Undergraduate Admissions Counselor Michael Zenteno
Hometown: Midland, Texas
College Major: Political Science
Territories: Midland-Odessa (Texas), Fort Stockton (Texas), Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska
Office: West Texas Admissions Center
Phone: 432-230-5227
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born in Midland, graduated from Lee High School in Midland, and now live and work in Midland, but in between I have lived in a few other places. I attended elementary school in Austin and middle school in Santiago, Chile. After graduating from college, I returned to Santiago to live with my dad’s side of the family and teach English for a year.
Q: Where did you go to college and what did you study?
A: I graduated from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. I received a bachelor of arts in political science and also studied a year abroad in the all-German language program in Innsbruck, Austria. While on campus I played sports and music and was part of the German Club, often advising students preparing to head out for their year abroad.
Q: How long have you been working in higher education?
A: For the past two years I worked in the admissions office at Midland College. As community outreach advisor, I was in charge of a Mobile Go Center and primarily spent my time promoting higher education and helping first-generation students with the college admissions process. During such an important (and somewhat scary) time in students’ lives, it was fun having a hands-on role in helping students decide their future, and it felt nice to be a source of positive advice and encouragement.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in Austin?
A: I really enjoy the outdoor parks, trails, rivers, and lakes, and I am a huge fan of music festivals and live music in general.
Q: What is your favorite UT Austin fact?
A: There is a “legend” at UT Austin that if you see the albino squirrel on campus, it’s a good omen, especially if you have a test that day. I think that is pretty great. Where I went to college, all the squirrels were chubby and just wanted food from you.
Watch a video about the legend of the albino squirrel»
Advice for Prospective Freshmen
- When applying to colleges, make sure you ask questions, obtain as much information as you can, and make the best decision for you!
- Try to visit at least three different college campuses to get a feel for them since the feel of a place will be very important to how much you enjoy college.
- Once you are a student on campus, get involved in student organizations and have fun (just don’t forget to go to class)!