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AGGIEBOUND VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1

T E X A S A & M U N I V E R S I T Y O F F I C E O F A D AGGIEBOUND MISSIONS 1

FOR FUTURE AGGIES

The Fightin' Texas Aggie Band:

A halftime Tradition

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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The Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band A look at one of our most revered traditions

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Gaining the competitive edge

Maroon is the new black

Decked out in maroon in true Aggie fashion

Giving back A former student serving his country and man’s best friend

Sport management students get real-world experience

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College

How to find the right fit

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A day in Aggieland

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Who is #Aggiebound

Major Spotlight

The stuff you need

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Aggiebound Creative Team Lindsay Gasek ’99 Kara Humphreys Shannon Voss-Clinard Stephanie White ’13 Marianne Wieghaus

Student Writers Sarah Caffey ’14 Laura Sumrall ’15 Austin Dunson ’16 A. Micah Mills ’16 Callie Rainosek ’17

Howdy! On behalf of the student body of Texas A&M University and the Office of Admissions, I welcome you. My name is Michelle Sohne, an international studies major with a minor in business from Euless, Texas, and a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2017.

My experience here at Texas A&M is like nothing I ever could have imagined.

I have learned a lot about myself in my time as a student, and I am not even halfway done! As a first-generation college student I was granted the privilege to be a Texas A&M Regents’ Scholar, and I am currently serving on the Regents’ Scholars Orientation Planning Board. I am also a member of the Corps of Cadets, through which I have been a part of Parson’s Mounted Cavalry, Darling Recruiting Company, C.A.D.E.T.S. and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band.

Texas A&M tests your limits, and in doing so develops you into a leader of great character ready for anything you may come across in the future. It is truly indescribable until you come live it for yourself.

Through Aggiebound magazine, you can stay up to date with current events in Aggieland and learn more about our traditions, academics, camaraderie, student involvement and much more. You can learn about the tradition of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band on page 5, and read one former student’s story about how the Regents’ Scholars program helped propel his future on page 19. To continue to receive the latest issue in the mail, visit aggiebound.com and subscribe to the mailing list—it’s free!

Student writers pictured in order listed above.

Michelle Sohne ’17 Corps of Cadets | B-Company Texas A&M University Regents’ Scholars

CAMPUS EVENTS Campus Tours & Admissions Sessions

Spend the Night with the Corps

The Appelt Aggieland Visitor Center conducts tours year-round, helps you schedule time with staff in your college of interest and arranges an admissions session. campustours.tamu.edu

High school juniors and seniors interested in the Corps of Cadets stay on campus overnight and see what it is really like to be a member of this historic group.

For those who cannot stay overnight, a Spend the Day with the Corps program is offered. corps.tamu.edu

College-Specific Programs Many of Texas A&M’s colleges host programs for high schoolers with specific academic interests, including Camp ARCH, Veterinary Enrichment Camp and the Geosciences Exploration Summer Program. There are also many programs focused on leadership growth. admissions.tamu.edu/events

Whoopin’ Weekend Tenth through twelfth graders can get the true Aggie experience in one weekend during the spring. You will be hosted by current students who will lead a campus tour, take you to Yell Practice and watch the Aggies BTHO their opponent at a sporting event. arc.tamu.edu/whoopinweekend

Regional Events Prospective Student Centers (PSCs), located statewide, host events year-round to help you become Aggiebound. Trips to College Station, informational sessions and meet-and-greets with future classmates are just a few of the offerings that the PSCs provide to Texas A&M prospective students. admissions.tamu.edu/psc

Aggiebound Workshops High school seniors and their parents can attend a workshop to learn everything needed to successfully apply to Texas A&M. Advisors answer questions and walk applicants through the entire process.

Contact the PSC nearest you for dates and locations. admissions.tamu.edu/psc

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FEBRUARY

Aggieland Information Day 2015

Aggieland Saturday 2016

Texas A&M has two open houses a year for future students who want to explore Aggieland. Meet staff and faculty from colleges/departments, get admissions/financial aid questions answered, take a campus tour and so much more. admissions.tamu.edu/agsat admissions.tamu.edu/infoday 4

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The Fightin ’ Texas Aggie Band: A halftime Tradition STORY BY SARAH CAFFEY ’14

As a student at Texas A&M University, there are many traditions that are labeled must-sees. On Saturdays in the fall, watching the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band’s football game halftime performance is one of those traditions. Waves of excitement roll through the crowd as the band emerges from the stands.

All eyes are focused on the cadets as they step onto the field, phones are brought out to video and the crowd responds with an enthusiastic “WHOOP!” as the famous words, “Now forming at the north end of Kyle Field,” are spoken.

“The Aggie Band is For over 120 years, the band has been wowing audiences across the nation. It was first established in 1894 under director Joseph Holick and was composed of only 13 cadets. Today, the band is the largest military-style

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marching band in the country. With over 400 members who are all in the Corps of Cadets, the band is one of the most unique in the nation. In addition to football halftime performances, the band represents the university at Corps of Cadets functions, Presidential parades and the Texas A&M Muster ceremony.

From the early-morning rehearsals to the precision formations on the gridiron, there’s no doubt that being a member of the band is hard work; however, the support of the student unlike any other body makes it all worthwhile.

university band. Not only are they amazing musicians, but they represent Texas A&M in a prestigious way that students will always be proud of. They exemplify the excellence and respect that Aggies represent.”

–Laura Waggoner ’14

“We are most fortunate in that Texas A&M University has a unique respect and appreciation for the Aggie Band,” said Timothy Rhea, DMA, director of bands and music activities. “It is very

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Photos courtesy of Texas A&M Corps of Cadets

rewarding for band members to experience the positive reaction from the crowd each week.”

Aside from feeling the rush of completing countless numbers of amazing performances, students tend to join the band for reasons that run much deeper than a halftime performance.

“I wanted to join an organization that was bigger than me, one with rich tradition and culture,” said Tim McMillan ’15, head drum major and international studies and Spanish double major.

“Not only do we get the opportunity to perform for hundreds of thousands of people, but we are also developing leaders of character every day.”

“Keep an open mind throughout the experience,” said general studies student, Ashley Becktold ’17 about her time in the band thus far. “I did not have the slightest idea of what I was getting myself into, and it has proven to be quite rewarding. Joining the Aggie Band is without a doubt the best decision that I have made in my life thus far.”

Thinking about trying out for the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band?

Requirements include membership in the Corps of Cadets (with no military service obligation), high school playing and marching experience and passing a performance audition.

Upon asking Rhea for any tips he may have for hopeful high school musicians, he advises, “Practice. In music, we are always hoping to obtain perfection. While that task is impossible, in reaching for perfection, you obtain excellence. Once you have experienced excellence, you will never settle for anything else.”

To see this excellent, unique, timeless tradition for yourself, check out some of the band’s performances at youtube.com/aggiecorps. Whether you want to be on the field or in the crowd, the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band is an important piece of the student experience.

MAROON I S T H E N E W B L AC K because gameday is about more than just the game...

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Football season is a time to shine, and not just for the football players. From the classic polo to sequins shorts, fans of all ages find creative and fashionable ways to support their maroon-clad Aggies. 1. Zach Stamm ’18, Greyson Scudder, Renzo Gonzales ’18 2. Ashlyn

VanDewalle ’12, Danielle VanDewalle ’16 3. Brad Foulds ’05, Thomas Franklin ’05 4. Katy Keese ’18, Roe Pasada, Kelly Keese ’16, Krista Keese 5. Charles Hadaway, Kelly Siegel, Melody Hadaway ’82, Colton Hadaway ’11, Emily Moore, Samantha Hadaway ’11, Charli Hadaway 6. Darby Fitzpatrick, Michael Mueller, Mark Godinich ’18, Garrison Mueller ’18, Alex Mueller, Molly Godinich ’17, Kailey Aycock ’17 7. Cristina Hernandez, Krystal Hernandez, Oscar Hernandez ’10, Tina Vu 8. Callie Friesenbahm ’15, Andrea O’Connor ’15 9. Anna Hogan ’12, Katherine Hogan ’16, Kimmy Matthews ’14, Emily Huskinson ’12 10. Jordan King ’15, Adrienne Bailey ’15 11. Stephen Cohrs ’11, Jackie Seier

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STORY BY AUSTIN DUNSON ’16

We may have all dreamed of playing in the pros, but the reality of sports is that it isn’t all about the big lights and thousands of screaming fans. There's more to game day than tickets, tailgates and your favorite jersey, and Texas A&M sport management students get to experience all of it.

As a part of their coursework, sport management majors are provided with a capstone experience to apply what they learned in the classroom in a professional setting. For one Aggie, this experience exceeded all expectations.

“When I got the call, I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity,” said Haley Kovar ’15, sport management major.

Haley interned with the Houston Texans organization in the Fall 2014 semester, and she found that the experience was like no other. The internship shaped her career goals and brought along challenges she never thought she would face.

Photo courtesy of Haley Kovar ’15

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The Aggie Family is full of connections and mentors outside of the classroom as well. Kovar attributes her successes to senior vice president of External Affairs for the Cotton Bowl, Michael Konradi ’99.

“I thought it was going to be a lot easier... I was surprised how much manual labor goes into it. Working in sports isn’t always glamorous; you do it because you love it.”

Being from a small town, Kovar lived a sports lover’s dream by participating in almost every sport that was available to her. She took a liking to golf and had opportunities to pursue it after high school, but chose to chase her career goals at Texas A&M instead.

“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, but I always knew that sports were my passion… I thought I would get lost in the crowd at Texas A&M, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.”

Kovar felt at home here in Aggieland with help of her peers and professors. Faculty, like former lawyer and sports agent Dr. Paul Batista and internship coordinator Dr. Shane Hudson, coach students like Kovar through the decision making process of choosing an internship.

“Dr. Hudson and Dr. Batista were the biggest influences and mentors when I was choosing an internship. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

“Mr. Konradi helped open a lot of doors for me. It’s unreal to me that someone in his position was willing to help a student find their way in this field; I’m so thankful.”

Kovar isn’t the only Aggie experiencing the results of caring mentors. Benjamin Knighton ’13 gives praise to Professor Lydia Dubuisson for giving him the tools to succeed in his internship with local baseball club, The Brazos Valley Bombers.

“She challenged us to think outside of the box and even had us present our ideas to some of the heads of the Texas A&M Athletic Department,” Knighton said. “Being able to see our work come to life like that was an awesome experience.”

But it’s not just the students who reap the benefits of these programs. Professors like Dubuisson see their lives changing from working with their students.

“My students are my favorite part of my job hands down,” Dubuisson said. “I’ll often catch myself laughing at something funny they said, or basking in absolute pride at their achievements or getting choked up over a struggle they are experiencing. It’s hard to imagine not having crossed paths with so many of these amazing people who, in reality, made an even bigger impact on me.”

ADAYIN DOMINIQUE COLLINS ‘17 MATHEMATICS MAJOR from HOUSTON, TX

9:24 AM enjoying a smoothie at the MSC while waiting for the bus to West Campus

10:01 AM Kines Strength Training (KINE 198) in the PEAP building

10:01 AM ...we have an exam today

11:11 AM walking to my last class for the day and making a wish—11:11 is my favorite time of day!

1:02 PM start my volunteer shift at the MSC Lost & Found

RILEY MCBROOM ‘17 FORENSIC & INVESTIGATIVE SCIENCES MAJOR from ROUND ROCK, TX

5:30 AM block T practice, hanging with the buddies

6:30 AM in the daily uniform for 8:30 AM early start on the Corps, ready for the day homework—my six classes this semester are keeping me busy!

9:30 AM at Rudder Auditorium waiting for Kevin Hart tickets— he’s doing a show on campus!

11:30 AM lunch at Panda Express in the MSC, delicious!

ALEXANDRA GONZALEZ ‘15 AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS MAJOR from BROWNSVILLE, TX

8 AM start the day at my job as Executive Student Assistant to the President & CEO of The Association of Students 12 Former AGGIEBOUND

11 AM leaving work, walking past Kyle Field, seeing all the tents ready for tailgating tomorrow— SEC Nation is in town!

11:30 AM on my way to class—quick shout out to the Academic Building, Happy 100th Birthday!

12 PM breakout session in Marketing 321, one of my six classes this semester—so glad Friday is a light class day!

1 PM spot fellow Traditions Council members handing out Bonfire Remembrance pins— we will stand for the fallen Aggies on 11/18 at 2:42 AM

NAGGIELAND 11.14.14

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3 AGGIES CAPTURE THEIR DAY IN PICTURES

2:12 PM eating at the MSC with a friend—I love love love burrito bowls!

3:38 PM starting my homework for Math 220— one of my five classes this semester.

4:59 PM study time over— going to stroll through the library’s skywalk

5:35 PM fulfilling my duties as a residence advisor— checking notes left on my door from my residents

9:19 PM with my boyfriend Jalen after the Aggie War Hymn—he’s so happy about their win

12:40 PM first class today, Organic Chemistry (CHEM 222)—I have my handy iClicker to answer questions

1:50 PM second and final class today, Physics 201— excited to almost be done

3 PM long day and I need a good nap—not too long though, there’s still more to do

6:30 PM Physics 201 homework 8:30 PM time for a break

12:30 AM sawing varsity’s horns off at Midnight Yell— my buddies are really getting into it...WHOOP!

2 PM stood in line to pose with the elephants— commemorating our senior year with the Elephant Walk tradition tonight!

3 PM reviewing applications for Reveille IX—such a privilege to serve on the Search Committee for our next mascot!

8:15 PM Senior Elephant Walk—walking around campus with #TAMU15 reminiscing our time here at the best university in the world!

11 PM Head Yell Leader Patrick McGinty ’15 leading #TAMU15 in yells

12 AM 50 yard line seats for Midnight Yell—excited for the game tomorrow! #GigEm

Meet the next class of Aggies

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COLLEGE FINDING THE RIGHT FIT story by A. Micah Mills ’16

What are you looking for in your ultimate college experience: academics, Greek Life, the name on the degree? You have to spend four years at a school, and it is going to be a big part of your life. It is important to use the resources available to find your perfect fit. One of the best resources is visiting the colleges you are interested in.

“Before visiting any campus, the first thing all prospective students should do is research,” said Meredith Ramirez ’02, assistant director in the Office of Admissions at Texas A&M.

on campus their freshman year, so doing some research on off-campus housing options is also valuable, and will give you a good idea of what the surrounding community atmosphere is like.

This can include visiting college/university websites, reading online community message boards and even taking to Twitter. Keep in mind three of the most important aspects of college as you search: academics, residence life/housing and the community atmosphere.

Ramirez advises that prospective students invest a good amount of time researching the surrounding community. This could include everything from shopping and restaurants to weekend activities to extracurricular community involvement.

At Texas A&M, there are many resources to dig into before you arrive on campus for a tour. If you have a specific career field you are interested in, visit admissions.tamu.edu/majors and see the list of majors that Texas A&M offers. Then, you can navigate over to your college/department-ofinterest’s website to get more specifics. You can see what a typical semester schedule looks like and start to paint a picture of what your time at Texas A&M will be like.

Check out reslife.tamu.edu to get information about the different types of residence halls you can live in, and remember to consider cost, hall type, etc. Texas A&M does not require students to live

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“Students forget to ask about those things,” Ramirez said. “They are so focused on academics and financial aid that they forget to actually explore the community itself, on and off campus.”

Texas A&M offers tours through the Appelt Aggieland Visitor Center year round. Campus visits can range from a quick hour walking tour to a more personalized tour which may include attending a Prospective Student Session with the Office of Admissions and meeting faculty/ staff from your college of interest. To schedule a campus tour, visit campustours.tamu.edu. From here you can plan your visit, explore the Bryan/ College Station community and start to find out for yourself if Texas A&M is the right fit.

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Kati Clark, Texas A&M senior admissions counseling advisor, advises high school students to start visiting campuses as early as their sophomore year, but no later than their junior year to get a feel for the campus before applying.

“Once you step foot on campus you get a good feel if it is the right fit for you, because every campus is different,” Clark said. “Tour campus while classes are in session to see what a student’s day-to-day life is like.”

In addition to timing your campus tour appropriately, it is equally important to ask questions. Parents often ask a majority of the questions during the visit, Clark said, but it is important for the students to be actively involved, too.

“It is the student’s ultimate decision where they are going, and they need to be happy with their choice,” Clark said. “They need to be the ones asking the questions like, ‘What is campus life like and what kind of research opportunities are available?’.”

Touring can help you identify what you want out of college, whether it is the name on the degree, strong academic program or social aspects of the school.

After you leave campus, you may have post-tour questions that pop up. Remember to collect names and email addresses of those people you meet who may be a valuable resource down the road.

“While on campus, you definitely need to make those connections with professors and students, so once you leave you can remain in contact,” Ramirez said.

Researching, touring and following up can be a lengthy process, but it is the best way to be sure you choose the right college/university for you.

“It is that gut feeling and you really only get that by stepping foot on a campus, meeting the people and feeling the vibe,” Ramirez said. “It is very important that you connect with campus and the people there.”

“Tour campus while classes are in session to see what a student’s day-to-day life is like.”

I am originally from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, up near the Canadian border. I moved to Austin for two years and attended Austin Community College before transferring to A&M. I come from a long line of Longhorns, too. After being accepted by other universities and visiting all of their campuses, I started to feel discouraged because I didn’t like what I experienced.

Finally, a friend’s dad who is an Aggie talked me into visiting A&M. I had pretty much given up and started to question why I left all of my family and friends back in Idaho.

After the visit, we drove back to Austin and I filled out my app that night. A&M’s campus is unique, but in the best way. Everyone is nice, friendly, and helpful. No one is stuck up, mean or rude. There is no “I’m better than you” attitude. Rather, the attitude is, “college is hard but we’re all in this together, and we’re all here to help you.” While on campus my friend and I got lost. Instead of giving us directions, a student actually walked us to our destination, and we all had a great conversation on the way. So, that is the reason why I chose Texas A&M. Milo Bobbit ’16, political science major

why I chose Texas A&M

I lived in New York and came to visit my dad last Christmas break. I was already considering transferring away from the university I was going to in New York. My dad suggested we take a few tours of Texas universities while I was in town. This suggestion brought me to A&M. My best friend came along and found a penny in the parking garage, so she picked it up. During the campus tour, I fell in love with the history and the magic that this campus has—it’s like no other. When we got to the statue of Sully, the tour guide explained his significance.... saying that a penny placed on Sully’s boot could bring good luck in our application process.

So of course, my best friend is like, “Here’s the penny I found!” I put it on Sully’s boot and here I am, one year later, at the greatest university.

Emily Lay ’16, horticulture major

All through life we have to make decisions. From simple to difficult, from right to wrong, we must come to accept the ones we make. Choosing a college is a difficult decision, but choosing Texas A&M was the simplest decision I could have ever made. Touring Texas A&M showed me the traditions, the camaraderie, the love for one another, the community, but most importantly the embodiment of "a spirit that can ne’er be told." Because I came to take a tour, Texas A&M was my college of choice. Texas A&M is the college I represent. Texas A&M excels me toward my future endeavors, but more importantly Texas A&M is now my home.

Steven Kung ’16, business management major

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BACK

A PASSION FOR ANIMALS. A PASSION TO SERVE. AN OPPORTUNITY TO PAY IT FORWARD. STORY BY CALLIE RAINOSEK ’17

Photo by Master Sergeant (MSG) Romeo Satsatin

AS A FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENT, DAVID MARQUEZ, DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE, U.S. ARMY VETERINARY CORPS CAPTAIN, ADMITS THAT HE STRUGGLED WITH HIS TRANSITION TO COLLEGE. HOWEVER, THE MENTORSHIP AND SUPPORT HE RECEIVED FROM THE REGENTS’ SCHOLARS PROGRAM MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. The Regents’ Scholars Program at Texas A&M assists firstgeneration college students in reaching their educational goals. As a Regents’ Scholarship recipient, Dr. Marquez was able to succeed academically while building a community with other recipients.

professional veterinary program after only three years as an undergraduate. In all of his undergraduate accomplishments, Marquez gives thanks to the Regents’ Scholars Program that gave him the support he needed to propel his future career.

From an early age Marquez dreamed of the day he would become a physician, but after attending a high school geared toward careers in the medical field and gaining experience in hospitals, he realized that human medicine was not for him. He then began volunteering at a smallanimal hospital where he found his calling.

“The Regents’ Scholars Program provided me with mentorship, support and motivation to do the best that I could in my pre-veterinary program,” he said. “I was able to focus on classes and not worry so much about the financial burden that stops many first-generation students from even considering college.”

“The doctors I worked with were compassionate and empathetic, and I genuinely loved helping all of their patients,” Marquez said. “It was then that I decided I would pursue veterinary medicine at Texas A&M.”

As the only veterinary school in Texas and one of 30 in the country, Texas A&M’s veterinary program is highly competitive. The program requires a strong life sciences background with prerequisites such as organic chemistry, biochemistry and microbiology. Candidates’ applications are analyzed for leadership qualities, extracurricular activities and hands-on experience. A series of in-person interviews then solidifies who will be admitted.

After applying and being awarded the Regents’ Scholarship his senior year of high school, Marquez knew he was one step closer to fulfilling his dream of attending one of the best veterinary schools in the country. Marquez’s dream involved hard work and dedication to his major (biomedical sciences), but that did not stop him from exhibiting his natural leadership skills outside of class.

While being an active member in the Pre-Veterinary Society and serving as a Regents’ Scholar’s mentor and vice president of the Regents’ Scholarship Organization, Marquez also managed to get admitted to Texas A&M’s

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Marquez’s education in the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences gave him experience working with a variety of animals such as horses, cows, pigs, dogs and cats. By the third year of vet school he was taking courses outlining the treatment of exotic animals such as birds, reptiles and even zoo animals. Although Marquez enjoyed working with them all, he chose to focus his attention on companion animals like dogs and cats.

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Marquez received the Armed Forces Health Professional Scholarship to fund the last three years of his education.

Upon graduation, Marquez was the only student in his graduating class to join the military, a decision he says was always, “a natural calling.”

“Being the only veterinarian to join the military was an honor. The military path is very different than the smallanimal careers of my colleagues. Regardless, I couldn’t see myself doing anything else right now.”

After graduation, Marquez became active duty in the U.S. Army and currently serves as a Captain in the Veterinary Corps. He is one of few veterinary soldiers to enter the army every year and carries many unique responsibilities.

“Military veterinary medicine is very different from your average dog and cat medicine. Army veterinarians are the Department of Defense’s experts in all animal and public health issues that affect our world today. We focus on providing complete medical and surgical care to military working dogs, cavalry horses and other animals that are owned by the government.”

Military animals have been invaluable to our country’s defense and are often exposed to diseases not frequently found in our domestic pets. Veterinarians like Marquez provide these animals with the best health care available, because human health can easily be affected by an animal that has become infected during deployment in another country.

Photo by Master Sergeant (MSG) Romeo Satsatin

“When I think of diseases that may be affecting a military working dog, I have to consider his or her travel history and infectious diseases that the dog could have picked up along the way. It all comes back around to public health… if I can keep the military dog healthy then the soldiers that surround the dog will be healthy as well.”

Marquez has been given many unique opportunities as a veterinarian while serving in the military. One of his most recent and exciting experiences was caring for Secret Service dogs. He comments, “It’s a busy and demanding job, but I love it!”

Marquez has truly set an example for first-generation college students and Aggies everywhere. He reminds current and prospective students to stay focused on their goals and don’t lose sight of the importance of their future.

“Success is earned by those dedicated and motivated to make a difference. Anything is possible if you really want it.”

THE REGENTS’ SCHOLARS PROGRAM IS MADE POSSIBLE BY PRIVATE DONATIONS TO THE TEXAS A&M FOUNDATION. RECIPIENTS RECEIVE A $5,000 SCHOLARSHIP PER YEAR FOR UP TO FOUR YEARS AND RECEIVE ACADEMIC SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THEIR UNDERGRADUATE CAREER. scholarships.tamu.edu/regents

DID YOU KNOW TEXAS A&M HAS LAW, DENTAL, VETERINARY AND MEDICAL SCHOOLS? TO FIND OUT HOW TO PURSUE THESE PROFESSIONAL DEGREES, CHECK OUT THE LINKS BELOW. HAVE GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL? ADVISING IS AVAILABLE THROUGH OPSA.TAMU.EDU.

MEDICAL. NURSING. DENTAL. PHARMACY. LAW. PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT. TX.AG/PUBLICHEALTH | TX.AG/PHARMACY | TX.AG/NURSING VETERINARY MEDICINE. PHYSICAL THERAPY. DENTAL HYGIENE. PODIATRIC MEDICINE. OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY.|SPEECH & LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY. TX.AG/MEDICINE | TX.AG/DENTISTRY LAW.TAMU.EDU | VETMED.TAMU.EDU

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MAJOR SPOTLIGHT

STORY BY LAURA SUMRALL ’15 Everywhere we look, we are affected by horticulture in some way. From the grass in the Academic Plaza that we sprawl out on to study for an upcoming exam to the addictive Texas pecans we snack on during class to the flower bouquet we send to a loved one back home, horticulture has a hand in it.

The Department of Horticultural Sciences is one of the original departments of Texas A&M University. The department offers two degrees: a Bachelor of Science where students pursue a science-based program focused on research, management and production, and a Bachelor of Arts, the only one of its kind in the country, where students pair their horticulture interests with electives in social sciences, business, education, art and design.

Each year, between $40,000–50,000 is distributed in scholarships within the department, and a strong internship program provides hands-on experience which helps determine students’ specific career paths. Students in the major are involved in organizations such as the American Society for Horticulture Sciences, Sustainable Agricultural Student Association, the Horticulture Club— and even the American Society of Interior Designers.

“Pretty much all of our students, when they graduate, find a job pretty quickly, if not while they are still in school,” said Holly Smith ’12, program coordinator.

“There is a lot out there for them.”

Learn more about majoring in horticulture by visiting hortsciences.tamu.edu.

Photos courtesy of Howdy Farm

HOWDY FARM The Howdy Farm is a sustainable, oncampus farm run by current students with the help of a farm management team.

Volunteers come from nearly 30 majors and play various rolls: horticulture majors study the plants, communication majors handle promotion, entomology majors manage insects, business majors give management advice, etc.

The farm shares the fruits of their labor with the community by selling

their goods on campus and at the local farmer’s market.

“Howdy Farm is not just a student organization,” said Howdy Farm President, Jessica Newman ’17, a communication major. “We also run like a business—making a product and selling it. The farm is a spectacular thing that holds true to the sense of community A&M boasts.” tamuhowdyfarm.weebly.com

the stuff you need

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Applying to Texas A&M In order for the Office of Admissions to make an admission decision, a completed application and all required documents must be received (not postmarked) by the freshman application deadline, December 1. The following are required:

1 2 3 4 5

A completed ApplyTexas Application The application opens August 1. Apply online at applytexas.org.

Essays A and B (required for all applicants) We strongly encourage students to complete Essay C for holistic review and scholarship consideration. Those applying for the Terry Scholarship are required to complete Essay C. The essays should be provided with the application via ApplyTexas.

A nonrefundable $75 processing fee or fee waiver The application fee for international applicants is $90. (Fees are subject to change.)

An official high school transcript (with numerical class rank and diploma type if available)

SAT or ACT scores (including Writing score) sent directly from the testing agency

A copy of the Permanent Resident Card, I-551 or Senate Bill 1528 Affidavit must be provided if applicable.

Required Coursework

Applicants who graduate from an accredited Texas public or private high school must have completed either the recommended or distinguished high school curriculum. Students graduating under the new ‘foundation high school program’ are encouraged to complete the Distinguished Level of Achievement with one or more endorsements. The high school curriculum should be noted on the official high school transcript.

Please visit admissions.tamu.edu/freshman/coursework for a complete description of coursework including information for home-schooled and out-of-state applicants.

For the latest admissions information, please visit admissions.tamu.edu.

Scholarships & Financial Aid A Texas A&M education is an investment in your future. Unfortunately, many students and their families choose not to apply for financial aid for a variety of reasons: too much of a hassle, do not think they will qualify, do not know how to apply or think they make too much money. Don’t let any of these reasons hold you back. All students can apply to receive financial assistance.

Pursuing your education today makes you more valuable tomorrow. Follow these steps to help you pay for college:

1

Begin searching and applying for scholarships now. There are many scholarships out there that could help you pay for college. Visit scholarships.tamu.edu for a list of available scholarships and scholarship search engines.

You can also apply for Texas A&M scholarships online at applytexas.org when you apply for admission to Texas A&M. Submit your ApplyTexas Admissions Application (including scholarship questions) by December 1, to be eligible for consideration. Essays A and B on the ApplyTexas Application are required for all applicants. Essay C is recommended for applicants for holistic review and scholarship consideration. Those applying for the Terry Scholarship are required to complete Essay C.

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Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at fafsa.ed.gov. The FAFSA is available January 1. We recommend applying as early as possible. You do not have to be admitted to apply. By completing the FAFSA, you are applying in one step for all federal, state and institutional aid. This includes grants, loans and work-study. The school code for TAMU is 003632.

When you have received notice that you have been awarded financial aid, log on to the Howdy Portal (howdy.tamu.edu) using your NetID and password. Once logged in, click on the My Finances tab to enter the Financial Aid Portal to accept, reduce or decline your aid.

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cost of attendance is [an average of]

$22,500 per year

Books & Travel Supplies 3% 5% Miscellaneous 9%

Average expenses breakdown Room & Board 42%

Cost varies per academic college. Visit sbs.tamu.edu for the most up-to-date information regarding tuition and fees.

for in-state residents not living at home

$

Tuition & Fees 41%

be a competitive

applicant •

Plan to complete the required high school coursework (admissions.tamu.edu/ freshman/coursework).

•

Challenge yourself by taking rigorous coursework.

•

Get involved.

•

Visit campus.

•

Take the PSAT in October of your junior year to be considered for National Merit, Achievement and Hispanic competitions.

•

Pick your top 3 majors and research the academic and career opportunities associated with them. Texas A&M does not admit based on the majors you’ve selected, so pick the major you really want!

•

Register for and take the SAT/ACT by the end of your junior year. Be sure to take the writing portion of the test. Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to re-take the test(s) if necessary.

•

Write your essays at the end of your junior year and have someone, like a counselor, review them.

getting

admitted Academic Admits To qualify applicants must: • successfully complete the minimum required coursework; and • rank in the top quarter of their graduating class on or before the application deadline; and • achieve SAT or ACT score minimums (test scores must include Writing score): -- combined SAT Math and SAT Critical Reading score of at least 1300 with a test score of at least 600 in each of these components; or -- composite ACT score of at least 30 with a test score of at least 27 in ACT Math and ACT English; and • meet the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy (admissions.tamu.edu/uap).

Top 10% Admits To qualify applicants must: • attend a recognized public or private high school in Texas; and • rank in the top 10% of their graduating class on or before the application deadline; and • meet the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy (admissions.tamu.edu/uap).

Students graduating under the new “foundation high school program” must complete the Distinguished Level of Achievement to qualify.

Review Admits If applicants do not qualify for automatic admission but satisfy the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy, their complete application file will be reviewed in a holistic manner.

For more information visit admissions.tamu.edu.

Contact Admissions Visit or call to talk with an admissions advisor. We can answer any questions you may have regarding the admission process. We may even have a Prospective Student Center near you! admissions.tamu.edu/psc | admissions@tamu.edu | @Aggie_bound Customer Service

979.845.1060

Dallas/Fort Worth

817.375.0960

College Station

El Paso

Central Texas

Houston

Corpus Christi

Laredo

979.458.0950 See Website

361.289.7905

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See Website 713.454.1990 956.795.0412

Rio Grande Valley

956.683.8647 San Antonio

210.212.7016

Dallas/Fort Worth El Paso

College Station Central Texas

San Antonio Laredo Rio Grande Valley

Houston Corpus Christi

Pick Your Major COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE & LIFE SCIENCES

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Agribusiness Agricultural Communications & Journalism Agricultural Economics Agricultural Leadership & Development Agricultural Science Agricultural Systems Management Animal Science Biochemistry Bioenvironmental Sciences Biological & Agricultural Engineering** Community Development Ecological Restoration Entomology Environmental Studies Food Science & Technology Forensic & Investigative Sciences Forestry Genetics Horticulture Nutritional Sciences Plant & Environmental Soil Science Poultry Science Rangeland Ecology & Management Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences Renewable Natural Resources Spatial Sciences Turfgrass Science Wildlife & Fisheries Sciences University Studies*

Community Health Health Allied Health School Health Human Resource Development Interdisciplinary Studies (EDIS) Early Childhood-6 Teacher Certification 4-8th Grade Teacher Certification Interdisciplinary Studies (INST) Bilingual Education Special Education Kinesiology Applied Exercise Physiology Basic Exercise Physiology Dance Science Motor Behavior PE Certification Sport Management Technology Management University Studies*

aglifesciences.tamu.edu

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE arch.tamu.edu

Construction Science Environmental Design Architectural Studies Landscape Architecture Urban & Regional Planning Visualization University Studies*

education.tamu.edu

DWIGHT LOOK COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING engineering.tamu.edu

Aerospace Engineering Biological & Agricultural Engineering Biomedical Engineering Chemical Engineering Civil Engineering Computer Engineering Computer Science Electrical Engineering Electronic Systems Engineering Technology Industrial Distribution Industrial Engineering Manufacturing & Mechanical Engineering Technology Mechanical Engineering Nuclear Engineering Ocean Engineering Petroleum Engineering Radiological Health Engineering

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COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS liberalarts.tamu.edu

Anthropology Classics Communication Economics English History International Studies Modern Languages Music Philosophy Political Science Psychology Sociology Spanish Telecommunication Media Studies Theatre Arts Women’s & Gender Studies University Studies*

SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH sph.tamhsc.edu

Public Health

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE science.tamu.edu

Applied Mathematical Sciences Biology Chemistry Mathematics Microbiology Molecular & Cell Biology Physics Zoology

COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE & BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES vetmed.tamu.edu/bims

Biomedical Sciences

MAYS BUSINESS SCHOOL mays.tamu.edu

Business Accounting Finance Management Management Information Systems Marketing Supply Chain Management

COLLEGE OF GEOSCIENCES geosciences.tamu.edu

Environmental Geosciences Environmental Studies Geographic Information Science & Technology Geography Geology Geophysics Meteorology University Studies*

* Visit unst.tamu.edu for more information. ** Freshman entry is through the College of Engineering.

List current as of January 2015 Visit admissions.tamu.edu/majors for the most current information. © TAMU | x-xx | XXK

PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS & PROGRAMS

Medicine Vet Law

Dental Pharmacy Nursing

Office of Professional School Advising OPSA.tamu.edu

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID COLLEGE STATION TEXAS 77843 PERMIT NO. 215

1265 TAMU College Station, TX 77843-1265

[FirstName] [LastName] [Street1] [Street2] [City], [State] [Zip]

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