March 12, 2026
Holly Bhasin, senior academic advisor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics (ASE/EM) at The University of Texas at Austin, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Texas Exes James W. Vick Award for Academic Advising. The student-nominated award, established in 1992, recognizes advisors who significantly impact students’ experiences at the university through exceptional advising. Each year, only five advisors from across the Forty Acres receive the honor.
Bhasin has spent her entire career working in higher education in a variety of student services roles. Before joining ASE/EM, she worked in the university’s Graduate School, where she supported graduate students nearing the completion of their degrees. While she valued that work, she said she missed having the opportunity to build long-term relationships with students.
“I made a conscious choice to return to academic advising so that I could mentor undergraduate students and build a rapport with them during their four years here,” Bhasin said.
As an advisor, Bhasin focuses on supporting students beyond course planning alone. She said she strives to help students navigate their academic journeys while also supporting their personal and professional growth.
“My ultimate joy is seeing students overcome obstacles, discover their passions and succeed—whether they ace an exam, land their first internship or secure a job before graduation,” Bhasin said. “I delight in those moments and enjoy celebrating students’ accomplishments.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of her role, Bhasin noted, is hearing about the innovative projects students are working on and watching them apply their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.
“They never cease to amaze me.”
She also finds inspiration in the momentum surrounding the aerospace field, particularly in Texas, where the industry continues to expand.
“The aerospace industry has been booming for the past several years, especially here in Texas,” Bhasin said. “Students are gaining valuable hands-on experience and solving real-world engineering problems while our faculty pursue innovative, cutting-edge research. Students and faculty are pushing the boundaries of technology and making new advancements in a rapidly evolving field. As we like to say, ‘The sky is not the limit!’”
Bhasin’s recognition continues a strong tradition of advising excellence in ASE/EM. In 2024, fellow advisor Renee Babcock, academic advising coordinator, also received the Texas Exes James W. Vick Award for Academic Advising, highlighting the department’s commitment to student support.
