Moody College PR student to represent Texas at Miss USA competition

Moody College of Communication students are extraordinary, and Alexis Maxine Fuetsch is no exception. As a public relations major in the Stan Richards School of Advertising & Public Relations, Fuetsch maintains a 4.0 GPA, is currently on track to graduate in just three years and has plans to attend law school after graduation. If that’s not enough, she’s the founder of Alexis Maxine Photography – her own business that has served clients including the San Antonio Spurs – and is a dedicated volunteer with the Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA (CRIT). Now, she’s added the title of Miss Texas USA to her resume. 

Here’s what Fuetsch had to say as she prepares to represent The University of Texas, her hometown of San Antonio and the entire state of Texas at the Miss USA competition in August. 

Tell us a little about why you chose to study public relations at Moody College.

“I chose to study public relations at Moody College because it is home to one of the best public relations programs in the world. I knew I wanted to learn from the very best, and The University of Texas has given me the opportunity to grow as a communicator, storyteller and professional while being surrounded by incredibly talented professors and students.”

How do you balance school, your own business, your volunteer work and having the title of Miss Texas USA?

“Balance is something I have had to learn, and I truly believe it comes down to discipline and remembering my “why.” I am incredibly passionate about everything I do, so even on the busiest days, I remind myself how fortunate I am to have these opportunities and try to give 100 percent to each role I take on. Pressure is a privilege!”

Speaking of your business, what compelled you to start your own photography business? What do you like most about being a business owner? 

“Photography started as a creative outlet for me and quickly became something I knew I wanted to pursue on a larger scale. I started Alexis Maxine Photography because I wanted to create a space where I could combine storytelling, creativity and entrepreneurship. My favorite part of owning a business is watching an idea I built from the ground up continue to grow.”

You’ve dedicated over a decade of service to Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA. Can you tell us a bit about the organization and what you love most about your work with them? 

“The Children’s Rehabilitation Institute TeletonUSA (CRIT) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to children with neurological, muscular and skeletal disabilities, and since I was 9 years old, it has been my mission to support the organization by raising funds for life-changing treatment and educating others on the importance of inclusion. I want people to understand that every child, regardless of their level of ability, deserves to feel seen, valued and given the same opportunities. The children and families I have met through CRIT have truly shaped who I am today and inspired me to pursue a career in law, where I hope to continue advocating for children with disabilities on an even greater scale.”

Finally, how does it feel to be representing Texas, UT Austin and Moody College at Miss USA?

“Being the first UT Austin student to earn the title of Miss Texas USA makes representing Texas, UT Austin and Moody College on the Miss USA stage incredibly special. As a 20-year-old woman still pursuing my own future, I hope my journey inspires other students to chase even their wildest dreams and never believe they have to wait for the “right time” to go after something extraordinary. I am so proud to represent the state and university that have given me so much, and I hope to make my fellow Longhorns proud. What starts here changes the world!”