College Applications
Welcome to Visits with Victoria: Exploring Texas Christian University (TCU)
Hi there! I’m Victoria, the College Coach for Bybee College Prep. Join me as I travel to various college campuses, sharing insights and helpful information for prospective students. Today, I’m thrilled to talk about my visit to Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, TX—a place that holds a special place in my heart, as both my undergraduate and graduate alma mater. TCU is known for its exceptional academics, close-knit community, and vibrant school spirit.
Arrival & First Impressions
Stepping onto the TCU campus immediately felt like coming home. The stunning Spanish-influenced architecture, the tree-lined walkways, and the constantly
blooming flowers make for a breathtaking environment. TCU, with around 10,500 undergraduate students, strikes the perfect balance between being a mid-sized university with personalized attention and having big-school amenities.
Navigating the campus was a breeze, but I may have had an unfair advantage since I know the place like the back of my hand. If you’re visiting for the first time, finding parking and getting around should still be fairly easy.
Campus Tour Highlights
As soon as you step on campus, you’ll notice how much TCU students love their school. Our tour guide, a sophomore in the Honors College, radiated excitement as she shared her experiences. Walking through campus, it’s clear why students are so passionate about TCU.
The campus itself is quite manageable—you can walk from one end to the other in about 20 minutes. Along the way, you’ll encounter some impressive facilities. The Neeley School of Business is a standout, consistently ranked as one of the top business schools in the country. Another favorite of mine is Rees-Jones Hall, a sleek, modern building connected to the library. It’s full of study rooms you can reserve, and its walls are designed to be written on with Expo markers, so you can brainstorm or study wherever you like.
A notable addition to campus is the allergen-free dining hall, perfect for students with dietary restrictions such as gluten, dairy, or nut allergies. It’s a great feature that allows students to dine worry-free.
One of the most memorable stops on the tour was Amon G. Carter Stadium, home of TCU’s beloved football team. Unlike most colleges, TCU keeps its stadium open to students year-round. My friends and I would go there to work out in the stands, watch sunsets, and even take our graduation photos. It’s just one of the many perks of attending a smaller school with big-school amenities.
Admissions at TCU
If you’re thinking about applying to TCU, you’ll find the admissions process to be supportive and welcoming. TCU seeks students who are not only academically driven but also active in their communities. They take their mission statement seriously: “to educate individuals to think and act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community.”
TCU emphasizes a holistic admissions process, meaning they consider both your academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. They offer a range of scholarships and financial aid options, making it more affordable than you might think. If you’re aiming for the Chancellor’s Scholarship, which covers full tuition, make sure to apply by November 1st.
Another important note for future applicants: one-third of TCU’s curriculum focuses on liberal arts, ensuring a well-rounded education. Starting in 2025, students applying to the Neeley School of Business will be admitted directly into the program, rather than as pre-business students. If you’re eyeing the Honors College, the average ACT score range is 32-36 and SAT scores fall between 1450-1600—so it’s competitive, but definitely worth it if you qualify.
Student Life & Atmosphere
The student life at TCU is as vibrant as it is diverse. With over 200 organizations on campus, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. From Greek life to
leadership opportunities, you can truly make the most of your time here. During my time at TCU, I was a member of Sigma Kappa, a life group leader with Chi Alpha, and Vice President of the TCU Ice Girls. I had an absolute blast, and would have done even more if I had the time!
TCU also places a strong emphasis on community service and leadership. One program that stands out is KinderFrogs, an early intervention program for children with Down syndrome. On Friday nights, TCU students volunteer to babysit these children, giving their parents a much-needed break. It’s just one example of how TCU encourages students to give back to the local community.
Athletics play a big role in campus life as well. TCU competes in the Big 12 Conference, and Horned Frogs football is a major draw. Game days are packed with excitement and tradition. Even if you’re not into football, like me, there are other options—TCU has an ice hockey team for fellow hockey fans!
Academic Programs & Opportunities
TCU offers a wide range of academic programs across its eight colleges, including the renowned Neeley School of Business and the Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences. If you’re considering nursing, keep in mind it’s a very competitive program, with only about 9% acceptance.
One of the things that impressed me most about TCU was its focus on hands-on learning. Beginning in my junior year, I had an internship every semester. TCU encourages students to pursue internships and even provides funding for unpaid positions, so finances don’t hold anyone back from valuable experiences. The university also supports interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to customize their education to fit their unique interests.
Fort Worth: The Perfect College Town
Fort Worth offers an ideal mix of a laid-back Texas vibe with big-city opportunities. TCU’s proximity to downtown gives students access to a thriving arts scene, great restaurants, and numerous internship and job opportunities. For those new to the area, I highly recommend grabbing dinner at Joe T. Garcia’s or a sweet treat at Melt Ice Creams. The city complements TCU’s campus life perfectly, offering students the best of both worlds.
My Personal Reflection
I’ll admit it—I’m biased. TCU will always be my favorite university. But even beyond my personal connection, TCU has a lot to offer any prospective student. The beautiful campus, the strong academic programs, the welcoming community—everything comes together to create an incredible college experience. If you’re looking for a place that offers personalized attention, a spirited community, and outstanding academic opportunities, Texas Christian University should definitely be on your radar.
Thank you for joining me on this virtual tour of TCU! Stay tuned for more Visits with Victoria as I continue exploring colleges across the country.
Interested in learning more? Bybee College Prep offers comprehensive college coaching to help guide you through your college search and application process. Reach out to schedule a consultation!
