Photo by Alfred Rivera
Over the last month, University of Houston students have been all over the place. It’s been interesting keeping up with them as the spring semester also marks the start of a new year.
An Unexpected Snow Break
During the second week of classes, Coogs made the most of an unexpected five-day weekend and winter freeze. With Houston getting actual snow–even if it barely stuck–social media flooded with posts of tiny snowmen, snowy yards and complaints of the cold. Some students bundled up and took scenic walks around campus, while others stayed inside, treating it like a mini hibernation.
A Season of Rest
Many Coogs have also taken this month as a chance to enjoy the lighter workload ahead of midterms. Some focused on self-care, reading, journaling and getting back into old hobbies. Others got involved– joining clubs, checking out campus events and reconnecting with friends they hadn’t seen since last semester.
Game-Day, Cougar Spirit
Sports have also been a big part of the past few weeks. UH basketball games have been packed with Coogs showing up and showing out. Social media timelines show packed stadiums and celebrations after wins.
Coog Life As Usual
At the same time, some Coogs have completely locked into their schoolwork. As classes are back in full swing, libraries and coffee shops have been packed. The Cougar Grounds lines? Still unbearable.
But places like Brass Tacks and Segundo Coffee Lab have become unofficial campus study spots. They’ve been filled with students cramming for quizzes and sipping on lattes–most likely overpriced.
Not everyone has been fully enjoying the start of the new semester, though. Many Coogs have been at work. Whether pulling extra retail shifts or keeping up with internships, some students have spent their out-of-class time on the clock. All in hopes of making some extra cash.
Sick Days
And then, there were the unlucky Coogs who spent this past month being sick. After the freeze, many were overheard complaining of sore throats and fever dreams. Now, they’re trying to catch up on missed lectures. However, not all of their professors posted the slides allowing them to do so.
Campus Crime Outcries
More recently, however, a different issue has been on students’ minds–the rise in campus crime. Many Coogs have expressed frustration over the rise in reported incidents, with three crimes occurring within the past week.
Social media has been filled with complaints about the university’s crime alerts, with students calling for better security measures rather than just emails warning them after things happen.
The anxiety has led to some changes in routines. Many are opting to leave campus early to prevent being in the parking garages late. Others are actively avoiding certain areas on campus at night. Some are even skipping late-night study sessions outside their dorms–and night classes–altogether.
Students have been pushing for action. Discussions about safety, increased patrols and self-defense resources have been circulating among student groups. While it’s unclear what changes will come, one thing is certain—students aren’t just worried, they’re demanding solutions.
All things considered, this past month has been anything but uneventful. Alongside the usual hustle, the increased safety concerns have added a new layer to student life. As crime discussions continue and students push for change, it’s clear this semester is not just about keeping up with classes and campus events. It’s also about making sure everyone feels secure while navigating college life.
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