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Texas State University prides itself in its growing diversity and it should because diversity is a huge part of a record-setting enrollment of 35,568 students for the 2013 fall semester.

For 16 consecutive years Texas State has continued to set new records for total enrollment. Though school officials are pleased with the steady increase in numbers, the university’s students share mixed emotions on the rapid increase in population.

Many students voiced their opinions on the minimal parking on and around campus.

“I hate getting around campus,” senior Efrain Balderrama said. “This is my first semester with a parking pass, but I can never find a spot.”

Another issue students had with the student body increase are the shortage of classes.

”I have noticed when registering, classes are difficult to get in because of the high demand for certain courses,” said Christina Drifka.

The growing number of students is not only benefiting the university, but also local businesses. 

“I think with the increase in number of students it will set the standards higher and Texas State can become a better school. Things are changing and we are no longer quite the party school that Texas State has been known for,” said Colby Gober.

Sophomore Shannon Quay agreed with Gober. “There are so many apartments and not enough kids to live in them. Yes, the population is growing but it is benefiting the town of San Marcos and helping build the diversity Texas State is so proud of,” she said.

Diversity continues to be a driving force behind the growth. Minorities make up 42 percent of the student body, Hispanic’s 12 percent, and African American’s eight percent.

“As the demographics of Texas continue to shift, it is important that our institutions of higher learning adequately reflect the growing diversity of this state, so we are most pleased that our efforts to recruit students from all backgrounds has led to a truly diverse population at Texas State,” Texas State Provost Eugene Bourgeois said.

Even though the number of students have been steadily increasing each semester, current students said this did not have any influence on their decision to come to Texas State.

“I knew it was a big campus, but I didn’t know much about the amount of students it had,” said junior Stephen Torres. “It wasn’t until I got here that I realized how many people actually go here.”

“I actually didn’t realize how many students came here I just came here for my major,” said Tyler Stevenson.

President Denise M. Trauth said in a statement the university takes preparing the next-generation work force in Texas seriously. “This new high in student enrollment demonstrates that Texas State continues to be a leading university in the state, and that students and their families recognize our institution offers both an outstanding educational experience as well as an exceptional value," she said.