Emily Stroman is the newest member of the MPA Academic Services team. She has spent several years in the education field, having worked at Sylvan Learning and most recently as an enrollment/academic counselor for the Art Institute of Austin. Continue reading to learn more about Emily in the Q&A below, stop by the MPA Program Office to meet her in person, or email her directly at emily.stroman@mccombs.utexas.edu. Keep a lookout in your email to schedule an academic advising appointment with Emily in the coming weeks.

Emily StromanTell us about yourself, Emily.
This past year I married my wonderful husband, Kyle, and we are proud fur parents of Teddy (cat) and Frank (dog). I am originally from Toledo, Ohio and I attended the University of Toledo where I received a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in History. In January 2019 I graduated with my Masters of Public Administration degree from South University.

How long have you been in Austin, and what’s your favorite thing about living here?
I moved to Austin in 2013 with nothing but whatever I could fit in my car and have loved every minute of it! Austin has the perfect balance of urban and nature… I love being able to take advantage of a nature trail in the morning, have lunch on a patio in the afternoon, and then see a concert in the evening. It also has great vibes! Even though it is the state capitol of Texas, it has a small-town feeling which makes it easy to find friends and family away from where you grew up.

What do enjoy doing outside of work?
I love exploring Austin and attending concerts with my husband. Other things I enjoy doing outside of work include attending Texas Stars games, reading, traveling, eating, and watching terrible reality TV/gameshows.

Why did choose academic advising for your career?
I chose academic advising for my career because I have always had a passion for supporting students’ pursuit of realizing their potential along with a strong interest in academic instruction. Personally, I know how hard being a student can be and I am thankful to my advisors in the past that helped me through, which is what I hope I bring to MPA students here at Texas McCombs.

Why did you decide to work for UT Austin and the MPA program?
Working at UT Austin has been a professional goal of mine for some time. I jumped at the opportunity to work for the MPA program based on reputation and word from friends who work for the university. Since starting I have come to realize that they were all correct! We have the brightest and hardest working students at UT Austin and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with you all.

Emily and MelissaWhat are you most excited about in your role as an MPA Academic Advisor?
I am thrilled about continuing to learn more about accounting practices and the academic rigor of the MPA program. I also look forward to helping each one of my students navigate their journey at UT Austin so they can take best advantage of the time and opportunities for their future.

What’s something interesting that not many people know about you?
My go-to interesting fact is that I am a twin! My twin sister, Melissa, is younger than me by seven minutes. I am the one on the right. 😊

Is there anything else you would like to share?
I am super excited to get to meet and work with you all! Feel free to stop by anytime to make an introduction!

Welcome to the MPA program, Emily!