Become a Bearkat. Build to Something Greater.
An Extension of Home
You’re close to home and supported every step of the way. SHSU is committed to direct admissions pathways for local students, and if you're admitted, you will be eligible to receive a renewable $1,000 scholarship. From academic to mental and physical wellness support and beyond, SHSU provides the resources you need to thrive.
Meet Some of Our Local Bearkats
Meet students from nearby counties who chose to become Bearkats. Explore their stories and discover why SHSU will feel like an extension of home.
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Alexis - Trinity Co.
Major: Animal Science with Pre-Vet Concentration
"I chose SHSU because it just feels right for me. I also really love the small-town vibe of Huntsville - welcoming and not too overwhelming. SHSU also offers great opportunities for internships and networking, which will help me build the career I've always wanted."
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Jadarrius - Walker Co.
Major: Accounting
"SHSU is close to home, and both my adopted parents graduated from Sam. The SAM Center, TimelyCare app, Tripod's Thrift, and Career Success Center have all helped me stay on track. My advice: Don't be afraid to step out of your zone. This campus is full of people who truly want you to succeed, and the more you put into it, the more you'll get out of your experience."
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Gabriel - Montgomery Co.
Major: Accounting
“I chose SHSU because of the small class sizes and opportunity to leave an impact. My advice: Apply to scholarships, even if you don't think you'll get them. You never know. Also, get to know your professors. If you make an impression, there are research, leadership, and so many other opportunities waiting for you."
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Megan - Montgomery Co.
Major: Marketing
"My favorite things about SHSU are the atmosphere and the people. The Academic Success Center is more help than anyone knows. My advice: Don't rush through everything; slow down to enjoy the best years of your life."
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Valerie - Walker Co.
Major: Pre-Nursing
"I chose SHSU because the nursing program is great, I got the Smith-Hutson scholarship, and the community is amazing. I'm hoping to come back for my master's in healthcare admin. My advice: Get involved early!"
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Chelsea - Walker Co.
Major: Communications with Marketing minor
"The strong community and having my family close by gave me the support I needed to stay focused and motivated. If you are choosing SHSU, you are choosing the right college. My advice: Come to Saturday @ SAM and see campus!"
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Manuel - Walker Co.
Majors: Accounting, Finance, Banking
"I chose SHSU because of how close to home it was for me, and the small community makes it possible for faculty and staff to focus on you more. My advice: One of the most powerful things you can do is ask for help, and it also always helps to get advice from someone with a different perspective."
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Donnie - Polk Co.
Major: Public Relations and Advertising
"I chose SHSU because of the incredible opportunities it offers. From the Communications department to the connections I’ve made and the energy of student life, I know I made the right choice. I joined an honor society and achieved a 4.0 my freshman year. My advice: Come with open arms and take opportunities when given."
Local Student Excellence
When you choose SHSU, you become a member of the Bearkat family, where you're supported in every way so you can focus on your classes and achieving your goals. Many of our local students excel in academics, take on leadership roles, join athletics teams, and choose to serve our community.
More than 200 SHSU students are Smith-Hutson scholars, and many of them come from local high schools. The Smith-Hutson scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need. For more information, visit the Smith-Hutson webpage.
A few of our local Smith-Hutson scholars:
The Honors College at SHSU promotes student success through academic excellence, support services, research, and community engagement. If you're interested in applying for Honors, view the Honors College webpage to see if you are qualified to apply.
SHSU has 17 NCAA Division I sports teams: seven men's teams (baseball, basketball, football, golf, indoor and outdoor track and field/cross country) and ten women's teams (basketball, bowling, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and indoor and outdoor track and field/cross country).
We have local students who compete in football, baseball, cross country, track and field, golf, volleyball, soccer, and softball, and we can't wait to welcome you to your future team.
SHSU has more than 250 student organizations, 31 fraternity and sorority chapters, and countless opportunities to get involved. Whether you’re passionate about leadership and service, culture, academics, the arts, or just want to meet new friends, you’ll find your community here. Joining a student organization isn’t just about filling your schedule—it’s about building lifelong friendships, developing leadership skills, and making your mark on campus. Discover your people. Find your purpose.
Our local students serve as leaders in many areas. Some examples are the Freshmen Leadership Program, Orange Keys, Student Government Association, and Campus Activities Board.
Get involved and join thousands of other local students who have made SHSU their second home.
Choose Your Path
At SHSU, you’ll find programs that help you turn your passions into purpose. Whether you love science, storytelling, teaching, or technology, there’s a place here where you can truly shine.
Bearkats Put in the Work
Prepare for your future with real-world experience and support from the Career Success Center. Build your resume, find internships, and take the next step toward your dream career.
Lead in Service to Others
Bearkats make a difference through leadership, service, and involvement. Discover programs that help you grow as a leader while giving back to the SHSU and East Texas communities.
Local Impact
Sam Houston State University is proud to serve thousands of students from our neighboring counties, empowering local Bearkats to rise, lead, and shape the future of East Texas.
- 1,000+ New Local Students More than 1,000 students from Walker, Polk, Trinity, Grimes, Madison, Montgomery, Houston, and San Jacinto counties join the SHSU community each year. We can't wait to welcome you, too.
- 50+ Local Leaders Local students serve as leaders and ambassadors in various programs, such as Orange Keys, the Freshmen Leadership Program, Student Government Association, Campus Activities Board, and leaders of fraternities and sororities.
- 100% Rooting for You At SHSU, we're 100% committed to helping you succeed. As a member of the Bearkat community, you'll not only have access to the resources you need, but you'll also have a community of more than 23,000 students, faculty, and staff who have your back.
Let's See You Succeed!
Wherever you’re from, your future begins here. Let’s see you succeed as a Bearkat.