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.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
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.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
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.
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.