Around The University of Texas at Austin you’ll often hear the proclamation, “What starts here changes the world.” And while we stand firmly behind that claim, the reality is that sometimes starting here can feel less like changing the world and more like an exercise in memorizing your Social Security number and figuring out bus routes.
The good news is that amidst the campus maze and throngs of people there are plenty of helpful resources, beloved traditions, intriguing opportunities and knowledgeable Longhorns (see those friendly faces above?) that bring out the best this campus has to offer.
As UT gears up for the 2014-15 year, we’re exploring the reality of campus life and how to make the most of it.
ADVICE FROM CURRENT STUDENTS
LONGHORN WELCOME
Longhorn Welcome is a series of free events for incoming first-year and transfer students that celebrate UT’s core values and traditions. In addition to the signature events listed here, check out dozens of other academic, informational and social welcome events from around campus (PDF). Share your photos and tweets from the events using #LonghornWelcome and #UT18.
Mooov-In Begins
Aug. 22
More than 7,300 new and returning Longhorns move back into 14 campus residence halls from 42 states, 35 countries and 5 continents.
Orange and White Women’s Volleyball
Aug. 23
Come see 2013 national semifinalists Texas Volleyball compete in an intra-squad scrimmage at Gregory Gym @ 11 a.m.
The Grad School Years
The first days on campus for incoming graduate students can be a far cry from dorm check-ins and football games. Here’s how some get acquainted with the 40 Acres.
- The full-time MBA orientation includes academic intensives, career management prep, team-building events, workplace diversity discussions and an all-day business challenge.
- First-year law students (1Ls) meet mentors, practice study skills and indulge in a Fajita Fest.
- College of Liberal Arts graduate students take summer courses like Dissertation Boot Camp and Public Scholarship.
- Public Affairs students attend Camp LBJ, a month-long crash course in math that does not allow students to take notes. Fortunately there are daily social activities, too.
- Butler School of Music graduate students are required to take diagnostic exams to test their competence in areas like music theory, jazz history and voice diction.
Make Austin Yours Festival
Aug. 24
Hang out with other students, enjoy free events and live music, and check out student organizations. Gregory Gym Plaza, 7 – 10 p.m.
Zumba Dance Fest
Aug. 25
Get outside and move with hundreds of your classmates at this Zumbathon workout hosted by UT RecSports at Clark Field @ 5 p.m.
Gone to Texas
Aug. 26
Programs begin with activities in your specific college from 6 to 8 p.m. The event concludes in front of The Tower with the official welcome from President Powers, presentations of the video contest finalists and big finale with the Longhorn band at 10 p.m.
1st Day of Class
Aug. 27
What Starts Here Changes the World. Your college career starts today. Hook ’em!
Horns Up Night
Aug. 27
Longhorn tradition starts here. Begin in DKR Stadium with Texas Kickoff Rally, with head football coach Charlie Strong, broadcast live on the Longhorn Network. The Texas ’18 class photo on the field follows, and the Texas Exes Orange and White Welcome at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center will cap off the night with free BBQ. 5:45 – 9:30 p.m.
Texas Soccer vs. Arkansas
Aug. 29
Student tailgate at 6:45 p.m. with free Raising Cane’s chicken tenders, followed by Texas vs. Arkansas. Mike Myers Stadium @ 7:30 p.m.
1st Home Football Game
Aug. 30
Texas Football kicks off with the season opener against North Texas. Come early and join Texas Cheer, the Longhorn Band and thousands of fans to greet the team as they arrive at the Stadium Stampede at 4:30 p.m. on the northeast corner of the stadium. DKR Stadium @ 7 p.m.
360 Connection Meetings Begin
Sept. 1
Starting college alongside 7,000 classmates can be overwhelming. Participate in your 360 Connection group, and you’ll have a great start.
Party on the Plaza
Sept. 3
The grand finale of Longhorn Welcome. Connect with friends, grab some food, play games, browse the Student Organization Fair and compete for a $2,000 scholarship. Gregory Gym Plaza, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
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Essential reading for all new Longhorns: How to Make the Most Out of Life at #UT http://t.co/bBXG3El2Yh #LonghornWelcome #UT18
— UT Austin (@UTAustin) August 18, 2014
