Auna R. Hearne
Texas Assistant Director of Regional Recruitment
Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
In high school, I did not have a college counselor. My art history teacher wrote my counselor letters! I made some uninformed and irresponsible choices about higher education, especially when financing college. Now, I feel like I’m constantly becoming and improving on the person I needed as a high school student to benefit the students I now serve. I also really like paperwork and processes and helping students and families navigate them.

What is your favorite part of the job?
As a regional recruiter, I love connecting with a wide range of students and families to share the benefits and return on investment of pursuing higher education. It is a true privilege to watch a student’s eyes light up with intrigue and curiosity when presented with options that could have major impact on their future. As this is my first time being a regional (and it has been nine years since I’ve recruited!), I am also enjoying learning the different personalities of high schools in my territory so that I am better informed when reading applicant files and advocating for students.

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC is a motivating force and ultimate vehicle of professional development and networking in our profession. As a young admissions professional, I was a state affiliate member and benefitted from professional development like Texas ACAC’s Admission & College Counseling Institute and conferences. I was able to learn from seasoned professionals and collaborate on best practices with my peers. However, it was my first NACAC conference in 2018 that really showed me the vast scope and range of our profession. My experience in Salt Lake City motivated me to remain committed to this work and get more involved. Since that conference, I’ve attended more annual gatherings and even celebrated a major career milestone by presenting at NACAC Conference 2023 in Baltimore. I’m excited to be attending the 2024 conference as a pre-conference seminar presenter and hope to continue building my network of professionals around this admissions roundtable.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
I get sad when I hear of colleges closing. I know every circumstance is unique, but I know a growing number of Americans are questioning the value of going to college. With the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action, I worry that even more people will not pursue higher education as a pathway for career and personal advancement. We must be innovative and genuine in the way that we work with students and families to extol the benefits of higher education.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
I am a professional secret shopper. I am always evaluating customer service. 😉

If you could be any fictional character, who would it be and why?
Gracie from Gracie’s Corner. Homegirl can sing and dance and gets to hang out with her friends and celebrities while teaching important concepts.

Published Aug. 28, 2023; updated Aug. 19, 2024