Southwestern University 2007 College Prowler Horror Book Review

Introduction from the Author 

I always knew that I wanted to attend a small liberal arts college, preferably one with tree-lined walkways and big grassy meadows straight out of a recruitment brochure. I did the obligatory tour of schools on the eastern seaboard, but when it was finally time to decide, I realized that I didn’t have to brave New England winters to attend a small, selective school. Southwestern University offered me first-class academics, an intimate campus community, and a rich history, all in a cozy Southern setting.   

While Southwestern University’s academics and history rival those of the Seven Sisters and the Ivy Leagues, its reputation—even within Texas —is almost nonexistent. It was a blessing when the large public college 45 minutes south of Georgetown (South West Texas State University) finally changed their name to Texas State. Most times, when I told people where I was going to college, they would reply with, “Oh, South West Texas! The big party school in San Marcos, huh?” One group on campus actually made shirts that said, “Southwestern University: The One in Georgetown.” 

However, those that had heard of Southwestern knew that I was going to one of the best schools in the Southwest. In many ways, Southwestern is the antithesis to the University of Texas in Austin, which also has strong academics but is infamous for its huge size and impersonal atmosphere. Southwestern offers the same academic strength, but with a close-knit (almost too much so at times) student body, caring and accessible faculty, and a complete absence of TAs. 

With all these assets, it’s difficult to say exactly why SU hasn’t received more name recognition in the past. It is clear, though, that more and more students of higher and higher caliber are coming to Southwestern and discovering this academic “diamond in the rough.” However, Southwestern is not the right school for every student. Some find it too small, too homogenous, or simply not prestigious enough for their taste. Nonetheless, most students who go to SU say that they can’t imagine being anywhere else. 

It is hard to foresee exactly what you will want and need out of a college. If you feel that a small liberal arts school is right for you, I encourage you to read on and find out more about Southwestern University. Hopefully, this book will help you determine whether SU is the right school for you. 

Christiana Little, Author
  Southwestern University