varsha vijay

Hometown: Coppell, TX

Major: Unspecified Business

Year: Sophomore

1. Why did you join ABSA?

I joined ABSA because of its strong sense of community and room for professional development. I felt welcomed instantly and found a place where I was supported in every way, whether it was with my bigs or with my branch, and I was able to grow professionally as well as personally. ABSA has a place for everyone!

2. What is your favorite ABSA memory?

I honestly have a lot, but I would have to say New York CFT! It was an incredible experience where I was able to explore New York with some of my favorite people, and it helped me determine that I would like to work there some day! We had insane amounts of good food, met really cool professionals, and it was just loads of fun. I cannot wait for the next CFT!

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

The main piece of advice I would give to my freshman year self would be to be more confident. I think there were a number of occasions where I got spooked because I didn't view myself as "cracked enough," and it took a hit on my self esteem. After going through freshman year, I realized that everyone has something unique to bring to the table, and ABSA really helped me regain that confidence in myself. Don't be afraid to make mistakes or put yourself out there!

4. What is your favorite food/ favorite place to eat in Austin?

My favorite food spot in Austin is the Chat Patta food truck on 26th. Austin has some incredible eats, but Chat Patta genuinely became my comfort food, and it's also fairly priced! The lamb paratha tacos are my go-to.

5. Name the top five things on your bucket list

The top five things on my bucket list currently are:

  1. going ice skating

  2. going kayaking in Austin

  3. trying KBBQ

  4. thrift shopping (never been yikes)

  5. going to Barton Springs!

6. What fictional character best represents you?

I didn't have an answer, so I asked my close friends and they said I reminded them of Starfire from Teen Titans Go! I would say I'm a lot like Starfire because she's silly and does things as she wants to, but she's also really sweet and caring, and I think that sums me up. I also think she locks in when she needs to and is just an icon, so hopefully I'm like that as well.