Southwest Texas State University officials say the growing prestige of the university is at least partially responsible for a dramatic rise this year in the number of freshman applications the school has received. Applications from prospective freshmen for the 2001 fall semester are up 87 percent compared to the same period a year ago, a figure that university leaders say reflects planned growth and the school's improving reputation. SWT has received 2,310 applications from prospective freshmen this year, compared to 1,230 at the same time a year ago.
Applications are up in all ethnic groups.
SWT revised its strategic plan in 1998, and adopted as one of its primary goals enhancing the quality and prestige of the university. At the same time, SWT President Jerome Supple said the university should become one of the three top public universities in Texas to which students submit admission applications. The current pace of next fall's early applications provides evidence that we're well on our way to realizing our vision. Christie Kangas, SWT admissions director, said enrollment is boosted by other factors as well, including moving the scholarship application deadline from February to December, and by holding admission information sessions earlier in the year. The scholarship application deadline was moved forward to allow more time to process applications and to incorporate an interview into the selection process for more scholarship awards.