Reviews

I know you are hearing all about how big UT is and how big the classes are and how big campus is. All this might be a little intimidating and even scary for you! But no worries! There will certainly be one or two classes that you will have that are just humongous! But there are also other classes that aren’t that bad. The trick first is to join a FIG! They are programs that reserve smaller classes for students who sign up and you get to go to many classes with the same group of people. I am part of a program that is similar to a FIG called Gateway. That's where I met 5 of my really good friends! Also, it will help a lot if you use websites such as pick-a-prof because the student reviews and ratings are mostly accurate! This website allows you to search your class and the teachers who have taught it and it also gives you a breakdown (in %) of the grades that the professor has given. You don't want to get stuck with a professor that you could have avoided by using the website! Lastly, when you are finally in the classroom, I suggest you bring a laptop to take notes because the teacher talks really fast. However, if you are easily distracted then it’s not such a good idea. Also, I have also been told and learned from experience that reviewing your notes just 5 minutes every day will help you remember everything a lot better than waiting until the night before a test to cram! One last thing! Sit in front! That way,
1. the professor knows that you have been to class all semester long so if any issues arise, they are more likely to help you out
2. you won’t be distracted and
3. You can hear better!
Goodluck and have fun!

I love it at UT! There is so much to do around here and so many people to meet. There is always something going on on-campus. If you go to utexas.edu, you can search for the calendar and sign up to get emails about the weekly events that are happening around campus! UT is also very diverse so you are bound to meet and run into a lot of different kinds of people. There is also many many different clubs and organizations to join. I guarantee there will be something out there that you are interested in! And if not, you can always start one with 3 friends and $5 I believe. There are also things like the movie theater and Dobie and the many gyms (like Gregory and the Red Center) around campus that you get to go in for free! I know that there are always organizations set up in Jester and in the West Mall (in front of the FAC). If you really can’t find anything to do, there are always the many shops on Guadalupe (the Drag) that you can explore! The best thing about the events on campus is that 98% of the time, they are free free freee! Yay!

There is a LOT of resources that are available for students on campus. If you want to feel and be a part of students who have a say on campus, you can always join the Student Council. There are your counselors, professors and TA's that you can go see if you need any help. Located in Jester (first floor) is the Career Explorations Center where you can look up majors and see where they can lead you! On the third floor of Jester, there is the tutoring place where all students get 10 free hours of tutoring! In JCL (Jester City Limits) located on Jester first floor, there are tables set up in the evenings for specific classes so that students can come together and work on homework together and help each other out! You can also get tutoring down there for free! Located at the FAC is the student writing center where you can get help with your papers so that they are PERFECT! Lastly, there are the great libraries on campus full of awesome books and places to study! You can find help with anything in there, just make sure you ask! You can also borrow laptops or use computers for free in the libraries as well.

Aside from all the tips that have already been mentioned above, I just suggest that students don’t study all the time! You are in a great city and a great campus! Go out and join an organization, meet some people, and have some fun! Studying all the time is not good for your health. Sometimes, besides hanging out with friends or going to events, I like to work out to relax my body. It helps me sleep at night and it might help you! Another tip is that you might get lonely sometimes (because campus is so big) so make sure to plan dates with your friends in order to catch up! Everyone is going in their own direction and if you don’t plan things, sometimes you won’t get to see them at all.

I think that UT is great for all kinds of students! You can find things to do and different organizations for people of all types, size, and ages! So don’t be scared to apply or afraid that you won’t fit in because you will! And you will always have a friend there already who is willing to lend a helping hand-me!

Because the university is so large, many undergrads will only have the chance to take large lecture classes for a few semesters. In these types of classes, it is up to the student to learn the material on his own. With classes this size, however, there are most likely always study groups for homework, tests, etc. Basically, the amount you learn is up to you.

Don't stay in your dorm all semester! People tend to form groups of friends really quickly but most like to meet new people. Go out, meet people, join a club or an intramural, talk to the person sitting next to you in class. There are so many ways to meet people around campus.
It's a great idea to consider living on campus your first year (and maybe even your second). You're close to everything - classes, library, gym, on campus events, dining halls, even the drag (the nickname for guadalupe st, which has a lot of shopping and cheap restaurants) - and you get familiar with the campus.
If you eat on campus, eat at Kinsolving or J2 more than JCL and Littlefield Patio Cafe - it's cafeteria style food, so not gourmet, but they are cheaper, and they're buffets.
Explore Austin!!! Austin is an unbelievable city and there is so much for everyone - nightlife, green parks, music festivals.
You can even use the city buses for free with your student id card -- take advantage of that!
The gym is free for you, too!
Go to your professor's office hours! They are required to have these hours and most just sit around in their office during that time. They will (most likely) appreciate that you are taking the initiative to ask them questions. In larger lecture classes, the TAs will hold the office hours as opposed to the professor, but the same philosophy applies.
Take classes that interest you! There are so many possibilities. Need a science credit but hate biology? Try astronomy! Need a fine arts credit and just want a break from the textbooks? You can take theatre! There is even a History of Rock & Roll class.
Find ways to have fun - that is why people love UT. Whether you're more into the partying scene or just hanging out with friends or going to the free movies that the student union shows twice a week, there is so much to do.

Most people will tell you that UT is best for the partying, tailgating, outgoing student, which is partially true. But anyone can fit in at UT as long as they try. There are clubs for everything- foreign languages, religions, movie fanatics. One of the greatest things about UT is the diversity. Bottom line, UT is great for really anyone due to the opportunities provided by the university and student body.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) was named a Public Ivy meaning that you can get a very good education at a public university. From my experience at UT, I believe that the title is well deserved. I am currently enrolled in the Cockrell School of Engineering, and I can tell you for sure that the faculty, staff, and resources here at the school are top-notch (My basis for comparison largely comes from my experience at the University of North Texas).

Of course, there are always those more general classes, also known as 'freshmen' courses, that are sometimes not always so great. Because the classes are so big for these courses, I think there is more of a disconnect between the students and teachers, but that's my opinion on it. These courses are the only reason why I have deducted a star from learning, but in the end as you get further along in your major, the professors do become a lot better.

I come from the DFW area, so by comparison, Austin as a city, is a lot smaller. With that being said, Austin is still a very nice city that has many great places that college students can go to.

As for the school, the classmates that I have had interaction with are very friendly and helpful, though I must admit I have really only met a very small fraction of the school population (there are over 50,000 students enrolled; the school population itself is like the population of a small town!).

There are cafeterias around campus, but I rarely eat at them because there are restaurants on a street that students call the Drag that take BevoBucks. If you decide to go with a meal plan, which you need in order to get into the cafeterias conveniently, then you need to know that all it really is a down payment that's used as a type of debit card, only for food. So, in my opinion, there really is no need to get a meal plan because in the end, if you don't use it all, then it's gone after the next semester.

Now something that does bother me a little bit about the campus is that on the outskirts, there are quite a few homeless people. For me, coming from the suburbs of the DFW area, I have never really gotten used to seeing beggars on the street corners. By no means are they mean, it's just very disconcerting seeing them. (They usually aren't on the actual campus, but they do stay on the street corners that are fairly close, so you'll see them coming to school or walking around downtown)

I actually applied for the more expensive private universities as well to keep my options open, but in the end, one of the main reasons that I decided to choose UT Austin was because of money. I had a college savings account, but since that was based on the stock markets, well, you can imagine how much I had left. (However, if you are an out of state student, the tuition can be just as high as private universities, around three times higher than what in-state students pay for tuition)

But even though my tuition was fairly low, the number of resources available to the students is incredible. The university has a ton of cool speaker events and also extremely good facilities, such as libraries and gyms. For me, UT Austin is well worth the money that I pay.

Well, first off, use the resources that the university offers! You pay to go to the school, so use as much as you can. There are study abroad advising, career centers, libraries, academic counseling, recreation centers, and more. I see many students who don't take advantage of the resources that they pay for, and these things can very well help you get a job in the future and also make your life a lot easier!

Also, don't be afraid to ask your professors for help. Go to their office hours and whatever tutorial sessions that the teaching assistants or professors have; most of them are very, very helpful. In the end, if you're on the border-line for a certain grade, and the professor saw that you were trying by doing all the above things, you will find that most professors are very sympathetic and will sometimes give you a little bump. However, if you didn't really try in their class, of course they won't be as understanding.

UT Austin is also known as a party school. College is perhaps one of the best times of your life, but take it from me that you don't want to party even one semester away because that will hurt, a lot, in the long run. There's nothing wrong with having fun! Not at all! But do things in moderation, and you will have an absolutely great time.

And one of the important things is to be smart! What I mean by this is that UT Austin is a big school, and when you have a large group of people, crime is bound to happen. Don't leave your stuff unattended. If you bring your bike to school, make sure you lock it up with either a really good lock, or two locks. If you bring your car to school (I wouldn't bring any type of nice car personally, i.e. BMW, Mercedes, etc.), don't leave anything interesting lying out or else it will be broken into. It's always better to be safe than have something happen to you.

For some people, the sheer size of the university can be daunting, and for others it can be exciting. Because UT Austin isn't a small school, the students that absolutely love small schools will definitely not like it here.

Another thing to note is that UT is smack in the middle of downtown Austin, so for the students that are seeking a more rural look, this is going to be a disappointment. But for those who love city life, Austin would be a great place.

In the end, if you're unsure, stop by and visit the campus. Take a tour, and you will probably have a clearer idea of whether or not this is the right school for you or not, because in the end you want a school that makes you happy and if it doesn't, then the college experience won't be as great as it should.

There are a lot of different classes that they offer at UT tha tmight not be towards your degree but are fun and can count towards your elective courses. For instance, there's scubadiving, musical instrument classes, and physical education classes.
Aside from learning in the courses, there are over 900 student organizations on campus. There's practically an organization for everything - just think of it, and you'll find it.
Joining and organization is a great way to make new friends and learn new things. I joined a business organization and every week there is a different company that comes to the meeting and talks about their company and different jobs that are offered at the company. Plus, it helps to network with those companies to land an internship in the future.

I love being at UT! The first month of school is so fun. There are all sorts of things happening on campus. You have all those different organizations campaigning and recruiting new members. There are lots of freebies being handed out on campus like backpacks, hats, frisbies, food, and more.
The people on campus are so friendly and you can just feel the amount of school spirit during sport games - it's amazing.
During your four years at UT, you should at least attend one football game. That is where you'll experience the most school spirit.
Besides the amount of school spirit and friendliness of being on campus, there's the enjoyment of being in Austin in general. There are so many different restaurants to experience and different places to drive out to and hang out like Lake Travis or Barton Springs.

Going to a big university is definitely different from attending community college. Community college might be cheaper but the level of education you're getting isn't quite the same. You are challeged more as a student here at UT, which is hard but feels so good when you push yourself and see that A at the end of the semester.
UT has so many helpful facilities on campus that are provided for you. There's the learning center where you can get up to 15 hours of free one-on-one tutoring, the student service building where you can go to, 24-hour security service on campus, the libraries, and I can go on and on.
It is expensive but if you utilize and take advantage of all the things that UT offers, it turns out to be a great bargain!

During the first semester, you're going to get pulled into the night life and habits of going out, making new friends, and skipping class but always try to leave some time for studying.
You probably hear it a lot but it really works. Studying helps so much. Sometimes going to class isn't much help but if you have a textbook, make sure you actually open it and read it from time to time. Don't just spend a $100 on a textbook and not highlight and take notes in it. You're going to sell it back for the used price anyway, go ahead and mark all over it.
Getting to know your professors is helpful also. If you aren't doing very well in the class but you go to the office hours often, the professors will be more lenient because they see that you've been trying.

UT is great for those who like being in a big class setting and aren't shy to raise their hand to ask/answer a question.
There are about 40,000 students on campus so if you're into meeting new people, UT is a great place to do it.
Summary: Great for outgoing, energetic, high spirited, studious students.

Your professors are experts in their fields, and bring an exuberance to classes that were rare in high school classes. They also make sure to provide you with the tools to succeed and inspire you to continue learning even after the class is over.

There is so much to do here in Austin. On campus there is always festivals, shows and events. You can go on Guadalupe street to shop and eat. Downtown is only 5 minutes away by bus, and it is easy to get to malls. The parks are beautiful and well kept. They are especially wonderful for those who like photography. Resident are polite and helpful.

You get the best of the best at University of Texas at Austin . They make sure all of your needs are met and any events are cheap. When teachers pick out books they make an attempt to save students money by requiring books that can come used or that you ca use for more than one class. The atmosphere is worth the cost.

Get a map of the campus and walk it before classes start because it is easy to get lost. If you go to cultural festivals you can meet new people and get free food. The campus bus system will be your best friend. The campus is huge and is horrible to have to walk across. Don't be afraid to use campus study resources, they are free and meant to help you pass.

This campus is great for those who want to expand your horizons. Those who enjoy politics will love being so close to the capital. There are numerous music festivals for those who enjoy music like SxSW. Nature lovers will enjoy the parks.

The classes, while crammed full of information, are taught by exceptional professors who know how to teach. These professors work with you, taking time from their day and even making special arrangements to meet with you, to help you better understand everything you need to know and more. The professors are people who in their free time continue to explore their respective fields, and thus, teach from their actual experiences.

UT is a place where you can meet and interact with people from all walks of life. You can easily make new friends here, the friends that you'll have for life. The University has thousands of clubs, and new ones are created everyday. You will definitely be able to find your own niche there and find people with whom you can relate. The campus has top-class facilities and resources that are open to student use. UT is also located smack-dab in the center of downtown Austin. Austin is a place for culture and entertainment. If ever you want to venture off campus, you can always find something to do on the streets of Austin.

Students come to UT to learn. UT then also tries to make this pursuit of knowledge affordable. Both the University as a whole and each individual college offer multitudes of scholarships that are then applicable to all different kinds of students. The scholarships are also updated frequently. In addition, UT may be less expensive than other schools being a public school. Don't then assume that the education you earn then is any less valuable than other schools.

1. Most students, myself included, suffer from procrastination. However at UT, you will find it very difficult to fall behind in your classes. UT offers additional resources for students who might be struggling in their classes or who are interested in additional instruction, including free tutoring, flexible professors, and supportive clubs and student networks. My advice: take advantage of these; they are here for you. Try new things for you may find you like the new opportunities provided to you.
2. Buy your books from the Co-Op early to make sure they arrive before classes begin. At the end of the semester, you can return your books to the Co-Op for pretty good prices.
3. Bring clothing for all weather. The weather in Austin is wacky: one day it will be sweltering hot, the next blustering cold, and the day after wet and rainy. Bring rain boots, an umbrella, layers, your winter coat, and maybe a wind breaker for it can get breezy.
4. A few days before classes begin, map out your route to your classes. You don't want to be clueless on your first day.
5. Talk to your professors. They are really interested in talking to you, however scary they may seem.
6. Get a good alarm clock. You will be tempted to sleep through a few of your classes.
7. Do try and get some sleep. Save the parties and Netflix marathons for the weekend.
8. Take the city bus. It's free for students and can take you anywhere you need to go. It can also be fun, like a mini-adventure.
9. Don't forget when studying, you do need to take breaks and have fun every once in a while. You're in college, you deserve some fun. The key is balance.

UT is great for students who know what they want to do and for those who are still not quite sure. For those students who have already planned out their college experience, UT helps these students dive into their classes and assists them in achieving all their goals. For those students still unsure of what they want to do after college, UT helps these students explore their options until they find the place for them. Many of UT's colleges are ranked highly nationally, so UT is great for students who want to become the best at what they do.

UT has so much to offer to every kind of student. UT has a balance between social opportunities and academic opportunities. With more than 40,000 undergraduate students, the school provides so much diversity.

Quickly adapt to the college system. Your first year may well be the hardest year for you because of adjustment issues. Use your first year to cushion your GPA for the harder courses you'll have to take in your later years. In terms of classes and professors, the best way to choose between them is word of mouth and course rating websites. Unfortunately at UT, your GPA will be reflective on professor you choose so be wise during registration. Unless your classes require new textbooks, try to find used textbooks or earlier editions because most likely the textbooks aren't different at all. In high school you may have gotten away with procrastination but you won't in college. Working a little everyday is so much easier than working a lot in a few days. Talking to your professor during lecture and office hours will help you in some way whether it is getting that letter of recommendation for various applications or possibly bumping that GPA up at the end. Lastly, set your priorities straight but also enjoy your time in college. There are really a ton of events, organizations, restaurants, etc. so take advantage of them.

There is a large range of difficulty in courses at UT. I think that a lot of the difficulty comes from all that UT has to offer such as the diversity of events. Don't get too distracted with UT's culture. Overall, if you put in a little effort in your work everyday then you'll be just fine. There are going to be classes that are just hard but don't let that discourage you and try your best.

The dorm itself may not be that nice most of the fun of dorm life comes from all the other students living near you and meeting them. All dorms have resident assistants or older students who take care of you so don't hesitate to seek help from them. Also no matter what dorm you choose, the rooms are for the most part not spacious. I would advise picking a dorm your freshman year rather than an apartment just for the experience.

If you tolerated high school cafeteria food, then eating college cafeteria food will be more than just okay. Outside of campus, UT has loads of restaurants that cover foods across the world so try new places. Also there are a handful of places that are open late in case you're hungry late at night. Although UT has a mixed collection of places to eat, try not to eat out everyday because it tends to get pricey. So if you get a meal plan somewhere, don't forget about it. You'll find out various clubs and organizations offer free food at their first couple of meetings. Free food should not be ignored in college.

UT has assortment of different organizations and clubs whether it is cultural, athletic, academic, or just for personal interests. Getting involved in these clubs and organizations provides a lot of fun things to do like socials, parties, and various things. If you ever get the opportunity, go to a football game. Honestly I'm not the biggest football fan but UT college football games are just something else. Visit Town Lake for kayaking, Downtown Austin for shopping etc., and the food trailers. Let's not forget about UT's party scene. It's also fun making new friends and just hanging out with them.

UT is general pricey but there are coupons for various things on and off campus so keep a look out. There are a few fast food locations with dollar menus near campus.

Before final exams, typically students on both sides of the streets will carry foam swords and have sword fights during the red lights. Its fun and somewhat of a stress reliever. Occasionally, a person at the UT Tower will play a song with the bells. Songs have ranged from Lady Gaga to UT's fight song. During the school year, there is a time when all the fraternities and sororities will wear neon colors to celebrate something. During the spring semester, UT holds an event to celebrate Holi, a Hindu holiday, where hundreds of students will gather on the front lawn and throw colored powder and water at each other for fun.

UT is great for students who want a steady balance between their social life and academic life.

The diversity of the clubs and activities comes from the vast amount of students at UT. Take the time to visit all the club tables during the school year that interest you and learn more. My advice with clubs is to seriously commit to a few rather than becoming not so active members of many clubs.

I don't know about the Greek Life except its huge at UT so don't be surprised.

The UT campus strives to keep their students safe by sending out UT Safety Alerts whenever a potential crime is occurring. Also, the campus requires all its students to take an online course and learn about the possible dangers of drinking irresponsibly.

As a student at the University of Texas at Austin, I have been afforded the opportunity to learn so much in the time that I have been here. I have met people from many walks of life and many different ethnic groups—many professors, teacher’s assistants, mentors, advisers, students, etc. As an African-American student, I have realized that culture is very important to me. I yearned to learn more. I have, since my entrance into the University, changed my major from Psychology to African/African-American Studies. Making this change was groundbreaking for me as it allows me to delve more into a lost culture of my own that I was not previously aware of. Participating in Ethnic Studies also lets me learn of other people’s art, literature, music, systems of beliefs, values and principles. I am now able to view the world with a more oppositional gaze contrary to the way I have been conditioned to see things. Many of these same professors, mentors, advisers and peers have had a great influence on me and have taught me so much throughout my journey thus far at UT Austin; not just academically, but socially, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. There are so many academic opportunities at UT to continue your academic growth. There is the University of Texas Learning Center (UTLC) where students are allowed a decent number of FREE tutoring hours with peers and upperclassmen who specialize in particular subjects. There is also the Undergraduate Writing Center (UWC) where students are allowed to meet with English/Rhetoric and Writing students, graduate students and instructors to get help with papers. Both of these resources have been of great help to me! Also, the Career Exploration Center is a very awesome resource to find out where you should go with your career or to figure out what career path to take. I have definitely been a regular attendee of said office. I have learned above all to utilize all of my resources!

I love the University of Texas at Austin! It is in the State Capitol city of Texas. Austin is a place filled with much culture (e.g.: music, art, food, etc.) Even with school being the first priority while I am in Austin, I am able to encounter this culture and diversity daily because of the multiplicity of the kinds of people who teach, attend and visit the University. I have had the chance to explore new music here at the University of Texas—specifically a class I took at the University called “Jazz Appreciation.” As cliché as it may sound, I left with a sincere appreciation and love for jazz and many other types of music. I have also met many people and I have been to my share of gatherings with friends. It is important to go out and have fun—places like 6th Street, South Congress, Guadalupe, even the movie theater are awesome places to get out and get your mind off of school for a bit and relax. Try new restaurants, bars, or even just walk around Austin to see what awesome things you can encounter. College is not all about learning in the classroom, but also among others in fun, social gatherings outside of class.

I would say that the University of Texas is definitely worth the cost. You definitely get the bang for your buck. Though it can seem pricey with personal and state financial issues, there are so many opportunities that help to fund this awesome Longhorn experience (i.e.: Federal Financial Aid, Appily.com, University issued scholarships, etc.) UT Austin helps to provide its students with the best educational and social experiences possible with as many financial opportunities possible. There is even an Annual Giving Center on the campus where students, including myself, work to call alumni, Texas parents, etc. to seek help in fundraising efforts to help students fund schooling, research, internships, study abroad, etc. Just knowing that the University cares this much to help its students, I would say that whatever we as students would be left to pay is definitely worth it for a University that genuinely attentive to its students. The University offers Special Speakers Series—a free series of lectures and speakers where reputable speakers, professors, scholars and authors such as Maya Angelou, Gary M. Lavergne, and Shirin Ebadi come to present information and panel discussions to instructors and students alike. There is also the UT Theater where every week there is a film shown in the UT Theater for students for free! These along with the previously named academic resources are just a couple of the many events, opportunities and activities that the University puts on for its student body. Most definitely a bang for your buck!

1. VISIT!!! To truly find out if it is for you, be sure to visit as much as you can before making your decision! See if you can stay for a weekend. This will help with your decision making.

2. Ask questions! As many as possible! Never be afraid if you do not know something. People at the University want to help you! Let them

3. Apply for scholarships and as much free money as possible. Do not allow the fear of not getting these opportunities steer you from trying. There are so many opportunities for you to pay for school and enjoy such a University as Texas.

4. Be open to new things. There is so much you can learn and gain from those around you. Learn of others and teach others of you and your culture along the way. You will be amazed by how much the exchange of culture, information, love and knowledge will impact you, others and the campus as a whole.

5. Join organizations, clubs, etc. It is very important to stay involved with the University. There are so many things you can do! Of course there are Greek organizations, but there are also ministries, awareness groups, societies for academics, government and even vegans who like hugs! There is something for everyone. Do not let the fear of not being accepted keep you from getting involved. You will be surprised how much people have in common with you.

6. Do not spend all of your Dine-In Dollars and Bevo Bucks your first semester there! You will be sad and calling home for money if you do not learn how to balance you funds. Trust me, I KNOW! There are resources such as Bevonomics that help students financially who live on and off campus.

7. Utilize the “Profiler” in order to find a roommate(s) suited for you. It is very important to get along with your roommate(s). Having a healthy relationship with the person(s) you live with is important for you to have healthy relationships with others. There are definitely Residential Assistants that help with these kinds of problems. There is the Counse...

EVERYONE! Though UT is big, there are ways to make the community around you small by getting involved with clubs, groups and organizations. Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, there is something for you. You will eventually break out of your shell and get to know others and more importantly yourself more.

I am not only learning a ton inside the classroom, but UT Austin teaches you skills outside academics as well. Professors may be brutal, but they teach you to get your work done on time and with exceptional quality or you'll suffer the consequences. They teach independence. They teach you to ask for help when you need it, which inadvertently teaches you that if you don't, your GPA will show it. I've learned to take initiative when I need help with something. I've learned to manage my time and stress. I've learned that working hard and not giving up on Physics, which I was near positive I would fail, will pay off, even if it was only with a C. I've learned to not concern myself with things I can't control, along with making the absolute best of the things I can. I've learned all of this, along with a solid semester of Calculus 2, Physics and Chemistry. I wouldn't trade it for the world!

I'll go ahead and be honest and say that Austin isn't for everyone. Those who fall outside a love for the big city atmosphere don't find much joy here, and usually call themselves aggies. UT Austin is smack dab in downtown Austin, TX. Walk across MLK Blvd and you'll see the Texas History Museum and the IMAX movie theater. Walk a little further and you're on the front steps of the capitol building. Stay on campus and get your spirit on while watching the numerous sporting events going on throughout the year. Join an intermural team! Join a spirit group! Walk through West Mall and be bombarded by groups and clubs of every kind; there's bound to be one you love. Study outside on the grass in front of the tower. It's beautiful. Or if you're more of an inside person, get your study on at the brand new SAC (my personal favorite), the FAC, the PCL Library or the RLM Library, depending on just how far you do or don't want to walk. With Guadalupe Street being within walking distance of just about everything, it tends to be a second home for shopping and eating. I love everything about this school. I love the spirit, the traditions and the never-ending list of things to enjoy. There is never a dull moment if you don't want there to be one. Once again, I wouldn't dream of going anywhere else. Hook 'em!

Financially, UT can be a little pricey. I give it four stars because, while I believe being a student here is worth every penny, the amount of scholarships given out by the school are of very few and very difficult to obtain. Cost of living in Austin is expensive, and therefore dorm life and apartment life that is close to campus can put a pretty substantial dent in your wallet. With that said, the reputation of this school is as high as the cost of my apartment next year. I consider the education I receive and the degrees I obtain to be worth the cost. Longhorn graduates are hired all over the place, and there is no doubt that if you work hard enough, you'll pay your college education back in no time once you join the work force with a UT diploma in your hand.

1. Don't let your school work completely take over your life.
Work hard, but take breaks. Giving your brain rest is extremely beneficial.
2. Make friends with people in your classes!
Study groups saved my life last semester. It's a great way to help understand material while making really great friends.
3. Don't trust frat boys.
Is this offensive?
4. Go to theme parties.
Nothing more fun than walking through campus in a toga!
5. Watch your bank account.
The Drag will take more money from you than you'll believe.
6. Don't give up.
I worked extremely hard, failed all four of my Physics tests and made a 50 on the final; I made a C. Curves are your best friend.
7. But don't slack off.
Keep your GPA higher than the gas prices.
8. Use MyEdu.com
LOW-RATED PROFFESORS = LOW GPA. Do not test this theory for yourself.
9. If you're confused about your major, take general classes and don't worry too much about it.
10. If you have a question, ask.
11. Work hard; Play hard.
It's that simple. Get your work done, then take your well-deserved break. Enjoy every minute. It goes by fast!

Outgoing, students that love big-city life, personable, students that love tradition and spirit and people that love burnt orange!

The University of Texas at Austin has some of the best lectures in the world! It's surrounded by the wonderful Austin culture, and beautiful scenery. It's a tough and rigorous school, with loving teachers and friendly students.

Do not forget to create a professional UT e-mail. It is important to separate work and play. The buses in Austin are your friend, some even run until 2 in the morning! Tight on money? Many clubs offer free food in meetings and there is an app on both android and iphone called "Hooked" to help students find great deals. Never trust a printer. Always print your essays the night before or earlier. The University Co-op on campus is extremely expensive, so seek alternative ways to purchase your books before going there. You are what you eat, so don't forget to eat healthy or your grades could suffer. Lastly, please seek help. Don't be afraid to ask your professor, friends, or peers a question.

UT's academic rigor depends on what major you're going into, but each college is harder than your average college. Some classes only require 2 tests, others require constant homework to be done.

The dorm life is nice. Make sure to pick a dorm that you are comfortable with. For example, Jester is huge, loud, and cramped. Although it is very lively and right next to the PCL (library). Take into account how far you'll have to walk for food, and where the majority of your classes will be. As a communication major you may be better off living in West Campus.

UT has a ton of dining options and even makes it cheaper by allowing you to pay with a currency called "Bevo Bucks." There are a couple places to eat on campus, like The Union and The SAC which include Taco Cabana, Chick-fil-a, and Wendy's. The two main dining halls are Kins and J2. They are both buffets that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. they serve different specialty meals daily, along with burgers, fries, and fresh greens. We are also incredibly fortunate to have restaurants all along Guadalupe.

Underneath The Union is a bowling alley and pool hall. It is incredibly cheap and fun if you want to have some wholesome fun. Down passed the river, is Peter Pan golf, which is another activity for people not looking to get crazy. Of course there is 6th street, and wonderful food downtown. There are also tons of free music events going on. Pluckers on Rio Grande has a lot of events as well.

UT has had some incidents in the past, but we are working towards a better campus. The UT police have almost doubled in size and are patrolling constantly.