Mackenzie Langston

Advisor for Early Childhood Education, Education, & All-Level Special Education

As a first-generation college student and former educator, Mackenzie Langston is committed to helping students navigate their education journeys to reach success. Langston knew that teaching was her passion, but after graduating from UT Austin, she was unsure of where to start. She completed the alternative certification program through the College of Innovation and Design at ETAMU. After obtaining her certification, she worked as an educator in classrooms ranging from fifth- to eighth-grade ELAR and social studies. During this time, she saw first-hand the struggles that teachers face, especially first-year teachers. Education is always undergoing changes and challenges, and she knew she wanted to help teachers prepare to face those head-on, while also helping students develop a love of learning. Langston started working as an academic advisor while working to complete her master's degree in secondary education. After graduation, her goal is to continue to help students navigate their way through life, while also helping bring about changes in the education system to provide more support to teachers and students.

A Conversation with Mackenzie

How do you help students in your current role?

As an academic advisor, I help students reach academic, personal and professional success. I work with students to help set and achieve both short- and long-term academic and career goals. This includes assisting with course selection, creating degree plans, and ensuring that students meet graduation requirements. I help students to better understand university policies and guide them through any academic challenges they may face. I also connect students with university support services, such as tutoring, counseling and career services. Overall, my goal is to help students take ownership of their education to make informed decisions to succeed throughout their academic journey here at ETAMU and beyond.

What do you believe makes East Texas A&M a standout choice for students?

East Texas A&M has a strong sense of community. Because of this, students receive more direct interactions with faculty and staff than they would at larger universities. This helps to create an individualized learning environment, ensuring that students receive the guidance and resources needed to succeed.

What do you enjoy most about your role as an academic advisor at East Texas A&M and why?

I especially enjoy working with first-generation and non-traditional college students. Both present new challenges and unique perspectives that keep me constantly learning. Seeing them reach their goal, whether that goal is graduation or just passing a class, is incredibly rewarding.

What’s a valuable piece of advice you often give students?

In my previous role as an educator and now as an advisor, I always encourage students to ask questions. Many students show hesitance in questioning; they fear judgement from others or worry about being an inconvenience. I want students to advocate for themselves, think critically and find ways to solve their problems. Questioning is one of the best ways to do so.

If you weren’t an academic advisor, what would you be doing?

As an undergraduate student, I knew I wanted to teach. While advising is a form of teaching, if I weren't an advisor, I would probably be back in the classroom or working in a museum to develop a curriculum. No matter what, I know my job would be within the realm of education and student success, as helping students is my passion and drives me to make a positive impact on their lives.

Education

• B.A., Anthropology and History, University of Texas at Austin, 2014
• M.Ed., Secondary Education, East Texas A&M University, Expected Spring 2025

Experience

• Academic Advisor, East Texas A&M University, October 2023-Present