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First-Year Election : Fall 2025 Candidate Statements

  • Eliza Andriassyan: I still can't believe I get to call Texas my home. I've dreamed of walking on this campus and belonging. Student government is a place I have found to be a resemblance of what I am and what I value after trying endlessly to fit in. You can trust me with your voice, and I am beyond certain that I am capable of making changes. I live my life with the idea that there can never be too much kindness in the world, and with my past leadership experience, I am sure I can add at least an ounce of that kindness upon this campus. In the future I'd like to make the world a better place, and What Starts Here Changes the World.
  • Vince Castillo: My name is Vince Castillo, and I'm running for First-Year Representative! UT has been a thrilling experience so far, but it can also feel overwhelming. Every student should feel supported, safe, and healthy. I will advocate for a Mental Health Week each semester to highlight peer and professional counseling, suicide prevention, and support services. I want to strengthen student life counseling to help with time management, burnout, and the importance of social connection. Student safety is another priority—especially in West Campus. I'll encourage better engagement with unhoused neighbors and proactive steps to prevent tragedies, and continued collaboration between Student Government and UTPD. Finally, I will raise awareness of resources like HealthyHorns and support a Neurodivergence Education Week to increase understanding of autism, ADHD, and other spectrum disorders.
  • Tanishka Chawla: WHAT'S UP LONGHORNS! My name is Tanishka (Tani) Chawla, and I'm running for First-Year Rep! My goal is to get you what YOU want, while hosting events that connect students across campus and give everyone a chance to make friends and network | providing easy access to research, internships, and job placement | growing org funding and ensuring equitable access to resources, including Big Ticket | and creating more well-being initiatives and events. Having served as Class & ASB President for 4 years and as my city's Sole Student Commissioner, I know what it takes to not just speak up, but to act on your voice and make real change happen. My campaign is all about CONNECTION. No matter your background, in-state, out-of-state, transfer, or any major, you should see your value and know your place here at UT. Cant Spell AUSTIN Without TANI! Hook 'em 🧡Instagram: @tani4rep | Linktree: linktr.ee/tanishkachawla4firstyearrep
  • Adhia Da Silva Agostinho: I aspire to become the University of Texas at Austin's first year representative in order to positively represent the newest generation in the 40 acres. I strive to make sure freshmen voices are heard. In this role, I would address the disconnect of information between students and staff, and the heightened stress the freshman class is currently facing. Beyond these priorities, my presence within the student government would serve as a bridge between and leadership in order to foster proactive approach to collaboration, and long term improvements within the 40 acres. My goal is to represent my peers as we embark on our collegiate journey, and make sure freshman voices are heard all throughout the University of Texas at Austin. Vote Adhia Da Silva Agostinho for Freshman representative!
  • Victoria Huang: My name is Vic, and I am running to ensure better quality of life for freshmen. I have never participated in an election or organization for the title or resume - whether I have met you or we remain strangers during our time at UT, know that I will have your best interest in mind. My experience in student government includes being the Executive President of the student body as a senior, as well as Class President the other years of high school, as well as many other executive positions. My main goal this year will be quality-of-life initiatives such as expediting traffic on Speedway. Find out more here, and know that you can ask me for help with anything whether I win this position or lose:) find out more here: https://linktr.ee/voteforvic
  • Wesley Jeffords: I am running for first-year representative on a bold progressive platform of prioritizing affordability, protecting communities targeted by the current administration, and expanding resources for first year students. I have served on my City's Youth Council where I held the position of Vice Chairman and successfully pushed for park improvements. I am a Deputy Campus Directory for the University Democrats and a proud member of the Texas Progressive Caucus. I will fight for the first year students and push for a brighter future for UT Austin. Here is a link to my platform in more detail: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AL3x1xKx4NT0VtFd3Qq_Q6xJdYJq6sNYJ2cW55FAwu4/edit?usp=sharing
  • Shreshta Kotha: Getting ghosted by every student org you apply to? Or getting clocked by lectures that go 2x speed in real-life? We've all been there. The first step in avoiding these problems starts with YOUR voice. That's why I'm running to be your representative. My name is Shreshta Kotha, and trust me, I can relate to the feeling of not being able to catch up. It's tough being a freshman in college – but we Longhorns like it tough. As your representative, I'll carry your voice through mine. I plan on implementing survival guides for freshman course registration, a first-year org mixer (org fair for freshmen only), peer-mentorship programs for those aiming at grad schools, and improving study/dining hours. So don't stay "delulu" and look for the "solulu". Start smart. Stay smart. Vote Shreshta. Visit our instagram @shre4rep: https://www.instagram.com/shre4rep?igsh=MXhrd2tkenNndWw1MA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
  • Jaime Licon: Hi! My name is Jaime, I will be running to be your First Year representative. Because I believe that each and every voice should be taken into account when forming the environment on our lovely campus. As a first year student myself, I know it can be difficult to find your niche, stay on top of your academics, participate in orgs , and take care of yourself! I promise that I will make sure your concerns and difficulties doing so are heard and are properly voiced and taken action upon. In high school, I was apart of the city of LaPorte, TX youth advisory council , so I do have some practical experience of helping my piers get their voice heard and represented. With your support , I will make sure you will be best set up for success for your future! Because changing the world starts here!
  • Sebastian Majerczyk: Hi Longhorns! My name is Sebastian Majerczyk, and I'm running to be your First-Year Representative. I come from the border city of El Paso, and with my Polish and Mexican background, I understand the importance of community, diversity, and making sure every voice is heard. Throughout high school, I served as Student Body President, a three-time Executive Board Officer, and held over 40 leadership roles. I was also a campaign manager for a city-wide school district board campaign that won. These experiences taught me how to listen, lead, take real action, and understand public service. But what matters most is that I've also experienced firsthand the same challenges many of us are facing feeling homesick, overwhelmed by the size of UT, struggling to find resources, walking around campus at night, and just trying to find a community in the beautiful forty-acres. That's why my platform focuses on issues that truly
  • Michael Manche: My name is Michael Manche and I hope to be your freshman representative. I'm running because I believe our class should feel like one community where every voice is heard and valued. Coming from California, I know what it feels like to be new to Texas, and I want everyone to feel at home at UT. In high school, I served on student government, where I led a committee, planned large events, and brought people together. I also founded a non-profit that provides free enrichment programs for underserved K-8 students.These experiences taught me how to listen, collaborate and turn ideas into reality. At UT, many groups, social clubs, academic orgs and Greek life, sometimes feel separate. I want to create opportunities that bring all freshmen together. As your representative, I'll make sure your voices are heard and work to turn your ideas into programs. Visit: https://linktr.ee/MichaelManche
  • Ford Myers: Starting college should be exciting—not overwhelming. Yet, over 80% of freshmen and transfers report feeling stressed or unsure of where to start. That's why my campaign, Creating Connections, strives to make UT feel like home from day one. I will work to expand Sure Walk services into West Campus to improve student safety, especially at night. I will advocate for increased funding for student organizations so first-year students can get involved sooner and find their community. I will push for initiatives like a week of mock classes to prepare us for the rigor of college, and new measures to protect students from scams and misinformation. Finally, I will champion more events that bring freshmen and transfers together, building friendships that last beyond the Forty Acres. I want every first-year student to feel safe, connected, and empowered to succeed. Vote Ford Myers! For more information, visit: https://www.instagram.com/fordcmyers/
  • Davina Obinyan: Hello class of 2029, I'm Davina Obinyan, and I am running to be your first year representative.Go Big or Go Home, are the words ingrained in every Texan's heart— a reminder that the greatest achievements don't come without risks. In the past month, I have formed a close bond with my peers at UT, and I have noticed one thing we all share — ambition. I see it in their enthusiasm to learn, proactiveness to lead, and willingness to ask for help. However, though UT is a phenomenal school, it can always be improved. As a representative, I aim to communicate the needs of my constituents and innovate projects that will benefit everyone. Although I cannot guarantee every proposal will be approved, I can ensure that every voice is heard. My fellow Longhorns are brilliant students with big dreams, and I will ensure their visions have a place at UT.
  • Jose Ochoa: Hey Fellow Longhorns! My name is Jose Ochoa, and I'm running to serve as your First-Year Representative. As someone who knows how big and overwhelming UT can feel at first, I want to make sure every student feels included with a support system, and heard. Coming from a Spanish-speaking household without much formal education, I know the challenges can be tough, pero sé que juntos podemos con todo. My goal is to create a stronger sense of community, advocate for the needs of first-year and transfer students, and make UT feel like a home away from home. If you'd like to learn more about me, my values, and my campaign, click here: https://linktr.ee/qr/ae84b5a9-f403-4feb-8295-5eec32eae393?utm_source=qr_code
  • Rushan Orakzai: I'm Rushan Orakzai, a transfer student in Government. Transfers like me get overlooked; first-years get overwhelmed. We're thrown into UT with credit confusion, closed classes, sky-high housing costs, and advising that feels like a maze. On top of that? It's way too easy to feel lost or lonely on a campus this massive. I'm running for First-Year & Transfer Rep because we deserve better. That means faster, transparent credit evaluations, reserved spots in the courses we need, advising that actually listens, affordable housing and parking advocacy, and stronger peer networks so you're not stuck eating Chick-fil-A alone at J2. UT shouldn't feel like survival mode — it should feel like home. Let's fix the cracks that make new Longhorns slip through. Vote Rushan: Don't Just Get Here. Belong Here. https://linktr.ee/rushanorakzai
  • Amanda Pedraza: Hello Longhorns! I am running for first year representative and I would love to have the support of my fellow classmates here at the Forty Acres. I believe in having a representative who listens to what the students want and creates opportunities to strengthen our community. If chosen for your First-Year Representative, I would bring our ideas, concerns, and goals forward with energy and dedication. Our first year is the start of something big, because after all, what starts here changes the world, and I am committed to making sure every voice is heard. Vote Amanda Pedraza, and Hook 'Em Horns!
  • Virginia Pickens: I am beyond excited to be running for your Freshman Representative! Coming to UT, I was extremely overwhelmed. Being a first generation college student, I had no idea what to expect which led me to run for Student Government in order to provide support to fellow freshmen. My goal is to build a community within our class, advocate for resources in mental health, provide additional opportunities for freshmen, and be your voice! I know how difficult it is to balance your life in college; therefore, I want to be an advocate for getting your perspectives across. Representation is so much more than a title. I want to build strong connections and learn from the class of 2029. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for considering me to be your Freshman Representative. Please, go check out my campaigning page at: https://www.instagram.com/jennypickens2029?igsh=eGw2Y3NreWpjYnls&utm_source=qr
  • Oliver Plunkert: During this election, you are going to hear many promises which sound too good to be true. Personally, I don't believe in making these large, unrealistic promises that often lead to disappointment. What I will promise is my full commitment to representing and advocating for you. As a candidate for student government, my goal is to be a strong voice for first-year students at UT, while advocating the interests of the entire student body. I am open to hearing from all perspectives and eager to connect with as many of you as possible. By listening to your concerns, ideas, and goals, I will work to ensure that our student government reflects the diversity and priorities of our community. I promise to keep it real, make your voice heard, and do my best to serve you with honesty, dedication, and respect.
  • Julian Pruit: Hey guys! My name is Julian Pruit, and I am running for First Year Representative. Let's face it, politics can be drawn out and boring. But then again, so can these statements, so I'll cut right to the chase. I'm here to make real change real fast. It's time to actually address the issues our student body is concerned about today. From a lack of water fountains in the sweltering Texas heat to an upcharge for simply printing in color, let's work together to fix our shortcomings and make the Longhorn experience a better one for all of us.
  • Kyley Quigley: I am truly honored to have the opportunity to run as a representative for a school that is second to none. My pride for UT is unmatched, and I want every freshman to share that same sense of Longhorn pride. I will work to ensure all voices are heard and valued by promoting student ideas and supporting initiatives that enhance our experience at UT. Through my extensive involvement in high school—leading with student government, founding a 100-member mental health club, and collaborating with administration on large-scale initiatives—I've learned how to advocate effectively while balancing student needs with institutional priorities. As a business major, I am passionate about equipping students with financial literacy skills, fostering wellness, and building a community where every freshman feels supported and empowered. IG: https://www.instagram.com/kyleyquigley29rep?igsh=cDl6aTU4eDZuMmtt&utm_source=qr
  • Shree Rao: Hi everyone! I'm Shree, and I'm running to be your First-Year Student Representative at UT Austin! Just like Barbie, I believe you can be anything—and I'm here to make sure your voice is heard every step of the way. Whether it's making our transition into college smoother, planning fun and inclusive events, or ensuring your concerns reach the right ears, I'm ready to advocate for you. UT is a big place, but together we can build a first-year experience that feels like home. I'm approachable, hardworking, and passionate about making our year unforgettable—from the classrooms to the Capitol. Let's break stereotypes, support each other, and show that First-Years run the world (or at least the Forty Acres). Vote Shree for First-Year Rep—because this Barbie is ready to lead! 💖
  • Claire Rouse: Hi, I'm Claire Rouse, and I'm from Houston! In high school, I served as student body president and held an executive position all four years, sparking my love for student leadership. I absolutely loved planning events that brought people together to create a true sense of community - I'm excited to bring that same energy to UT! As a Communication and Leadership major, I want to help create positive change—and I see Student Government as a meaningful step toward that passion. I've always admired the deep Texas tradition that lives here—the pride and the energy of the students. If elected, I'll work to ensure every first-year student feels welcomed, supported, and included from day one. Whether it's organizing events or simply being someone who listens, I'm here to help us build something great—together!
  • Araoluwa Seyi-Adeyemo: Hi Longhorns! My name is Araoluwa Seyi-Adeyemo, and I'm excited to run in the First-Year Elections to represent our class. Starting college is a huge transition, and I want to make sure every student feels supported, included, and empowered from the start. I'm running to amplify first-year voices in student government, strengthen campus community, and advocate for better resources, whether that means improving access to academic support, expanding mental health services, or making sure our student organizations are welcoming spaces for everyone. I believe leadership means listening, collaborating, and turning ideas into action. With your support, I'll work to ensure our class has a strong voice in shaping UT's future. Let's build a community where every Longhorn feels like they truly belong.Hook 'em! https://www.instagram.com/voteara2026?igsh=MThqcmNtbThkbHF2dQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
  • Emma Woods: Hi UT fam! I'm Emma Woods (Emmawoods800), and I'm running for student government because I care deeply about your voice and our campus community. With a passion for politics and constitutional justice, I'm ready to bring real advocacy and energy to the table. When I'm not studying at the PCL or walking down Speedway with a coffee in hand, you can find me cheering at football games, dancing at Mavericks, or making new friends in line at J2 Dining. I believe leadership means showing up, listening, and lifting others—and I'm ready to do just that. Whether it's improving student life, promoting fairness, or just keeping things fun, I'm all in. My bubbly personality, love for new experiences (and a good surf session), and deep pride in being a Longhorn fuel everything I do. Let's make this year unforgettable—vote Emma Woods for student government! 🤘