Photo: Southwestern University. Retrieved from: www.southwestern.edu
Southwestern University offers students a unique opportunity for social, professional and academic advancement by providing a quality education, in-depth training and social development on a daily basis. Students are given the support and attention needed to maintain active social lives that are enriching, but more importantly, help strengthen the skills learned in the classroom. The infamous Paideia Program and the Sarofim School of Fine Arts offered on campus have gained international recognition over the years, helping students to take advantage of a large variety of opportunities after graduation.
Both faculty and staff at Southwestern enable students the opportunity to establish their independence while making their mark in the world. Many students participate in extensive research throughout their college experience, presenting their work in their thesis papers senior year. Many Southwestern alumni have achieved prominent positions and awards based on their research, establishing a strong foundation to build their careers. Campus life offers students a strong sense of community and support to achieve their goals, while cultivating lifelong friendships.
School History
Founded in 1835, Southwestern University was established at the request for a Methodist based educational facility that would serve as a safe-haven for settlers that were against the Mexican government. The history began when a Mexican colony in Texas wrote a letter to a reputable New York Christian advocate regarding their concerns and demand for a school their children could benefit from, one that was free from the political tyranny. As such, Martin Ruter, a Methodist missionary established the University that has developed into one of the top liberal arts schools in the country.
. Southwestern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Over the years, Southwestern University has held a prestigious record of historical accomplishments such as their legendary triumph over the University of Texas during the first baseball game played in the state’s history. The University is also proud of the academic accomplishments, having three of the first five students to be honored as Rhodes Scholars being Southwestern University alumni. By 1910, the University had honored what would become the first famous alumni, J. Frank Dobie, who graduated to become a legendary author and folklorist.
Campus Life
The small class sizes offered on campus enable students the advantage to obtain a quality education and attention to challenge their coursework. Being a residential campus, students maintain a close-knit community that has become a strong safety net and support system over the years. The majority of students take advantage of participating in the various activities and organizations offered such as the Frisbee Club and various special interest groups. While others prefer to get involved with the varsity and intramural athletic teams that routinely meet on campus.
The Office of Residence Life is available to assist students in choosing the activities that best suit their academic coursework as well as housing arrangements. There are over 35 different housing facilities located throughout the campus for students to choose from. All housing complexes are arranged by academic interest, social groups and honor societies, designated to help students transition to their college life more effectively. Each facility accommodates members of the Residence Life Staff to ensure student safety and daily assistance. These members are trained students, usually juniors and seniors that are actively engaged in campus life and community service.
Financial Aid
Preparing for college life comes hand in hand with the financial preparation in order to ensure the optimal experience. Faculty and staff at Southwestern University work diligently to contribute to student success. To accomplish this, the University dedicates extensive resources to provide information and assistance to students looking to obtain financial aid. Over 90% of Southwestern University students receive some type of funding assistance while attending school. Although most students secure students loans to help alleviate the stress, others apply for grants and scholarships to assist in their academic journey.
The Office of Financial Aid is available for students to help with the application process, as well as offer counseling services for students and their families. Federal and state funding is available to all students and fully accepted at the University. All students are encouraged to visit the office before the start of each school year to ensure that they register for classes on time and are able to fully optimize their course schedules.
