About Us

Biography

Hey y'all, I'm Ishan!! I'm a fourth-year neuroscience major from Houston. I have long been passionate about mental health and breaking the stigma associated with it, which is what drew me to SHARE. Having dealt with my own struggles with anxiety, loneliness, and lack of motivation, I understand the importance of seeking help not only from professionals, but also friends. Whether you want to solve a problem, vent, or anything in between, I'm eager to be that friend. I hope to create a space where everyone feels empowered to be themselves and express themselves freely. Aside from mental health, I'm passionate about music, sports, food, and spending time with loved ones. I look forward to making a difference in people's lives in the same positive way SHARE has done for me. :)

Biography

Hey! I'm Krish Bangur, a fourth-year neuroscience major from Coppell, TX. I joined the SHARE Project because I've seen the importance of mental health firsthand. I believe a space that allows us to be ourselves is crucial for healing, and SHARE provides just that! Through SHARE, I hope to create welcoming environments where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. I am passionate about fostering a supportive community, and I am honored to support others on their mental health journeys. No matter the situation, I'm always ready to talk and listen. In my free time, I enjoy biking, working out, listening to music, watching sports and TV shows.

Biography

Hi! I'm Debbie, a third-year student from Eagle Pass, Texas! I major in speech, language, and hearing sciences on the speech-language pathology track with a critical disability studies minor. I love discovering new music, movies, series and books of several genres! Some of my favorite artists include Mitski, Steve Lacy and Hozier! I was motivated to join SHARE because I believe that having a strong support system and a community you can rely on can have a life-changing impact. My goal is to ensure my community is a safe, judgment-free space where people can share their experiences freely, be heard and receive compassion. I love listening to people, no matter what it is they want to talk about! Feel free to come to me with anything you need, and I will listen and support you as best as I can!

Biography

Hey y’all! I’m Anjana, a fourth-year neuroscience major and Healthcare Reform and Innovation Minor from Frisco, TX. Some of my favorite hobbies include singing, reading, writing, taking super long outdoor walks, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family! I joined the Longhorn SHARE Project because its mission to embrace, validate, and connect people with different backgrounds truly resonated with me. The SHARE Communities and Circles offered by the program are amazing at creating nonjudgmental and healing communities for individuals to feel seen and heard. My own experience with SHARE has helped me navigate embracing my cultural identity, finding support in UT’s competitive academic environment and relating to others who have struggled with impostor syndrome and anxiety. I believe in the importance of feeling understood by your peers, and I am always here for anyone who ever needs to voice their fears, hopes, doubts, or life experiences.

Biography

Hi! My name is Sarayu, and I’m a senior public health major from Austin. I joined SHARE because I think it’s really important for students to have a community they can rely on and a space where they can connect with other people. A lot of the things students go through can feel really isolating, and I think it makes a huge difference to realize that you’re not alone and that there are people who understand and want to help. I hope to help create a nonjudgmental space where people feel comfortable talking about whatever is on their mind, whether it’s something serious or they just need someone to vent to. Outside of SHARE, I love trying new food places, spending time with friends, and binge-watching shows or movies.

Biography

Hi everyone! My name is Srishanti, and I’m studying psychology and Liberal Arts Honors. I’m passionate about mental health and understanding the ways our experiences, relationships, and cultures shape how we navigate life’s challenges. Through my research and involvement in mental health initiatives on campus, I’ve come to appreciate how powerful it can be to simply have someone who listens without judgment. My goal in SHARE is to help create a space where people feel comfortable being themselves, whether they’re looking for support, a listening ear, or just someone to talk things through with. I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported, and I’m excited to meet people wherever they are with empathy, curiosity, and care. Outside of SHARE, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, playing pickleball, cooking and crocheting.

Biography

Hi, I'm Crystal! I'm a psychology major and SDS minor in the Liberal Arts Honors program, and this is my last year at UT! I grew up in Sugar Land, TX and love connecting with people over art, psychology, and singing. (Ask me about Re:Sound A Cappella!) SHARE has a special place in my heart because those who dedicate themselves to keeping it running are some of the most intentional and passionate people I know. It is my pleasure to give back to SHARE and pay forward the same kindness I have been shown. Together, we can make this campus a place where no one struggles alone.

Biography

Hello, my name is Noah Garza and I am from Edinburg, Texas. I am currently a third-year student here at The University of Texas at Austin. As a freshman I was a civil engineering major but have since switched to kinesiology. I love hanging out with friends, watching sports and having a good time by trying to make the best of any situation. I am excited to be facilitating the Shy Longhorns SHARE Community this fall semester alongside my co-facilitators. I joined SHARE for many reasons including community, support and positivity. For me, SHARE provides the opportunity to help myself and others grow and become better, more confident versions of ourselves. I can’t wait to create new memories and experiences with everyone involved with SHARE over this upcoming school year.

Biography

Hii! I’m Ari, a junior majoring in psychology and human development and family sciences. I joined SHARE because going to AnxieTEA meetings my freshman year helped me feel less alone in my emotions and I wanted to give back to this amazing community. SHARE has always made me feel welcome, and I have met truly bright and kind people during my time here. I’m excited to make even more connections with you lovely people and navigate mental health together. Outside of SHARE, I love exploring cafes in Austin with friends, going to concerts, and traveling. I’m always down to talk, so please reach out!!

Biography

Hi guys, my name is Alison and I am from Cedar Hill, Texas. I care about being present for people and their hearts and really try to see them for who they are, not just what they show on the outside. My journey has included walking through difficult seasons with mental health but also healing and learning what it means to be restored. There was a moment in one of the lowest points of my life where I experienced the Lord's presence and felt Him speak to me in a way that changed how I saw everything. My faith in Jesus has been a real and grounding part of my life since then, and it continues to shape how I care for others. I'm always open to talking about faith, sharing my testimony or having real conversations about life, doubt and hope. My hope is to help create a SHARE space where people feel understood, comfortable being themselves and free to talk about their beliefs without feeling judged.

Biography

Hey y'all! My name is Bryce and I'm a sociology major with a minor in business. I'm passionate about learning more about people's behaviors and the structures that influence them. Mental health and social structures have interested me since my teenage years. I joined SHARE because this program helps people feel seen and supported in an environment that is often very stressful and sometimes lonely. I love that I get the chance to give students a space to express their struggles with mental health issues, learning disabilities and the pressure of college. My goal as a SHARE Support Specialist is to let students know they're seen and provide a community that validates their experiences. Along with being passionate about mental health, I love thrifting, anime and music.

Biography

Hey y'all! My name is Stephen, a third-year advertising and English double major, born and raised here in Austin, Texas! I was drawn to this incredible program at a time when I was beginning my own journey, navigating my mental health and individual identity. SHARE’s mantra of listening and holding space for others resonated with me and has allowed me, as well as so many others, to heal and grow, not just as students but as humans. I strive to create a space where vulnerability is met with compassion and where individuals feel safe enough to be their true, authentic selves. I believe that real connection starts with being heard, and that we all have the ability within us to heal and flourish. I'm here to listen, connect, and remind you of the icon that you are! After all, if you can't love yourself, how are you gonna love somebody else? ;) Outside of SHARE, I love playing video games, attending concerts, traveling, and reading! You’re more than welcome to reach out if you ever feel so inclined! :D

Biography

Hey y'all, I'm Yashi!! I'm a third-year speech pathology major from Houston. I joined SHARE to connect with like-minded people and develop a support system to rely on. I am passionate about mental health, having struggled with my own anxiety and self-esteem throughout my life. My goal is to encourage others to be themselves in a supportive and judgment-free zone. I love sewing, reading, exploring Austin, and listening to all kinds of music. I am always down to talk about anything and everything. If you ever need someone to talk to or just be around, I'm here. You are not alone.

Biography

Hi! I’m Andi, a fourth-year public health major on the pre-med track who’s passionate about mental health, connection, and community. I became a SHARE Support Specialist because I know what it’s like to navigate mental health challenges and I believe in the power of showing up for each other with care and openness. My goal is to help build a community where people feel safe, supported, and reminded that they’re not alone, where we can learn, grow, and heal together. A little about me: I’m Hispanic, I love music of all kinds, and I really enjoy connecting with new people. If you ever want to talk or just need someone to listen, I’m always here and I can’t wait to meet you all!

Biography

Hi! My name is Jeeshita (I also go by Jeanie), and I'm a second-year psychology student. Since I was younger, I've been drawn to exploring how mental wellness affects overall health and happiness. I joined SHARE because I felt deeply connected to the sense of belonging it creates. In my own experience, SHARE has helped me connect more openly with others and approach life with a little less fear. I hope to help create a community where everyone feels loved, heard, and unafraid to be their authentic selves. You'll often find me painting, reading, or spending time with my family.

Biography

Hi everyone! My name is Kiara. I'm originally from Oklahoma but have lived in Texas for about eight years. I'm a fourth-year psychology student pursuing a minor in American Sign Language. I found SHARE during a time in my life when I needed it most. At a large university like UT, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and isolated, but this program helped me discover a passion for connecting with others and creating spaces where people feel welcome. I hope to foster an environment where students can be their authentic selves, flaws and all, and find peace and belonging on campus. Outside of SHARE, I enjoy collecting records, building LEGO sets, taking pictures, and spending time with friends.

Biography

Hi! My name is Allison and I'm a junior from Boston, Massachusetts. I'm currently pursuing a B.S. in psychology and studying in the Plan II Honors Program. In my free time I love going to concerts, two-stepping, drinking coffee, cooking with my friends, and ballroom dancing. I joined the SHARE Program because I'm really passionate about mental health and community building. College can often feel overwhelming, but having a space to connect with others has been a huge help in navigating these challenges. Authentic connection is really important to me, and I'm so excited to get to know more incredible people through SHARE this year!

Biography

Hi everyone, I'm Brandon. I'll be a senior majoring in mathematics. I love playing poker, and my favorite sports are basketball and baseball.

Biography

Hi! My name is Aaliyah Hughes and I am a second-year psychology major from Killeen, Texas. I love all things that involve people. Meeting new friends and hanging out with old ones are my favorite things to do. I am truly passionate about helping and supporting others, and joining SHARE was an amazing opportunity to foster that passion. I believe that everyone should have a space where they feel welcomedand comfortable enough to be their truest selves. As a SHARE Support Specialist, I aim to uplift and encourage others while actively navigating this new journey with my peers.

Biography

Hello! I'm Brianna, a fourth-year neuroscience B.S.A major. SHARE offers an open, reliable space to show up without fear of judgment, and that is something I've valued as I've struggled with opening up about my own emotions. It is easy to sideline your own feelings when overwhelmed, especially in college, or when putting others' struggles above your own, as I've also navigated. My goal is to create an environment of understanding as we change and grow. The compassionate support provided through community is indispensable to mental health, and together we can empathetically express and listen to our challenges as we heal and pursue the life we want. I stay grounded through reading, dancing, listening to music while I crochet or knit, and spending time in nature.

Biography

Hi! My name is Ezre and I'm a second-year advertising major in the Moody College Honors Program. I enjoy reading books on psychology, making oil paintings and teaching youth aerial arts, though most of my time goes toward overthinking minor decisions. I joined SHARE because I love understanding others and feeling understood in more genuinely human ways. I'd like to encourage a culture that welcomes showing up messy, imperfect, and vulnerable. I hope to help others feel less alone by offering space to be unconditionally and nonjudgmentally heard.

Biography

Hello!! My name's Derek! I'm a junior psychology major from Richardson, Texas. After coming to college and joining SHARE, it's become even more apparent to me that we're all just troubled young adults navigating challenges, and not everyone has support through this confusing time in our lives. I love that SHARE provides the kind of environment that lets us breathe, and it reminds me that we're all here for each other. I firmly believe every human being is inherently good and that we can grow together. Outside of SHARE, I enjoy volleyball, basketball, art, board games, and reading. I especially love sharing those interests with friends.

Biography

Hi everyone! My name is Rasika, and I'm a junior psychology and anthropology major in the Liberal Arts Honors Program. I'm also pursuing a minor in government and certificates in Core Texts & Ideas (JSP) and Children & Society (BDP). I'm super passionate about developmental psychology, particularly moral reasoning and the fantasy/reality distinction in children.

I joined SHARE because I wanted to find a community where I belonged while also supporting and validating others. SHARE has given me this and more, becoming a space where I feel completely accepted, flaws included.

Outside of SHARE, I'm a research assistant in the Imagination and Cognition Lab (among other labs), as well as a Writing Consultant at the UWC. I'm also the Research Director of Texas Children's Advocacy Initiative! I'm very involved with many programs on campus, and I'm a big believer in using your resources!

I love reading, dystopian, fantasy, adventure and romance books and going to concerts! Please reach out; I'd love to get to know you.

Biography

Hi everyone! My name is Allison Lanners, and I am a senior Plan II Honors and psychology B.S. major from Dallas, Texas! My professor told me about SHARE, and I knew I had to join. I was eager to help my peers with their struggles, and I was excited for the opportunity to learn more about mental health and communication tactics.

After going to meetings myself, I have realized how beneficial peer support can be. It is validating, authentic, and safe.

Outside of SHARE, I am a research assistant in the Meston Lab and the Anxiety Disorders Lab. I am also a member of Chi Omega and served as Mental Health Chair for one year. I love reading (Throne of Glass is my favorite!), and I am always searching for fun recommendations!

Biography

Hi!! I'm Chloe, a third-year exercise science major from Irving, TX, specializing in Medical Fitness and Rehabilitation and on the pre-occupational therapy track. Around campus, I'm involved with Best Buddies, the Texas Pre-OT Community, and Reading Aces. I joined SHARE because I loved the idea of creating a community where people can show up exactly as they are. Whether someone needs a listening ear, a little encouragement, or just a reminder that they're not alone, I hope to make SHARE feel like a welcoming space. As a future OT, I believe some of the biggest differences are made through empathy, kindness, and simply being there for people. When I'm not in class, I'm probably convincing my friends to try a new matcha spot, starting a new arts and crafts project, or dancing the night away!

Biography

Hi!! My name is Natalie Liu, and I am a senior majoring in behavioral and social data science with minors in statistics and data science and business foundations. I joined SHARE because of the value it brings to the UT community. It empowers students and fosters meaningful connections between like-minded people. I've loved learning interpersonal skills through SHARE, but more than anything I've loved learning from the people in this community. Outside of SHARE, I am involved in Project Yellow, the DynamiCog Lab, and the Advanced Qualitative Research Lab. In my free time, I love being active, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Biography

Hi everyone! My name is Leana and I am a fourth-year human biology major with a minor in health communication from Giddings, Texas. I love music, TV shows, movies, reading, and especially sports. I joined SHARE because I am passionate about finding trusting communities where people can be themselves without judgment. SHARE has played an important role in my time at UT and my personal growth. I hope to help create an environment where students from all backgrounds feel included, connected, and seen.

Biography

Hi beautiful people! I'm Stephen, a senior majoring in psychology and Human Dimensions of Organizations. I’m from San Antonio, am an only child, and speak Spanish as my second language. I joined SHARE because I have a passion for relating with others and focusing on the thing that unites us most: love. To me, SHARE means connection and compassion, and represents a supportive space for any heart willing enough to take part. On campus, I am in FUSE Acapella, Healing with Harmonies, Koinonia and play intramural soccer, basketball, and volleyball. My interests include fitness, health, sports, nature, video gaming, socializing, and anything involving fun! I also love music with a soft spot for rock and pop. Above all, I am passionate about loving others and making the world a better place each interaction at a time.

Biography

Hi! My name is Dylan and I'm a fourth-year biology student from Austin, Texas. I wanted to be a part of SHARE because I’ve seen the positive impact it has on students on campus. Mental health is something I'm passionate about, and SHARE creates a space where everyone can have their feelings and voices be valued.

I really enjoy how this is a space where being open with each other and having empathy is encouraged. I look forward to contributing to this healthy environment and building connections with anyone I meet.

Aside from SHARE, I enjoy playing video games, ping pong, listening to music, and reading.

Biography

Hi, y'all! My name is Sohana, and I'm a sophomore majoring in biochemistry. I'm originally from Houston, Texas, but I grew up all around the world! I joined SHARE because I love connecting with people and wanted to learn more about how mental health impacts our community. Being a part of SHARE has helped me feel more connected to people, improve my communication skills, and better understand others and their experiences. I hope to help create a space where people feel supported and reminded of just how capable they are. Outside of school, I love journaling, baking, traveling, watching way too many shows, and trying new crafts.

Biography

Hi! My name is Kirsten Quantz, and I’m a fourth-year psychology student. I joined SHARE because I value everything the program stands for and does for the UT community. I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel welcomed, loved, and accepted, and I’ve seen firsthand how SHARE provides that for me and many others. I’m really passionate about mental health and I’m committed to fostering an environment rooted in empathy and respect.. Outside of SHARE I’m active in different psychology and mental health organizations on campus and you might also find me reading a good book, watching a new TV show or listening to different kinds of music!

Biography

Hi! My name is Ximena Rodriguez and I'm a rising junior from the Rio Grande Valley majoring in government and Plan II. Being a university student often comes with navigating many challenge, and I know that's been the case for me. My journey with SHARE started when I experienced a SHARE Circle and felt seen in a space that invites connection, vulnerability, and simply listening. Being a SHARE Support Specialist means spreading the wonderful work we do through this program while also helping individuals and communities recognize strengths and opportunities for growth.

Outside of SHARE, I love any sort of fun beverage (iced lattes have my heart), art spaces, mind-body connection movement, music, and spending time with loved ones.

Biography

Hello! My name is Sam, and I'm a senior psychology student from the Rio Grande Valley. I was drawn to SHARE because I deeply value the power of peer support and the role meaningful connections play in promoting mental health and well-being. Everyone in this community is incredibly welcoming and super-duper friendly! My goal is to make a positive impact by helping others feel seen, heard, and supported in whatever they're going through. I believe in the importance of healing together. Being there for others has also been healing for me.

Some things I love are trying new restaurants, going to concerts, collecting vinyl records, and playing guitar. :) I am always down to talk about anything and offer support whenever needed!

Biography

Hello, my name is Cirayah Sells, and I am currently a junior pursuing a degree in psychology with minors in kinesiology and health communication studies. For the past three years, mental health has been a growing passion of mine, and I am grateful that I am able to apply this passion through SHARE. What I love most about this program is that there is something for everyone. SHARE truly goes out of its way to make all students feel accepted, seen, and heard, and as a Peer Support Specialist, I intend to make sure those who participate feel the same way. Outside of SHARE, I enjoy basketball, spending time with friends and loved ones, old-school movies and music, and investing time in my faith.

Biography

Hi! My name is Allison Sengkhounmany and I’m a fourth-year jJournalism major with a minor in health communication. I was fortunate to come across SHARE during a profound experience of grief and loss. Seeing how meaningful SHARE was for me, I hope to help others who may be going through similar experiences. I’m passionate about destigmatizing mental health and participating in thoughtful conversations. Through peer support, I believe we can create an honest, compassionate, and uplifting community. Outside of SHARE, I enjoy traveling, exploring the city, and finding new hobbies. I’m always here to listen and be a pillar of support!

Biography

Hi, beautiful people! I'm Neha, an upcoming junior majoring in public health on the pre-med track. I was born in Dubai, spent part of my childhood in India, and eventually made my way to Texas, so I've always loved meeting people from different backgrounds and hearing their stories. I joined SHARE because I believe everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Around campus, you might find me volunteering with Longhorn EMS or talking about environmental health topics. Outside of school, I enjoy basketball, spending time with friends, playing Carnatic violin, and finding a reason to enjoy one more sweet treat. Whether you want to talk about classes, friendships, family, or finding your place at UT, I'd love to chat.

Biography

Hi! My name is Bella Silber and I am a fourth-year psychology major with a minor in educational psychology from Long Island, New York. I love spending time with my friends and family, being active, reading, enjoying nature and trying new foods! joined SHARE because I am passionate about supporting others, talking through challenges, and lifting up the people around me. I know how important it is to have a space to talk and open up, especially during a challenging time like college when we’re all navigating overwhelming change. I’m excited to help create a space where people feel seen, supported, and reminded that they’re never alone in what they’re going through.

Biography

Hi, I'm Ivanna Sintes-Klein, a junior health promotion and behavioral science major from Fort Worth, TX! I wanted to become a SHARE Support Specialist because I know how much of a difference it can make to have someone who listens and can relate to mental health struggles. College comes with so many transitions, and I am passionate about helping create a community where people feel comfortable showing up exactly as they are. Outside of SHARE, I love writing songs and poetry, browsing antique shops, and spending time with friends around Austin. I can't wait to meet you and be part of your journey at UT!

Biography

Hey everyone! My name is Shreyasi, a fourth-year statistics and data science major and risk management minor from Cypress, Texas. Some of my hobbies include hanging out with my friends, trying new restaurants, reading and listening to music. I joined SHARE as I am passionate about building community, providing mutual support and healing, as well as being of service to others! Through SHARE I have been able to see firsthand how valuable peer support is, especially in our fast-paced UT community. I aspire to bring as much and even more of the joy, belonging and love I've received through this initiative to other students throughout my time with the Longhorn SHARE Project!

Biography

Hello, everyone! My name is Yovanni and I'm from Austin, Texas. I'm a sophomore social work major. I gravitated toward SHARE when I learned about the impactful work it does through shared community environments and realized it was something I wanted to be a part of during my time at UT. Being in SHARE has taught me valuable skills that I am excited to implement and share with participants as well as with the people in my life. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, running, swimming, reading self-help books, spending time with friends, and trying new restaurants around Austin.

Biography

Hi! I’m Michelle, a fourth-year communication studies major originally from Houston, TX. My motivation behind becoming a SHARE Specialist was to support the universal need to feel seen, heard, and connected. My first year was full of adjustments, and yet SHARE gave me a space that I felt completely myself in, regardless of my mood., I could always count on my community to let a giggle out in. Outside of SHARE, I am obsessed with dramatized reality shows, gaming videos and learning about various traditional cultural foods.

Biography

Hi, y'all! I'm Divya, a junior neuroscience major on the pre-med track in the Jefferson Scholars Program. SHARE became my anchor when I moved to Austin from Bangalore, India, introducing me to an incredible group of people who care about empowering fellow Longhorns struggling in silence. SHARE has also given me the strength to explore my identity as a woman with AuDHD and challenge stigma related to neurodivergence and perfectionism. Together with my co-facilitators, I aim to create a space where students can rest, reflect, and form meaningful relationships. Outside of SHARE, I'm involved in neuropharmacology research, disability advocacy through Student Government, graphic design, mythology, astrophysics, and French comics.

Biography

Hi guys! My name is Julia Wurtz, and I am a third-year psychology student from Dallas, TX pursuing a minor in sociology. Through my journey in therapy, I have developed a strong passion for mental health advocacy, which led me to join SHARE, an accepting environment that truly cares about the well-being of students. I strive to provide a space that encourages authentic connections among peers during a time of self-exploration and growth. Vulnerability is a strength, as well as a tool for discovering new and wonderful things. I promote a non-judgmental environment with sincere dialogue to establish trust and a sense of community. In this space, I meet openness with kindness, empathy, and understanding. We are truly distinct beings, and still, we yearn for beautiful connections with one another. You deserve to be accepted for who you are, and you deserve a supportive and validating community of peers. I am so excited to meet each one of you!

Outside of SHARE, I enjoy playing volleyball, singing in the car, watching movies, Pinterest crafts and décor and being around cats.