Eleanor Hutcheson
Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Leslie and John David Moritz
Forty Acres Scholars Class of 2025
Hometown
Austin, TX
High School
Westlake High School

I’ve always been fascinated by environmental science and how I believe it affects every aspect of our lives. Growing up, I was intrigued by nature. Every year, visiting my grandparents in Maine, I took classes at the Coastal Botanical Gardens, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, and the Maine State Aquarium, learning to appreciate nature and its often delicate and tenuous relationship with humans. Further, my favorite high school class was AP Environmental Science, introducing me to the significance of research, critical thinking, problem solving, and group collaboration to improve our world. While I was initially convinced I’d seek a degree in environmental science, I became attracted to certain aspects of business during my summer internships and experience in the Business Incubator program. I wanted to study business and pursue my passion for the environment. At UT, I am lucky that I am able to interweave these disciplines. I am pursuing a major in finance while also receiving a sustainability education through the Global Sustainability Leadership Institute’s minor program. My goal is to study both of my interests, make vital connections, engage in valuable experiential learning, and prepare for a career providing creative business solutions that meet our current needs while also protecting our world for future generations.

Major 
Finance

Honors Program 
Liberal Arts Honors

Other Academic Interests
Global Business and Leadership Sustainability Minor

Extracurricular Activities
Vice President of Finance and Co-Founder of PSE Business Fraternity, Founder of nonprofit organization Sharing Spoon to address food insecurity in Austin, Ambassador for Thrive Society Foundation to raise awareness and funds for cancer clinical trial research, Archivist of Kappa Alpha Theta, and member of Women's Business Association.

What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program (FASP)?
I am really drawn to the Forty Acres Scholars Program’s emphasis on community support within the group, but also the amazing alumni network and resources available to its students. I appreciate how each freshman Scholar is matched with an upperclassman “buddy” to assist with transition. Having the help of a mentor has always been a crucial factor throughout my high school career. I am honored to be surrounded by this diverse group of highly intellectual, driven, and compassionate students who care about the benefits of learning from different perspectives and blending unique talents – a combination that could truly make a difference.

What makes your scholar cohort unique?
Our scholar cohort distinguishes itself through our closeness, creating a unique bond that sets us apart. This is evident in how closely we look out for one another, fostering an environment of genuine support. What makes our cohort truly remarkable is the presence of individuals who embody greatness, intelligence, and well-roundedness. Each member is not only accomplished in their own right but is equally committed to contributing to the success of one another. Together, we form a community that thrives on collaboration and a shared aspiration for collective achievement.

Favorite FASP Memory
My fondest memory at FASP was exploring the Interspace city caverns with my cohort during Halloween weekend of our Sophomore year. Having never ventured into a cave before, the experience was truly captivating. The day spent delving into the mysteries of the caverns not only enriched my understanding but also deepened the bonds within our cohort, making it one of the most memorable days so far of my college journey. I feel exceptionally fortunate to be part of this extraordinary and close-knit community at UT.