Texas Christian University (TCU)

Texas Christian University (TCU), a private liberal arts college in Fort Worth, was founded to provide classical education that would develop character. According to respondents, that's still very much the case, given an "emphasis on academics and broader thinking rather than just having us memorize information." Access to over 115 undergraduate programs ensures a broad-based education that can develop both intellect and integrity, whether that's in the familiar English or business management or less common courses like fashion merchandising and human-animal relationships. Students also take a minimum of one class involving religion, whether that's a look at Buddhism or a historical view of Early Christianity. In further accordance with the school's liberal arts ideals, students also cite the thoughtful discussions in their courses: "Our small class sizes are one of our greatest strengths." Students speak glowingly of their professors, praising their excellent teaching but also describing strong feelings of camaraderie, especially in the way they feel "they all will know your name and really get to know you."

"The often-celebrated 'Frog Family' is real: no matter who you are, you're welcomed and cared for." TCU students describe one another as gracious, helpful, and fiercely loyal to their peers and school. "I think TCU has one of the kindest and caring student bodies I have seen," one senior remarks. "Walking across campus you will see many, many students in TCU gear and I think that is representative of the love the student body has at this university." Another senior simply states "I would do anything for a Frog." Approximately 60*% of TCU undergraduates are women and many are Christian, but as one junior puts it, "The 'C' in TCU can be as large or small as you want it to be." Students frequently note that diversity of all types has increased in recent years and that the community readily welcomes people of all faiths and creeds. There's an even mix of commuters and oncampus residents, with both groups reporting high levels of extracurricular participation and school pride: "I feel so blessed to go to a school where everyone is happy to be here and loving life."

The atmosphere on Texas Christian University's picturesque campus is most commonly described as upbeat and animated: "Every day there is something new and my peers create a community that is unbeatable." As one junior put it "There is a lovely lively feeling to the campus, always bubbling with excitement for events or games!" Team sports are an important part of life at the school, for the spectators as well as the athletes. Hundreds of boisterous "Frogs" (named for the school's intrepid horned frog mascot) can be seen enthusiastically cheering their football, baseball, and basketball teams. Greek life is also popular, as are the innumerable clubs and student organizations. TCU students can choose from over 275 groups, ranging from Arabic culture to student ministry to chess to meditation. In keeping with philanthropic values and the TCU heritage, many give their time freely to volunteer in the outside community or pursue charity work. Students might be seen caring for patients at a nearby Fort Worth hospital, playing Bingo in the park with people who are homeless, or providing music therapy for local children in need. In essence, "I was first drawn to TCU because everyone was smiling when I visited the campus, and now I'm one of those smiling students that prospective students see on their tour."