Ashley Wu

Hometown: McKinney, TX

Major: Accounting, Pre-Dental

Year: Sophomore

1. Why did you join ABSA?

I first learned about ABSA during orientation because of a free t-shirt! Before college, I didn’t think that organizations could provide more than professional development, but ABSA proved me completely wrong. In this organization, I’ve found a community filled with caring and genuine people who are always willing to help. My favorite memories in college have been either at ABSA events or with ABSA friends. Honestly, I signed up because I thought $50 was a great deal to get access to volunteering and professional events, but now I realize that the memories and friendships are priceless :)

2. What is your favorite ABSA memory?

My favorite ABSA memory is watching the sunrise at Mount Bonnell and eating at Snooze with external branch! It was one of our last socials, and we all woke up at 6 am to drive over there. We had to scope around for a good spot, but we finally settled on a picnic table to stand on. Driving back, we sang country and throwback songs, our stomachs blissfully full of pancakes and avocado things.

3. What’s your favorite thing about UT Austin?

My favorite thing about UT Austin is all the places you can explore both on and off campus! I enjoy wandering into different buildings and finding the next undiscovered study spot. I spent most of finals week finding cool auditoriums on campus and watching movies. I also love all the outside activities you can do in Austin, like paddle boarding and hiking!

4. If you could give one piece of advice to your freshman self, what would it be?

Sleep a bit later! Don’t get me wrong, having a healthy sleep schedule is extremely important, but it’s okay to sleep a little less than 8 hours (as long as it’s not every night). Your first year of college is all about finding that right balance between academics and fun, a balance that is different for everybody. Take time during the day to be unproductive and hang out with friends. Again, I’m not saying you should deprive yourself of sleep, but remember to take it easy and slow down every now and then.

5. What is your dream job?

My dream job is to be a beauty and lifestyle YouTuber! I love the idea of being my own boss and creating relatable content. I also love capturing memories, and videos are a great way of doing that. My actual career goal is to open my own dental practice. I truly enjoy helping others, and I want to do that through dentistry!

6. What’s your favorite TV Show/Movie/etc?

My favorite movie is the Sound of Music! I first watched it as a kid, and I love the nostalgic feeling it brings me whenever I hear the soundtrack.

7. What is one thing that you love about yourself?

My ability to point out the most random things. When you talk to me, you’ll see how easily I can get distracted by my (very accurate) comparisons and bad dad jokes. I love making people smile with my goofiness!

8. Name the top five things on your bucket list

1. Go to Europe (specifically Greece!)
2. Be able to travel in Taiwan without a translator
3. Drive a self-driving car
4. Visit every Disney park in the world
5. Own a plushie museum