Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public university located in Huntsville, Texas, with a rich history dating back to 1879. With a beautiful campus and a wide range of academic programs, SHSU has become a popular destination for students from all over the world. However, like any other university, SHSU has its secrets and lesser-known facts that only a few people are aware of. In this article, we will explore 10 SHSU campus secrets that will give you a deeper understanding of the university and its culture.
A Brief History of SHSU
Before we dive into the secrets, let’s take a brief look at the history of SHSU. The university was founded in 1879 as the Sam Houston Normal Institute, with the goal of training teachers for the state of Texas. Over the years, the university has undergone several name changes, finally becoming Sam Houston State University in 1965. Today, SHSU is a thriving institution with over 21,000 students and a wide range of academic programs.
Secret 1: The SHSU Ghost Story
One of the most popular secrets about SHSU is the ghost story surrounding the Austin Hall building. According to legend, a female student died in the building many years ago, and her ghost is said to haunt the hallways. Many students and faculty members have reported strange occurrences, such as doors opening and closing by themselves, and ghostly apparitions. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, the story is a fascinating part of SHSU’s history and folklore.
Secret 2: The SHSU Tunnel System
Another secret about SHSU is the tunnel system that runs beneath the campus. The tunnels were built in the 1960s to connect the various buildings on campus, and they are still used today for maintenance and utility purposes. While the tunnels are not open to the public, they are a fascinating piece of SHSU’s infrastructure and a testament to the university’s innovative spirit.
Secret 3: The SHSU Art Collection
SHSU has a vibrant art scene, with a wide range of galleries and exhibits throughout the campus. One of the secrets about SHSU’s art collection is that it includes over 1,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and prints. The collection is valued at over $1 million and features works by both local and international artists.
| Art Collection Category | Number of Works |
|---|---|
| Paintings | 500 |
| Sculptures | 200 |
| Prints | 300 |
Secret 4: The SHSU Outdoor Recreation Center
SHSU has a strong commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation. One of the secrets about the university is its outdoor recreation center, which offers a wide range of activities, including rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking. The center is located on the outskirts of campus and is open to students, faculty, and staff.
Secret 5: The SHSU Farm
SHSU has a 1,700-acre farm that is used for agricultural research and education. The farm is home to a wide range of animals, including cattle, sheep, and horses, and it is a popular destination for students and faculty who are interested in agriculture and conservation.
Secret 6: The SHSU Observatory
SHSU has a state-of-the-art observatory that is used for astronomy research and education. The observatory is equipped with a range of telescopes and other equipment, and it is open to students and faculty who are interested in astronomy.
Secret 7: The SHSU Theatre Program
SHSU has a thriving theatre program that produces a wide range of plays and musicals throughout the year. One of the secrets about the program is that it has produced several successful actors and actresses, including Emmy winners and Broadway stars.
Secret 8: The SHSU Music Program
SHSU has a strong music program that offers a wide range of degrees and concentrations, including performance, music education, and music therapy. One of the secrets about the program is that it has a long history of producing successful musicians, including Grammy winners and concert performers.
Secret 9: The SHSU Student Organizations
SHSU has over 200 student organizations, ranging from cultural and recreational groups to academic and professional organizations. One of the secrets about the student organizations is that they offer a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved and make a difference on campus and in the community.
Secret 10: The SHSU Alumni Network
SHSU has a strong alumni network that includes over 100,000 graduates. One of the secrets about the network is that it offers a wide range of benefits and services, including career counseling, networking events, and discounts on university merchandise.
What is the most popular major at SHSU?
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The most popular major at SHSU is criminal justice, with over 1,000 students enrolled in the program.
What is the average cost of tuition at SHSU?
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The average cost of tuition at SHSU is around 10,000 per year for in-state students and 20,000 per year for out-of-state students.
What is the student-faculty ratio at SHSU?
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The student-faculty ratio at SHSU is around 20:1, which means that students receive personalized attention and instruction from their professors.
