I was very focused upon going to a smaller-scale school within an urban area because I wanted to live in a great environment while also getting more focused attention to better prepare for medical school. I love Austin and St. Edward's so far, they're great places but there are definitely some deterrents that are leaving many of my classmates this semester to transfer ASAP.(1) The people: some are friendly, others are far from it. The social scene tends to be very cliquey and once those groups of friends are formed it's quite difficult to find your way in to find some people to hang out with. Really, making friends is easier for some than others - it's really just what you make of the opportunities. Join clubs, initiate clubs, go to socials, etc.
(2) The professors: absolutely incredible. Undoubtedly I would say this is the highlight of the school; the professors are unimaginably helpful and are dedicated to your success, just as long as you're willing to achieve it. Classes I thought I would hate ended up being insightful and were great ways to meet professionals in the field. Individual attention is very heavy and it's really up to you to make the best of it. In one of my classes, individual appointments to meet and discuss how you're feeling in the course, if you need help, or to review your work was mandatory or would result in an absence. They are very focused on letting you know they are available. One professor even made an AIM account to answer last minute questions before an exam over the weekend.
(3) The food: it's good at first, but gets limited. Lots of hamburgers, chicken tenders, quesadillas, etc. amidst other healthier options such as salads, sandwiches, or sushi if you are a fan of it. However, don't confine yourself to the dining halls - take some time to explore the restaurants throughout Austin. Whether that be downtown, or just on South Congress.
(4) Wireless: at the beginning of the semester it was never really problematic but lately (assuming due to finals, end of semester, etc.) it has become less reliable. Overall, the signal is strong and trustworthy. But don't procrastinate until last minute because you never know when it will unexpectedly leave you.
(5) Dorms: my dorm is great. I have a suite-style where I share a bathroom with three other people and my room is not too cramped. The location to all of my classes is great (only a 3-5 minute walk to most classes). My longest walk to class is probably 7 minutes.
(6) Cleanliness/Maintenance: again, great. All facilities are taken care of and there are staff who are always repairing or keeping rooms, floors, dorms, etc. clean.
(7) Parking: atrocious. Very limited, you just have to learn to be patient.
(8) Gym/Rec: I have never personally used the gym, but I hear that it's very outdated and old to the point of where one of the guys in my speech class did a speech about how it needs to be renovated, or at least expanded. A lot of athletes will take up the gym floor leaving few opportunities for those who want to casually use it if they need it.
(9) Smoking: a lot of people do it - everywhere. Some organizations are trying to move the locations because smoke can be so heavy in some areas. I just walk around and find different routes to avoid it.
(10) Study abroad: they are very adamant on giving you this experience. Take full advantage of it, they are very helpful in customizing it to make it possible for you. You just have to let them know you're interested!
(11) Price: far too much. I wish I had more financial aid; this is also one of the greatest reasons why people are transferring.
(12) Faculty/advisors: incredible. My academic advisor is someone I have become close to because I've seen her very often. Scheduling appointments to plan out my majors, study abroad experiences, etc. has been a grueling process but if you make appointments with your advisor it alleviates a LOT of stress. Take advantage of the services they can provide to you!
(13) Religion/Faith: you are not excluded from other people if you're not religious. The campus ministry has a great group of people and are very focused on volunteer work and spreading the Holy Cross Heritage. Even as a person who is not religious, I respect them infinitely. I've done volunteer work with them as well. Religion is not forced upon you if you're not affiliated with faith. However, those who are deeply connected to faith have plenty of resources to find/meet new friends, become active in the community, and engage spiritually.
(14) School spirit: very minimal. There is not a football team but at the beginning of the semester there were lacrosse and soccer games many people attended. The sports teams here are good, there is just a lack of an audience to cheer them on.
(15) School work: some classes are much easier than others but overall this university is VERY HEAVY on writing. I have friends at UT who write maybe 3 or 4 major essays their entire semester, but even in classes that aren't English/Rhetoric & Composition/etc. the classes here require a lot of essay writing. However, there is a writing center (I've never used it, but hear it's useful) if you need time to adjust to the influx of papers. My Rhet & Comp professor was profoundly helpful and I never needed external help, so really utilize your professors if you feel you're struggling.
(16) Police/Safety: The further you go south on South Congress, the worse it gets. Austin is a huge city, so you can't expect zero crime. However, I have never had any bad experiences and the police patrol the university constantly. There has never been a single time I have walked the campus without seeing at least three UPD cars. I even feel safe running at night; the campus is well lit and police are nearby.Overall, it's been great getting to know the campus and the faculty here. A lot of the people are cool, but again very cliquey and some can be very snooty. However, the experience is all what you make of it.
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