Student Handbook

Welcome

Dr. Cynthia Hernandez Professional Headshot

Dear Student:

Congratulations on being admitted to Texas State University and welcome to our Bobcat Community.  Your admission to Texas State communicates our belief in you and your success.  We are committed, as a university community, to provide you with the assistance, encouragement, and support necessary for you to become a successful graduate of Texas State.

Our university is guided by a shared collection of values that are important as we interact with each other. These shared values include:

  • Learning. Teaching and learning based on research, student involvement, and the free exchange of ideas in a supportive environment.
  • Discovery. Research and creative activities that encompass the full range of academic disciplines—research with relevance, from the sciences to the arts, from the theoretical to the applied;
  • Character. The cultivation of character, integrity, honesty, civility, compassion, fairness, respect, and ethical behavior in all members of our university community;
  • Community. A welcoming spirit and a global perspective, and a hared commitment to creating a sense of belonging across unique communities, identities, ideas, and contributions; 
  • Service. A commitment to service and leadership for the public good;
  • Accountability. Responsible stewardship of our resources and environment; and continued reflection and evaluation to ensure that our strengths as a community always benefit those we serve.

Engagement in your academic studies and campus activities will provide you with the skills and competencies to be highly sought-after graduates and leaders in your communities. Your success will be dependent on your interactions both in and out of the classroom.

As a Bobcat community, we look out for and take care of each other. Please reach out for help and assistance when  you need it. Connect and engage with our faculty, staff and fellow Bobcats. Overall, a collective commitment to our community is what makes Texas State special.

Best wishes for a successful year.  Go Bobcats!

Sincerely,

Dr. Cynthia L. Hernandez
Vice President for Student Success

Headshot of Kiersten Florence wearing a blue dress

Welcome, Bobcat Class of 2027!

It is my pleasure to welcome you to your new home, Texas State University! Congratulations on beginning your journey at the best school in the state of Texas. Texas State has such a tremendous role to play in the improvement of the San Marcos community, and its impacts span across the globe.

As an Emerging Research University, Texas State is eligible to tap into specially allocated state funds designed to bolster research within institutions of higher education. With 98 undergraduate majors and a clear path toward becoming a noteable research institution, your academic options here are unrivaled. Not to mention, one of the most iconic features at Texas State is its unique ecosystem featuring Sewell Park and the river, so be sure to float!

To gain the full college experience, you must get involved with the university. I would encourage every Bobcat to take advantage of every opportunity that Texas State provides. Being active on campus will allow you to enjoy many rewards, from making new friends to growing as a leader. Located on the fourth floor of the LBJ Student Center, the Student Involvement and Engagement Office oversees more than 400 registered student organizations. There is truly a place for everyone on our campus and we take a keen sense of pride in that. Personally, getting involved in student organizations has allowed me to meet so many new friends and amazing individuals at this university.

In addition to joining student organizations, I hope that you will be a part of the bonding experience that football, baseball, basketball season, and other sporting events provide. Attending sporting events is a huge part of the college experience and a lot of fun! It enables everyone to be a part of it and it is a place to go with friends and meet new friends. It is a time to have fun, get dressed up cute, or wear fun and crazy spirit wear to show off our pride for our great university and support our teams who practice long hours to represent us as students, our university, and themselves.

Your Student Government is always here to help you and hear the voices of each and every Bobcat. Our office is located on the fourth floor of the LBJ Student Center in room 4-5.1. Please feel free to stop by and introduce yourself. The Senate meets every Monday night in the LBJ Student Center Teaching Theatre at 7:00 p.m. I encourage all of you to attend so you can hear about what is going on at our university and play a key role in helping to bring positive change and making a lasting impact on our campus.

Cherish your time here at Texas State and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. I could not be more thrilled to welcome you to our Bobcat family! I look forward to seeing you at our first football game at Bobcat Stadium on September 16. Students today, Bobcats forever.

Eat 'Em Up, Cats!

Kiersten Florence
Student Body President

Learn More About Texas State!

Explore more about the structure of Texas State University, and what makes our institution unique! We want you to be successful and find ways to get involved on campus and in the San Marcos community.
photo of students walking on campus with a tree in the backround

Helpful Information

It can be difficult to navigate campus as a new or transfer student, so we've compiled helpful information that includes a telephone directory, academic advising centers, academic and student support resources and other helpful links.

Student Involvement, Organizations & Community

Find ways to connect on campus, from participating in one of 300+ student organizations to participating in our recreational, music, spirit, and performance groups. Explore the campus and San Marcos community as part of your new adventures!