Discover Dallas with SMU’s newest students

DALLAS (SMU) – SMU hosts a special program for its entering students every August called “Mustang Corral,” designed to teach the basics of academic and social life on the Hilltop. But this year, SMU's 100th birthday, the University is taking its show on the road – taking the first-year students by bus to experience why being in Dallas is one of the best things about being at SMU.   

"We know part of the reason students choose SMU is because of the opportunities Dallas offers," says Jomita Fleming, associate director for SMU student transitions. "We want to help connect students with the city of Dallas from the very beginning."

SMU faculty members and staff have created 25 different tours to introduce entering students to their new hometown. Destinations range from the Dallas Zoo to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, but kayaking on White Rock Lake and touring the AT&T Stadium are among the most popular. Here is a sample of the places students will visit:

• Visiting Paul Quinn College neighborhood farm
• Exploring Mexican-American culture of Dallas
• Ice skating at Dallas Stars Center
• Touring Dallas Federal Reserve and meeting Dallas Fed official
• Visiting Sixth Floor Museum
• Racing go-karts as a lesson in physics
• Exploring the Dallas Arts District
• Experiencing the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

"Discover Dallas is a fantastic opportunity for first year students to explore the community that surrounds our campus," says Nicki Fletcher, student chair for Discover Dallas. "My biggest goal for this part of Corral is for all of the students to find something that they feel connected to in the community. Whether a student loves art, enjoys the outdoors, has a passion for service, or just wants to experience something new and exciting, there is something for everyone on the Discover Dallas itinerary."

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