Student Spotlight: Parth Thakkar

Parth Thakkar

Texas is a long way from Parth Thakkar’s home in Naperville, Illinois. Yet Parth, a Canfield BHP freshman, quickly adjusted to life as a Texas Longhorn, and he now works as a campus tour guide to encourage prospective students to join us at UT. In this role, Parth enjoys sharing his enthusiasm and UT pride with those on his tour to help them fall in love with the Forty Acres.

Read on to learn more about Parth’s experience as an out-of-state student and his work as a tour guide! 

1.) Why did you initially decide to commit to UT and Canfield BHP?

The first time I visited UT for Discover Canfield BHP, I’d had a rough night’s sleep the night before in my cousin’s dorm room, followed by a long day and another late flight back home. Honestly in that time, I’d been more focused on keeping my eyes open than thinking about the next four years of my life. However, I later got to know more about Canfield BHP’s opportunities and resources, and after talking to several high school alumni currently at UT, I decided to commit. I’m glad to say I did, as I’ve grown to love everything about UT, from the wonderful weather (most of the year) to the lively city, as well as all of the people I’ve been fortunate enough to meet.

2.) What has it been like adapting to college life as an out-of-state student?

I was definitely worried about the social scene coming into college; I knew only one other person from my high school attending UT. However, this worry quickly dissolved during the first week of classes and events as I got to know most of my Canfield BHP class and many other students from around the country, especially Texas. It has also been nice to be able to visit home in Naperville from time to time, as seeing my family and friends has definitely helped with the transition.

3.) What does a typical day as a Canfield BHP student look like for you?

For my first semester, my days would typically be split into four parts. In the mornings and afternoons, I would either go to classes or give tours, depending on the day. In between, I had a two hour break, which is when I liked to hit Gregory Gymnasium, get lunch, and start doing work for my classes. The last block, evenings, entirely depended on the day. It would range anywhere from staying in and reading a book to taking a bus down to Zilker Park to see the lights with my friends.

4.) With one semester done so far, which class has been your favorite?

About a minute into the first day of class, I had decided I was going to drop my UGS. I’d walked in a few seconds late, and it seemed as if I’d already missed an entire lecture on climate change. However, despite my determination to drop, I eventually decided to give it a second chance. That ended up being a great decision, as it soon became my favorite class of the semester. From late night study sessions to remixing “Shut Up and Dance” – Sustaining a Planet version, I made both memories and friends I’ll remember for a long time to come.

5.) You’ve recently started work as a campus tour guide for the UT Office of Admissions. Why did you decide to become a tour guide, and what’s your favorite part of the job?

The energy I’d been met with while touring many different campuses was one I’d grown to truly admire. Whether it was Stanford or UCSB, all of the guides had shown incredible enthusiasm and obvious affection for their school, and it was because of them that I’d fallen in love with the places I’d visited. I knew that I wanted to spread that same enthusiasm and affection to future students no matter where I ended up going, and to this day that remains the highlight of every one of my tours.

6.)  While on tour, what advice do you give to prospective out-of-state students regarding college admissions?

I strongly believe in the idea that everyone ends up where they’re meant to be, which is what I tell high school students who come to visit UT. However, I know decisions also reflect the work students have done, so I advise them to show that work and to let their enthusiasm speak for itself, and I tell them that as long as they allow their excitement to come through in writing, they’ve put themselves in a good position.

 

Student Spotlight: Christy Zhuang

Christy Zhuang

After just one semester at college, Christy Zhuang has already made her mark on the Forty Acres—one picture at a time. Whether she is taking headshots for Honors Business Association members or capturing athletes in action as a UT RecSports photographer, Christy has kept herself busy as a first-year Canfield BHP student, photographer, and entrepreneur.

Read on to learn more about Christy’s entrepreneurial journey and her future plans for her business and career!

 

How did you first become interested in photography?

My photography journey began in 6th grade when I was on the yearbook staff. I despised taking photos on a camera, as I never understood how to work it. Plus, being a typical middle school student, I trusted my phone to do everything, including taking professional photos. I was a cross-country manager for the Ballinger Cross Country Team three years later. Not only was I in charge of keeping time or getting water, but the head coach also trusted me to run social media and overtake marketing for the team. I began taking photos on my phone of the runners during meets and would then upload them onto social media to share with the community, friends, and family. I received many compliments and positive feedback from the community. It was then that I realized how special photos are to people, especially those who are cheering their loved ones on from afar. They do say, “A photo is a ticket back in time to a moment otherwise gone.” Soon after, my dad bought me a Canon Rebel T7 Camera for my birthday in January 2021. Needless to say, my business took flight not long after.

 

How did your interest in photography spark your interest in entrepreneurship and lead to the creation of your business?

Once I received my camera, I was asked to take formal portraits of upperclassmen. They trusted me knowing my background and seeing my portfolio in sports photography. I charged a very small fee and delivered the photos promptly. I realized that I could capitalize on my talent. With my parents being hard-working immigrants, making me a first-generation student, I was determined to help out in any way that I could.  Having photography as a business meant that I had the financial freedom to purchase the things that I wanted and be able to pay business expenses. I loved the freedom photography gave me as I was able to create and be inspired by everything around me. I was able to set my hours and schedule sessions only when I wanted to, which helped my work-life balance. With my parents being restaurant owners and property managers, I was surrounded by entrepreneurs. I felt motivated and determined to start something of my own and shape it uniquely to my vision and passion.

 

What is your favorite part about being an entrepreneur?

Freedom is my favorite part about being an entrepreneur. I have always been an independent person, and photography allows me to be self-sustaining. Being able to pay and buy things through the money that I earned is extremely rewarding.

On the other hand, my favorite thing about photography is the new people I get to meet. It’s a special moment when a person or family trusts you to capture their core memories in life. Being able to make a difference in their life by creating a lasting impact is the best feeling in the world. An even greater feeling is when the client returns year after year and trusts you repeatedly with multiple different events in their lifetime. Those are the best of clients who turn into lifelong friends.

 

What challenge(s) have you faced, and what lessons have you learned while managing your business?

A challenge that I have faced is people disrespecting my work. Photography is a work of art. Therefore, whenever someone puts a filter over an image of mine that I took the time to edit and touch up, it is not a true reflection of my work and my brand as a business. To combat this, I have posted announcements regarding this issue, as it is illegal to do and is a copyright violation. When it does occur, I kindly ask the individual(s) to take down the image.

A lesson that I have learned is to charge for what I am worth. My time is valuable, and I should not let people use me for my talents and gain nothing in return. The skills that I have learned doing photography over time are invaluable and are knowledge that the average starting photographer does not know yet.

 

How has what you have learned in your Canfield BHP classes impacted your entrepreneurial endeavors?

In the fall, I took BA 324H, MAN 101H, and BA 101H. These classes contributed to the development of my character. BA 324H helped me become a better speaker in front of my peers. MAN 101H helped me understand myself better. BA 101H helped me envision my future and understand what needed to be done to achieve my goals.

Overall, these classes have laid a firm foundation for becoming a successful individual and a successful entrepreneur.

 

What are your future plans for your business?

Currently, I plan on continuing this passion of mine on the side and partaking in it minimally, as academics come first. In the future, I plan on having an in-home studio for clients and a studio in the city to rent out to other photographers. I plan on establishing a client closet (a wardrobe for clients to borrow for their sessions) and partnering with local printing companies to print photo books, yard signs, cards, etc. I am currently working on branded styling, location, and posing guides for the client’s personal use.

I also have an extension of graphic design services that I offer currently. In the future, I plan on expanding my knowledge in graphic design to better serve my clients.

 

What are your future career plans?

In the future, I plan on establishing a firm that combines consulting and marketing services. On the side, I aspire to be an interior designer who has a real estate license. Therefore, I would be able to design the homes, market the homes, sell the homes, and do real estate photography for the property.

In the far, far future, I would love to be a travel photographer, getting paid to travel and see the world through my lens and being able to share my love for life with my peers one click at a time. 

Student Spotlight: Grant Phillips

Each summer, the Texas Exes Alumni Association hosts Camp Texas to help incoming students get acclimated to the Forty Acres. The planning process for Camp Texas is a significant undertaking that starts long before summer arrives. This year, Canfield BHP sophomore Grant Phillips is part of the executive team overseeing planning for the 2024 Camp Texas, and we asked him to reflect on his fulfilling experience as a participant and leader.

Read on to learn more about Grant’s involvement with Camp Texas and to get a look behind the scenes of the annual summer program!

 

What is Camp Texas, and how did you first become involved?

We like to call Camp Texas an “extended orientation experience” that is 3-days-2-nights of teaching all the incoming students – whether that’s incoming freshmen, transfer students, international students, or anyone else about to walk onto the 40 Acres for the first time – the traditions of UT and what it means to be a Longhorn. I attended Camp Texas the summer before my freshman year here, and it instantly stood out as something special to me, so when counselor applications opened in the fall for the next summer I was excited to apply.

 

What is your favorite Camp Texas memory?

My favorite Camp Texas memory would have to be getting to be with my two small groups at my sessions this past summer. Along with my amazing co-counselor Olivia Davis, we were able to spend the 3 days of Camp building relationships with the freshmen in our group. Throughout the session, we got to have those conversations about the fears of freshman year: moving away from home, finding your community on campus, getting lost trying to find classes, or anything else that was on their mind. Having just completed my freshman year, I was just in their shoes and knew I could help create some relief for them. And now, getting to watch them all find their passions around campus and thrive during their first semester on campus has been so rewarding and exciting to see.

 

Why did you want to become part of Camp Texas’s leadership?

I wanted to join the Camp Texas leadership team because the community that is made around Camp is such a special place on campus, and I wanted to do my part to give back to it. We call it the “CT Family” and it does truly feel like that, so getting the chance to not only be part of that family but to help introduce the next wave of counselors into what it means to be part of the family is an amazing opportunity.  

 

What goes into planning Camp Texas’s flagship summer programs? What do you enjoy most about the process, and what lessons have you learned?

A lot of work goes into planning for Camp at the end of the summer. We spend every Friday afternoon during the spring semester training with the counselor team of ~90 counselors from all different majors across campus. At these trainings, we make sure that everyone knows all the different Camp and UT traditions, has the skills to be an effective leader and role model for the incoming students, and also just to get close to one another as a counselor team. It is amazing to watch the team grow closer together as the semester progresses and watch the CT Family get closer together by having fun in the Alumni Center each week.

What do you hope Camp Texas participants take away from their time at camp?

I hope everyone who comes to Camp Texas walks away knowing that the UT community is an amazingly large and diverse place of driven people who are there to support one another and help make everyone the best person they can be –  academically, professionally, and simply as a human being. Every counselor that is there truly is doing it out of a passion to help you and get to know the awesome person you are. 

 

How do you hope to use the leadership and management experience you’ve gained from Camp Texas to help advance your career goals?

Just like organizing any large event with lots of people, there are skills that you learn that can be transferred to any professional setting. Knowing how to effectively listen to others and be truly empathetic while having conversations is such an important skill to have when dealing with anybody. Now that I am on the exec team, I have learned management skills in conflict resolution, decision-making, and problem-solving that will all be useful in my future.

 

Student Spotlight: Olivia Shumaker

Olivia Shumaker

 

Canfield BHP junior Olivia Shumaker is right in the middle of the action as a recruiting personnel intern for Texas Football. Olivia has enjoyed working behind-the-scenes to help support the Longhorns, whether she is working with film or researching players. In addition to Texas Football, Olivia has spent two years as a summer business analyst for McKinsey & Company. Together, these positions have given her a unique opportunity to diversify her skill set while also helping her build up her human capital.

 

Read on to learn more about Olivia’s experience with Texas Football and McKinsey & Company.

How did you learn about McKinsey’s summer business analyst program, and what did the application process look like? 

One of our Canfield BHP career coaches sent all of the students an email about the opportunity to apply for the First Year Summer Business Analyst program at McKinsey. I applied with my resume and answered a few questions late at night, thinking I would not get the opportunity to work at McKinsey. To my surprise, they emailed me back to continue with the application process after the resume screening process. Then, after a round of a game and case interviews, I was offered the internship! I actually recently signed my contract to return full-time. 

 

What does a typical day working as a McKinsey summer business analyst involve?

Like for anyone in consulting, a typical day highly depends on the project you are working on. If you are put on a client-facing project instead of an internal project, it is a bit more fast-paced. I have had the opportunity to work on two client-facing projects and one internal. I would wake up an hour before my first meeting and then have a yummy breakfast and my much-needed coffee. From the first meeting until around 6pm, I would be working with my team either from home or colocating. After 6pm, sometimes I would have to work late, and sometimes I had a night off. It just depended on the needs of the client and the partner. 

 

How does your work as a McKinsey summer business analyst expand upon what you’ve learned in your classes?

It has been super helpful to be in a position that I do not feel a ton of my peers have been in. A good chunk of McKinsey interns come from schools that do not offer an undergraduate business program, so I felt I had a bit of a leg up when it came to my first-year interning. However, everyone at McKinsey is so accomplished that that gap quickly closed. I feel the most transferable skill I learned from my Canfield BHP classes was being around smart, intelligent people and being able to learn from them. This was very consistent in McKinsey since it is such a close-knit firm, and I was constantly learning from my peers. I am thankful Canfield BHP has helped me refine my people skills.

 

How did you get involved with the Texas Longhorns football team, and what does a typical day on the job look like for you?

I have been interning with the team since October 2021, and I started out in recruiting operations. This means making all potential recruits and their families feel welcome at Texas Football and planning the events for when they visit. It is a great role, but, from the very start, I wanted to go into recruiting personnel. Since the spring semester of 2023, I have had the opportunity to work in personnel, and I have fallen in love with it. I am here around 30 hours a week at times, doing everything from cutting up film, researching recruits, to helping my boss and my team with anything we need to get done for the coaches. The workday is never the same, and I love how it keeps me on my toes. 

 

What is your favorite memory from working with the Texas Longhorns football team?

I think just getting this opportunity to be the first girl to work in recruiting personnel at Texas Football has been a dream come true. In sports, you need to work hard and be a team player, and being given this opportunity made me feel honored that my supervisors felt I could take on this new area that had yet to be explored. I was so honored they trusted me 🙂

 

How do your summer internship with McKinsey and your job with Texas Longhorns football complement each other and prepare you for your future career?

Given they are somewhat on opposite sides of the working spectrum with very different technical skills needed, they have really allowed me to diversify my skills while also building upon personal skills and habits that benefit me in both jobs. For example, I have had to continue to practice my public speaking skills in both jobs, as both require confidence and proper communication. I have also had to be better at my attention to detail—which was not my strong suit. 

Student Spotlight: Gabe Acevedo

 

Gabe Acevedo

On paper, Junior Gabe Acevedo is a Canfield Business Honors major with plans to double major in finance. But when he’s not in the McCombs School of Business studying, you might find him recording music in a studio or performing at live music venues across Austin. As the rhythm guitarist for West 22nd, an upstart band made up of five UT Austin students, Gabe has spent the past year pursuing his passion for both business and music.

Gabe came into college wanting to start a band after attending a small sports-oriented high school in Atlanta. In fact, one of the reasons he picked UT was Austin’s reputation as a vibrant music city with large events like South by Southwest as well as many smaller live music venues. During his freshman year, Gabe focused extensively on singing, playing his guitar, and songwriting, and he played at open mic nights to meet other people in the local live music scene. From these open mic nights, Gabe met another student from the Atlanta area, Logan Madsen, who became West 22nd’s lead singer.

During the summer after their freshman year, Gabe and Logan spent time riffing off the top of their heads, writing lyrics, and developing chord progressions. By August, Gabe and his friends had filled out the remaining positions for their band, and they created a name—West 22nd—based on the street they all lived on during their freshman year. Then, by promoting West 22nd on social media, the band started to take off and become a regular presence around the UT Austin campus. Fast forward to today, and West 22nd has recently released an original single, Sunburns, and an EP, All the Way Home. The songs are now available on major streaming platforms, such as Spotify and Apple Music, which was a major goal the members of West 22nd had originally set for themselves.

Gabe says you can find West 22nd performing anywhere there is a crowd that wants to hear live music, so the band has played at fraternity events, philanthropy shows, South by Southwest, and 4th Street. West 22nd has also traveled to College Station and Oklahoma to perform. One of Gabe’s favorite West 22nd memories is performing in front of the famous UT Tower as the opener for Remi Wolf during Forty Acres Fest. West 22nd had won the opportunity to open for Wolf after successfully performing in UT Austin’s Battle of the Bands, and Gabe enjoyed this chance to blend his passion for music with his identity as a UT Austin student by performing in front of the tower. 

While Gabe has been pursuing his musical goals, he has appreciated the support of the Canfield BHP program, which allows him to explore his dual passions for business and music. Gabe said Canfield BHP is the reason he ultimately decided to commit to UT Austin, and he enjoys the tight-knit community. From the Canfield BHP advisors helping him build out his degree plan to Mr. Phil Canfield ‘89 and Mrs. Mary Beth Canfield hosting Gabe and other students for dinner at their home, the personalized attention has made Gabe feel right at home.

As for the future, Gabe has ambitious goals for the band but is also focused on finishing his degrees and graduating from UT Austin. In five years, Gabe said he would love for West 22nd to sign a record deal and go on tour across the country during the summer. In the meantime, Gabe is concentrating on making new music with his bandmates, completing his coursework, and exploring the entrepreneurial aspects of his band. In particular, Gabe likes being involved in the marketing and finances associated with West 22nd. 

Even with all these goals, Gabe says West 22nd tries to live in the moment, and the band takes things one week at a time. Wherever Gabe and West 22nd go, his Canfield BHP community will be there cheering him on!