Today@Sam Article
Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Campus Visit This Summer
June 7, 2021
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti
Choosing a university is not just an academic decision, it's personal. That’s why it is important to find the university that fits you. Sam Houston State University is a great institution and while there are many ways to discover just how impressive it is, the best way is to come visit campus and see Sam for yourself. Here are some helpful tips to consider while exploring SHSU.
- Register for a tour
Discover the unique beauty of SHSU’s campus. Both virtual and in-person tours of campus are open. There is also the option to take your own, self-guided tour, open to any prospective student and their guests from 9 am to 4 pm. The Visitor Center offers a tour map which highlights many of the historical and important places on campus. Each stop has a short video you can watch on your phone through a QR Code. Spanish language tours are also available.
- Check out the new Cost Calculator
The new SHSU Cost Calculator provides an estimate of what a student will pay for one semester at SHSU based on selected hours, housing, meal and parking permit selection. It is an estimation only and does not reflect financial awards such as scholarships, grants, or loans.
- Attend an ExCEL@Sam or Saturday@Sam event
ExCEL events and Saturday@Sam provide you and your guests an opportunity to experience SHSU. These events include academic presentations specific to one of the seven colleges. Guests will be able to visit with student service departments including: Residence Life, Financial Aid, Admissions, Advising, and many others. (Sept. 25 Saturday@Sam registration is coming soon.)
- Explore the Lowman Student Center
SHSU’s “living room on campus” for students, the LSC, serves as a social hub for Bearkats. The Kat Klub student lounge features an eight-lane bowling alley, plenty of couches and TVs, arcade games, tournament sized pool tables, a small performance space and Three Horse Tavern pub. The indoor atrium and outdoor courtyard serve as the epicenter of the building. The open, modern space connects all three floors and offers several food options.
- Connect with our history
Nestled in the heart of campus is a distinct location that many visit seeking a peaceful, cozy spot to relax or study. The Old Main memorial honors a Victorian Gothic building from 1890, once described as "the most beautiful building owned by the State of Texas." Tragically, Old Main burned in 1982. Although the legendary structure was lost, a quote featured in one of the building’s stained-glass windows would live on to officially become SHSU’s motto. A replica of the window can be found on the second floor of the LSC.
- Visit the Sam Houston Memorial Museum & Grounds
The museum's primary focus is the life of Sam and Margaret Houston, their family, and other individuals and events important in the early history and cultures of Texas and the Southwest. Within the 15 acres of the museum grounds, you can learn about the remarkable life of Sam Houston and experience everyday life on the Houston farm. A duck pond and two homes Sam Houston lived in are also on the grounds to explore.
- Experience a Bearkat athletics event
Get in touch with the sights, sounds and vigor of college sports. The excitement and camaraderie of tailgating and enjoying a game with friends is truly a part of college life. Discover the energy-filled atmosphere of a Bearkat game and check out the SHSU athletics schedule to see what is coming up next.
- Attend an arts performance or exhibit
Art, music, dance, theatre, and musical theatre—there is much to discover within the SHSU arts community. The Gaertner Performing Arts Center, University Theatre Center, and Dana G. Hoyt Fine Arts Complex offer a variety of shows and exhibits presented by students, faculty, and guest artists. Check out the events calendar for details.
- Discover the Huntsville community
Did you know you can see one of the largest bat colonies in Texas (right before sunset) near downtown Huntsville? Just a few blocks away, the downtown square offers a variety of unique shops to fill a day of fun. If you want to explore the Piney Woods of East Texas, look no further than Huntsville State Park for a peaceful hike or camping trip.
- Share your campus selfie
Centennial Sam and The Raven are excellent selfie spots as you explore the art and beauty of the SHSU campus. Be sure to tag #SHSU when you share your campus photos online!
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This page maintained by SHSU's Communications Office:
Director of Content Communications: Emily Binetti
Asst. Director Content & Social Media: Emilee White
Communications Manager: Mikah Boyd
Telephone: 936.294.1837
Communications Specialist: Campbell Atkins
Telephone: 936.294.2638
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