Students discuss excitement, problems with university growth

By: Janiece Walker 

Dubbed the Rising Star of Texas, Texas State University is experiencing record-setting enrollments year after year.

With over 36,700 students, according to the Enrollment Management and Marketing, Texas State is now the fourth-largest university in Texas. While most students view this increase in population as a good thing, others highlight the issues that come with these changes.

Several Students discussed the problems associated with a growing campus.

Joshua Hinojosa

“Well for starters as far as registering for classes, it has become more tedious to actually get the classes I need. There is a very high chance you won’t even get into the class because of the amount of people who are trying to take it as well,” said Joshua Hinojosa, a junior studying International Relations.

Another problem several students pointed out is the limited number of parking spaces.

Darbie Walker, a fourth year student, expressed her concern about the university building more housing and not focusing on parking as well.

“I hate everything about the parking. They keep building new dorms and no parking garages! I think they are building [a dorm] on top of the old lot by the Rec, where do they expect everyone to park,” said Walker.

To help with parking problems as well as influx of traffic, Texas State has implemented the Bobcat Shuttle system. This system picks students up from various locations throughout the city.

Sarah Rule

In her update, From the Hill, President Denise M. Trauth acknowledges the space challenges, but also shares her excitement about a growing campus, saying it shows both students and parents that Texas State is a top choice university for prospective students.

President Trauth is not the only person excited about this record-setting achievement.

Sarah Rule, a freshman, said that while the size of the university didn’t necessarily affect her decision to enroll, she thinks the university should continue to grow.

“The more the merrier,” said Rule.

Madison Graziadi

Sophomore Madison Graziadi agreed but added that the university needs to ensure they are prepared for more students.

“I think that Texas State University should continue to grow as long as the administrators and professors are able to accommodate the growth and are still able to adequately meet student’s needs,” said Graziadi.

Even though the university is considered one of the largest in the state, students express that it has the vibe of a smaller school, and say that is one of the reasons they chose to attend Texas State.

Freshman Leanne Halliburton said, "It's got that small town feel, but there's plenty to do with Austin and San Antonio nearby.”