Engaging student life in Texas colleges?

Hello, peeps! I'm a Texan junior angling towards staying closer to home for college. I'm pretty stressed about the process and I'm trying to find colleges that offer strong academics and an engaging campus environment. Any recommendations?

Hi there! Given your interest in both academics and student life, I'd suggest you consider Rice University, University of Texas at Austin, and Texas A&M University to begin with.

Rice University in Houston is renowned for its strong academics across a variety of disciplines. Besides academics, Rice also prides itself on fostering a close-knit and collaborative environment, thanks in part to the residential college system. This system is similar to what's found at schools like Yale and Stanford, and it really creates a sense of community among students. There are also numerous clubs, organizations, and sports teams you can participate in.

The University of Texas at Austin also offers robust academic programs and is particularly strong in business, engineering, and computer science. What sets UT Austin apart is its location—Austin is a bustling city known for its vibrant music scene, tech startups, and array of food options. Its large student body ensures a wide array of student organizations and activities.

Texas A&M, located in College Station, is another large public university with strong academics—particularly in engineering and agriculture. It's known for its spirited student body and "Aggie" traditions, including the "12th Man" tradition at football games.

Remember, the campus environment can vary widely, even among colleges located within the same state. I recommend visiting these campuses (if you can), talking to current students, and maybe even staying overnight to get a feel for what life could be like. Make sure to investigate specific aspects of student life that are important to you, such as clubs and organizations, Greek life, arts opportunities, athletics, and more.

With these strong options (and many more) in your home state, you're in an excellent position to find a college that feels like home for the next four years. Good luck!