Welcome to a new year at TXST, Bobcats!

It was way too quiet around here this summer. I’ve missed seeing our campuses full of Bobcats making their way to class, catching up with friends, and bringing that unmistakable TXST energy. It’s great to have you here, whether you are on campus or online. I have a feeling that we have a really good year ahead of us.

For those of you who are new to TXST, welcome! If you’re a little nervous, that’s okay. I remember that feeling, too. Starting something new can be exciting and a little intimidating at the same time. Before long, I think you’ll be surprised by how much this place feels like home.

TXST is a big university and continues to grow, but students often tell me it doesn’t feel that way. I think that has a lot to do with the people you’ll meet along the way.

So, get to know your fellow Bobcats. They are some of the best people you will ever know. Get to know your faculty and staff members, too. They care about you, believe in your potential, and want to see you succeed. Let them get to know you, too.

And once the studying is finished, make time to enjoy all that TXST has to offer. Join an organization. Cheer on the Bobcats at a game. Spend time in the Quad or in the new Esperanza Hall on the Round Rock Campus. See a music or theatre performance. Spend an afternoon at Sewell Park. Try something new, meet new people, and make some great memories along the way.

My advice? Show up. Show up for class. Show up for your friends. Show up for the experiences that make college about so much more than earning a degree. You never know which experience or which new friend might become one of the best parts of your time at TXST.

College can be challenging. There will be great days, and there will probably be some tough ones, too. When you need help, ask for it. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. From advising and tutoring to student life and wellness support, there is a whole Bobcat community here ready to help you succeed.

I’m glad you’re here, and I’ll be cheering you on along the way. I love seeing you around campus, so if you see me, please stop and say hello. But I’m especially looking forward to the day I get to shake your hand during graduation when you earn your degree, and then watch you take that celebratory jump into the river.

Until then, enjoy every part of being a Bobcat.

Eat ’Em Up, Cats!

Best,

Kelly Damphousse
President