Welcome to the Wild West! | May 1, 2023
Dear incoming Comets, Welcome to the Wild West! No, I’m not talking about the legendary era of cowboys and outlaws. I’m talking about navigating college life as a freshman. As the Editor-in-Chief of UTD’s award-winning, student-led newspaper, I would like to congratulate you on taking the first step toward this exciting new adventure. Entering college […]
Presidential letter | May 1, 2023
Dear Incoming Comets, Congratulations on your acceptance to UTD! We could not be more excited to have you here. Whether you’re coming to us as a freshman right out of high school, as someone who’s taken a gap year, a transfer from another university or wherever else the world may have taken you before this […]
Grand ole Temoc | May 1, 2023
As you giddy on through the UTD campus, you might spot a certain redheaded amorphous comet. But there’s no need to quake in your boots — he’s just your friendly mascot, Temoc! On April 20, 1998, UTD Alumnus Aaron Aryanpur designed “Blaze,” a blue-skinned humanoid comet and the first iteration of UTD’s mascot, as a […]
Elder wisdom | May 1, 2023
Howdy, partner! If you’re reading this, it means you’ve braved the wild west of college applications, survived your first dust-storm of financial aid meetings and set up your camp for the long haul – the next four years of your college education. Congratulations! Getting into college is no small feat, and the next few years […]
Riding the Comet Cruiser | May 1, 2023
The Comet Cruisers, shuttle busses offered by DART, are a good way to get around the outskirts of campus to grab groceries or get dinner with friends! Comet Cruisers are free and can be boarded by anyone in Richardson with no credentials needed. You can view the different routes the Comet Cruisers take on the […]
Dorm must-haves | May 1, 2023
Are you ready to make your dorm room the envy of all your friends, or just a comfortable place to chill? Look no further than these must-have products that are both practical and fun! First on the list is the bedside caddy. It’s the perfect item for those who are constantly losing their phone or […]
Learning assistance | May 1, 2023
You might find the basement of the library scary, but going to the Student Success Center shouldn’t be! The real fright would be falling behind in your classes. Avoid a midnight stand-off with your assignments with these campus resources, all available with a swipe of your Comet Card. The Writing Center and CommLab For all […]
Side hustles and money grabs | May 1, 2023
While Comets are devoted to their studies, most still seek out opportunities to pick up some silver between classes. Here is a list of side gigs that are easy to maintain throughout the school year. Ride-sharing and delivery That motorized stagecoach of yours can now be used as another source of income. Whether you want […]
Campus traditions | May 1, 2023
It’s hard to miss the quirky allure of our beloved school, but to make your time at university truly unique, make sure to take part in these campus traditions. Hidden Trinkets You may notice stuffed animals in trees or figurines in nooks and crannies around campus. Sometimes, you’ll even find the founders’ statues with scarves […]
Where to park your buggy | May 1, 2023
UTD offers students many different lots to park their cars in as a largely commuter school. Depending on where your classes are located, some lots might be a better choice than others because walking to the building from your car can take some time. Additionally, certain parking permits can limit which areas you are allowed […]
Make the most of the wellness center | May 1, 2023
UTD’s Student Wellness Center is committed to promoting the physical and mental well-being of all students through consultations, educational resources and preventative health care. Kacey Sebeniecher, the director of the Student Wellness Center, said the center’s mission is to provide students with the information they need to take control of their health. They are open […]
Intro to UTD sports | May 1, 2023
While UTD does not have a football team, there is a plethora of exciting sporting events you can attend during your time here. UTD is part of the NCAA Division III and also hosts intramural sports, a nationally ranked chess team and an esports team. DIII sports at UTD include baseball, softball, volleyball, basketball, cross […]
How to get ace-high with your professor | May 1, 2023
UTD has world-renowned faculty doing groundbreaking research, but as a freshman, it can be intimidating to form a relationship with these high-caliber individuals. But they don’t bite like a rattlesnake in your boot. They’re just regular people that want to enjoy the school year as much as you do. Here are a few tips on […]
Where to grab grub | May 1, 2023
The town of Richardson has a lot of quick stops and stores for some good grub, but here are the places with the best bang for your buck. Walmart If you’re looking to get a wide selection of quick and easy meals, munchies for study sessions or fresh produce without breaking the bank, Walmart is […]
Campus dining breakdown | May 1, 2023
UTD has plenty of dining options outside of Dining Hall West where you can grab your next bite. The Student Union is the center of most dining options on campus. Its main attraction is Starbucks, where you can order a variety of coffees, sandwiches and pastries ranging from around $4 to $10. Starbucks is right […]
Cowboy caffeine fix | May 1, 2023
Caffeine is a quintessential part of the college experience, and finding a spot you enjoy is just as important. Whether you visit during your first exam season or just for a pick-me-up, every cowboy needs a caffeine boost before they can get to riding horses – so here are the best joints near UTD to […]
Meal Exchange | May 1, 2023
Navigating dining options can be tiring — even when you’re required to have a meal plan as a freshman living on campus, finding good-tasting or nutritious meals requires tact. By the time I was in my second semester, I was essentially surviving off of my one-a-day meal exchange. But luckily, I’ve picked up some tips […]
Mental health help | May 1, 2023
If you’re having mental health difficulties, remember that you can find help at the UTD Student Counseling Center, or SCC. What is the SCC? The SCC is a mental health clinic that serves enrolled UTD students year-round and free of charge. It is located in SSB 4.600 in the Student Services Building. How can I […]
Guide to K-Town | May 1, 2023
Whether you’re looking for groceries or fun places to go with friends on the weekend, Carrollton’s K-town has it all. To get to this fun area, students can take the 232 bus or drive 15– 20 minutes from campus. Grocery Stores In just this small area, there are three grocery stores: Super H-Mart, Teso and […]
Best napping spots | May 1, 2023
Between busy schedules and commutes, it’s no secret that college students struggle to get some shut-eye. There aren’t any designated sleeping areas on campus, but UTD does offer lofty areas that could serve as much-needed napping spots between classes. A meta analysis by the Center for Disease Control found that 60% of college students get […]
Nice study spots | May 1, 2023
Finding the perfect study spot on campus is essential, as it can make a significant difference in your academic productivity — but not all of them are created equal. It’s time to rank the best and worst study spots at UTD, rated on noise level, atmosphere and availability. 1. The top floor of the library. […]
Campus hideouts | May 1, 2023
There are plenty of spots in UTD that are an escape from campus on campus — you don’t need to drive or take the DART to get some peace of mind. The spots listed here are open for all students, so consider visiting them during your first couple of weeks. Creek by Parking Structure 1 […]
Top UTD Social Media | May 1, 2023
The best way to stay updated with campus news and activities is to be engaged with social media. Here are some of the best UTD accounts to connect with! UTD Official Instagram The main social media account associated with UTD, @ut_dallas on Instagram, is an official account that posts important news and campus highlights. UTD […]
Social Life and friends | May 1, 2023
Plenty of folks roam around UTD, so socializing can sometimes seem daunting in this vast, uncharted territory. To help out, we’ve put together a list of the top ten ways to meet new people – and possibly your next best friend! 1. Freshman events There are several events specifically designed for the incoming class that […]
What clubs should I join? | May 1, 2023
This phrase is something you will likely hear all the time, and student organizations are a major contributor to the social scene. But among 456 registered organizations on campus, how do you know which one is the right fit for you? You can divide organizations into endless categories: academic, social, religious, cultural, art & music, […]
How to identify campus wildlife | May 1, 2023
From rows of native wildflowers and buzzing bees to small, scurrying mammals and soaring birds, at UTD, nature and students truly coexist. If you look closely, the beauty of the natural world will reveal itself to you in some of the most unexpected places. Even though there is a natural presence in most parts of […]