Flagship Events and Initiatives
Interdisciplinary Studies Week (ISW)
ISW is a week-long mentorship program between students looking to add a major and upperclassmen in their major of interest. Mentors provide insight into their academic reality, guidance, and professional development opportunities.
Committee: Academic Enrichment
Policy Townhall
The Policy Townhall, hosted by the Liberal Arts Council, Engineering Council, and Senate, offers an opportunity for students to share policy ideas and deepen their understanding of legislation. This event is open to all university students and encourages collaboration between academic councils while fostering dialogue around campus governance.
Committee: Academic Policy
Undergraduate Research Workshop
The Undergraduate Research Workshop is a campus-wide networking event designed for students interested in exploring research opportunities. Representatives from faculty labs, research programs across all disciplines, and student research organizations will be there to share insights, opportunities, and resources offered by departments.
Committee: Undergraduate Research
Capital of Texas Undergraduate Research Conference (CTURC)
CTURC is the largest undergraduate-run research conference in Texas. This event is an opportunity for student researchers across the state to present their work and develop valuable communication skills, as well as connect with leaders in the field and discover further research opportunities.
Committee: Undergraduate Research Committee
Ready, Set, Go!
A college readiness workshop designed to help 11th-12th grade Austin high school students learn about the admissions process, hear mock lectures, attend admissions workshops, enjoy a free lunch, and an optional campus tour led by Senate members. The information presented at these workshops is valuable to all students, whether they are applying to UT or other schools.
Committee: Recruitment & Retention
Disability and Accessibility Roundtable/Panel
The Disability and Accessibility Roundtable/Panel creates an open, welcoming space for students, faculty, and staff to discuss experiences surrounding disability, accessibility, and inclusion at UT Austin. By fostering understanding and community, the panel aims to ensure that every Longhorn feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Committee: Community Advocacy
Community Advocacy Week (CAC Week)
CAC Week is a celebration of student empowerment and advocacy, highlighting the diverse identities, talents, and voices that shape UT Austin. Throughout the week, events focus on uplifting communities and addressing barriers related to accessibility, wellness, and creative expression. The week encourages students to share their stories and call for change through shared spaces and collaborative activities.
Committee: Community Advocacy
Microfarm
We partner with UT Microfarm for socials where we help work on their sustainable farm and gain insight into the work they do on campus. The events promote collaboration, fostering new relationships, and gaining new skills.
Coordinator: Outreach
College Tuition & Budget Advisory Committee (CTBAC)
CTBAC is a biennial survey that polls student opinion on tuition and the university budget. This year, our goals are to (1) develop college-specific questions alongside councils, and (2) present relevant findings to the Board of Regents, undergraduate studies advisory committee, the President and Provost, and the UT Systems Student Advisory Council.
2022-2023 By The Numbers
- $9,500 in student scholarships distributed to students
- $15,000 in appropriations to 35+ student organizations
- Over 1000 students directly benefited from Senate’s work
Additional Accomplishments
Last year, Senate hosted valuable events such as Coffee with New Faculty, New Faculty/PhD Candidate Roundtable, and the Classroom Educational Policy Roundtable. Senate held an event to assist students with writing their summer research applications, as well as an undergraduate research workshop to support students research at UT Austin! We polled student opinion on the registration process and met with administration to begin to implement our findings. These are just some initiatives and policies we implemented in the past year; what new initiative will you be a part of?
