Lily Huynh/The Cougar

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and is home to 2.3 million people. Houston is often buzzing with activity, making it difficult to fully explore what the home of the Coogs has to offer. 

Houston is full of rich culture and industries, from space exploration to diverse cuisines. There’s plenty to explore, making it crucial to learn how to use student resources wisely to make the most out of the college experience. 

Here are some tips on navigating Houston as a Cougar: 

Transportation 

UH students get a 50% discount on the METRO fare. The University also offers a program called Coogs on Alternative and Sustainable Transportation, which gives students a METRO Q-Card with a monthly credit. Students must register with their student email at RideMETRO.org to apply for a student discount or to pick up a fare card. 

On the METRORail, using the purple line goes through campus and connects students to Downtown, the Theater and Museum district.

Using HOV lanes as a student

When commuting to campus or simply wanting to explore the city, the High Occupancy Vehicle and High Occupancy Toll lanes offer faster routes during peak traffic hours. 

UH students are able to take advantage of these as well: 

• Carpooling: HOV lanes are open to vehicles with 2+ passengers during rush hour. Consider carpooling with another student. This will not only save time, but students can split the cost of gas and parking fees. 
•  Solo drivers: Students who are solo drivers can use the HOV/HOT lanes during off-peak hours for a fee with EZ Tag. 

Exploring the City

In Houston’s Museum District, most museums are free on Thursdays. Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are walkable from the METRORail. 

Get student discounts on Astros and Rockets game tickets. Explore local venues such as White Oak Music Hall and House of Blues to enjoy themed nights from indie to hip-hop. 

Studying near campus 

UH has plenty of study spots on campus, but sometimes students need a break from routine and want to try new places to motivate their studying habits. 

Doshi House is walkable from the purple line and is a fully plant-based, friendly stop for vegan and vegetarian students. Campesino Coffee House is not too far either an it is a Latin-based coffee shop that offers free wifi and has outdoor seating. 

The Houston Public Library Downtown is a productive space with no distractions, or students can shake things up with a breezy study session at Discovery Green. 

Staying safe while exploring 

The University offers programs to ensure students’ safety while navigating the city. Download the UH Go app to track shuttles, have access to the campus map and receive safety alerts. UH also offers a free evening transportation program called Cougar Ride for students within a five-mile radius of campus. 

Houston is a big city, and as any other large city it has varying safety levels. Students should walk in well-lit and busy areas during the night and inform someone of their whereabouts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s a buzzing city waiting for you to explore it” was originally posted on The Cougar

Lily Huynh/The Cougar

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and is home to 2.3 million people. Houston is often buzzing with activity, making it difficult to fully explore what the home of the Coogs has to offer. 

Houston is full of rich culture and industries, from space exploration to diverse cuisines. There’s plenty to explore, making it crucial to learn how to use student resources wisely to make the most out of the college experience. 

Here are some tips on navigating Houston as a Cougar: 

Transportation 

UH students get a 50% discount on the METRO fare. The University also offers a program called Coogs on Alternative and Sustainable Transportation, which gives students a METRO Q-Card with a monthly credit. Students must register with their student email at RideMETRO.org to apply for a student discount or to pick up a fare card. 

On the METRORail, using the purple line goes through campus and connects students to Downtown, the Theater and Museum district.

Using HOV lanes as a student

When commuting to campus or simply wanting to explore the city, the High Occupancy Vehicle and High Occupancy Toll lanes offer faster routes during peak traffic hours. 

UH students are able to take advantage of these as well: 

• Carpooling: HOV lanes are open to vehicles with 2+ passengers during rush hour. Consider carpooling with another student. This will not only save time, but students can split the cost of gas and parking fees. 
•  Solo drivers: Students who are solo drivers can use the HOV/HOT lanes during off-peak hours for a fee with EZ Tag. 

Exploring the City

In Houston’s Museum District, most museums are free on Thursdays. Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are walkable from the METRORail. 

Get student discounts on Astros and Rockets game tickets. Explore local venues such as White Oak Music Hall and House of Blues to enjoy themed nights from indie to hip-hop. 

Studying near campus 

UH has plenty of study spots on campus, but sometimes students need a break from routine and want to try new places to motivate their studying habits. 

Doshi House is walkable from the purple line and is a fully plant-based, friendly stop for vegan and vegetarian students. Campesino Coffee House is not too far either an it is a Latin-based coffee shop that offers free wifi and has outdoor seating. 

The Houston Public Library Downtown is a productive space with no distractions, or students can shake things up with a breezy study session at Discovery Green. 

Staying safe while exploring 

The University offers programs to ensure students’ safety while navigating the city. Download the UH Go app to track shuttles, have access to the campus map and receive safety alerts. UH also offers a free evening transportation program called Cougar Ride for students within a five-mile radius of campus. 

Houston is a big city, and as any other large city it has varying safety levels. Students should walk in well-lit and busy areas during the night and inform someone of their whereabouts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s a buzzing city waiting for you to explore it” was originally posted on The Cougar

Lily Huynh/The Cougar

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and is home to 2.3 million people. Houston is often buzzing with activity, making it difficult to fully explore what the home of the Coogs has to offer. 

Houston is full of rich culture and industries, from space exploration to diverse cuisines. There’s plenty to explore, making it crucial to learn how to use student resources wisely to make the most out of the college experience. 

Here are some tips on navigating Houston as a Cougar: 

Transportation 

UH students get a 50% discount on the METRO fare. The University also offers a program called Coogs on Alternative and Sustainable Transportation, which gives students a METRO Q-Card with a monthly credit. Students must register with their student email at RideMETRO.org to apply for a student discount or to pick up a fare card. 

On the METRORail, using the purple line goes through campus and connects students to Downtown, the Theater and Museum district.

Using HOV lanes as a student

When commuting to campus or simply wanting to explore the city, the High Occupancy Vehicle and High Occupancy Toll lanes offer faster routes during peak traffic hours. 

UH students are able to take advantage of these as well: 

• Carpooling: HOV lanes are open to vehicles with 2+ passengers during rush hour. Consider carpooling with another student. This will not only save time, but students can split the cost of gas and parking fees. 
•  Solo drivers: Students who are solo drivers can use the HOV/HOT lanes during off-peak hours for a fee with EZ Tag. 

Exploring the City

In Houston’s Museum District, most museums are free on Thursdays. Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are walkable from the METRORail. 

Get student discounts on Astros and Rockets game tickets. Explore local venues such as White Oak Music Hall and House of Blues to enjoy themed nights from indie to hip-hop. 

Studying near campus 

UH has plenty of study spots on campus, but sometimes students need a break from routine and want to try new places to motivate their studying habits. 

Doshi House is walkable from the purple line and is a fully plant-based, friendly stop for vegan and vegetarian students. Campesino Coffee House is not too far either an it is a Latin-based coffee shop that offers free wifi and has outdoor seating. 

The Houston Public Library Downtown is a productive space with no distractions, or students can shake things up with a breezy study session at Discovery Green. 

Staying safe while exploring 

The University offers programs to ensure students’ safety while navigating the city. Download the UH Go app to track shuttles, have access to the campus map and receive safety alerts. UH also offers a free evening transportation program called Cougar Ride for students within a five-mile radius of campus. 

Houston is a big city, and as any other large city it has varying safety levels. Students should walk in well-lit and busy areas during the night and inform someone of their whereabouts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s a buzzing city waiting for you to explore it” was originally posted on The Cougar

Lily Huynh/The Cougar

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and is home to 2.3 million people. Houston is often buzzing with activity, making it difficult to fully explore what the home of the Coogs has to offer. 

Houston is full of rich culture and industries, from space exploration to diverse cuisines. There’s plenty to explore, making it crucial to learn how to use student resources wisely to make the most out of the college experience. 

Here are some tips on navigating Houston as a Cougar: 

Transportation 

UH students get a 50% discount on the METRO fare. The University also offers a program called Coogs on Alternative and Sustainable Transportation, which gives students a METRO Q-Card with a monthly credit. Students must register with their student email at RideMETRO.org to apply for a student discount or to pick up a fare card. 

On the METRORail, using the purple line goes through campus and connects students to Downtown, the Theater and Museum district.

Using HOV lanes as a student

When commuting to campus or simply wanting to explore the city, the High Occupancy Vehicle and High Occupancy Toll lanes offer faster routes during peak traffic hours. 

UH students are able to take advantage of these as well: 

• Carpooling: HOV lanes are open to vehicles with 2+ passengers during rush hour. Consider carpooling with another student. This will not only save time, but students can split the cost of gas and parking fees. 
•  Solo drivers: Students who are solo drivers can use the HOV/HOT lanes during off-peak hours for a fee with EZ Tag. 

Exploring the City

In Houston’s Museum District, most museums are free on Thursdays. Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are walkable from the METRORail. 

Get student discounts on Astros and Rockets game tickets. Explore local venues such as White Oak Music Hall and House of Blues to enjoy themed nights from indie to hip-hop. 

Studying near campus 

UH has plenty of study spots on campus, but sometimes students need a break from routine and want to try new places to motivate their studying habits. 

Doshi House is walkable from the purple line and is a fully plant-based, friendly stop for vegan and vegetarian students. Campesino Coffee House is not too far either an it is a Latin-based coffee shop that offers free wifi and has outdoor seating. 

The Houston Public Library Downtown is a productive space with no distractions, or students can shake things up with a breezy study session at Discovery Green. 

Staying safe while exploring 

The University offers programs to ensure students’ safety while navigating the city. Download the UH Go app to track shuttles, have access to the campus map and receive safety alerts. UH also offers a free evening transportation program called Cougar Ride for students within a five-mile radius of campus. 

Houston is a big city, and as any other large city it has varying safety levels. Students should walk in well-lit and busy areas during the night and inform someone of their whereabouts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s a buzzing city waiting for you to explore it” was originally posted on The Cougar

Lily Huynh/The Cougar

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and is home to 2.3 million people. Houston is often buzzing with activity, making it difficult to fully explore what the home of the Coogs has to offer. 

Houston is full of rich culture and industries, from space exploration to diverse cuisines. There’s plenty to explore, making it crucial to learn how to use student resources wisely to make the most out of the college experience. 

Here are some tips on navigating Houston as a Cougar: 

Transportation 

UH students get a 50% discount on the METRO fare. The University also offers a program called Coogs on Alternative and Sustainable Transportation, which gives students a METRO Q-Card with a monthly credit. Students must register with their student email at RideMETRO.org to apply for a student discount or to pick up a fare card. 

On the METRORail, using the purple line goes through campus and connects students to Downtown, the Theater and Museum district.

Using HOV lanes as a student

When commuting to campus or simply wanting to explore the city, the High Occupancy Vehicle and High Occupancy Toll lanes offer faster routes during peak traffic hours. 

UH students are able to take advantage of these as well: 

• Carpooling: HOV lanes are open to vehicles with 2+ passengers during rush hour. Consider carpooling with another student. This will not only save time, but students can split the cost of gas and parking fees. 
•  Solo drivers: Students who are solo drivers can use the HOV/HOT lanes during off-peak hours for a fee with EZ Tag. 

Exploring the City

In Houston’s Museum District, most museums are free on Thursdays. Hermann Park and the Houston Zoo are walkable from the METRORail. 

Get student discounts on Astros and Rockets game tickets. Explore local venues such as White Oak Music Hall and House of Blues to enjoy themed nights from indie to hip-hop. 

Studying near campus 

UH has plenty of study spots on campus, but sometimes students need a break from routine and want to try new places to motivate their studying habits. 

Doshi House is walkable from the purple line and is a fully plant-based, friendly stop for vegan and vegetarian students. Campesino Coffee House is not too far either an it is a Latin-based coffee shop that offers free wifi and has outdoor seating. 

The Houston Public Library Downtown is a productive space with no distractions, or students can shake things up with a breezy study session at Discovery Green. 

Staying safe while exploring 

The University offers programs to ensure students’ safety while navigating the city. Download the UH Go app to track shuttles, have access to the campus map and receive safety alerts. UH also offers a free evening transportation program called Cougar Ride for students within a five-mile radius of campus. 

Houston is a big city, and as any other large city it has varying safety levels. Students should walk in well-lit and busy areas during the night and inform someone of their whereabouts.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston’s a buzzing city waiting for you to explore it” was originally posted on The Cougar

Courtesy of the University of Houston

The University is welcoming its newest freshmen class amidst a major transformation unfolding on campus.

During their first semester at UH, incoming students will notice that some areas around campus are closed off with construction zone signs. This is due to the ongoing projects that UH has planned. Here’s a rundown of the projects and their impacts on campus life. 

Centennial Project 

In anticipation of the University’s 100th anniversary, UH has begun what is being called the Centennial project. 

The $43 million project will redesign key areas on campus, such as the Cullen Plaza fountain, which was removed in June, and University Drive. 

University Drive 

University Drive served as one of the main entrances on campus but will now remain permanently closed to vehicular traffic and will be renovated as a pedestrian-first passageway connected to Cullen Performance Hall.

This implies that University Drive will be blocked off by gates, and all vehicular traffic will be relocated. 

Campus shuttle stops such as Cougar Ride and Cougar Line will be relocated to the Welcome Center North Garage. 

Drop off, pick up and loading/unloading zones for Student Center South/North, M.D. Anderson Library, Ezekiel W. Cullen Building and Cullen Performance Hall will be redirected to 20-minute zones in lots 1B and 1E, accessible from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Visitor parking will be available for long-term loading and unloading. 

Cullen Plaza Fountain

The Cullen Plaza Fountain, which was located between E. Cullen Building and Charles F. McElhinney Hall, has been demolished and is closed off to the public. 

This area is in the center of campus and will be repurposed to promote community gathering and hold events. The changes will include seating areas for students and will create shading by adding sustainable landscaping. 

In this zone, Farish Hall will also be demolished and will be fenced off. 

Wilhelmina’s Grove 

Wilhelmina’s Grove, adjacent to Cullen Family Plaza, will have numerous trees planted along the pathways and will add a covered stage and a water feature. 

Loop Road 

Loop Road from Cullen Blvd to Entrance 18 will be transformed to create a pedestrian-first pathway and will undergo an upgrade in the drainage system to improve water runoff and walkability. These renovations are set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Certain walkways around campus will be impacted due to the construction; however, the University has ensured ADA-compliant walkways will be set around the construction zones. 

Students can see updates on the University’s Centennial Project Notifications website. 

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Goodbye fountain, hello trees: UH projects unfolding on campus” was originally posted on The Cougar

Courtesy of the University of Houston

The University is welcoming its newest freshmen class amidst a major transformation unfolding on campus.

During their first semester at UH, incoming students will notice that some areas around campus are closed off with construction zone signs. This is due to the ongoing projects that UH has planned. Here’s a rundown of the projects and their impacts on campus life. 

Centennial Project 

In anticipation of the University’s 100th anniversary, UH has begun what is being called the Centennial project. 

The $43 million project will redesign key areas on campus, such as the Cullen Plaza fountain, which was removed in June, and University Drive. 

University Drive 

University Drive served as one of the main entrances on campus but will now remain permanently closed to vehicular traffic and will be renovated as a pedestrian-first passageway connected to Cullen Performance Hall.

This implies that University Drive will be blocked off by gates, and all vehicular traffic will be relocated. 

Campus shuttle stops such as Cougar Ride and Cougar Line will be relocated to the Welcome Center North Garage. 

Drop off, pick up and loading/unloading zones for Student Center South/North, M.D. Anderson Library, Ezekiel W. Cullen Building and Cullen Performance Hall will be redirected to 20-minute zones in lots 1B and 1E, accessible from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Visitor parking will be available for long-term loading and unloading. 

Cullen Plaza Fountain

The Cullen Plaza Fountain, which was located between E. Cullen Building and Charles F. McElhinney Hall, has been demolished and is closed off to the public. 

This area is in the center of campus and will be repurposed to promote community gathering and hold events. The changes will include seating areas for students and will create shading by adding sustainable landscaping. 

In this zone, Farish Hall will also be demolished and will be fenced off. 

Wilhelmina’s Grove 

Wilhelmina’s Grove, adjacent to Cullen Family Plaza, will have numerous trees planted along the pathways and will add a covered stage and a water feature. 

Loop Road 

Loop Road from Cullen Blvd to Entrance 18 will be transformed to create a pedestrian-first pathway and will undergo an upgrade in the drainage system to improve water runoff and walkability. These renovations are set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Certain walkways around campus will be impacted due to the construction; however, the University has ensured ADA-compliant walkways will be set around the construction zones. 

Students can see updates on the University’s Centennial Project Notifications website. 

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Goodbye fountain, hello trees: UH projects unfolding on campus” was originally posted on The Cougar

Courtesy of the University of Houston

The University is welcoming its newest freshmen class amidst a major transformation unfolding on campus.

During their first semester at UH, incoming students will notice that some areas around campus are closed off with construction zone signs. This is due to the ongoing projects that UH has planned. Here’s a rundown of the projects and their impacts on campus life. 

Centennial Project 

In anticipation of the University’s 100th anniversary, UH has begun what is being called the Centennial project. 

The $43 million project will redesign key areas on campus, such as the Cullen Plaza fountain, which was removed in June, and University Drive. 

University Drive 

University Drive served as one of the main entrances on campus but will now remain permanently closed to vehicular traffic and will be renovated as a pedestrian-first passageway connected to Cullen Performance Hall.

This implies that University Drive will be blocked off by gates, and all vehicular traffic will be relocated. 

Campus shuttle stops such as Cougar Ride and Cougar Line will be relocated to the Welcome Center North Garage. 

Drop off, pick up and loading/unloading zones for Student Center South/North, M.D. Anderson Library, Ezekiel W. Cullen Building and Cullen Performance Hall will be redirected to 20-minute zones in lots 1B and 1E, accessible from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Visitor parking will be available for long-term loading and unloading. 

Cullen Plaza Fountain

The Cullen Plaza Fountain, which was located between E. Cullen Building and Charles F. McElhinney Hall, has been demolished and is closed off to the public. 

This area is in the center of campus and will be repurposed to promote community gathering and hold events. The changes will include seating areas for students and will create shading by adding sustainable landscaping. 

In this zone, Farish Hall will also be demolished and will be fenced off. 

Wilhelmina’s Grove 

Wilhelmina’s Grove, adjacent to Cullen Family Plaza, will have numerous trees planted along the pathways and will add a covered stage and a water feature. 

Loop Road 

Loop Road from Cullen Blvd to Entrance 18 will be transformed to create a pedestrian-first pathway and will undergo an upgrade in the drainage system to improve water runoff and walkability. These renovations are set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Certain walkways around campus will be impacted due to the construction; however, the University has ensured ADA-compliant walkways will be set around the construction zones. 

Students can see updates on the University’s Centennial Project Notifications website. 

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Goodbye fountain, hello trees: UH projects unfolding on campus” was originally posted on The Cougar

Courtesy of the University of Houston

The University is welcoming its newest freshmen class amidst a major transformation unfolding on campus.

During their first semester at UH, incoming students will notice that some areas around campus are closed off with construction zone signs. This is due to the ongoing projects that UH has planned. Here’s a rundown of the projects and their impacts on campus life. 

Centennial Project 

In anticipation of the University’s 100th anniversary, UH has begun what is being called the Centennial project. 

The $43 million project will redesign key areas on campus, such as the Cullen Plaza fountain, which was removed in June, and University Drive. 

University Drive 

University Drive served as one of the main entrances on campus but will now remain permanently closed to vehicular traffic and will be renovated as a pedestrian-first passageway connected to Cullen Performance Hall.

This implies that University Drive will be blocked off by gates, and all vehicular traffic will be relocated. 

Campus shuttle stops such as Cougar Ride and Cougar Line will be relocated to the Welcome Center North Garage. 

Drop off, pick up and loading/unloading zones for Student Center South/North, M.D. Anderson Library, Ezekiel W. Cullen Building and Cullen Performance Hall will be redirected to 20-minute zones in lots 1B and 1E, accessible from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Visitor parking will be available for long-term loading and unloading. 

Cullen Plaza Fountain

The Cullen Plaza Fountain, which was located between E. Cullen Building and Charles F. McElhinney Hall, has been demolished and is closed off to the public. 

This area is in the center of campus and will be repurposed to promote community gathering and hold events. The changes will include seating areas for students and will create shading by adding sustainable landscaping. 

In this zone, Farish Hall will also be demolished and will be fenced off. 

Wilhelmina’s Grove 

Wilhelmina’s Grove, adjacent to Cullen Family Plaza, will have numerous trees planted along the pathways and will add a covered stage and a water feature. 

Loop Road 

Loop Road from Cullen Blvd to Entrance 18 will be transformed to create a pedestrian-first pathway and will undergo an upgrade in the drainage system to improve water runoff and walkability. These renovations are set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Certain walkways around campus will be impacted due to the construction; however, the University has ensured ADA-compliant walkways will be set around the construction zones. 

Students can see updates on the University’s Centennial Project Notifications website. 

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Goodbye fountain, hello trees: UH projects unfolding on campus” was originally posted on The Cougar

Courtesy of the University of Houston

The University is welcoming its newest freshmen class amidst a major transformation unfolding on campus.

During their first semester at UH, incoming students will notice that some areas around campus are closed off with construction zone signs. This is due to the ongoing projects that UH has planned. Here’s a rundown of the projects and their impacts on campus life. 

Centennial Project 

In anticipation of the University’s 100th anniversary, UH has begun what is being called the Centennial project. 

The $43 million project will redesign key areas on campus, such as the Cullen Plaza fountain, which was removed in June, and University Drive. 

University Drive 

University Drive served as one of the main entrances on campus but will now remain permanently closed to vehicular traffic and will be renovated as a pedestrian-first passageway connected to Cullen Performance Hall.

This implies that University Drive will be blocked off by gates, and all vehicular traffic will be relocated. 

Campus shuttle stops such as Cougar Ride and Cougar Line will be relocated to the Welcome Center North Garage. 

Drop off, pick up and loading/unloading zones for Student Center South/North, M.D. Anderson Library, Ezekiel W. Cullen Building and Cullen Performance Hall will be redirected to 20-minute zones in lots 1B and 1E, accessible from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Visitor parking will be available for long-term loading and unloading. 

Cullen Plaza Fountain

The Cullen Plaza Fountain, which was located between E. Cullen Building and Charles F. McElhinney Hall, has been demolished and is closed off to the public. 

This area is in the center of campus and will be repurposed to promote community gathering and hold events. The changes will include seating areas for students and will create shading by adding sustainable landscaping. 

In this zone, Farish Hall will also be demolished and will be fenced off. 

Wilhelmina’s Grove 

Wilhelmina’s Grove, adjacent to Cullen Family Plaza, will have numerous trees planted along the pathways and will add a covered stage and a water feature. 

Loop Road 

Loop Road from Cullen Blvd to Entrance 18 will be transformed to create a pedestrian-first pathway and will undergo an upgrade in the drainage system to improve water runoff and walkability. These renovations are set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Certain walkways around campus will be impacted due to the construction; however, the University has ensured ADA-compliant walkways will be set around the construction zones. 

Students can see updates on the University’s Centennial Project Notifications website. 

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“Goodbye fountain, hello trees: UH projects unfolding on campus” was originally posted on The Cougar