. Finally, at 8 p.m., Kristy [Kimball, Forty Acres Scholars Program director] called. I remember thanking her over and over, then celebrating with my mom—laughing, hugging, crying. This is the biggest blessing ever for me and my family. I want to start my own scholarship fund next semester. It won’t be much, but I’ve gotten so much help that I want to start returning it. That’s a big reason why I want to be a teacher, too, so I can help kids with backgrounds like mine. How’s your first semester so far? There’s definitely been some culture shock, but it’s going great. I really love my physics class. I’m about to start teaching science to at-risk kids through UTeach Outreach. I like taking dance lessons with Texas Ballroom, too. Tell me about that culture shock. Walking into a class with 100 students was an adjustment. And I had been used to speaking Spanish most of the time at home. There was a lot of apathy in my high school, so it’s a big adjustment—in the best way—to be around all these people who are so excited about learning. Are you close to the other Forty Acres Scholars? We’re a family. When I told Connor [Frew, a fellow scholar] that I’m first-generation, he said, “We’ve got your back.” It meant a lot to me. Last week, two other girls and I brought our boyfriends to meet the scholars. We introduced them to everybody, and it was like, “OK, you passed the test!” That’s how close we are. Alejandra Ortega is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo by Andrew Alden Miller.

Trailblazer

Meet Alejandra Ortega: UT freshman, Forty Acres Scholar, aspiring math teacher, and the first high school graduate in her family. The Houston native explained how UT’s most esteemed full-ride merit scholarship has changed her life. Did your parents push you to aim for college? They never pushed me, but when they saw it was what I wanted, they supported me all the way. My mom got her GED and worked her way up as a teacher’s aide and a secretary, and my dad owns a small contractor business. They’re amazing, the best role models I could have. They must be so proud. My entire family is full of Texas fans now! My aunts and uncles in Monterrey, Mexico, all have UT T-shirts and can do the hook ’em. I’m trying to convince my cousin to come to UT. We need another Longhorn in the family. How did you end up at UT? For a long time, I was convinced I would go to the University of North Texas, because I knew about a full-ride scholarship there. But then I came to UT for UIL [University Interscholastic League], I just had a gut feeling. After that, I knew I was going to do whatever it took to get here. What was your reaction to learning you’d won this scholarship? On the Sunday after Finalists’ Weekend, I waited by my phone all day. Finally, at 8 p.m., Kristy [Kimball, Forty Acres Scholars Program director] called. I remember thanking her over and over, then celebrating with my mom—laughing, hugging, crying. This is the biggest blessing ever for me and my family. I want to start my own scholarship fund next semester. It won’t be much, but I’ve gotten so much help that I want to start returning it. That’s a big reason why I want to be a teacher, too, so I can help kids with backgrounds like mine. How’s your first semester so far? There’s definitely been some culture shock, but it’s going great. I really love my physics class. I’m about to start teaching science to at-risk kids through UTeach Outreach. I like taking dance lessons with Texas Ballroom, too. Tell me about that culture shock. Walking into a class with 100 students was an adjustment. And I had been used to speaking Spanish most of the time at home. There was a lot of apathy in my high school, so it’s a big adjustment—in the best way—to be around all these people who are so excited about learning. Are you close to the other Forty Acres Scholars? We’re a family. When I told Connor [Frew, a fellow scholar] that I’m first-generation, he said, “We’ve got your back.” It meant a lot to me. Last week, two other girls and I brought our boyfriends to meet the scholars. We introduced them to everybody, and it was like, “OK, you passed the test!” That’s how close we are. Alejandra Ortega is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo by Andrew Alden Miller.

Trailblazer

Meet Alejandra Ortega: UT freshman, Forty Acres Scholar, aspiring math teacher, and the first high school graduate in her family. The Houston native explained how UT’s most esteemed full-ride merit scholarship has changed her life. Did your parents push you to aim for college? They never pushed me, but when they saw it was what I wanted, they supported me all the way. My mom got her GED and worked her way up as a teacher’s aide and a secretary, and my dad owns a small contractor business. They’re amazing, the best role models I could have. They must be so proud. My entire family is full of Texas fans now! My aunts and uncles in Monterrey, Mexico, all have UT T-shirts and can do the hook ’em. I’m trying to convince my cousin to come to UT. We need another Longhorn in the family. How did you end up at UT? For a long time, I was convinced I would go to the University of North Texas, because I knew about a full-ride scholarship there. But then I came to UT for UIL [University Interscholastic League], I just had a gut feeling. After that, I knew I was going to do whatever it took to get here. What was your reaction to learning you’d won this scholarship? On the Sunday after Finalists’ Weekend, I waited by my phone all day. Finally, at 8 p.m., Kristy [Kimball, Forty Acres Scholars Program director] called. I remember thanking her over and over, then celebrating with my mom—laughing, hugging, crying. This is the biggest blessing ever for me and my family. I want to start my own scholarship fund next semester. It won’t be much, but I’ve gotten so much help that I want to start returning it. That’s a big reason why I want to be a teacher, too, so I can help kids with backgrounds like mine. How’s your first semester so far? There’s definitely been some culture shock, but it’s going great. I really love my physics class. I’m about to start teaching science to at-risk kids through UTeach Outreach. I like taking dance lessons with Texas Ballroom, too. Tell me about that culture shock. Walking into a class with 100 students was an adjustment. And I had been used to speaking Spanish most of the time at home. There was a lot of apathy in my high school, so it’s a big adjustment—in the best way—to be around all these people who are so excited about learning. Are you close to the other Forty Acres Scholars? We’re a family. When I told Connor [Frew, a fellow scholar] that I’m first-generation, he said, “We’ve got your back.” It meant a lot to me. Last week, two other girls and I brought our boyfriends to meet the scholars. We introduced them to everybody, and it was like, “OK, you passed the test!” That’s how close we are. Alejandra Ortega is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. Photo by Andrew Alden Miller.