Meet Olga
Location, Size and Environment
I chose to come to the University of Texas for three main reasons: location, size and environment. The University of Texas is located in Austin – a city with a small town feel. There are so many things to do and experience in Austin and the city is not so large that it is overwhelming. This was very important to me because I come from a small town and adjustment would inevitably be difficult. Also, Austin is about two hours from my hometown; far enough to feel independent and close enough to go home without traveling hassles.
Along with its great location, the size of UT Austin played a major factor in my decision. It is a grand campus with so many opportunities and much diversity. This diversity created an environment that appealed to me. It is a wonderful experience to see so many different people, all united, wearing burnt orange, showing their pride at the University of Texas!
Olga's tips
Making friends
Join organizations.
How to be a successful student
Go to professors' and teaching assistants' office hours. If you make the effort, so will they!
Living on campus
I currently live off campus and lived on campus last year. Comparing the two experiences, I would say that both options have pros and cons. It really comes down to personal preference.
I stay on campus most of the day and travel to my apartment only when I have large breaks or when my school day is complete. I would recommend living on campus at least the first year because with all of the personal adjustments that occur, the convenience really aids in allowing the transition process to run smoothly.
What to wear
Burnt orange looks great on everyone!
Transportation around campus
Get familiar with the bus routes.
Helping Students Succeed
What has really impressed me about UT Austin is how eager everyone is to help the students succeed. In my first semester as an English major, I encountered a professor who would allow me to submit my papers early so that he could read them and give me advice on how to improve them before I actually had to turn them in. This was very beneficial to me because I was still adjusting to the expectations of a college writing class.
Providing the Tools to Change the World
UT Austin has already provided me with a plethora of tools that will help me succeed in my future and will allow me to change the world. The diversity on campus has allowed me to experience things that I never would have been able to experience anywhere else.
I have learned not only in the classroom, but out of the classroom as well. I have learned the importance of friends, family, and classmates. I have become more confident in new surroundings and have learned to seek out resources when I need help.
I have also learned that each and every person is unique and should be treated as such. The experiences and the knowledge I have gained from UT Austin will forever remain with me and will indeed aid me in changing the world.
Growing Intellectually and Socially
Being a student at the University of Texas is unlike any other experience I have encountered. I am blessed to have the privilege to attend such a wonderful institution. I have grown both intellectually and socially. The critical thinking that occurs in class coupled with the unique experiences that I have encountered every day on campus has allowed UT Austin to help me figure out who I am and what I want to be.
More about Olga
Favorites
- Study location on campus: Texas Union
- Place to eat near campus: Trudy’s
- Class: Mexican American Literature and Culture
- Book: Pocho by José Antonio Villarreal
- Movie: The Wedding Planner
Scholarships
- Terry Foundation Scholarship
- Rapoport Service Scholarship
Biggest challenge
The biggest challenge I have had to overcome has been adjusting to the amount of coursework that each class requires. Time management is a major skill that I have had to acquire in order to keep up with all of my courses and my extracurricular activities.