Real Talk: Student Life & Leadership
What is it actually like to be a student at TCU? Not the brochure version — the real one. That's exactly what our latest Real Talk livestream delivered, and it did not disappoint.
Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Heath Einstein was joined by two of TCU's best: Reagan Stephens ’26, student body president, senior political science major and incoming law student; and Titus Hagan ’27, student body vice president, junior accounting major and — perhaps most impressively — a man who lists weather forecasting and snowmobiling as personal interests and has somehow made that work for him in job interviews. Together, they spent an hour answering your questions live, unscripted and with zero filter.
Starting Your College Search
Reagan and Titus both had the same first piece of advice: start earlier than you think you need to. Not just filling out applications, but actually doing the work of figuring out what you want from a college experience — community size, academic programs, campus culture. Reagan also made the case for asking your teachers for recommendation letters sooner than feels necessary. Give them enough time to write something meaningful, and they will. The more intentional you are going in, the better the fit you'll find on the other side.
Campus Life and Getting Involved
With 400+ student organizations at TCU, the running theme of the night was simple: there is something here for everyone, and the only way to find it is to show up. Reagan and Titus talked about everything from Greek life — which roughly half of TCU students participate in, though it's completely optional — to niche clubs like the Italian club (yes, they make pasta) and the pickleball club, which is reportedly the largest student org on campus. For students who are more reserved, Titus specifically recommended I-Fest, TCU's organization fair held during the first days on campus. It's low-pressure, one-on-one and a great way to find your people without having to walk into a room of strangers.
For Transfer Students
If you're thinking about transferring to TCU, you won't be starting from scratch — and you won't be alone. TCU welcomes around 400 transfer students every fall and another 150 in the spring, coming from community colleges and four-year institutions alike. Reagan and Titus both know transfer students who hit the ground running, got involved in student government and found their community fast. The key, they said, is choosing to dive in. And if you haven't applied yet, the final deadline for fall 2026 is June 1.
Fort Worth Beyond the Tourist Spots
Everyone knows about the Stockyards. But where do TCU students actually spend their time? Clear Fork came up immediately — great restaurants, easy walkability and right near campus. The Trinity River trails are a go-to for running, biking or just getting outside. Reagan shouted out Cherry Coffee on Magnolia Avenue as her favorite off-campus study spot, and Core Power Yoga in West Bends as a genuine sanity-saver. And Titus made a strong case for not underestimating the Campus Commons — sometimes the best place to recharge is right in the middle of campus, surrounded by your people.
Watch the Full Conversation
These highlights barely scratch the surface. Reagan and Titus covered a lot more — including their honest takes on balancing academics and social life, faith and religious organizations on campus, navigating orientation and Frog Camp, and finding a roommate. The energy was real, the advice was practical and yes, there were dad jokes. Watch the full session to catch everything you missed.
Dates You Need to Know
- May 1 — Enrollment commitment deposit due; housing application opens
- May 15 — Housing application closes
- June 1 — Final application deadline for transfer students applying for fall 2026
- April 21 at 6 p.m. CDT — Next Real Talk, topic: Housing
Stay Connected
- Email: frogmail@tcu.edu
- Phone: 817-257-7490
- Apply: tcu.edu/apply