College of Social & Behavioral Science Orientation Spotlight
Alejandra Vazquez Gamino | Margeaux Kowack-Servedio | Asher Barlow | Katherine Gordon
What’s one goal you have for your first year at the U?
My goal for my first year at the U is to make a lot of friends and come out of my shell. I hope to spend the year making memories instead of wondering, “What if?”
What inspired you to choose your major or current area of interest?
I’ve always been interested in current issues. When I was younger, I used to sit watching the news with my grandma. That was my first introduction to politics, and I never could shake it.
Where is your hometown? What's one thing you wish people knew about where you're from?
St. George, Utah. I wish people knew how great the people are. Whenever St. George is mentioned, people tend to talk only about the older population, but it’s genuinely so diverse that no two conversations are the same.
How do you hope to get involved on campus?
Just trying everything out at least once. I really hope to rush this year or next year.
What’s a talent or skill you have that people don’t usually expect?
During my junior year of high school, I became obsessed with Bob Dylan and learned how to play the harmonica. I also used my harmonica skills to get votes at ALA Girls State.
Who is someone you admire, and what do you admire about them?
I admire Joan Baez because she has always spoken out for what she believes in. She also doesn’t change her beliefs simply to match what is popular around her.
What’s one goal you have for your first year at the U?
Get involved in something beyond schooling.
If you could collaborate with any professor, club, or group at the U, who would it be?
I would love to collaborate with the swimming club. I could swim all day long!
What inspired you to choose your major or current area of interest?
My experience as a behavioral dog trainer.
Where is your hometown? What's one thing you wish people knew about where you're from?
Mystic, Connecticut. The pizza isn’t good, but there is a movie about it: “Mystic Pizza.”
What is one thing you're most excited for as you start at the University of Utah?
The unbelievable selection of classes. It’s like having access to the holy grail of knowledge.
What’s one thing on your University of Utah bucket list?
I would really like to join a club!!
How do you hope to get involved on campus?
I hope to get involved with the swimming club.
What’s something on campus you’re curious to try even if it’s outside your comfort zone?
I am curious about joining an honors club.
What’s a talent or skill you have that people don’t usually expect?
Quiet observation of behavior.
How do you communicate your perspective on the world around you? Through writing, discussion, art, or action?
I communicate best through writing.
Who is someone you admire, and what do you admire about them?
My kids have resilience, strength and love.
Asher Barlow
Major(s): Psychology
What’s one goal you have for your first year at the U?
Maintain at least a 3.6 GPA.
If you could collaborate with any professor, club, or group at the U, who would it be?
I’m looking forward to working with one of the psychology professors.
What inspired you to choose your major or current area of interest?
I was inspired by my AP Psychology class.
Where is your hometown?
I’m from Salt Lake City, Utah.
What is one thing you're most excited for as you start at the University of Utah?
I am excited for the freedom to pick my schedule.
What’s one thing on your University of Utah bucket list?
I would really like to move into the dorms.
How do you hope to get involved on campus?
I want to attend events hosted by the U, such as concerts and parties!
What’s something on campus you’re curious to try even if it’s outside your comfort zone?
I’d like to try getting to know lots of people.
What’s a talent or skill you have that people don’t usually expect?
People might not expect me to be a good swimmer.
How do you communicate your perspective on the world around you? Through writing, discussion, art, or action?
I communicate through discussion with others.
Who is someone you admire, and what do you admire about them?
My Dad. He is hard working and stands up for what he believes in.
Katherine Gordon
Major(s): Psychology
Where is your hometown?
I grew up in Farmington, Utah.
What’s one goal you have for your first year at the U?
I want to make new friends and meet and work with new people.
If you could collaborate with any professor, club, or group at the U, who would it be?
I love social work, so anything involving Huntsman Mental Health Institute would be amazing.
What inspired you to choose your major or current area of interest?
I was inspired by personal mental health struggles.
What’s one thing on your University of Utah bucket list?
I want to go to a football game.
How do you hope to get involved on campus?
I want to join different groups and clubs.
What’s something on campus you’re curious to try even if it’s outside your comfort zone?
I’d like to try climbing.
What’s a talent or skill you have that people don’t usually expect?
I’m really good with people and am a good listener.
How do you communicate your perspective on the world around you? Through writing, discussion, art, or action?
I communicate my perspective through action.
Who is someone you admire, and what do you admire about them?
I admire my mom because she’s so strong and brave.
Any views, experiences, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this student highlight do not necessarily represent those of the College of Social and Behavioral Science.
Published September 10, 2026
Media Contact: Natalie Pyne, LAS Marketing Director
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