You’re all moved in, classes are starting and campus is buzzing with activity. Your first (or next) year as a Longhorn has officially begun. As you settle in, we have a handful of tips to set you up for success while you are home on the Forty Acres.
Tip #1 – Take advantage of our dining options
If you live in an on-campus residence hall, your unlimited meal plan gives you access to convenient and delicious dining options including our dining halls, restaurants, coffee shops and convenience stores. With unlimited swipes at our three all-you-care-to-eat dining halls (J2, Jester City Limits and Kins Dining), $600 Dine In Dollars ($300 per term) and $200 in Bevo Pay ($100 per term), you’ll be full and energized to power through your first year.
For additional information about Dobie Twenty21 and commuter meal plans, visit our Meal Plans page.
Tip #2 – Get to know the students in your residence hall
If you live in an on-campus residence hall, your hall will have welcome event(s) for students to get to know each other. This is a great opportunity to meet new friends and fellow hall mates. If you miss a welcome event, don’t fret. Your hall will continue to hold social events throughout the year.
Tip #3 – Get involved early
With over 1,200 on-campus clubs and student organizations, there is something for every Longhorn at UT. Along with being involved in something you enjoy, you may also meet like-minded people. Be sure to attend the Party on the Plaza, a student organization and campus resource fair during the second week of school with fun activities, giveaways and more. Longhorn Welcome events are more opportunities to participate in exciting activities, meet your peers and immerse yourself in UT’s culture and tradition.
For more information on UHD events to attend, visit the Events page on our website. You can also check HornsLink for a list of organizations to join.
Tip #4 – Connect to campus and participate in Home on the Forty Day
To celebrate your arrival on campus and the start of the academic year, we are declaring Wednesday, Sept. 18 Home on the Forty Day. We have a special t-shirt and welcome gift for you, so please visit your residence hall front desk Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. to pick up your gifts. *Brackenridge, Roberts, Prather, Moore-Hill, San Jacinto and Dobie Twenty21 residents will receive their Home on the Forty shirts and welcome gift at the Waller Creek welcome events on Sept. 3 – 6.
As a first year student, participating in Home on the Forty Day is a great way to connect to the campus community. Join fellow UHD residents and staff wearing your shirt on Home on the Forty Day to show how great it is to be on the Forty Acres.
Tip #5 – Attend your professors‘ office hours
Attending your professors’ office hours is a great way to form a connection with them. As a first-year student (and beyond), asking for help is a key skill to master. Remember, your professors are there to provide guidance. Even if you don’t need assistance with class content, talking to your professor will share valuable insights that will benefit you throughout your time as a Longhorn.
Tip #6 – Utilize University resources
Knowing and utilizing University resources will help you thrive on the Forty. Below are a few key websites and organizations to know as you become accustomed to campus life:
- Submit a maintenance request if something needs to be fixed in your residence hall and UHD staff will respond as quickly as they can.
- If you’re studying on campus late at night and need a ride to your residence hall, catch a free ride with UT Night Rides or have a Sure Walker accompany you with UT SURE Walk.
- Explore Austin and hop on the Austin CapMetro buses and MetroRail for free with your UT ID.
- Need one-on-one or drop-in tutoring? Stop by the Sanger Learning Center.
Your first year (and every year) at UT will be full of growth and change, so make sure to breathe and get excited for your college journey. Take advantage of all the support and resources available on campus and remember, you’re not alone. Here’s to a great year on the Forty.