Reviews
Louisiana Tech University
Tiffany from Bossier City, LA
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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I'm an entering sophomore this year, and I can already say that I love Tech. The teachers I've had have been pretty great. I'm definitely enjoying the challenge of getting a college education. I think Tech makes the transition from high school to college an easy one. The classes you take as a freshman are similar to the ones you take during your senior year in high school, but with more information and more challenging context.
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Am enjoying being here
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I love the quarter system because it gives you an opportunity to earn more credits in a shorter amount of time. You also get more breaks more often, though they are shorter than those on the semester system. Also, if you don't like a class, you don't have to worry about staying in the class for half of the academic year. I've also made a lot of new friends in college. Tech is a very diverse campus and it offers so many opportunities for you to meet new people. There are lots of different organizations from religious ones, to sports, to just random things. There isn't much to do in Ruston itself, but if you get involved on campus, you'll find yourself pretty busy. There's also the intramural center which has bowling, ping pong, basketball, pool, ping pong tables and a gym. Tech campus also has a swimming pool. On weekends, you can always go to Monroe, which is only a thirty minute drive, or to Shreveport, which is about an hour drive.
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Bang for the buck
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Louisiana Tech is definitely worth every penny. The money you pay to attend is a lot less than that of other schools, but you still get the full college experience. Plus, your tuition and other college payments are spread out into three payments as opposed to two, which is pretty convenient for most people.
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Tips for prospective students
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Always talk to upperclassman about which teachers to and not to take; and if you don't know any upperclassman, check out ratemyprofessors.com. I've gone to that website every time I've applied for classes, and it hasn't steered me wrong yet.
Don't spend all of your money on food. Use your declining balance and eat in the caf. The food isn't that bad. It's pretty tolerable actually. You will save a lot of money. Join clubs. Get involved in something. Make friends. It's so easy to meet new people. Tech puts on all kinds of shows and has so many different clubs. Not making friends is hard to do. |
Great for these types of students
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It's great for anyone, literally. Tech has so much diversity in its campus. Every type of person can get an education here. Tech has an amazing engineering program, and a pretty prestigious business program as well.
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Gabrielle from Ruston, LA
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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I'm one of the few Nanosystems Engineering students here, a new major that was established in 2005. Louisiana Tech was the first college to offer a nanotechnology-based undergraduate degree.
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Am enjoying being here
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Its a very small, quiet town. There isn't much going on in the immediate area. The on-campus concerts and activities aren't bad, though.
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Bang for the buck
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Tuition-wise, its pretty cheap compared to other engineering colleges. The odd quarter system makes it so you go through classes quicker as well.
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Tips for prospective students
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Bring something to do. The closest mall is about 45 minutes away.
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Great for these types of students
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Great for any engineer. The engineering program here is phenomenal, and the general staff is very helpful. Good for students focused on getting an education, and ones that prefer less distractions.
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Kasie from Schertz, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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I transferred into Louisiana Tech from a school in Texas that was under the semester system. I have found that Tech, its small class sizes, and its quarter system gives you the ability to actually grasp the new concepts learned as opposed to learning the material just well enough to get through the next exam.
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Am enjoying being here
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There are plenty of social events and activities for anyone no matter what your particular interest may be. Tech seems to be very athletic oriented, but what University in the South isn't? I enjoy the school spirit, the hospitable peers, the small college town feel, and the overall college experience.
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Bang for the buck
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I did receive an Out of State Scholarship, but even without that, tuition was still considerably less for me than it was to attend my previous university in Texas. Tech is a great school to attend especially if you're interested in pursuing engineering or the medical field. Like they say, at Tech you get the private school feel at public school cost.
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Tips for prospective students
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Don't let the older buildings and smaller town fool you, I did pass judgment on the school based on its looks when I first toured the campus. They are refurbishing and doing a lot of improvements around campus in the upcoming years, it's slowly but surely becoming more aesthetically pleasing.
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Great for these types of students
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Students who don't just want to be another face in the crowd, who want a personal relationship with their professors, and enjoy the laid back college lifestyle.
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Kelsey from TX
a past student here
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In three sentences
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Louisiana Tech has a close-knit family feel. The class sizes are small and you will never walk across campus without seeing someone you know. The community is also very involved.
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Tips for prospective students
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Set up a personal tour and meeting with administration. It is very helpful and gives you insight into the financial end of things as well as academics. Make sure to complete your student FAFSA considering this is how Louisiana Tech gives out incoming student financial aid. There are also private scholarships that you can apply for! Go visit Ruston and the campus; both are lovely!
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Academic Rigor
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I can only speak for my major, which was biology. I felt like the intensity of the academics was enough to prepare me for graduate school, but not so much that I constantly felt overwhelmed. I managed to graduate in three years with a 3.86 GPA and still have some fun! Perfect balance.
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Dorm Life
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I lived in an on campus apartment, which are one of the newest developments of Louisiana Tech. I loved it! It was the perfect size and the price was not outrageous. I loved being able to walk to class and not worry about parking. The RA's are super helpful and are always there if you need them.
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Food and Dining
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I personally ate on campus every day. We had a large variety of foods including: McAlister's Deli, Chick-fil-A, Burger King, Counter Culture, sushi, taco salads, wraps, and a pasta/pizza station. I hardly ever ate in the cafeteria, but I was told that it was good also! There are always places to sit in the student center or other dining areas plus tables outside!
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What to do for fun
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Ruston is a small town, but it has a lot of personality. There are a few local bars that all the college kids like to hang out in and relax and there are also a ton of community events. For example, Peach Festival is a tradition in Ruston and is very entertaining with its live music, pie eating contests, golf tournament, and scavenger hunt. Football games and tailgating are a must and the Union Board and SGA events on campus are always fun!
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Bang for the buck
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I am from Texas and ended up at Louisiana Tech because of the low cost and high education rankings. My out of state tuition was waved due to my ACT score. I believe the cut-off is now a 26, but I would check into that. I was also offered two other scholarships based on my high-school academics. In comparison to the public Texas universities I looked at it was a no brainer! Louisiana Tech recently ranked among the Top 20 in the nation for graduating students with the least amount of debt.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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Lousiana Tech is very traditional. We love our mascot, we love our campus, and we love our community. The tradition that I love the most is when you graduate you get a brick laid down on campus with your name and year on it. You are a part of your alma mater forever. 100 years from now your great grandchildren can go find your brick and see a piece of your life. I love it. As far as unusual locations: it is said that our auditorium is haunted and that if you go in late at night that there will always be one seat that is folded down and it is always the same seat. Of course, the story behind the person in the seat varies. Go see for yourself!
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Great for these types of students
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LA Tech is great for students from smaller towns or for students from bigger cities that want a family feel. Our engineering, education, and bio-medical science programs are outstanding. The research opportunities are endless. I can't imagine anyone not liking it, but maybe I'm a little biased ;)
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Clubs and Activities
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Greek life is a big part of the Louisiana Tech community. I personally was a Sigma Kappa and absolutely loved it. I became involved in other organizations because of Sigma Kappa and met my best friends. I loved the charity work and sense of belonging. Union board and SGA are also major on-campus organizations. Almost all of the on-campus events are sponsored by these groups. I honestly feel like there is an organization for any type of person on this planet at LA Tech. Just put yourself out there!
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Greek Life
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Greek life is a major component at Louisiana Tech. I personally was a Sigma Kappa and it made my college experience what it is today. I met so many people, became involved with so many organizations, and participated in many charities thanks to my greek involvement. Not to mention, it's a blast! I highly encourage everyone to go through rush. It is definitely not the stereotypical greek life that is depicted in the movies. We have very strict hazing policies and community involvement is very evident.
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Campus Safety
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LA Tech campus police are always driving around. If you feel uncomfortable in any way, all you do is call and they will come pick you up or escort you. There was only one major incidence on campus the 4 years that I was there. Break-ins and theft were not a problem. Ruston is a very safe town with very little crime. There is also an alert system through text message or e-mail that alerts students about any kind of danger/threat.
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Ryan from Vivian, LA
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Tech is a great school! My professors are great and so are the classes. I really feel like I am at home here!
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Tips for prospective students
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Get involved! Go out and find where you fit in best.
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Academic Rigor
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The classes are interesting and challenging.
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Dorm Life
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The dorm buildings are older, but they are clean and comfortable.
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Food and Dining
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There are a lot of different places you can choose to eat at. You can always find something on campus to eat!
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What to do for fun
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There are over 150 organizations to get involved with. There are also many different activities you can do in the intramural center along with different things to do around town and on campus.
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Bang for the buck
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I would not choose to go to any other school than Tech! I believe that it is the best decision I have made in my life.
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Clubs and Activities
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There are SOOO many different clubs and activities to get involved in! From sports and academics to anime and Pokemon club.
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Greek Life
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There are many different Greek organizations you can get involved in. They all have something to offer, you can decide which fits you best.
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Whitney from Shreveport, LA
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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I'm a sophomore majoring in Biology at Louisiana Tech. Tech has one of the best biology programs in the state and most people who graduate from Tech go on to excel in medical school and other areas that involve science. Some of the best doctors in the state graduated from Louisiana Tech.
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Am enjoying being here
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Tech is located in a fairly small town called Ruston. However, Ruston has festivals and neat little shopping places. Ruston is also 30 minutes away from Monroe and 2 minutes away from Grambling. There are always things to do in Ruston and the people are nice and friendly.
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Bang for the buck
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Louisiana Tech is the only university in Louisiana that has the quarter system. The quarter system allows you to earn more credits in the school year as opposed to going to a semester system school. This means that you can graduate from Tech in just three years if you stay on track.
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Tips for prospective students
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I would advise any one who goes to Tech to join at least one organization to have a better college experience and social life. Students should also have a happy medium between studying and play time.
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Great for these types of students
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Tech is wonderful for engineering, biology,education,kinesiology, and students interested in any area of math. Tech also has a great Fashion and Consumer Science program.
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Kirsten from Ruston, LA
a current student here
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In three sentences
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I give Louisiana Tech a 5-star rating!!! The teachers and students here are wonderful. There is a lot of diversity here, and there is always something to do!!!
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Tips for prospective students
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Don't be afraid to get involved. Tech has many clubs and organizations to join, plus there is always something going on for students to get involved in. Also take advantage of Freshman Orientation. This is a great opportunity to get to know campus, the people around you, and even get involved in an organization.
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Academic Rigor
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As far as academics, Tech is one of the best. Our school is constantly being voted the top academic school in Louisiana. The classes are great. They are small and the teachers know you by name, which is helpful when you are needing assistance from them.
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Dorm Life
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I did not live in a dorm so I am unable to provide any review.
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Food and Dining
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Dining is wonderful here at Tech. We have plenty of options to choose from. The student center contains a food court (asian place, Burger Studio, Salad Garden, snacks, and drinks), the cafeteria, and a Chick-fi-la!!! Tolliver contains a McCallister's, Bene Pasta (create your own pasta bowl), Java City, and Byte's Store. You can also purchase snacks from the bookstore.
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What to do for fun
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As I've said before, there is always something to do at Tech. Organizations and clubs always have activities going on in Centennial Plaza. Tech also holds annual events such as Fall Fling, Spring Fling, and Mayfest. There's also sporting events to attend all year round, or you can get involved in sports yourself by joining intramurals. The gym on campus has plenty of fun things to do as well including swimming, rock climbing, and bowling.
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Bang for the buck
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Tech is one the quarter system which means paying tuition about every three months. However, compared to most other schools like Tech, it is cheaper. Furthermore, it is worth it. You get a great education in well maintained, technological classrooms, have access to many resources that will help you in your college career, and you just plain enjoy being a student here.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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Tech has many traditions, but the most common one you see students practicing is petting the bronze bulldog. There are three of them: in the President's office, in the student center, and the football stadium. At the beginning of every football game, the boys walk past the dog and pet him for good luck. Students due the same thing in the student center. Not only does petting the dog give you good luck for that final exam you're stressing about, it gives you a sense of pride and love for being a Louisiana Tech Bulldog.
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Great for these types of students
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Tech is known as an engineering school, but it is great for any type of student. We offer many academic majors here, and employers love a Tech student. As a matter of fact, Tech has been recognized nationally for value and high starting salaries.
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Clubs and Activities
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There are many clubs and organizations here at Tech. Every major has one or more organizations where students can be around others that are heading down the same career path. They even give you a chance for experience and even scholarships. There are also many clubs for just about any interest you can think of. Take some time to check through the club and organization database to see if anything would interest you!
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Greek Life
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I was not involved in Greek so I am unable to provide a review.
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Campus Safety
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Tech campus is quite safe. There are constantly police officers on patrol around campus. It is also very easy to contact them if you need them. They also offer transportation services at night so you do not have to walk across campus alone.
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Captain Bulldawg
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Louisiana Tech University is a nationally recognized college in the United States with high educational standards that are never lowered. As a Tier 1 national university, it provides a good learning environment with excellent student to teacher relationships. It is the highest ranked university in the state of Louisiana in average starting salary for graduates.
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Tips for prospective students
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If I was looking at colleges to apply to, I would definitely do multiple campus visits/tours. This allows you to have a better picture of what life as a student could be like. Any questions you have about a certain department or student life in general will be answered right away since you are there in person.
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Academic Rigor
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The college life is no longer the safe haven you had in high school. You are doing things on your own more which means you have to learn time management and become more independent. Classes will challenge you even more and you will be learning things at a faster rate.
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Dorm Life
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Living in a dorm on campus is quite convenient. You will be within walking distance for classes and will be close to the food court for meals. Friends will be made quicker since you are in a residential area where everyone is going through the same thing you are going through.
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Food and Dining
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The cafeteria food is actually good. There is a different variety everyday and healthy options are available. There is a Chick fil A, burger place, salad place, pizza place, sushi/asian food place and a mini convenient store.
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What to do for fun
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The on campus entertainment organization always has free and fun events for students. Music bands, comedians, magicians, and other performers are invited to come to campus. You can watch movies on the big jumbotron in the football stadium or win free prizes like a big screen TV in bingo night or tournaments.
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Campus Safety
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There is always a police car driving around campus day and night. Emergency phone boxed are placed around campus for emergencies. To enter the residence halls, you will need a remote access key to get in. Resident Assistants patrol the dorms and apartments to make sure everything is under control
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Jamecia from Monroe, LA
a current student here
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In three sentences
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LA Tech is full of Southern hospitality for all races, genders, and sexes alike. The art program is complete with a wide-range of fully competent and cool teachers. Quarters are a nice change from semesters.
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Tips for prospective students
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Do not jump the gun on the amount of hours you take. For starters, just take the minimum so you can feel out your major, balance classes, etc. Ask about anything you feel is necessary. RA's are on every floor, every adviser is there for you, and if you prefer to, you can email departments all around campus for questions or concerns.
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Academic Rigor
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I love how talented teachers are. I am an art student. They go at a pace that is good for those who have absolutely no experience and grade accordingly. And even though they are nice and ask that you call them by their first names, they know the boundary between profession and personal and you cannot help but to respect it. And the program is flexible, so even with 3-month learning periods, progression is made every week. Even the talented have something to learn in the classes.
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Dorm Life
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They are in the process of remodeling and renovating. In my residence hall, there are nice people, respected spaces, and stalled bathrooms. This particular hall also has 3 people to a room, but most rooms have 2 mates since one either moves out or does not show. Any complaints made might need to be high in number in order for the residence department to comply though.
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Food and Dining
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The cafeteria has a wide range of choices, there is a mini food court around it with reasonable prices. There is also a mall-like food court in a separate building right across from the caf that even has a little convenience store. They have multiple meal plans to appeal to everyone and with certain plans the additional money can be used around campus.
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What to do for fun
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There is literally always something going on. Approved events can be seen on everything from flyers posted on bathroom doors to hand-written chalk signs along the ground. They even send emails to students inviting them to any event held around campus.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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They have these 'red tables' located along the cafeteria building that are extremely popular for lunch or just hanging out. Also in the area is the school's emblem in the ground. It's said to be bad luck to walk directly on it, so you always see everyone walk around it. Looooong story. There is also a brick laid for every graduating senior around campus.
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Terry from Converse, LA
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Louisiana Tech University is a great up and coming university. Over the past few years, its professors and colleges have gained countless recognition. If you are an engineer, business major, or want to be a teach, then Louisiana Tech is definitely for you.
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Tips for prospective students
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If you are looking at Tech as a prospective college, then don't hesitate to contact admissions or the college that you fill you will be in. I can't remember how many emails that I sent to the admissions office. They are just so friendly and will do everything in their power to help you. Tech is located in Ruston which is pretty small, but it gives you that sense of being at home. One of the things you will hear alot if you attend Louisiana Tech is that we are a family. Dr. Dan Reneau, president, likes to stress that.
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Academic Rigor
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Louisiana Tech is not only a great university to attend, but you can feel safe in knowing that your degree is actually worth something. Tech sets a tough curriculum so that you will know everything that you need to by the time that you graduate. Tech is on the quarter system. It's one of the greatest things about being here. It gives you the oppurtunity to earn more credits in a shorter amount of time. Just when you get tired of one set of classes, it's time to change quarters. You should definitely come here if you plan on being an engineer. Tech is one of the best engineering schools in the countries. The business program is also on the rise.
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Dorm Life
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The dorms are not the best for guys. They are old and out dated, but they will be building new ones soon. The apartments on campus are great. I lived in the dorms first and then moved to an apartment. I am so glad I did. You feel like you are at home in the apartments, which come fully furnished.
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Food and Dining
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The food on campus is really good. There is a food court which has a sushi restaurant, burger joint, wraps, and a salad place. Also in Tolliver, we have a McAllister's and Bene, an italian restaurant. The cafe also offers really good food.
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What to do for fun
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Ruston is not a big place and there isn't a ton to do. However, if you meet the right people then you don't have to worry. Our recreation center has two pools, bowling alley, basketball gym, and a regular full service gym. Alot of the students like to go to the games and cheer on their Bulldawgs. Shreveport and Monroe are not very far and both offer lots of things to do.
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Bang for the buck
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You definitely get what you pay for here.
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