I know that UTD is a growing university academically but what about the social life. What activities are available to students outside the classroom?
UTD social life has a reputation for being lacking compared to other Universities. As far as things like campus traditions, not many people practice them and even though you are taught some at Orientation tradition isnt a big deal as it would be at Baylor or A&M. School spirit is also not that high (probably due to us not having a football team). This can be a big draw for some and a big downside for others,
As far as school-sponsored social events. UTD and residential life, the SUAAB organization, etc. do try to throw on campus events. Most of them (IMO) aren’t that great but occassionally they will have a good event. A lot of people go to the school sponsored events at the beginning of the year and even though they can get lame they are a good way to meet people.
If you are looking for party life then this might not be your school. UTD cops are quick to bust down on campus parties and if they find you, as a minor, in possession of alcohol or other substances they may take drastic measures (I have heard of a few people even losing their scholarships). I have heard that for night-life and partying most people go off-campus or downtown. I myself am not big on parties so I have no comment about those.
UTD is growing academically but I think we’ve built a reputation as a non-social school (of course this school is under 50 years old and was mainly a commuter school until the expansion of housing options). There are a lot of people that may be hard to talk to or may be anti-social but these people are found on any campuses. With the addition of the dorms it has been a lot easier to socialize and meet people and many people feel that this school is changing to add a more social atmosphere. In my experience, the best way to get out and have fun and meet new friends is through joining organizations that interest you. Put yourself out there.
It appears from the website that there are a few sororities and fraternities. Do you know anything about them?
I chose not to do Greek life since I got involved in a lot of other clubs that more suited my niche (and going Greek can be kind of expensive and a large time commitment when pledging). Greek life here isn’t as emphasized as much as other schools and so far we don’t have fraternity or sorority houses. However, the people I know who joined Greek said that their fraternities/sororities throw great mixers and events and they would not have given up the experiences they gained if they had the chance. To each their own 