The Heartbeat of the Oden Institute - Profile Samantha Guillen

As the Oden Institute for Computational Engineering and Sciences gears up for a busy fall, Administrative Assistant Samantha Guillen sits at the reception desk, her calm demeanor radiating a welcoming warmth. The University of North Texas graduate reflects on her journey to this role.

“Back when I graduated in May of 2022, I had already worked at a department at my university — the Alumni Association,” she explained. “I liked working in administration and helping out with things. When I moved to Austin, I didn't have this job yet, but it caught my eye on the UT hiring website. I hoped for the best, and thankfully, it all worked out.”

The decision to move to Austin was a calculated leap for Samantha, driven by her desire for the excitement of a big city while staying close to her roots. Originally from Brownsville, Texas, Samantha found Austin a perfect middle ground—a vibrant city that still felt like home.

"I wanted to move to a big city but wasn't ready to leave Texas. Austin seemed like a fun place to try out, especially since it's a five-hour drive from Brownsville where my parents are from. Five hours is still five hours, but it’s nice to be a little bit closer," Samantha admitted. 

Samantha's ties to her family and heritage are strong. She recently took a trip with her father to her grandmother’s hometown of Linares, Mexico. "It was incredible to see where she grew up and meet family I’d never met before. It gave me a deeper appreciation for my roots."

Her love for dancing, deeply rooted in her upbringing, often finds its way into her life in Austin. "I grew up in a large Hispanic community, so dancing has always been a big part of my life. I even choreographed a cumbia dance for a friend’s film recently."

Samantha’s academic background is in film, and her love for storytelling and creative expression keeps her moonlighting as a choreographer and production designer for friends’ shoots. “Austin has a great film scene, so it's been nice to enjoy that world while maintaining a full-time job,” she said with a smile. 

When she's not working, Samantha is an avid moviegoer, frequenting the iconic Alamo Drafthouse up to three times a week. "I love going to the movies. I also enjoy dancing and attending concerts. The local music scene in Austin is amazing."

Balancing her creative passions with her role at the Oden Institute, Samantha thrives on the versatility and sense of community that her job offers. "I like being at the front office, talking to students, and helping when I can. It’s great to have a community that I get to see everyday, especially because everyone who works here is very sweet and kind. I'm really grateful to have that in my first real job experience,” she said. “There’s also so much knowledge at this university that I’m slowly learning”

As Samantha continues to navigate her career, she remains open to where life might lead her. "I wouldn’t mind pursuing film on the side and seeing where it goes. But for now, I enjoy my job and being able to help out."

With her adventurous spirit and a heart full of gratitude, Samantha Guillen is a beacon of warmth and friendliness at the Oden Institute. With her at the reception desk, every person who steps through our doors is sure to be offered a smile and a helping hand.