Get to Know Jasmin
Born in Germany and raised in Belize by her American father and French German mother, Jasmin Paquet-Durand Ford grew up as a “third-culture” kid. Her mother’s work as a wildlife veterinarian and nonprofit founder gave her a passion for environmental sustainability. Her father’s work in education and international development made her interested in the world around her. These interests led her to study economics, which she sees as the bridge between her passions. “I realized economics is the study of everything; it is resource allocation at its core,” she says.
Becoming a Leader
While at UT San Antonio, Jasmin stayed busy pursuing ways to develop her leadership and professional skills. She served as president of the Student Government Association, vice chair of the University of Texas System Student Advisory Council and vice president of the Society of Economics. She found leadership inspiration in mentors like Allegra Lozano, director of Honors academic counseling, and UT San Antonio President Taylor Eighmy, both of whom showed her kindness and inspired her through their own leadership.
Getting Career Ready
Jasmin participated in a number of experiences that helped her gain professional experience. A transformative experience in Jasmin’s academic career was the Archer Fellowship Program, which allowed her to live in Washington D.C. working as an intern. Jasmin’s internship was with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), where she contributed to literacy initiatives at the White House Hallo-READ event. Through this internship, Jasmin was able to secure a full-time job after graduation working as a junior media and communications specialist with NOAA.
“UTSA’s interdisciplinary approach allowed me to connect the dots between economics, sustainability and public service.”