A campus tour is often the first step in picturing yourself at a university, but what
if you can’t make it to campus right away? TCU’s newest virtual tour brings the Horned
Frog experience to life wherever you are.
To celebrate its launch, we sat down with admission counselor and two-time alumna Hannah Wright, M.Ed., ’17, ’21, who shares why she joined the project, the moments she hopes students notice most and her favorite pieces of Horned Frog tradition.
Whether you’re watching the tour from across the globe or planning your first campus visit, Hannah’s insights will help you see why TCU feels like home from the very start.
What made you excited to be part of the new TCU virtual tour?
As a proud two-time TCU alumni and former tour guide from when I was a student, I saw this as a wonderful opportunity to share my love for the university in a more long-lasting and meaningful way. A campus tour is often a student and their family’s first impression of a university, and it is a great responsibility to highlight what makes TCU so special for those who may not be able to visit campus in-person – getting to be a part of that experience is truly an honor.
What’s one thing you hope prospective students notice during the tour?
I really hope prospective students can begin to envision themselves not just attending TCU but truly living and thriving on campus while they watch the virtual tour. Whether it’s walking through our beautiful campus, getting a glimpse as to what student life is really like or imagining themselves in the classroom, I hope this tour can help them feel that sense of belonging at TCU from the very start.
Complete the sentence: “TCU feels like home because…”
The traditions, school spirit and welcoming environment create a comforting atmosphere that feels like family from the moment you step on campus. TCU has been my home away from home for years, and I can only hope our students continue to feel that same connection for generations to come.
If you could describe TCU in three words, what would they be?
There are so many words I would use to describe TCU but if I had to narrow it down to three, I would say welcoming, spirited and innovative.
What’s your favorite hidden gem on campus?
I loved using the couches in the atrium of the BLUU auditorium to study when I needed a change of scenery throughout the year. The large glass windows overlooking the Commons create a beautiful backdrop - especially at night right before winter break when all of the trees are lit with purple and white lights. So magical!
What’s your favorite TCU tradition or moment you never miss?
The Christmas tree lighting ceremony is my absolute favorite! There is nothing quite like standing alongside hundreds of fellow TCU students, alumni, faculty/staff and community members to celebrate the start of the holiday season and the end of a semester’s hard work with fireworks that rival Disney World’s – and SuperFrog dressed up as Santa Claus!
What’s something students are always surprised to learn about TCU?
I think students and families are often surprised to learn how many students come to TCU from out of state. As an out-of-state student myself when I came to TCU, it brought me comfort knowing that I would not be the only one moving far from home for college and it opened up opportunities to meet people from across the country – and even from around the world!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a future Horned Frog?
Take advantage of all of the opportunities TCU offers our students to learn and grow both in and out of the classroom. Whether it’s getting involved in a club (or four), stepping out of your comfort zone to try something new or utilizing our university-wide resources for career preparation and development, college is all about discovering yourself as a person alongside your academic pursuits, so embrace this unique time in your life by fully immersing yourself in all that college has to offer!
If TCU had a mascot just for the Office of Admission, what would it be and why?
Probably a golden retriever – most of us in admission are friendly, energetic and thrive on interacting with others!
What’s your go-to coffee or lunch spot near campus?
Dutch’s is hands-down my favorite spot on campus! Not only are their burgers the best in town but their spicy chicken strips are also incredible. I also love the nostalgic atmosphere created by the black-and-white photos of TCU’s football history along the walls – it really makes the place feel special and connected to the Horned Frog spirit.
From hidden study spots to favorite TCU traditions, Hannah’s Horned Frog journey shows just how much there is to discover at TCU. Ready to see it for yourself? Start with our virtual tour to picture life on campus from wherever you are – or better yet, plan a visit to campus! And don’t forget to stop by Dutch’s for a taste of true Horned Frog spirit.