Even though this is only my third year in Austin, I already feel like this is my city. It feels like I’ve done all the outdoorsy Austin activities, Zilker, Mt. Bonnell, Barton Springs, The Longhorn Run, so I decided to find more discreet gems in and around the city. In Juan’s post, he explored Austin’s budding stand-up scene so I knew there was so much out there I haven’t even thought about.
My friend Miguel is from San Marcos. He always would talk about this small but famous BBQ market on the outskirts of the Austin Metroplex called Smitty’s. Established in 1948, Smitty’s is on every “Best BBQ in Texas” list. We wanted to try everything… So we ordered a pound of each, we may have over-done it. We got ribs, jalepeno and regular sausage, brisket, pork shoulder and chicken. Hands-down the best ribs I have ever eaten. The employees knew I wasn’t a local because I asked for a plate. Apparently that’s a big no-no.
I had some family come into town and they were dying to experience some of the “real Austin life”. I took them to The City Theatre Company off airport blvd for a puerto rican themed play. My friend, Christian, recommended it, saying its the best bang-for-your-buck. Plays were never my cup of tea but my sister and my cousins girlfriend really liked it.
By far the biggest decision I made this semester was getting my puppy from a local Austin breeder. She’s an 8-week old Aussie named Blue. She’s crazy energetic (which explains the picture; it was the only pic she kind of stood still for). I can’t wait to spend the next 12-15 years raising her.
This semester marked the end my Junior year. 6th street and frat parties aren’t what they used to be. More than any other semester, this felt more serious. I had interviews weekly (at least), I didn’t go out every night after Thursday, and I met with professors for graduate opportunities. The games feel over, real life hit me. In this, the “mature” semester I had really gets me excited to see what more is in store. Thank god I will always have memories saved on Snapchat and photos and videos uploaded to iCloud, this way I can always see how far I’ve come.
Hi Sanjeet,
I’ve always wanted to have a puppy here too. I miss my dog from home so much and I love to go to Zilker Park to play with other people’s dogs. It sort of fills the void in my heart. What made you decide to get a puppy? Some of my hesitations are my parent’s disapproval, lack of time to properly train it, and my ability to give it the time it deserves. Do you find it hard to accommodate letting Blue out? It must be more fun at your apartment now, and I bet all of a sudden girls are giving you way more attention. That’s one cute pupper.
-Spencer
Honestly, when you walk around west campus and you see all the dogs – that’s what made me really get one. Unfortunately I can’t take her to Zilker just yet because she’s still too young. But I feel you Spencer, my parents still do not know about her, but they will meet her this weekend. So far, training has been hit or miss. She still has accidents but she’s a smart pup and so far its been going good. It’s a huge time commitment, though everyone will be trying to get at her so at least you won’t have to do it alone.
Hey Sanjeet,
I agree with you about your feelings about your junior year. This year has definitely been the turning point where I’m suddenly conscious about my career, my health, and my relationships. However, after talking to seniors I feel like this semester has been more of a corrective semester from previous semesters where students generally become more aware of what’s going on. I’ve been feeling like I’m in this weird midpoint where I am ready to leave college but I can’t for another year. I think I need to relax and enjoy these last two semesters I have before we graduate!
Best,
Michael
I totally feel that Michael. This whole semester felt like one big reset. All I know, for senior year I will be going really hard. Its our last year so we better live it up!
Hey Sanjeet,
I definitely want to get more into the barbecue seen after I graduate and start working in Austin full-time. The best ribs I have ever had were at a place called Killen’s BBQ near Houston. You should definitely check it out if you ever go to Houston! I also adopted a dog this semester and it has been both a huge challenge and the most rewarding thing I’ve done in college. It’s great knowing that there will be a happy dog waiting for you to come back home after a test or tough day. My fall semester was filled with interviews from September to November and it’s definitely not easy getting ready for those while still keeping up with all the work we have to do for school. I hope they went well and you got the position you wanted!
Cheers,
Adam
Hey Sanjeet,
I’ve never heard of Smitty’s until now, but it’s intriguing. As a born-and-bred New Yorker, I’ve made trying different BBQ places a focal point during my four years in Austin. I’m curious how you’d rank it along with other favorites (if you’ve tried them): Franklin’s, Cooper’s, Freedmen’s, Black’s, etc. To me, Franklin’s is on a different level.
Best,
Eza