Reviews
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Beatriz from Austin, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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What is there to learn about U.T.S.A. ? For starters, how great the college is! I love the size of the college, not so big but then again not so small. I learned that U.T.S.A. offers a variety of degrees from the Arts to Engineering majors. I have also learned that the people here at U.T.S.A. are here to help you, students are friendly and professors really want you to learn. Lastly, i learned that in college you can never get behind, you have to be focused and willing to do better and never settle for less.
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Am enjoying being here
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I love the environment, the people, the whole feeling of being here and doing what i want to do.
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Bang for the buck
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Yes, money is always an issue no matter what college you attend. Still, the faculty of financial aid are willing to help you get the most of your aid and help you out with payments. Plus, make sure you save up some money, or a lot of money for books and housing, that includes food.
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Tips for prospective students
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You may think college is all fun and parties, it is but then if you do not know where your priorities lie, you can get bad grades thus might getting on probation. A good tip is to remain focused, do your work, never fall behind and study! Parties will always be here and there and fun is all around, just manage it all carefully.
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Great for these types of students
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Everyone who is new coming freshman.
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Priscilla from Laredo, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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I didn't think I could learn more from the basic classes than everyone needs, but I have. There are some points that weren't even mentioned from my high school classes.
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Am enjoying being here
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I've made a great deal of new friends, and there are lots of organizations that you can get involved in and give yourself something to do rather than sit in your dorm (or apartment) every night and study. Not that it's a bad thing to study, but it's great to give yourself a break once in a while
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Bang for the buck
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UTSA is very affordable and I'm getting a good education for what I'm paying.
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Tips for prospective students
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Go to the professor during their office hours, it's a great deal of help. SI sessions can be very helpful, so go to as many as you can if you're class offers them.
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Great for these types of students
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UTSA is great for all types of students, you just have to be willing to put in the effort to strive for the best.
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Ui Ri from San Antonio, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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There are plenty of classes that you can take! UTSA offers a varity of different subjects taught by various professors that widens your choice of which classes to take and from whom you should take it from.
I am currently a Psychology major and all the classes that I've taken (both psychology related & core classes) have taught me thoroughly about the subject and more. Outside of class, the school has both an Army and Air Force corp that allows for an individual to learn to build his or her characteristics and to provide an opportunity to join the forces. |
Am enjoying being here
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There are housings all around the school that is very close with a shuttle bus system. Plenty of student organizations make up the school and all my friends are busy helping out or enjoying an event each weekend.
I am currently joined in a Korean campus Bible study group called BASIC (Brothers And Sisters In Christ). It is opened for everyone and it helps me meet new people and to discuss about my interest and learn more! Importantly, the school provides a great studying environment. The library is opened for 24 hours on weekdays, which helps the students to check up in their studies in a quite and comfortable environment. |
Bang for the buck
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The tuition fee is not a give away because the school provides students with great facilities and service. One of the great facilities in school is the Rec Center. Its is a gym center for UTSA students, opened until 12am on weekdays and it includes a basketball court, indoor soccer field, racquetball courts, indoor track, treadmills, and even a lazy pool. In a time of stress, the Rec Center is a great place to let everything down and just focus on working out and sweat away all the frustration.
UTSA provides over 20 restaurants on campus, including Chick-fil-A and Chili's, and even has a hair salon and a stationery store. |
Tips for prospective students
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Fully prepare and research before settling down with a decision! Look through all the housings, on and around campus, and research all your options of when and where to take your classes.
Most importantly, don't feel scared or intimidated about coming to college. As being a Korean, I am a minority and a female but the school environment welcomed me right in and had me meet great people all throughout my college years. |
Great for these types of students
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UTSA is great for all types of students! Females, males, majorities, minorities, and all the other types you can think of! And the great thing is you will be able to find people and become friends with people of all types !
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Devon from Austin, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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I am learning a lot at UTSA. Not just in academics but also about myself. UTSA has great professors who are willing to help you if you just make the effort.
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Am enjoying being here
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I love being at UTSA. It has activities for everyone to do. The people that you will meet are campus will probably end up becoming some of your best friends, in the long run.
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Bang for the buck
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I believe that you will get your moneys worth at UTSA! The experience that you will have is worth it. I am a cheerleader for UTSA, so there is a lot for one to do on and off campus. The student population at UTSA is pretty well diverse. There is something on campus for everyone, you just have to know where to look and who to talk to.
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Tips for prospective students
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I suggest that you go to your professor during their office hours, or if your not the one on one person, then try the SI sessions or the TRC Lab. Also, make good use of the library since it is open 24/5.
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Great for these types of students
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If you are living off campus, parking can sometimes be a hassle. I would suggest the UTSA Shuttle Bus or leaving home an extra 10-15 minutes early to find that spot. Trust me you are going to need it.
If you are living on campus, you can use a bike or walk. The dorms are not the far from campus if you use your shortcuts. |
Korina from San Antonio, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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You'll learn as much as you put into it, just like anything else. Ask lots of questions of your professors: you'll learn and look like you're giving it a good amount of effort.
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Am enjoying being here
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There are so many things to do on campus and so many club gatherings to attend. The rec has a lot of cool hang out spots and a great exercising facility. There are also some decent places to eat or just hang out at. It's pretty easy to make friends here.
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Bang for the buck
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Classes aren't too expensive for going to a state school. Some of the professors really give you your money's worth, but then there are those professors who could care less. Check ratemyprofessors.com. It's saved me from some terrible professors! Another good idea is to attend S.I. sessions or go to the TRC Q-lab for some extra help.
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Tips for prospective students
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The parking situation is a toughie. If you want a spot, you've gotta give yourself fifteen or so minutes to find one, or get a moped/motorcyle for special parking. Or try parking at the Valero parking lot where you get shuttled from the parking lot to the school.
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Great for these types of students
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The student clientele at UTSA is pretty well-rounded. There's a niche for everyone, you've just gotta go find it.
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Daniel from San Antonio, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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Striking up a conversation with strangers about the University of Texas at San Antonio yields mixed results around the city. A common perception of some uninformed people is that UTSA is little better than a community college for San Antonio's north side. Unfortunately, that couldn't be farther from the truth.
UTSA has begun seeking status as one of Texas' premiere universities, although much work still needs to be done. As such, its academics have followed suit. Professors encourage students to come to class every day, warning that those who do not rarely pass let alone achieve decent grades. Instructors often utilize the John Peace Library and various other systems around school (such as the computer labs, distance learning technologies and campus events) to engage student learning. Unfortunately, as a disadvantage to both the university and some unmotivated students, studying is often self-taught. Other pupils are often reluctant to form study groups or tutor anyone who isn't their friend. That being said, the professors are usually very friendly and willingly to work with whoever comes to their office hours. Overall, you will learn a lot at UTSA so long as you can do things on your own. Students and professors sometimes do reach out to help. I'm sure that, over time, the school will develop a much closer academic community. |
Am enjoying being here
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The University of Texas at San Antonio is a developing university, and its student body really does reflect that. UTSA has over 30,000 undergraduates and graduates, but you would never feel it. Most students come and go as they please, many having not ever engaged the school's clubs, fraternities, festivals or events. This has lead to the college being pejoratively labeled a commuter school by some.
However, UTSA has an amazing and fun social scene if you are willing to stick around after classes are done. The student leaders put on an annual BestFest in commemoration of Dia de Los Muertos in the fall and Fiesta UTSA during the spring semester. Lots of students gather around at these times to take a break from the stresses of college life and enjoy the campus. Students are encouraged to check out these events during Freshman Orientation (which everyone must attend). Some newer traditions include the annual Party at the Paseo, which takes place during Fiesta, and Roadrunner Days. I personally enjoy every minute I'm at UTSA. Being involved in several clubs, such as Student Government, the Young Democrats, Green Society, French Club, Soccer and Theatre Club has only strengthened my ties to the school. Just putting yourself out there will garner so many organizations who would love to have you as their newest member. If you can motivate yourself to move to club meetings after class, you'll be welcome at UTSA's campus. It's very fun, albeit challenging at times, since so many potential members do not care for extracurricular involvement. I enjoy being involved in the scene, but it's obviously not for everyone. |
Bang for the buck
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UTSA is a public school; that in and of itself means that the school gets significant funding from the State of Texas to lower tuition rates and provide very cheap services. Students have access to an award-winning recreational facility (dubbed The Rec), select free medical services, sprawling soccer fields, computer labs, and conference rooms. Tuition rates at UTSA are some of the lowest among 4-year colleges in the United States; admittedly, however, this is due in part to San Antonio's low inflation rate.
It's a pain for me to have to dish out the kind of money required to attend a large tertiary institution like UTSA every semester, but it's well worth the cost. The university runs a large financial aid department which works with individuals (through counselors) to pay for the rather hefty bill any respectable college requires. I've been to their fiscal services and financial aid offices, both of which are bustling with people who are paid by the State of Texas to help you fund your college education. UTSA's professors accept relatively low salaries, so many are not top-level lecturers like you will find at Ivy League universities. Yet, most are truly dedicated to their discipline (from Anthropology to Astronomy), if inexperienced. It's not a question of how many services the university offers to its student body, but whether or not one can afford to pay what a respectable post-secondary school demands. UTSA works with you, sure, but it's important to realize that they can only go so far to help students finance their college years. If you can afford to attend UTSA, the price will be well worth its pain. |
Tips for prospective students
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Prospective students should not underestimate UTSA's academics. The school places people with GPAs below a 2.0 on probationary status. If no improvement has been made after a semester of being on academic probation, the student will get kicked out. This happens to a lot of freshmen; don't think it won't happen to you, because it can.
Students often feel lonely at UTSA since clubs don't always flaunt themselves to incoming freshman. Go out there and be active in the community! If you can't afford to drive back and forth to campus, consider living on campus for a while. It's the best way to make new friends and become well-known around school. Also, avoid taking 12 hours every semester. UTSA's freshmen advisers encourage students to do this, but it's only supposed to be for your first semester. Take 15 hours during your spring semester. Taking 12 hours for every semester will result in a 5-year degree instead of the expected 4. |
Great for these types of students
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UTSA is a great school for students seeking a bachelor's degree from a local university but wish to attend a Tier 1 graduate school. Students graduating Cum Laude or higher often have aspirations of attending the University of Texas at Austin's graduate school. Many students use UTSA as a springboard for more schooling in the northeast (especially those pursuing careers in Law).
It offers lots of opportunities for campus life, but it's not atypical of an average university. Overall, UTSA has a decent amount of activities, events and clubs in which social students will prosper. Academic students are the most prominent around campus, since they dominate classrooms as star pupils, TAs and SIs (Section Instructors). UTSA has a moderately-competitive academic atmosphere, but it becomes increasingly rough as less-studious people are dropped due to low GPAs. The Honors College is barely visible around the school but honors clubs are important figures in the university social structure. Students looking for a degree close to home, in this case Central Texas, will always feel at home at UTSA. As the college grows larger, UTSA will become more than a regional university and instead a nationally-recognized institution. However, that day is far away and for now the type of student seeking a good education close to home will feel the most comfortable. |
Alexander from San Antonio, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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UTSA has great professors that are not only good at what they do but make the subject matter enjoyable and easy to learn. Classes are difficult but that's how you know its worth the money, right? UTSA also offers SI sessions and has a huge library with helpful staff to further your success.
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Am enjoying being here
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The atmosphere is pleasant, accepting and friendly. There are plenty of events and clubs to incorporate all students into the UTSA culture and make college fun. The recreation center on campus is extensive and conveniently located.
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Bang for the buck
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Cheaper than UT Austin with the a great and climbing standing in the college ranks. The professors know what they're doing and the information is accurate and up to date. A great library system with online catalogs, professional journals and free newspapers is open 24 hours with plenty of computers, private rooms and cubicles for study. The campus also has a great recreation center with a rock climbing wall and several sport fields open to all students.
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Tips for prospective students
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If you're looking for a place where you can be yourself, earn a degree and have fun meeting new people; UTSA is a great place to look with a nice price tag. Find a place close by or live on campus to cut transportation prices out of the equation and allow for quick access to the campus or your home if there is ever a need.
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Great for these types of students
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Any student, from those looking for athletic and Greek clubs to serious students who want to hit the books, join academic clubs and be prepared for their future jobs will fit in perfectly here. There is a diverse population of people from all over, come be a part of it!
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Parker from SAN ANTONIO, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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Learning depends on the type of person you are and the type of person your professor is. Sometimes you will have to adjust your learning styles in order to follow along. If your a visual learner you have to stay focused because most teachers lecture. But I have learned a lot. I come home and almost everyday I tell my parents something new.
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Am enjoying being here
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I am only here for a short while, both at the downtown campus and 1604 but I really like it. The downtown campus is located very conveniently in the heart of downtown, so if your not from San Antonio, a little sight seeing between classes could be something fun to do.
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Bang for the buck
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Very cheap considering everyone else. If your from S.A all you have to worry about is tuition, fees, and books. I payed nothing outta pocket, thanks to financial aid.
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Tips for prospective students
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I have lived here all my life, and the school is great for someone who wants to stay in town. There is a great atmosphere about the school. And if your not from San Antonio, the school is not to big so you wont feel completely overwhelmed and lost.
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Great for these types of students
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Kids who want to stay at home in S.A. or for those who want to go to a University but not a huge one.
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Aaron from San Antonio, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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They have tons of programs included in your tuition that allows you to take advantage of and help in your classes. They have free tutoring, writing centers that help you with your writing for free, they have SI classes that help you in your classes, again free. A lot of people commonly decide UTSA is not a good school just because it is a satellite of UT Austin but it is in fact a great school thats growing very fast. I hope to one day see it as big as UT Austin and Texas A&M.
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Am enjoying being here
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I decided to go to UTSA with the intention of transferring to UT Austin through the CAP program. After less than a week of being here at UTSA I backed out of the CAP program and decided I wanted to stay here at UTSA for my four years of college. UTSA is a great campus, the people are fun and nice, and I have no reason to not like it here.
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Bang for the buck
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Unless you go to a community college you can expect college to be very expensive. UTSA is for the most part has a pretty good price for its price. They offer many free programs, free shuttles to get to class, free gym membership at the recreation center, and much more. The price is definitely worth it when you get a quality education with much more. My only problem so far is paying my on campus apartment rent.
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Tips for prospective students
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Balance between studying and fun is a must! But of course this is true for all college students.
Get to know the campus, it helps so you dont waste time walking the longer routes to class. Class scheduling should also be set so that you do as little transportation as possible (to and from the campus). |
yaniece from humble, tx
a current student here
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In three sentences
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i'm very happy that i was accepted into this university. the idea of going off to university is scary, but utsa went above and beyond what i expected. i couldn't be happier anywhere else.
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Tips for prospective students
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okay here are some tips: go to class every day that you possibly can! some teachers take role and grade you, some give extra credit to students who show up everyday,and also don't forget how much money you're spending to attend this university!! also, because the social aspects of utsa are sooo amazing, it can be pretty hard to chose your social life from your academic life at times, but know that you are here for a reason. never lose sight of that! and lastly, always read ratemyprofessor to know what you're getting yourself into and how to prepare for class along with reading your course syllabus as soon as you can.
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Academic Rigor
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the level of academic difficulty really depends on the professor that you have and what the course is. many professors go years and years without having a student who shows genuine interest or that stands out in their classes. if you get to talk to your professor and make sure that they know your name, they can not only help you learn more on a more social level, but they will know that if you are struggling, you aren't just slacking. the jpl (john peace library) has so many resources for students to have group study, quiet zones, supplemental instructors, and we also have two locations of the tomas rivera center(our hub for all things tutoring). the academic aid utsa provides to its students is amazing.
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Dorm Life
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no matter which housing you're staying in, utsa implements great opportunities for all residents to feel welcome and safe. occasionally, utsa has social events within the living centers for all residents to become social with one another and they are always so much fun. the resident's assistance go through rigorous training to provide all help that they can to their residents and they can help you with anything you might need. many universities have dorm rooms that are those traditional 2-per-room dorms, but here at utsa, we have apartment style dorm rooms as well as the traditional dorms, and even our traditional rooms are amazing. the on campus living allows you a 5 to 10 minute walk to your classes, and it is really convenient. the off-campus apartments are villas offer a via bus system that allows you to live on campus yet get to campus easily and without stress.
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Food and Dining
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all students living on campus with less than 40 credit hours are required to have a meal plan. the "roadrunner cafe" is included in the meal plan and all you do is swipe your id card. the food provided at the rrcafe is like a traditional buffet and they switch up their menus every day, providing variety for all students. the cafeteria workers are almost always extremely friendly and they serve with a smile on their face every day! utsa also has another food court inside the jpl and it was many different food sources from chic-fil-a to subway and starbucks. for students on the go and in a rush, utsa has "pods" located all over the campus for students to grab a sandwich, a scantron, or even coffee. the dining possibilities at utsa are endless and very affordable for any student.
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What to do for fun
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the best way to make sure you have fun at utsa, and any university, is to get involved on campus! with over 300 student organizations, it is s easy to find a group of like-minded people and create a lasting bond. apart from clubs and organizations, utsa hosts many social events around campus, whether they be under our "sombrilla", in our tunnels, or in our paseo. there are endless opportunities provided by utsa for all students to get involved, have fun, and create bonds that last forever!
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Bang for the buck
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like all universities, utsa may take a chunk from you or our parents wallets, but utsa has many scholarships, grants, and loans for all students attending.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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many of our "traditions or unusual locations" are explained on our rowdy walk day during orientation for all incoming freshman and transferring students. these traditions can only be talked about on that day ;).
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Great for these types of students
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great for students who want a home away from home, who know what hey want in life, and who are strong enough to make their goals a reality.
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Clubs and Activities
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utsa has over 300 clubs and organizations for any and all students to join. it won't be hard at all for a student to find a club or organization that will look good on their resume as well as be beneficial to their social life.
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Greek Life
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the greek life here at utsa is strong and growing! it's easy for any student to go into our "greek life" office for any information on a certain fraternity or sorority. also, many sororities and fraternities host events and fundraisers on and off campus for all students to come out, have fun, and join the sorority or fraternity of their dreams.
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Campus Safety
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utsa has a police station on campus which provides motorist assistance, safety walks, and emergency and non-emergency assistance. not to mention that the police officers are very friendly and understanding and will make sure that all life at utsa is safe and protected.
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