The University of Texas at Tyler is an East Texas gem that few know about. Those that attend UT Tyler have a thousand reasons why they decided to call it home. From the cozy, small town feel to the hundreds of restaurants around campus, this school has a ton to offer. I asked my friends, "If you were trying to convince someone to come to UT Tyler, what would you tell them?" Here are the top 10 answers that I received:

1. The small school atmosphere.

A small school means that as you walk from class to class, you actually see people that you know. Everyone is friendlier in East Texas, and UT Tyler is no different. Coming to a brand new place can be scary, but living in a small school atmosphere makes everything easier in the transition from high school to college.

2. The 100+ student organizations.

Want to get involved? At UT Tyler, there's a club for everyone. From the Campus Activities Board and Student Government Association to the "Hot Tub Club," we have a little something for everyone. With a smaller campus, it's so much easier to find your tribe!

3. The 17 to one student/faculty ratio.

Who wants to sit in a class of 200 every day? Not me. Smaller class sizes mean you can actually build relationships with your professors and classmates. Need help with a new concept? Want to get together with a study group? This is all so much easier in a smaller class.

4. The gorgeous campus.

UT Tyler is beautiful! With two lakes and enough trees to qualify as a state park, when you walk to class, the view will never disappoint.

5. The leadership opportunities.

UT Tyler allows its students an innumerable amount of opportunities to become leaders. From positions in one of our many organizations or stepping up into one of our programs, there's so many ways to add impressive titles to your resume.

6. The prestigious academic programs.

For a small school in East Texas, UT Tyler's programs are impressive. With one of the best nursing programs in the country, our school is a hot spot for aspiring nurses. The pass rate for exams in nursing, education, etc. are all exceptional, meaning you're not just getting your degree, you're more likely to get a job.

7. "Champions Territory."

Who wants to go to sports games for a team that never wins? At UT Tyler, no matter what sport you like to watch (except football...for now), the Patriots don't disappoint. For example, our softball team are national champions! Our motto, "Champions Territory," always rings true.

8. On-campus amenities.

Our university genuinely cares about student health and success. From the PASS Tutoring center, writing and math labs and Supplemental Instruction program, to the free counseling, gym classes and money management classes, our school gives us all the keys for success.

9. The tobacco-free campus.

UT Tyler is now tobacco free! No one wants to walk through clouds of cigarette smoke to get to class and at UT Tyler, we don't have that problem.

10. Affordable tuition.

With all these awesome reasons to come to UT Tyler, you would think the cost would mirror the experience, but you'd be wrong. You can get the college experience in the best way without having to accept the fact that you'll die before paying off your student loans.

UT Tyler is the best. Swoop Swoop, y'all.