University of Texas, Austin Visit
Updated: May 31, 2022
If you are interested in a bustling campus in the heart of one of the most interesting cities in the U.S., University of Texas in Austin may be for you. Stay Weird, Austin.
The University of Texas, Austin is located in the heart of the city of Austin, which is the capitol of Texas. It's called "The 40 Acres" for a reason - it's a massive school, with 50,000 students that attend. However, no matter how populous this school becomes, there will always be an open view to the Capitol Building.
The bike pathways on campus lead you through brand-new buildings, such as the Dell-Gates Computer Science Lab, and historical statues alike. All over campus, students are excited to be a Division I (Big 12) Football school, the LongHorns, and show it with their school pride. ("Hook 'em horns!") The incredible programs offered here have a track record of turning out alumni that are willing to run with new ideas, and start their own businesses.
Sounds, amazing, doesn't it? However, there is a work ethic involved if you're a California resident and would like to get into school here. Keep in mind the admissions requirements for non-TX residents.
1. Average GPA is 3.5 or stronger
2. Average ACT score is 29, SAT range is 1160-1390
It's no surprise, then, that students from Texas comprise about 91% of the student body, while out of state students are only about 9%. Especially considering that Texas residents with ACT scores of 27 and up qualify for automatic admission.
If you can handle the admissions requirements, then you are in for a treat!
I got a chance to chat with our college counselor, Melinda Blackmann about her trip to the Lone Star State and ask her about her experience touring UT Austin.
What was your favorite part of the campus?
The Main Building right there was my favorite part. There will always be an unblocked view between the Main Building and the state capitol of Texas.
How did the campus feel? It was a very big campus, but you could walk from one side to the other in 10 mins. They give lots of research opportunities for undergraduates and really value them, overall.
What would you recommend to someone who is thinking of going there? Something to remember is that 10% of admissions group is out of state, so as a mandate 90% of the admitted population is from Texas. This makes it pretty difficult to get in if you’re from California. Take a virtual tour, but know it is very competitive.
How was the weather?
It was really pleasant! Maybe like 82 degrees.
Did the people seem nice?
Very nice, very helpful. There were a lot of students- a very packed campus. There was tremendous school spirit (the Longhorns). .
Fun facts:
A professor there founded Gatorade, and the founder of Dell computers went there, so they are big on computer science. Also, Austin is a very foodie city and the new music capitol of the country. Everyone was riding an electric scooter (like the Bird scooters), and you don’t really need a bike or a car because you’re right in the middle of the city.