MARKIE HUDDLESTON Academic Advisor I
- Staff
Markie Huddleston Originally born in Kentucky, She moved to Dallas in 2018 to attend the University of Dallas. While at UD, She worked 4 years as an intern in the Financial Aid office where She fell in love with helping students. After She graduated in 2022, She decided to continue her passion for education and helping students. She worked as a high school English teacher for the past two years before starting She time at TAMUC.
A Conversation with Markie
How do you help students?
As an academic advisor, I help students in several ways, including course selection and planning, helping them understand degree requirements, navigating resources, etc. An academic advisor's job is to help students be the best versions of themselves, which looks different each day.
What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending A&M-Commerce?
Zora Neale Hurston once said, “You got to go there to know there.” It is crucial to visit the colleges you're interested in when they are in full bloom and in full swing. Sit in on classes, talk to current students, and attend events. If you don't, then you really don't know what you're getting into. Make sure it is where you can see yourself for the next four years! College is a wonderful experience that you will always look back fondly on, so make sure you find the right place. Hopefully, that place is TAMUC!
Why did you choose your career/what draws you to your discipline?
I chose my job for a variety of reasons, but it all starts with the students. I am deeply passionate about access to education and helping students achieve their potential. As an academic advisor, I have the incredible opportunity to support students as they navigate their academic journeys—whether that means guiding them through challenges, celebrating their successes, or helping them select the right courses. Witnessing a student's growth and achievements, and knowing that I played a small role in their journey, is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing students reach their goals and build confidence in their abilities is what makes this career so rewarding.
Education
- B.A., Politics, University of Dallas, 2018-2022
Professional Experience
- Upper School Literature Teacher, Founders Classical Academy of Frisco, 2022-2024
Research Interests
- Student engagement strategies
- Access to education
- Academic advising best practices
- Impact of literature on critical thinking
- Supporting first-generation college students
Awards and Honors
- Dean's List 2018-2022