Major: Psychology, with an Educational Psychology minor
Student organizations: Texas Infinites, Texas Student Psychology Association, Women in Psychology, Secular Student Alliance
Naomi Economou, who hails from Irving, Texas, joined the UT for Me cohort in 2020. She shares how the program shaped her time on the Forty Acres and what’s up next after graduation.
What made you decide to come to The University of Texas at Austin?
Its reputation for being an excellent school academically, as well as all of the social opportunities. I wanted to attend a large school with a lot of school spirit. UT was the perfect opportunity for this, while also being a few hours away from my hometown.
How did UT for Me shape your college experience?
The UT for Me program was a lifeline whenever I was unsure about anything throughout my college career. In addition to being lifesaving when it came to textbooks, knowing that I had multiple contacts to reach out to at any point was a comfort that kept my anxiety levels low throughout college. I knew that if I needed help with FAFSA, social events or academics, I had someone who could help.
What surprised you the most about your experience with UT for Me?
I was surprised about how many more resources other than the textbook credit existed. I didn’t realize how many ways the UT for Me organization supported me until a few months into college.
What accomplishment from your time at UT are you most proud of?
Writing my undergraduate honors thesis as part of the psychology department’s honors program. I’m projected to complete it by the end of the semester, and it’s been an amazing opportunity to research independently and learn more about the areas of psychology I’m most interested in.
What is your favorite memory on camps?
Snowpocalypse in 2021! Everyone running around campus, sledding down hills and having snowball fights felt like pre-COVID times for the first time since I had arrived on campus.
What are you going to miss the most about UT?
I’m going to miss the entire city of Austin. Getting to spend the last four years here has been life-changing. I love all of the opportunities around UT, the beautiful scenery and all the fun, amazing people that live here.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I will be attending a Psy.D. program to obtain my doctorate degree in psychology. I then aspire to work with populations impacted by childhood trauma and adversity as a clinical psychologist.
What are you looking forward to most after you graduate?
I am looking forward to carrying the UT legacy with me as I attempt to make positive changes in the world through my career.
UT for Me – Powered by Dell Scholars ensures all Longhorns have access to the tools and resources needed for a successful college career. UT for Me provides Pell-eligible Longhorns personalized, multi-faceted support throughout their time at The University of Texas at Austin, helping them stay on track toward their degrees and graduate ready to change the world.
