![](/sites/default/files/EMMA%20CORBELL-Web.jpg)
![](/sites/default/files/EMMA%20CORBELL-Web.jpg)
Throughout my childhood living abroad, cheerleading was foreign to me. The sands of the Arabian Desert shared no insight into pom poms, French primary school was void of hair bows, and Dubai skyscrapers loomed taller than any stunt. However, it was evident long before I tried out for my high school’s squad that I was a natural-born cheerleader. Not only do I competitively seek excellence in every facet of my life, but my passion and positivity have earned me the reputation of being my teammates’ biggest supporter in every organization I have been a part of.
My signature smile became my biggest asset throughout my trials and triumphs. It helped me overcome two straight years of my father’s absence while working in Afghanistan and several international moves in the span of a few years. I fostered hope in adversity and applied my skills towards a greater purpose rather than succumbing to external pressures. I found fulfillment in tutoring young students, advocating for public policy at the state and national levels, immersing myself in various academic pursuits, and becoming a leader in multiple sports and organizations.
As a UT Austin Forty Acres Scholar, I will use my commitment to resilience, excellence, and kindness to contribute to the success of our community. I value nothing more than the relationships I form with others, and I will continue to prioritize togetherness through my extroverted approach and love of sharing intellectual ideas. I believe in the boundless achievement that is only possible through collaboration, thus, I aim to be our community’s biggest cheerleader not only as we make our mark on the world, but also as we inspire future classes to do the same.
Everything is bigger in Texas, and the University of Texas at Austin is exactly where I want to thrive as a competent leader ready to “Change the World” by tackling the greatest challenges facing our state, country, and society.
Major:
Business Honors
Honors Program:
Canfield Business Honors Program (CBHP)
What drew you to the Forty Acres Scholars Program?
Amidst the gut-wrenching uncertainty of the college admissions process, my choice to join the Forty Acres Scholars Program brought immediate peace and clarity to my endeavors. It was evident to me starting during Finalist Weekend that FASP offers much more than financial security; it prioritizes connection, community, and discovery for all of its scholars unlike any other scholarship I have seen. I know that my peers will become my family as I navigate the next four years, and I feel endlessly blessed with the guidance and support of our staff. I am so looking forward to all of the events we have the honor of attending, the guests and donors who have taken their time to mentor us, and the enrichment we get to pursue!
What makes your scholar cohort unique?
After only seeing each other a handful of times since Finalist Weekend, it is already evident that our cohort fits like the pieces of a puzzle. Each one of us brings varied backgrounds and experiences to the table, but we are all alike in our passion for learning and our desire to contribute more to the world than we take. The 2028 Cohort is funny, talented, and endlessly kind. I have no doubt that these individuals will become and remain my lifelong friends!