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Author: Blake Smith

Fernando Fonseca blog header.
Transfer Students

My Transfer Journey: Fernando Fonseca

Posted on October 21, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

“Never be too afraid to ask questions or make friends!”  Fernando Fonseca , First Generation Transfer Student Fernando Fonseca is a proud first generation transfer student here at Tarleton State …

Why sending our son 1500 miles away was the only correct answer.
Out-of-State Students / Parents

The Place To Be: Why Sending Our Son 1,500 Miles Away Was The Only Correct Answer

Posted on October 7, 2025September 23, 2025 by Blake Smith

“Ever since learning about Tarleton, Harry knew it was the place for him. Attending orientation was such an emotional event for me because it was the realization that this was …

But first wifi blog header.
Living on Campus

But first, wifi

Posted on August 11, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

One of the single most important things every student needs to thrive in college is a strong wifi connection.  Whether you’re trying to complete homework assignments or stream your favorite …

Collage of Auntie Anne's snacks.
Living on Campus

Oh, the places you’ll go (with your Texan Card)

Posted on August 6, 2025August 6, 2025 by Blake Smith

The “man”, the myth, the legend… your Texan Card. Your ultimate key to unlocking all of the great things that come with being a Tarleton State Texan.  The Texan Card …

Chalk board that reads supporting your student during their first semester.
Uncategorized

How to support your Texan during their first semester of college

Posted on July 31, 2025July 31, 2025 by Blake Smith

You’ve helped them apply for scholarships, register for Texan Orientation and move-in to their new home. However, a parent (or guardian’s) job is never truly done!  Now that your Texan …

Student working on her laptop in a classroom.
Student Life

A Texan’s Guide to Microsoft Office 365 & Adobe Creative Cloud

Posted on July 24, 2025July 24, 2025 by Blake Smith

As you step into your new life as a college student, you will have unlimited access to productivity programs like Microsoft Office 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud for no extra …

Texan move-in volunteers helping move items into residence halls.
Living on Campus

What To Expect On Move-In Day

Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by Blake Smith

It’s the day you have been waiting for since the moment you were accepted at Tarleton State… IT’S MOVE-IN DAY!  Move-in day, though exciting, can be a bit stressful for …

Esmeralda Bowen blog header.
Alumni Series / First Generation Student

First Gen Files: Esmeralda Bowen

Posted on July 1, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

“Don’t be afraid to take risks and remember that it’s okay to take full advantage of the opportunities that come your way. Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort …

Tyler Nerada blog header.
Alumni Series / First Generation Student / Graduate Studies

First Gen Files: Tyler Nerada

Posted on June 24, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

“Take the leap and join the Texan Family! Come in with an open mind and prepare to have the most pivotal years of your life. Soak up every experience possible, …

Shelbi Tidwell blog header.
Alumni Series / First Generation Student

First Gen Files: Shelbi Tidwell

Posted on June 5, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

“It’s [Tarleton State University] a place where you can find your people, grow in your field and make the kind of memories that stick with you long after graduation.”  Shelbi …

Drone shot of on-campus residence, Legacy Hall.
Admissions / Student Life

You’re Admitted, Now What? 

Posted on May 27, 2025May 28, 2025 by Blake Smith

CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’RE OFFICIALLY A TARLETON STATE TEXAN.  Now that you’re admitted, it’s time to knock a few essential tasks off your to do list to truly jumpstart your Texan journey.  …

Group of students snapping a selfie.
Student Life

Finding friends Near(peer) & far

Posted on May 27, 2025May 22, 2025 by Blake Smith

Finding friends in college can be the difference between surviving or thriving. While Tarleton State University provides in-person opportunities like Duck Camp and Transition Week to help new students connect, …

Kylee McKissick blog header.
Alumni Series

Alumni Series: Kylee McKissick

Posted on May 13, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

“Tarleton is more than just a university— it’s a place that truly supports you. From the smaller class sizes to welcoming campus traditions, it’s a place where you can grow, …

Texan dad poses with the Purple Poo. The words on screen say Texan Orientation.
Admissions

Your path starts at Texan Orientation

Posted on April 18, 2025April 17, 2025 by Blake Smith

IT’S THE START OF SOMETHING NEW…  And the only way to properly jumpstart your journey at Tarleton State University is by attending Texan Orientation.  All incoming students are expected to …

Design that shows calendar icon and the words "Tarleton State Events".
Student Life

Fort Worth Preview Day & Junior Preview Day & Duck Camp, oh my!

Posted on April 11, 2025April 10, 2025 by Blake Smith

College is a pretty BIG deal so it’s important that you know what you’re getting into before your first official day on campus. Lucky for you, Tarleton State University has …

Things to check off your list before graduating from high school.
Admissions

Things To Check Off Your List Before Graduating High School 

Posted on March 6, 2025March 6, 2025 by Blake Smith

Get Vaxxed: Bacterial Meningitis Bacterial meningitis is an infection that occurs when bacteria invades the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The infection can spread easily through the …

Parents

How to support your Tarleton Texan during exam season

Posted on March 6, 2025March 6, 2025 by Blake Smith

SUPPORTING YOUR TEST-TAKING TEXAN It’s the most stressful time of the year (commonly referred to by college students as exam season). A time when student’s whits are put to the …

Megan Wooster blog header.
Alumni Series / First Generation Student

First Gen Files: Megan Wooster

Posted on February 6, 2025July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

“ Don’t be nervous when looking into groups or communities to join! I would not trade my experiences for the world.” Megan Wooster Tarleton State Alumna, Class of 2023 | First …

FAFSA 101 Back To Basics blog header.
Paying for College

FAFSA 101: Back To The Basics

Posted on November 19, 2024July 15, 2026 by Blake Smith

College is not an expense, it is an investment. Though pricey at times, it is not an investment that needs to be taken on alone. The Free Application for Federal …

Collage of family photos on the left with text 'Third Time's the Charm: A Dad's Guide to Raising Texan's'.
Parents

Third Time’s The Charm: A Dad’s Guide To Raising Texans

Posted on November 12, 2024January 28, 2025 by Blake Smith

It’s no secret that the transition from high school to college can be daunting for students. What’s rarely addressed is how much the transition can impact the parents/guardians.  Danny Jordan, …

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  • How to Choose The Right Graduate Program For You July 17, 2026
  • Move-In Must-Haves July 13, 2026
  • First Gen Files: Ronique Caldwell June 15, 2026
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  • My Transfer Journey: Fatima Hernandez   June 2, 2026

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