Out of Office.
Moody Magazine Spring 2026 Issue
Letter from the Editor
Sydney Webb, Editor-in-Chief
Dear readers,
As I write my second and final letter to Moody Magazine readers, it is truly bittersweet. I began this position over the summer filled to the brim with ideas and nerves and eager to transform Moody Magazine. Now, with the Fall copy sitting next to me and the final draft of the Spring issue ready to send to print, I can’t help but smile at how much this publication – and the people behind it – have grown.
At the start of this semester, it was clear this staff was bringing something new to the table. Our first pitch meeting was full of energy, with ideas that stood out from years past. Though each concept was different, they all shared a common thread: exploring the passions of Moody students and faculty beyond the classroom.
That connection brought to mind the University of Texas at Austin’s slogan, “What Starts Here Changes the World,” a reminder that a Texas education extends far beyond campus. From that idea, Out of Office was born. The staff set out to tell stories about how Moody students and faculty use their experiences to make an impact in their communities.
Some stories highlight students applying their skills in real-world settings, from competing in the National Student Advertising Competition to reshaping the sidelines of women’s sports through journalism.
Others explore how students spend their time outside academics — whether that means picking up a newspaper or playing an instrument. To capture another side of Moody, reporters also connected with faculty and alumni to cover two notable book releases.
Some initiatives from our Fall issue stuck around, including our Moody Magazine Student Film Competition, where we feature one winning student’s work, and our Hear from a Peer series, where we share advice from four inspirational, fellow Longhorns. We also began new, student engagement-based endeavors, like a “Song of the Semester” voted on by Moody students.
I feel incredibly lucky to have worked with this uniquely ambitious staff, and I’m grateful to have witnessed each reporter fully immerse themselves in their work. While it’s hard to say goodbye, I am thrilled to see what the future holds for Moody Magazine and the talented staff behind it.
A massive thank you to our Communication Council Advisor, Dean Kyle Clark, and Associate Director of the Moody Writing Center, Professor Emily Quigley, for their continued support every step of the way.
Enjoy reading, and follow @utmoodymag on Instagram for behind-the-scenes sneak peeks!
Warmest regards,
Sydney Webb
Features
That's Old News.
In a world that's constantly refreshing, there's something powerful about choosing what does not.
Recommendations
From students, for students
For many Moody students, film and music are more than entertainment --- they're a soundtrack for walks around campus or a creative getaway at the end of a long day. In these two new series, we asked Moody students for their favorite songs and movie recommendations so we can send them your way!
Must-Watch Movies for Each Moody Major
Sometimes the best inspiration comes from putting down your homework and turning on a movie. Wind down, broaden your horizons and enjoy a film chosen just for you. Moody Magazine compiled a list of suggestions that will leave students from each Moody major thinking “that was just what I needed.”
Song of the Semester
If you ever pass through the CMA or DMC, two of Moody’s main buildings, you are sure to see Moody students, their headphones on, radiating positivity as they listen to music. Because music is such a big part of students’ daily lives, Moody Magazine set out to learn what’s blasting through our peers’ headphones and the emotions behind those songs.
Outside the Classroom
How Moody students are filling their time on the stage and in the stands.
Moody Magazine Student Film Competition
This spring, Moody Magazine hosted it’s second-ever Moody Magazine Student Film Competition. Each submission was written and directed by Moody students and was 10 minutes or less. Communication Council general members voted from a comprehensive criteria analyzing the technical and thematic elements of each film.
We are pleased to announce that "6 Minutes and 45 Seconds", written and directed by Hannah Benavides is our winner! Benavides sat down with us to unpack everything to do with her short film and the inspiration behind it.
6 Minutes and 45 Seconds
What's Happening in Moody?
Read about all things in the College of Communication, from class shout-outs to an internal transfer process guide
A Guide to Moody's Internal Transfer Process
Moody College of Communication offers seven majors, which leaves many students wondering if they've chosen the right one. For those thinking of making a change, this article includes guides and recommendations from students who have successfully completed the process.
What kind of communicator are you?
Click on the link below to enjoy a fun quiz and guess your Moody major!
Moody Course Shoutouts
We asked students through a survey to send their top classes and shout out amazing professors here at Moody that they would recommend. Ranging from core classes to elective courses, here are Moody students’ must-takes. Registration plus will thank you later!
Hear from a Peer
The Moody College of Communication is known for its one-of-a-kind culture. Filled with creatives, writers, filmmakers, and talented communicators, students are constantly learning not only from class but from each other. Hear from a Peer aims to foster this connection by highlighting Moody students' unique personal/professional experiences and giving them a platform to share advice with their colleagues.
Check out Ollivia, Kenobi, Aaron and Macy's stories!
