Texas A&M University
Study, Work, Live & Play in College Station, TX
Rooted in the fertile Brazos Valley of Texas, Texas A&M University (TAMU) fuses legendary traditions, world-class research, and unbreakable Aggie spirit with College Station’s welcoming Southern charm, rapid growth, and family-friendly vibe. Midway between Houston and Austin in the thriving Bryan-College Station metro, this dynamic college town draws ambitious minds, professionals, and families with its blend of academic prestige, outdoor recreation, and community pride. From groundbreaking innovations at the RELLIS campus to serene trails at Lick Creek Park, College Station offers layers of authentic Texas discovery that inspire lifelong connections and unforgettable experiences.
Study in College Station, TX
Texas A&M University (TAMU) stands as a flagship land-, sea-, and space-grant institution, renowned for rigorous academics, leadership development, and iconic traditions that attract dedicated scholars worldwide. In U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 rankings, TAMU places No. 51 among National Universities and No. 21 among Top Public Schools, with standout programs in engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine. The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 rankings name it the top public university in Texas for the third year, while Niche and The Princeton Review praise its value, student experience, and strong community.
On the expansive 5,200-acre campus—home to over 81,000 students in fall 2025—learners immerse in opportunities like the Corps of Cadets (the nation’s largest uniformed student body), undergraduate research, and cultural treasures at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Unique fascinations include the Century Tree (where proposals under its branches promise lifelong love), the Aggie Ring (symbol of unbreakable bonds), Reveille (the beloved collie mascot and highest-ranking Cadet), and traditions like Silver Taps honoring fallen Aggies or the 12th Man standing ready throughout games. These elements, combined with the passionate Aggie Network and initiatives driving innovation, make TAMU an unparalleled hub for service-oriented leaders seeking depth, camaraderie, and impact beyond the classroom.
Work in College Station, TX
College Station’s economy surges with stability and opportunity, anchored by Texas A&M—the region’s largest employer with over 17,000 jobs—and fueled by healthcare, tech, and research in the booming Bryan-College Station metro. Recent reports from local outlets like The Eagle highlight steady growth, low unemployment, and expansions in innovation through the Research Valley and RELLIS campus, blending education, biotechnology, and emerging industries. Proximity to Houston adds logistics and energy roles, while partnerships with companies like FERA Diagnostics underscore advances in health and agriculture tech.
Beyond anchors, niche innovators thrive in sustainable solutions, cybersecurity, and entrepreneurship, supported by Texas A&M Innovation’s commercialization efforts turning discoveries into startups. With diverse positions in government, services, and professional fields—bolstered by community optimism noted in Bryan-College Station Chamber surveys—this balanced ecosystem offers strategic career paths in a college town blending academic excellence, industry collaboration, and affordable growth.
Live in College Station, TX
College Station’s lifestyle harmonizes vibrant college energy with relaxed Southern hospitality, earning high livability marks—No. 5 Best Texas Places to Live in Livability’s 2025 rankings and strong Niche scores for families, safety, and amenities. The food scene delights from iconic Dixie Chicken burgers and Layne’s chicken fingers to upscale spots like The Republic Steakhouse and farm-to-table in nearby Bryan, while abundant sunshine invites hidden gems like Lick Creek Park’s wooded trails or Lake Bryan’s boating escapes.
Unique quirks enchant: the bustling Northgate District’s live music and bars, Veterans Park’s poignant war memorials, and the “Howdy” greeting fostering instant connections. Diverse neighborhoods, craft breweries, and cultural draws like the Bush Library cultivate an inclusive, spirited community—celebrated in local sources like Visit College Station—for its outdoor bliss, family focus, and welcoming ethos amid exciting expansion.
Play in College Station, TX
As the heart of Aggieland, College Station thrums with nonstop entertainment, from thunderous Kyle Field football games embodying the 12th Man tradition to festivals drawing crowds: LIVE At the Station Fest (September 2025) headlining country stars, the massive Santa’s Wonderland holiday lights spectacle, and quirky events like the Savannah Bananas’ Banana Ball at Kyle Field in May 2026. Nature’s escapes shine in underrated spots: hiking Wolf Pen Creek trails, fishing Lake Bryan, or exploring Aggieland Safari’s drive-through zoo adventures.
Quirky pursuits include midnight Yell Practices, paddling Research Park Lake with campus views, or discovering downtown Bryan’s murals and First Friday block parties. From spontaneous Northgate nights and brewery hops to seasonal markets, holiday movies on the lawn, and Corps marches—enhanced by calendars from Visit College Station and city events—College Station’s fusion of sports fervor, music, arts, and pure Brazos Valley magic delivers endless, spirited recreation in a city pulsing with unbreakable Aggie pride.
Learn Your History & Stats
College History
Founded in 1876 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas—Texas’s first public institution of higher education under the Morrill Land-Grant Act—the university opened its doors on October 4 with 106 students, emphasizing agriculture, mechanics, and military training amid Reconstruction-era challenges. It evolved into a coeducational powerhouse in 1963 under President James Earl Rudder’s leadership, who also ended mandatory Corps of Cadets participation and drove desegregation, marking pivotal shifts toward inclusivity; notable events include the 1999 Aggie Bonfire tragedy, which reshaped traditions while preserving the Aggie Spirit through annual Muster gatherings worldwide, and its designation as a sea-grant (1971) and space-grant (1989) institution, underscoring research in oceanography and aerospace. Texas A&M has produced influential alumni such as Rick Perry (former Texas Governor and U.S. Secretary of Energy), Robert Gates (former U.S. Secretary of Defense and CIA Director), Von Miller (Super Bowl MVP and NFL star), Lyle Lovett (Grammy-winning musician), and Mike Fossum (NASA astronaut with multiple space missions), alongside leaders in engineering and public service. The Mays Business School recently celebrated the opening of the $81 million Wayne Roberts ’85 Building in January 2025 as part of the expanded Business Education Complex, enhancing collaboration with state-of-the-art learning studios and boosting its top rankings in entrepreneurship and MBA programs. The School of Law, acquired in 2013 and relocated to Fort Worth, ranks No. 22 nationally (U.S. News & World Report 2025-26) with elite programs in intellectual property (No. 6), dispute resolution (No. 3), and energy law, offering strong bar passage rates (93%) and job placement in Texas’s legal hubs. Texas A&M excels in leading academic rankings, including No. 47 overall and No. 21 among public universities nationally (U.S. News & World Report 2025-26), No. 144 globally (QS World University Rankings 2026), and No. 151 worldwide (Times Higher Education 2026), highlighting its R1 research prowess with over $1.14 billion in expenditures, global impact in agriculture and engineering, and commitment to innovation amid Bryan-College Station’s growth.
Student Population and Housing Market Insights
Exceeding 81,000 students in fall 2025 (approximately 62,500 undergraduates and 18,800 graduates), Texas A&M University attracts a diverse population with Texas residents comprising about 85%, out-of-state students around 5-10%, and international students over 10% from more than 130 countries, featuring an ethnic breakdown of roughly 51% White, 23% Hispanic/Latino, 12% Asian, 3% Black/African American, and 3% multiracial. On-campus housing through residence halls and apartments serves around 18% of students (over 11,000 beds, with the Corps of Cadets adding unique options), while the majority—approximately 82%—live off-campus in private rentals, Greek houses, or family homes in the surrounding community. This robust demand energizes a dynamic rental market in key areas like central College Station (ZIP 77840) and southside expansions (ZIP 77845). Over the past 15 years, home values in these ZIP codes have experienced substantial appreciation propelled by Texas A&M’s enrollment growth, research investments, and Bryan-College Station’s economic surge, delivering impressive long-term returns for property owners according to Zillow (77840 averages up to $280,000 with 1.3% annual growth) and CoreLogic indices showing consistent upward trends amid low inventory. Many investors using platforms like collegehomes.com find multiple avenues for creating investment opportunities due to the large amount of renters within the Texas A&M University markets, leveraging steady demand from students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, Texas residents benefit from significant in-state tuition advantages, often saving well over $100,000 across four years compared to out-of-state rates ($12,928 vs. $40,157 annually), making Texas A&M an accessible flagship for families building lives in the state.
Off-Campus Living and Nightlife
Students at Texas A&M University flock to dynamic off-campus neighborhoods like Northgate (ZIP 77840), Southside (77845), Wolf Pen Creek (77840), and Tower Point, all within a quick 1- to 2-mile walk, bike ride, or shuttle from campus. These areas offer a mix of affordability, vibrant community vibes, and unbeatable convenience, appealing to undergrads, grads, and young professionals alike. Northgate buzzes as the epicenter for modern student living, packed with mid-rises featuring amenities like resort-style pools, fitness centers, and study lounges—perfect for balancing academics and social life while driving strong rental demand. Popular complexes include 12 North, known for its luxury finishes, rooftop views, and proximity to bars; Northpoint Crossing, a gated community with reserved parking, elevators, and balconies in select units; University Trails, offering spacious layouts, hot tubs, and sand volleyball courts; and The Cottages of College Station, a modern setup with private parking, clubhouses, and eco-friendly features like recycling stations.
Southside enchants with its suburban charm—tree-lined streets, family-friendly homes, and a quieter, walkable atmosphere filled with parks and local shops, ideal for those craving a cozy residential feel just south of campus. Wolf Pen Creek draws the creative crowd with mid-century apartments, green spaces, amphitheaters, and an eclectic energy, only a short drive or bus ride away. These neighborhoods not only provide easy access to TAMU shuttles and Kyle Field but also foster a sense of independence with nearby groceries, cafes, and trails, making off-campus life a seamless extension of the Aggie experience.
College Station Rental Market
The rental market within 1.5 miles of Texas A&M University, particularly in zip codes 77840 (Northgate), 77845 (Southside), and 77801 (Downtown Bryan), caters heavily to the university’s 74,000+ students. Average rents in these areas are competitive due to high demand for student housing, with modern apartments and shared houses dominating Northgate. As of 2026, the average rent in these zip codes is approximately $1,800–$2,200/month, higher than the citywide average of $1,500. Below are rental stats for student-centric properties:
- Average Rent per Bedroom: $800–$1,100, with Northgate units often exceeding $1,400 for luxury apartments near campus.
- Studio Apartments: $1,200–$1,600/month, with budget options in Southside (~$1,100) and premium units in Northgate (~$1,800).
- 1-Bedroom Apartments: $1,400–$1,800/month, averaging $1,600 in 77840. Affordable options in Tower Point start at $1,200.
- 2-Bedroom Apartments: $1,800–$2,300/month, with Northgate averages at $2,000. Shared rentals reduce costs (e.g., $1,000/person).
- 3-Bedroom Apartments/Houses: $2,400–$3,200/month, ideal for student groups. Wolf Pen Creek offers deals around $2,100.
Smart housing options, like roommate shares or pre-leased units via apartment locators, help students manage costs. High demand during fall semesters drives early leasing in Northgate, while short-term rentals thrive during football games and festivals like Chilifest. Data sources: Zillow, RentCafe, Apartments.com.
Nightlife in College Station
College Station’s nightlife pulses with Aggie spirit, ranked among the top college towns for its blend of live music, dive bars, and game-day energy. Northgate’s iconic district caters to every vibe, with walkability from campus enhancing appeal—especially during massive events like football games at Kyle Field in fall and Chilifest in April, when short-term rentals surge with crowds.
Northgate (77840) remains legendary for its bar-hopping heritage, featuring historic spots like Dixie Chicken’s lively patios spilling country tunes and cheap drinks onto the streets. The district’s converted dives create a rowdy, house-party vibe with craft beers and games, while Downtown Bryan (77803) mixes trendy lounges with theater shows for eclectic nights out.
Newer Twists on College Station’s Nightlife Scene
College Station’s nightlife continues to evolve with bold infusions of live music, upscale patios, and hybrid spaces, rooted in Aggie traditions but embracing modern entertainment for diverse crowds—from energetic undergrad scenes to laid-back grad gatherings.
Hurricane Harry’s: This Northgate staple in a spacious venue has become a cornerstone for country concerts, featuring headliners, dance floors, and surprise sets—drawing massive crowds and elevating the district as a music hub with post-show energy.
The Tap Grill & Bar: The casual core thrives on pub chaos, weekend specials, and spots like arcade games and Tex-Mex pre-gaming—enhanced vibes make it a staple for unfiltered fun, especially during game-day spectacles.
Rebel Draft House: This polished spot attracts a 21+ crowd with rooftop patios, craft cocktails, and DJ nights at venues offering bottle service and themed events—merging College Station’s spirited energy with upscale flair for all-night adventures.
Old Favorites Holding Strong: The Corner Bar and Rooftop Grill delivers intimate vibes with major acts, paired with nearby eats. O’Bannon’s Taphouse, a gritty institution, hosts affordable trivia and cheap brews in its legendary charm.
Northgate Gem: Shiner Park: This outdoor pub offers a relaxed escape with fire pits, beer gardens, live sets, and soccer watches—serving hearty grub and local brews alongside occasional comedy.
Northgate’s “Aggie haven” rise with artsy dives and craft bars attracts nightlife seekers from quieter spots, showcasing College Station’s resilient post-pandemic vibrancy.
Fueling Up: Great Eateries, Coffee Houses, and Breakfast Spots
College Station’s food scene shines near TAMU, with late-night bites, study-friendly coffee, and recovery brunches—many spots doubling as hangouts with generous portions and student-friendly prices.
Eateries for Late-Night or Anytime Cravings:
- Fuego Tortilla Grill (multiple locations, including near Northgate): Beloved for inventive tacos like the Dr. Pepper Cowboy—perfect late-night fuel.
- Layne’s Chicken Fingers (campus-adjacent): Retro tenders and Texas toast for classic greasy-spoon satisfaction.
- Antonio’s Pizza (Northgate area): Over 50 slices with craft beers and epic game-day deals.
Coffee Houses for Study Sessions or Buzz:
- Blue Baker (University Dr., campus-adjacent): Spacious with expert pour-overs, lattes, and fresh breads—ideal for all-nighters.
- Harvest Coffee Bar (multiple spots): Bold brews and seasonal drinks in sleek spaces.
- Sweet Eugene’s (various locations): House-roasted beans with cozy vibes and avocado toast.
- Minuti Coffee (Northgate): Patio perfection for mochas, sandwiches, and artsy energy near bars.
Breakfast Spots to Start (or Recover) the Day:
- Stella Southern Cafe (Highway 6): Retro Southern classics like chicken-fried steak and anytime options.
- The Toasted Yolk (Tower Point and beyond): Flaky biscuits with fried chicken and creative toppings—worth the lines.
- First Watch (near Wolf Pen Creek): Cozy spot with ricotta pancakes and bottomless coffee.
- Blackwater Draw (Northgate): Garden-fresh hashes, toasts, and coffee cocktails in an unpretentious setting.
- 3rd on Main (Downtown Bryan): Hearty omelets and migas in a sunny, family-friendly diner near theaters.
From Northgate apartment hunts to bar crawls, College Station’s off-campus world keeps the energy alive—game-day nights flowing into strong coffee mornings. Embrace the “Howdy” spirit; the hangovers (and adventures) are part of the fun.
Student Organizations and Activities
With over 1,100 student organizations, TAMU fosters a tight-knit “Aggie Network” where academics, traditions, and camaraderie converge on a sprawling campus in College Station. From raucous Midnight Yell Practices under the lights of Kyle Field to collaborative brainstorming in the Memorial Student Center (MSC), student life thrives with free resources like tutoring and career services at the MSC, iconic rituals such as Aggie Ring Day, the Big Event community service day, and Silver Taps ceremonies, and a welcoming culture embracing leadership, intellectual discourse, and service in the heart of the Brazos Valley.
Sports and Recreational Clubs
Physical activity is integral to Aggie life through Rec Sports, engaging thousands in intramural leagues each semester. Whether tackling in flag football, spiking in volleyball, or competing in table tennis tournaments, options accommodate all skill levels—no experience necessary. Campus favorites include basketball (3-on-3 or 5-on-5), soccer, ultimate frisbee, dodgeball, racquetball, and sand volleyball. Teams assemble via dorms, Greek chapters, friends, or as free agents, with registration through IMLeagues and participation free for students. The intramural program celebrates champions with brackets and playoffs, underscoring its competitive yet inclusive spirit.
For elevated competition, nearly 40 sport clubs deliver structured play, featuring unique pursuits like archery, polo, swimming, baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, cheer squad, fencing, rugby, and sailing. These student-led clubs vie regionally and nationally, cultivating leadership alongside training sessions, travel, and outings—ideal for countering academic demands with teamwork, bonds, and excitement at facilities like the Student Recreation Center or Penberthy Fields.
Faith and Identity Communities
Spirituality and cultural identity prosper in inclusive hubs attuned to varied beliefs and backgrounds. Aggie Sisters for Christ offers women’s Bible studies, worship, and service, while TAMU Hillel hosts Jewish cultural events, Shabbat dinners, and discussions. The Muslim Students Association (MSA) fosters community through prayer spaces, educational talks, and outreach, as highlighted in local coverage by The Battalion. St. Mary’s Catholic Center connects students via Masses, small groups, retreats, and fellowship amid TAMU’s bustling environment.
Expanded networks enrich choices: Aggies for Christ On Campus links believers for community service and Bible studies; Antioch College Ministry provides worship and campus gatherings; and groups like Anglican Aggies, Baptist Student Ministry, and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship blend faith growth with social ties. Organizations such as the Hindu Students Association and LGBTQ+ Aggies (including oSTEM and Transcend) create supportive sanctuaries, merging spiritual and identity exploration with Bryan-College Station outreach.
Political and Ideological Engagement
Eager for policy debates and civic action? TAMU’s political arena spans ideologies with forums for advocacy, dialogue, and leadership. Turning Point USA (TPUSA) advances conservative principles via speakers, discussions, and tabling, often sparking campus conversations on free speech and governance, as noted in The Eagle. Balances include Texas Aggie Democrats (voter drives, progressive advocacy, and events) and Texas A&M College Republicans, nurturing civic involvement across the spectrum.
Non-partisan initiatives coalesce through groups like Texas Rising TAMU for community organizing and leadership training, alongside the Young Democratic Socialists of America for socialist discourse. Intellectual rigor enhances this with the Political Science Aggies promoting degree interest, Model UN, and debate societies. These organizations refine critical thinking, equipping future leaders for respectful exchanges in College Station’s vibrant civic landscape.
From serving in the Big Event, debating policy late-night, or dominating an intramural flag football game, TAMU student life is forged—one muster, one yell, one meaningful connection at a time. Find your niche via Get Involved (getinvolved.tamu.edu), MSC Open House fairs, or local spotlights in The Battalion. Gig ‘em.
Benefits of Investing in Properties Near Texas A&M University
Investing in real estate near Texas A&M University offers a compelling combination of educational savings, reliable income, long-term wealth building, and family legacy advantages. In vibrant neighborhoods like Northgate, Southside, and Pebble Creek, properties benefit from consistent demand driven by a large student population, biotech growth from companies like FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, healthcare expansion, and College Station’s strategic position in the Texas Triangle as a hub for innovation and economic growth.
Unlocking In-State Tuition Savings
Texas residency laws allow families to qualify for dramatically lower in-state tuition rates by establishing domicile through property ownership. Out-of-state undergraduate tuition at Texas A&M typically runs significantly higher than in-state rates, creating substantial annual savings. Purchase a condo or home in prime areas like Northgate or Southside, have your student reside there (often with roommates), and support residency with documents like property deeds, Texas driver’s licenses, and voter registration. After 12 consecutive months of maintaining domicile in Texas, approval is straightforward, locking in reduced rates from sophomore year onward and delivering massive educational cost reductions over a degree program.
Generating Strong Rental Cash Flow
The perpetual demand from Texas A&M’s large student population ensures properties near campus rarely sit vacant. Modern condos or small homes lease quickly at competitive per-bedroom rates, with rents often covering or exceeding monthly costs. With thoughtful financing and roommate setups, gross income frequently offsets principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA fees—yielding break-even or positive monthly cash flow from day one. Annual rent increases tied to market trends further enhance returns, turning the investment into a self-sustaining asset while your student enjoys on-site living.
Building Equity Through Appreciation and Paydown
College Station’s core neighborhoods around Texas A&M have historically provided steady, reliable property value growth fueled by limited supply and ongoing influx of students, professionals, and families. Combined with regular principal reduction from mortgage payments (largely covered by tenants), equity accumulates predictably over time. This dual engine of appreciation and debt paydown creates substantial net worth growth in stable, high-demand zones—offering a low-volatility path to wealth compared to more speculative markets.
Creating a Family Launchpad
Upon graduation, the matured property serves as a powerful springboard. Options include selling for potential gains to fund a down payment on a larger home in growing areas like Traditions or Indian Lakes, or refinancing to extract tax-free equity while retaining the rental for ongoing income. This strategy equips your graduate with significant financial momentum—far beyond starting from scratch—turning college housing into a foundational step toward independent homeownership.
Imparting Lifelong Financial Lessons
Ownership involves hands-on experiences that build essential skills far beyond academics. Students learn practical aspects like roommate coordination, maintenance oversight, lease management, and basic financial concepts through real-world application. These experiences demystify investing, foster responsibility, and instill confidence in wealth-building principles that compound over a lifetime—transforming a property purchase into an invaluable education in financial independence.
In a market bolstered by College Station’s innovation hubs, healthcare growth, and structural student demand, near-campus investments stand out for their resilience and multi-layered returns. From slashing tuition burdens to forging family wealth, one strategic acquisition near the iconic Kyle Field can reshape educational and financial futures.
In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition Comparison (2024-2025 Rates)
| Duration | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Year | $12,605 | $40,999 | $28,394 |
| 2 Years | $25,210 | $81,998 | $56,788 |
| 3 Years | $37,815 | $122,997 | $85,182 |
| 4 Years | $50,420 | $163,996 | $113,576 |
Top Academic Programs
TAMU offers over 140 undergraduate and 200 graduate programs across 18 colleges, with $1.14 billion in research driving advancements in agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. The top five undergraduate programs include:
Engineering
The College of Engineering, ranked #8 nationally, excels in petroleum, aerospace, and mechanical engineering, with graduates at Boeing and Chevron, and research at the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station
Business Administration
The Mays Business School, ranked #26 nationally, focuses on finance and analytics, with alumni at Deloitte and ExxonMobil, supported by the Reynolds & Reynolds Sales Institute.
Agricultural Science
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, ranked #1 nationally, leads in agribusiness, with research at the Norman Borlaug Institute addressing food security.
Biomedical Sciences
The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences prepares students for medical careers, with research at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.
Psychology
The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences advances clinical psychology, with labs like the Cognitive Neuroscience Lab preparing students for graduate study.
Notable Alumni Texas A&M Include
Robert Gates
Robert Gates, born in Wichita, Kansas in 1943, left a storied career in national security—including roles as CIA Director under President George H.W. Bush—to become the 22nd president of Texas A&M University in 2002 after serving as interim dean of the George Bush School of Government and Public Service. What began as an academic leadership position transformed into a bold overhaul of the institution, advancing its Vision 2020 plan to rank among the top public universities through enhanced faculty hiring, graduate programs, student diversity, and infrastructure expansion.
His ties to Texas A&M endure through philanthropy and continued involvement, with Gates and his wife Becky committing $1.5 million in 2013 to bolster university initiatives. Key contributions during his presidency include adding 440 faculty positions, boosting research expenditures from $376 million to $582 million, and overseeing more than $500 million in campus construction. He has returned for events like a 2014 legacy discussion and delivered commencement addresses, emphasizing service and leadership. Today, these efforts sustain Texas A&M’s growth in academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, reflecting his enduring dedication to the Aggie community’s future.
Kendra Scott
Kendra Scott, born in Kenosha, Wisconsin in 1974, relocated to Houston at age 16 and attended Texas A&M University for one year before dropping out in 1993 to move to Austin and care for her ailing stepfather. What began as a small hat-making venture called The Hat Box evolved into launching her eponymous jewelry brand in 2002 from her spare bedroom with just $500, blending colorful gemstones and accessible designs to build Kendra Scott LLC into a billion-dollar empire with over 100 stores worldwide.
Her ties to Texas A&M endure through ongoing philanthropy and brand partnerships, including the Kendra Scott Foundation’s focus on education and entrepreneurship. Key initiatives include collaborative “Kendra Gives Back” events donating 20% of sales to support Aggie scholarships, such as those for health science students via the Texas A&M Foundation and programs like Aggie Women in Business. She has hosted pop-up shops in College Station, engaged campus ambassadors known as Kendra Scott Gems, and contributed to endowed funds through alumni clubs like the Denver Texas A&M Club. Today, these efforts empower student leaders, foster entrepreneurial skills, and enhance access to education, reflecting her commitment to uplifting the Aggie spirit and future generations.
Rick Perry
Rick Perry, born in Haskell, Texas in 1950, graduated from Texas A&M University in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in animal science, where he served as a yell leader and immersed himself in the Aggie traditions of leadership and service. What began as a post-graduation stint in the U.S. Air Force as a C-130 pilot evolved into a decades-long political career, including stints in the Texas House, as state agriculture commissioner, lieutenant governor, and ultimately the 47th Governor of Texas from 2000 to 2015—the longest tenure in state history—before serving as U.S. Secretary of Energy from 2017 to 2019, shaping policies on energy independence and economic growth.
His ties to Texas A&M endure through lifelong advocacy, public engagements, and strategic investments during his governorship to bolster the university’s research and innovation. Key contributions include allocating $50 million in 2009 from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund to establish the National Center for Therapeutics Manufacturing at Texas A&M, enhancing biopharmaceutical capabilities, alongside broader support for the university system’s expansion and funding priorities. He has returned for high-profile events, delivering commencement addresses in 2005 and 2014, where he emphasized building relationships, pursuing dreams, and the empowering role of education for all Texans. Today, these initiatives fuel Texas A&M’s advancements in STEM fields, economic development, and accessibility, embodying his dedication to strengthening the Aggie legacy for future generations.
Lowlry Mays
Lowry Mays, born in Houston, Texas in 1935, graduated from Texas A&M University in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering before earning an MBA from Harvard and starting his career in the oil industry. What began as work on oil rigs evolved into a visionary pivot in media when he co-founded Clear Channel Communications in 1972 with partner Red McCombs, acquiring a single San Antonio radio station and transforming it through bold acquisitions and deregulation into a broadcasting giant that redefined radio and outdoor advertising worldwide.
His ties to Texas A&M endure through transformative philanthropy via the Mays Family Foundation, established in 1994 with his wife Peggy. Key contributions include a $15 million gift in 1996 that endowed and renamed the business school as Mays Business School in their honor, followed by a record $25 million commitment from the foundation in 2017 to advance programs, and an additional $25 million in 2024 to fund construction of a new graduate education building in the Mays Business Education Complex. He also served two terms on the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents (1985–1991 and 2001–2007). Today, these initiatives elevate business education, drive innovation, and expand opportunities for future Aggies, reflecting his lifelong dedication to his alma mater’s growth and excellence.
Johnny Manziel
Johnny Manziel, born in Tyler, Texas in 1992, attended Texas A&M University from 2011 to 2013 after a standout high school career at Tivy High School in Kerrville, where he excelled as a dual-threat quarterback and committed to the Aggies over offers from programs like Oregon. What began as a redshirt freshman season in 2012 evolved into a revolutionary era of “Manziel Mania,” as he became the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy, shattered SEC records for total offense with 5,116 yards and 46 touchdowns that year alone, and propelled Texas A&M to an 11-2 record, a No. 5 national ranking, and a dominant Cotton Bowl victory over Oklahoma—before declaring for the NFL Draft, where he was selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2014, followed by stints in the CFL and AAF amid personal challenges.
His ties to Texas A&M endure through his iconic legacy in Aggie athletics, including induction into the Texas A&M Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022, returning to campus for classes in 2016 to pursue a degree in recreation, parks, and tourism sciences, and the profound financial boost his stardom delivered to the university. Key impacts include sparking a surge in donations that reached $740 million in 2013—more than double previous records—fueling coach salary increases, athletic facility upgrades, and stadium expansions like the redevelopment of Kyle Field, while he has continued to engage through media appearances, documentaries, and public reflections on his transformative time in College Station. Today, these contributions sustain Texas A&M’s prominence in college football, inspire future athletes, and enhance the program’s resources and national profile, embodying his enduring bond with the Aggie community.
Why College Station and TAMU Is a Great Choice for Investing in College Properties
College Station’s economic growth, vibrant lifestyle, and community spirit, with 128,200 city residents and 279,000 in the metro area, make it an ideal place to live and study. Establishing Texas residency, achievable after 12 months, offers significant benefits for TAMU students. In-state tuition for 2024-2025 is $12,605, compared to $40,999 for out-of-state students, saving $28,394 annually, or $113,576 over four years. In-state students also benefit from scholarships like the President’s Endowed Scholarship, awarding up to $3,000 annually. College Station’s real estate market, with high demand in student-centric areas like Northgate and Southside, supports rental income and appreciation, fueled by TAMU’s growth and new research facilities planned for 2026. Owning property near campus aligns with lifestyle and financial goals, making College Station a smart investment.
Sources
Bryan-College Station Eagle
Austin Business Journal
Community Impact
U.S. News & World Report
Texas A&M University Official Website
Wikipedia
U.S. Census Bureau
World Population Review
Forbes
Niche
National FFA Organization
Princeton Review
TAMU Athletics Official Website