Welcome to Get to Know..., where we feature UT System Administration staff as they offer insights into their lives in and out of the office. Each new edition will be published here.
Yvette Ruiz-Esparza
Administrative Projects Coordinator
Office of External Relations, Communications and Advancement Services
What are your primary job responsibilities?
I manage calendars for UT System’s Vice Chancellor of External Relations, Communications and Advancement Services Randa Safady, and Associate Vice Chancellor of External Relations and Communications Paul Corliss. I also manage our office’s budget-related activities, reconciling accounts and ensuring budgetary compliance, contracts, vendor payments, travel arrangements and staff reimbursements.
What is a fact about you that may surprise your colleagues?
I was born in El Paso and raised in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. I am a proud Miner — #PicksUp
What do you do to disconnect or de-stress?
I enjoy going out to restaurants and cafés with friends. There is so much variety to try in the city, but my favorite restaurants so far are Aba Austin, Super Thai Cuisine and Suerte. I always need my coffee of the day, and the café I enjoy the most is Merit Coffee. They have an assortment of cold brews, espressos and pastries, which I highly recommend the cappuccino, which is always my choice.
What's the best advice you ever received and who gave it to you?
My uncle always reminded me about the quote, "Enfócate en lo bueno, en lo que te hace mejorar, en lo que te brinda paz y seguridad, en lo que te saque una sonrisa y te alegre el corazón." Translating to: "Focus on the good, on what makes you be better, on what gives you peace and security, on what makes you smile and makes your heart happy."
What was your first car? Describe it and what you remember most about it.
My first car was a 2003 red Toyota Corolla my mom purchased for me when I was in college. I always took great care of it, since I knew my mom bought it for me.
What was your favorite vacation destination and if you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
In 2007, I studied abroad in France. I was able to explore several countries while in Europe. To date, I love traveling and visiting new places. If I could go anywhere in the world right now, I would go to Portugal.
Who is currently playing on your Spotify playlist?
I love music. I have a variety of music that includes Spanish rock, indie and pop. Chvrches is currently on my Spotify playlist.
