Andrea Pedraza

As a first-generation college graduate, I value the importance of education and believe that all students should have equitable access to resources that will enable them to pursue a secondary education and/or vocational career after high school graduation. It was because of early exposure to colleges/universities and potential career pathways, as well as the tight-knit relationships I developed with my teachers during my time at YES Prep Fifth Ward, that I was able to attend The University of Texas at Austin. In May of 2022, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Mexican American & Latina/o/x Studies.

My involvement in mentoring first-gen students on the UT Austin campus and my personal academic journey at YES Prep Fifth Ward shed light on the disparities that exist within the education system. This inspired me to work towards increasing college access for students with similar backgrounds as me. Guided by my experience in working with diverse communities of students and families, I strive to educate young leaders about the different post-secondary pathways available to them, as well as serve as an advocate for them in higher education settings. In my current role as an admissions counselor for UT Austin, I provide individualized guidance to students navigating the college admissions process with a specific emphasis on the first-gen experience. While I do not know what the future holds, I know this to be true: the students of today will certainly lead the world we will live in tomorrow. For this reason, I hope to continue empowering students and the communities they form part of.

When I am not with my students, I enjoy going on long runs or laying out a picnic blanket and reading a book under the sun. As a native Houstonian, I also enjoy going to Astros baseball games and trying new restaurants in the area.