Hi! My name is Paola Salazar and I am an Admissions Counselor at Tarleton State University. I am a Regional Admissions Counselor based out of Houston, and I cover the Houston/Southeast Texas region. I provide students with information about Tarleton and aid them through the application process. 

GET TO KNOW PAOLA:

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I graduated from Tarleton State University in 2018 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. 

THREE FUN FACTS:

• I was a first-generation college student.
• I love traveling and visiting new places.
• I never had pets growing up, but I have two dogs now, Ruby and Victoria!

FAVORITE TARLETON TRADITION:

Silver taps

FAVORITE TARLETON FUN FACT:

The Purple Poo is the oldest spirit organization in the state of Texas.

FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS:

Heritage park

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A STUDENT?

The supportive and caring faculty and students. I was successful academically by reaching out to my professors and taking advantage of meeting with them during their office hours. I created relationships with classmates, who I still stay in touch with, and they are some of my closest friends. The faculty I encountered during my time as a student took the time to get to know me and mentor me, which ultimately also helped me in my professional career. 

BEST COLLEGE EXPERIENCE:

Homecoming week my senior year! I was able to experience my last Homecoming as a student at Tarleton with my brother, who experienced his first Homecoming week. I am grateful I had the opportunity to participate in many traditions with him and create those memories together.

SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE A PROSPECTIVE STUDENT TO KNOW:

It is okay to ask questions and ask for help. The transition from high school into college can be overwhelming, but there are people available to help during your journey.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB?

I love being able to help students and families. I enjoy being able to answer their questions and educate them on the transition from high school into college. I have been in their shoes, so knowing that I’ve been a part of someone’s journey and helped ease the transition in any way is the best feeling.

TIPS:

Reach out to your admissions counselor via email or phone call. We are on the road a lot so email is best sometimes, but if you call leave a voicemail and we will get back to you as soon as we can. We are here to help you through this process, so don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions.