A Guide to College Life

It is always exciting to start a new chapter in your life in a new city, but there can also be a lot of unknowns one faces. We at UTA Libraries want to provide some guidance to help make the start of this new journey successful by giving you information about things like housing, transportation, shopping, academic resources and campus life.  

Housing 

First things first, you need a place to live. If students are considering on-campus housing, make sure to apply early. By applying for housing early, you’re more likely to get your first choice, that can mean more affordable options and more desirable locations. This can save you the hassle of looking at off-campus options. On-campus apartments and dorms can be viewed and applied for through the UTA Housing website.  

Transportation 

Now that you’re here, you need a way to get around. Let's face it, America is a car country, and DFW even more so than most cities. But what if you don’t have a vehicle? That’s ok. There are several alternatives that can help you get around the campus and the greater community.  

Navigating around the campus is made easy by UTA Transportation Services. The Mav Mover shuttle buses cover all areas within the campus as well as off-campus locations like Walmart for students to get essential items.  

Utilizing the DoubleMap app allows students to track bus routes efficiently—the Mav Mover service throughout the day and in the evening.  

The bus schedule, routes, and hours of operation are on the UTA Parking and Transportation Services website.  

Students looking to travel a little bit further off campus can utilize the Arlington On-Demand ride-share service. Riders can travel throughout Arlington for $5 or less, which can be scheduled through a smartphone app.  

If using the bus or a ride-share service is not possible, bikes are a great way to get around campus. UTA Libraries has a bike rental program for students who can’t afford a bike. This program is free for students to use.  

To rent a bike, students can fill out an application form online.  Once approved, students must sign a rental agreement/liability waiver similar to the document in place for tech lending and The Shop Room in the FabLab. It notes that if a person abuses or walks away with a bike, they are financially responsible. Replacement costs can range from $150 to $300. 

If students do have their own bikes there are bike racks throughout campus along with bike repair stations. The location of bike racks and repair stations can be viewed on UTA’s Office of Sustainability’s website.  

UTA Libraries Services 

The UTA Libraries are not just a place to study, we’re a hub of innovation, exploration, and a wealth of resources. Within its walls, students can explore various books, utilize online databases, and even book private rooms for individual studies. Keep an eye out for daily events, as there's always something fun happening at the library. 

A favorite resource among students is the tech lending machines on the Central Library's first floor. These machines offer a variety of tech tools and gadgets for lending, each for a week. From cameras and laptops to toolkits, projectors and calculators, and even chargers for your devices, these vending machines provide students with access to essential technology without spending any money. 

We know how expensive college textbooks can be. So UTA Libraries even has Course Reserve Self-Checkout machines on the first floor of the Central Library and two other locations across campus, the Engineering Lab Building across from Nedderman Hall and inside the west campus parking garage. These machines let students borrow course textbooks at no cost for a limited time.  

Campus events 

What would college be without friends? Attending campus events is an excellent way to meet people and explore all the opportunities UTA offers.  

Whether you're passionate about cultural dance, sports or other interests, there's a club for you. These clubs provide a platform to make lasting connections, share experiences and enhance your college journey. 

As you enter this new chapter, remember that the UTA is here to support you every step of the way. Enjoy the vibrant campus life, explore new opportunities, and don't hesitate to seek help when needed. Your journey is not just academic; it's a chance to learn and make lasting connections.  

We hope this guide helps you make the most out of your college career and good look on your academic journey.  

- This article was written by Amulya Yakkala, who is an editorial assistant with the UTA Libraries Marketing and Communication Department.