Texas State University
San Marcos, TX, USA

Reviews

Texas State University

Laura from Garland, TX

a current student here
18 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I received 42 credit hours from IB and AP classes in high school and my first semester courses were just basically review classes for me. However, since I have all of my core classes out of the way, I can take Upperclassmen and Honors courses for my major as a first year student.
Am enjoying being here
I love Texas State so much! The professors are all there to help you if you just ask them. The students are ALL friendly - I haven't met any person that would not tell me where a building was and everyone wants to be there. The river is a 5 minute walk from campus, downtown is just down the hill, the outlet malls are just down I-35, and Austin/San Antonio are just 30 minutes away. :D

The athletic games are all free, so take the opportunity to go to them. The football team is really good and the marching band is amazing.
Bang for the buck
Texas State is one of the cheapest state schools in Texas. All of my classes have been worthwhile and I don't regret taking any of them. The textbooks are expensive, but buy the used books instead.

I have spent a lot of money on food from the grocery store and eating out at restaurants on the weekends. Just keep a tab of your spending and you should be okay.
Tips for prospective students
Professors actually do care about their students. They may not seem as friendly as your high school teachers, but professors have bigger classrooms and you are all adults now. They will not come up to you and personally ask you if you understand everything, so it is up to you to ask them for help. Take the opportunity to get to personally know them and their grading techniques and you will excel.

STUDY, STUDY, STUDY!!! You will want to party, go swim in the river, and just sleep - But most of my classes had 3-5 grades in them. Some professors hold review sessions before the major exams, but don't slack off. There is a time for fun and a time for work, but don't forget you are at college to get an education.

Take advantage of the writing/math labs, the library, and the rec. You are paying for them in your tuition.
Great for these types of students
I am majoring in Communication Design and love it. The art building is brand new and is state-of-the-art. Texas State has won numerous graphic design competitions and has beaten UNT several years running.

Texas State has great business, history, music, and education programs.

Kristen from Lubbock, TX

accepted here and planning to attend soon
17 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
I am looking forward to experiencing this school in July and getting a head start before the Fall session begins.
Will enjoy being here
The people at Texas State have been very helpful and seem to want to help students on the cusp of getting started on the right track. This is done by offering the Emerging Stars program to students who are needing a second chance at getting into college.
Bang for the buck
Cost is average for Texas Universities.
Tips for prospective students
Don't ever believe you can't get into a university. Make contact early in the year with the counselors on campus and let your high school counselors know how important this school is to you. Visit and talk to the counselors and email them throughout your senior year.

Karla from San Marcos, TX

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors here at Texas State strive very hard to get their students on the right track. The school offers many educational tools like instructional assistants, tutors, SLAC, math learning center, writing center, library assistance, and many more resources are available to those who are willing to spend some time studying.
Am enjoying being here
Texas State itself is beautiful, the campus is absolutely lovely and there are so many natural amenities that contribute to that beauty. I enjoy the college life here, there are always school organized events that tend to bring students together. Of course, there are the traditional parties like at any other school.
Bang for the buck
If you take advantage of what is offered to you as a student you really do get bang for your buck because the school does what it can to keep some costs low.
Tips for prospective students
If you are expecting to come here only for the parties you will be surprised, yes, there are many parties but you have to be able to balance the fun with your assignments. Even though many professors try to work with you in order to raise your grade, it is your sole responsibility to stay on top of the work.
Great for these types of students
Great for students who enjoy seeing the beauty the city has to offer; looking for a good education; some personal instruction by the professor (depending on the course); and basically learning and having a good time.

Kyle from Port Lavaca, TX

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The first couple of classes i assumed that it was just going to be like some high school classes would be..show up to class,barely learn anything and get somebusy work to do but after we got in the whole transition period my eyes where opened and i realized college is fifty times better than high school.
Am enjoying being here
I'm only a freshman so i don't know all the little college hang out spots yet but the ones i have been to have made being away from home a lot easier.
Bang for the buck
When you first show up to campus you expect to see nothing but parties going on but those rumors are wrong and i am glad. Your tuition covers a lot of extra activities to help you succeed in the college life.
Tips for prospective students
Don't believe the rumors of a party school. They have changed the image to be a legitimate contender in the top universities in the state of Texas.
Great for these types of students
All kinds

Samantha from Sugar Land, TX

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors all have a passion for their craft, so no matter what class your in you will learn immense amounts of information with ease. I usually do not like political science, but my professor is so into it that it is difficult not to get fired up about the topics in her lectures.
Am enjoying being here
The whole campus has a great vibe. There is always something to do on campus and off campus. All sporting events are amazing with the spirited crowds that come out and support. Even the dorms are fun, especially when you know your neighbors.
Bang for the buck
They are generous with financial aid, so it makes it more enjoyable when I know that they are helping me obtain my education.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure when you look for your future home (dorms), make sure you know how far it will be from your classes. Keep in mind that the whole campus is built on a hill so your willingness to walk across campus might change. I would definitely think about rushing if you want to make alot of friends fast even though the greek community only makes up around 13% of the campus. Get involved your first year and meet people in your classes. Don't be afraid to go the library, SLAC, or the writing workshops. It is there to help YOU. When choosing your meal plan for the semester keep in mind the amount of food you normally consume. If you know you will be snacking in your room alot then get the smallest meal plan. If you usually eat full meals twice a day then get the middle meal plan. If you plan on eating all 3 meals a day then get the large meal plan. Also go to your professors office hours, it will show that you want to succeed and they will notice and help your grades.
Great for these types of students
Students of all kinds are here. If you made A's and B's in high school, then you have to work hard to maintain a B. If you don't study be ready to feel the wrath of hard grading professors.

Amber from Conroe, TX

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes are excellent, and the most of the professors are very passionate about what they are teaching. I actually have a hard time choosing what classes to take every semester because there are so many great choices!
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful and the town is amazing. It has a city feel, but not as big as Austin or other big cities, so it is less stuffy. The river is awesome, too and gives everyone something to do during the spring and the summer. The location is awesome, also, because it is right in the middle of San Antonio and Austin. Just a quick drive to anywhere you need to go!
Bang for the buck
I believe the education I am getting for the money I am paying is great. I enjoy all my classes and the resources are amazing. The library is open 24 hours during finals week, and it is perfect for a quiet place to study. There are also many computer labs and tutoring centers around the campus.
Tips for prospective students
Keep your high school GPA up, and be sure to take the SAT and the ACT, some think the ACT may be a little easier. Be involved in your community and join clubs in high school, showing that you can multi-task is something that looks great on applications!
OH! And always go to class! You'll regret skipping! And study sessions work wonders!
Great for these types of students
Great for students who enjoy the Hill Country, diverse environments and an overall great experience! Texas State has something to offer for every kind of person, whether you love sports, are into church, or if you're really into the Greek Life. Everyone can find a place to fit in on this college campus!

Staci from Spring, TX

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
You go much more in depth into the material than you do in high school courses. You are also allowed to talk about more topics that are discouraged in high school.
Am enjoying being here
If you do not join fraternities, sororities, clubs, or organizations, it is hard to make friends--don't think you HAVE to join anything to make friends, though. Living on campus helps get you settled in to your new life.
Bang for the buck
WAY cheaper than University of Texas and Texas A&M!
Tips for prospective students
Wear shoes that support your feet. You will be walking up and down hills all day. Don't forget your bathing suit!--the San Marcos River runs straight through campus. Sewell Park is a really nice place to hang out!

Academics-wise: GO TO CLASS! You are here to learn--not nap and party your life away. You will have PLENTY of opportunities to do these things in time. A lot of teachers give extra credit to those who attend class regularly. Also, Study! Study! Study! Many teachers give 4 exams during the semester, and those are your ONLY grades.
Great for these types of students
People who are outgoing, friendly, love the outdoors (scenery is amazing here!!!), and want to have a memorable college life!

Students wanting to major in Business, Health, Communications, and Geology.

Jerika from Cedar Park, TX

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The learning aspect of college is sometimes the part everyone forgets, why else would you spend thousands of dollars on your education? You might as well benefit from it. Sure everyone refers to Texas State as the party school but it doesn't mean we don't have knowledge either. Texas State has expanded over the years, and will continue to do so. The best advice I can give you, is get help personally from your teacher. Not only are you going directly to your source of knowledge but it also allows your professor to get to know you and see you take initiative and interest in their class. Not only that, but take advantage of SLAC tutors! I can't stress it enough.
Am enjoying being here
San Marcos has a prime location right in between the major cities of Austin and San Antonio which makes for easy trips and finding something to do. Yes, San Marcos is a small town but it's easy to become familiar with what you're around and hardly ever getting lost. Not only that but we've got the San Marcos River which runs right by campus. Go to class in your bathing suit and head to the river right after! Not to mention Don's fish camp is one of the BEST places to go float which is here in San Marcos owned by Don himself. And going to River Pub and Grins is a must!
Bang for the buck
Reasonably priced for the education you're receiving. It's the college experience and lifestyle you're getting, along with obtaining a diploma. We have a really nice REC center which you should take full advantage of. The SLAC program is a free source which can be extremely helpful to you, and I highly recommend it. The English department has people willing to help you revise and edit your papers. We have a nice football stadium which is just happens to be expanding, just like our school is.
Tips for prospective students
Tips for you: Use Ratemyprofessor.com to look up professors when building your class schedule. Attend some of your teachers office hours if you need help, and if not that then go to SI sessions or SLAC. Just don't do nothing about getting the help you need, it's only going to benefit you in the end I promise. Make as many friends as possible, be social, and get yourself involved in something!
Great for these types of students
Texas State is a great college for the most diverse group of people ever, I feel like I've seen it all here. Don't come here thinking it's just the Party School, because your world will be completely turned upside down. Without any effort at all, you will fail and there's no need for you to be wasting your time and money at Texas State. The McCoy School of a Business is a wonderful and honored program to be a part of and if you're interested in business I highly recommend it.

Brittney from Flower Mound, TX

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Majority of professor's are well rounded and are good at what they teach. Most enjoy being there or love what they teach, making it easier for the student to learn and understand.
Am enjoying being here
I would not have chosen anywhere else to be. People are extremely welcoming and it is easy to make friends. There are numerous amount of extracurricular activities to choose from as well. Texas State makes sure everybody has a spot where they fit in.
Bang for the buck
Texas State is not very expensive for all the amenities it provides somebody. It is worth every penny and you will definitely want to return after your first semester.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure to attend classes and take the notes given. Also read what the professor tells you to from the book because the majority will wind up on the test. Go into all of your classes with an open mind and you shouldn't be let down. Yes, Texas State is known as a party school, but as long as you make sure to put your school work ahead of the partying you will be sure to do well in school, while also leaving time for fun as well.
Great for these types of students
Great for students who are willing to be out there and meet people, it is a large campus with many opportunities to do so. Also good for people who love the outdoors because Texas State has a beautiful campus. It is great for just about anybody because Texas State is a large school full of diversity.

Kirsten from Seguin, TX

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Theres a large amount of classes offered and teachers really seem to care about their students and in my experience have been readily available to help the students.
Am enjoying being here
Its a big university and has a diverse student body. There are many different clubs to choose from and its almost impossible not to find one that interests you. Living in the dorms is awesome as cheesy as it may seem the people in your dorm can become like a second family.
Bang for the buck
Compared to other schools its not a bad price but all college tuitions are a little hefty.
Tips for prospective students
If you want to meet people hang out in the dorm lobbies so many people walk through there on a daily basis your bound to make some new friends. its also the center of all activities in the dorm when people are not in there rooms they usually check out the lobby to hang out with other students.
go to class! I've seen many students have to drop out and ones that have been put on academic probation because they are failing because they don't go to class. All my classes have taken attendance and its part of your grade its not that hard to do just show up!
Also if you have trouble with your classes the academic counselors are great and teachers are helpful as well just stop by office hours and most professors are happy to help .
Great for these types of students
Social. Outgoing. Athletic. really anyone can find their place here.