I’m applying to Southwest Texas State University as a safety school in case I don’t get in to UT Austin.
The place seems decent enough, judging from the junk mail they keep sending me, but I haven’t had time to go visit in person yet. Everyone I’ve talked to just says it’s a big party school. (Like Austin ain’t, right? 
)
If some SWT Alumni or students could relate their experiences there, I would be very greatful.
Thanks.
I went there for almost two years (1989-1990)…and yes, it is a party school, but I went to many a party in Austin also.
I enjoyed it, even though I was talked into going there by my older sister…I originally had started application to SMU.
My classes seemed to be all over the place, lots of walking…and, at least when I was there, guys were not allowed to park on campus, only us gals.
Parts of the campus are really pretty, and some of the dorms are more desirable than others…if you go, try to get into Blanco…fabulous rooms and coed to boot!
I know I haven’t given you much, and I’m sorry…It was 10 years ago, but if you have more specific questions, perhaps, my brain will dig up something for ya!
My brother graduated from swt in May. He was majoring in musical theatre, and apparently the school has a really good theatre department.
I’ve been on campus a few times, and I think it can be quite pretty. It’s got its own river! San Marcos is a smallish town, but Austin is only 30-40 minutes away.
Any school is better than Texas A&M!! But to answer you question, I have some friends at SWT and they seem to be very happy.
I did a couple of semesters of post-graduate work there. The terrain is beautiful. When you have a spring-fed river going through the campus, it is just sooo tempting to knock off all day. Go to the river. Have a couple of brews.
Don’t equate “party school” with “easy school.” It is a school who is very aware of its “image” and does not like it. The faculty takes academics seriously. Those who party too much will likely fail. Attrition is high.
There is a large number of “non-traditional” students attending SWTSU. Older people (23+ years) who commute from Austin or San Antonio.