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The University of Texas at Austin

Shivani Mathur

Three Reasons Why I Choose UT

1. My brother was already a senior at UT, and I knew that he would show me around campus and take care of me. He literally held my hand as we crossed the road at orientation, and he walked me to all the mandatory events.
2.
If I changed my mind about my major choice, I would have plenty of other options that interest me.
3.
It is a fantastic education for a good price.

Choosing Liberal Arts

I knew I did not want to do medicine, engineering or business, so I chose liberal arts. After taking four years of Spanish in high school, I still was not even close to fluent in the language and I wanted to learn the language properly in order to communicate with others. Moreover, I knew I was interested in government and political science, so I added Government as a second major.

Shivani's tips

Studying

Coming to class and taking good notes makes studying much easier because half your work is done for you, and you do not have to spend as much trying to understand the text book.

Making friends

One of the biggest advantages of a big school like UT is that you can always find someone else who shares your interests. You never have to change who you are in order to make friends.

Show Initiative

I thought professors did not care about their students at all because this was college. I realize that, although professors will not remind you to do your homework, they always take an interest in their students if you show initiative. If you ask for help, they are more than happy to work with you during office hours and give you random pieces of advice.

A Life-changing Experience

I went to Argentina on a study abroad internship, and traveling to a foreign country was a life-changing experience. I loved getting to know the other UT students and bonding with them at restaurants and hotels.

Shivani and friends

Overcoming a Challenge

As an officer of the organization Nourish International, I had to organize a Battle of the Bands competition even though I knew nothing about music. I had to learn time management skills so that I could balance school, work and organizing such a big event, and I had to learn to delegate tasks to my friends efficiently and fairly.

From Rivalries to Sisters

My freshman year roommate was a girl who went to high school with me. Even though we were not good friends in high school (we actually did not even like each other), I asked her to live with me. Fortunately, our rivalry was based on misconceptions and we have become best friends. Next year will be our fourth year as roommates and I consider her a sister.

What the Future Holds

I hope to attend The University of Texas School of Law after graduating. Although I don't exactly know what the future holds for me, I would like to travel around the world and see new places.

Shivani's favorites

Class

Boundaries and Dilemma

Professor

Dr. Sheldon Ekland-Olson

Study locations on campus

Places to eat near campus

Books

  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Movies

  • Rent
  • Legally Blonde

Thing about Austin

The Tower when it's lit up

Want to Contact Shivani?

Send Shivani an e-mail at shivanimathur595@gmail.com.

Updated 22 September 2009 | Top | Next: 2009 Profiles ›
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