Texas State sets record enrollment for 16^th consecutive year

By Madelynne Scales 

Texas State University, most commonly known for its party reputation, has achieved a new reputation by setting record enrollment for the 16^th consecutive year.

As of the 2013 fall semester, Texas State has reached a total enrollment of 35,568.

President Denise M. Trauth believes that as enrollment continues to reach high numbers, Texas State will continue to grow as a leading university in the state. Many students and their families are beginning to recognize the outstanding educational experience offered as well the value of the university itself.

“We take our role in preparing the next-generation work force in Texas very seriously, so it is gratifying to see that so many incoming students are choosing to attend Texas State,” said Trauth.

School officials are not the only ones taking notice of the benefits of the increased enrollment. Colby Gober believes the increase in enrollment will set higher standards for Texas State. “Things are changing and we are no longer quite the party school that Texas State has been known for since it was Southwest Texas,"

 Gober said.

While many believe Texas State’s increasing enrollment is a positive affect, some students think otherwise. Frankie Dimento, senior, has noticed an increase in the amount of traffic on campus. "Parking has become more difficult and campus is more crowded," said Dimento.

For student Emilia Parada, growth is inevitable and parking is not a hassle. “As long you plan ahead, there is no issue,” Parada said.

Though the rise in enrollment has affected some students in a negative way, many agree that the university should continue to grow.

James Ottman said Texas State should grow, which would increase competition between other universities in the region. “With more growth comes more funding and more events, things to do," said Ottman.

Not only has enrollment grown, but the diversity of the student body has too. Now, minorities make up 42 percent of the university: a 12 percent increase in Hispanic population as well as a 14 percent increase in African-American population.

“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.