Student Handbook

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;
• Inclusion. A diversity of people and ideas, a spirit of inclusiveness, a global perspective, and a sense of community as essential conditions for campus life;
• 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

Welcome, Bobcat Class of 2026!

It is my pleasure to welcome you to your new home, Texas State University! Congratulations on beginning your journey at a school that will continue to improve your life long after you graduate. Texas State has a quintessential 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 notable 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!

In order to gain the full college experience, you must get involved with the university. I would encourage any Bobcat to take advantage of every opportunity that Texas State so excellently 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 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 some amazing individuals and find my voice at this university.

In addition to Student Involvement, it is worth taking the time to get involved in the Leadership Institute. The institute provides a safe place to develop leadership skills and surround yourself with a team of diverse people all working toward a similar goal. Though college can be an extremely exciting and eventful time in one's life, it is also important to keep the purpose of personal growth in the forefront of your mind.  Remember, as with most things, you will get what you put into this school. Texas State University will undoubtably provide the tools and support for your success, but will you utilize them to their fullest extent?

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 Theater at 7 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 make 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! Students today, Bobcats for Life.

Eat ’Em Up, Cats!
Malik Johnson
Student Body President