Some advice...

Introduction
Choose your class times carefully. Carpool if you live off campus, shop at local grocery stores if you live on campus. Get involved in on campus activites, sports, fraternities, whatever, otherwise your college experience will suck. I chose UH because of its reputation for excellence, proximity, and the cost. Someone who is xenophobic or racist shouldn't consider UH because the student body is very diverse. Female students shouldn't go out alone at night on campus because the neighborhoods surrounding UH aren't the safest.

Campus Life and Social Life
There is always something going on at UH. Sporting events are awesome, and free to all students. The vibrant Greek community keeps things interesting all the time, and the location of the university near downtown opens up numerous possibilities for entertainment. Advertisement
Academics
My major is in History, so I have all the kooky professors. So far I have yet to have one that has demanded too much work. Some of the philosophy and world civilization teachers emulate the "Clear Eyes" guy and put me to sleep regularly. A bright spot outside of my department were my science classes. I took astronomy I and II instead of the regular biology or chemistry because my major let me. The professor was really interesting, is actively invovled in the field and is regularly sighted at UH sporting events.

Student Body
Working class student. They come from middle class suburbs surrounding Houston and either commute, or have an apartment near campus. Most of the students at UH have part-time jobs. The students I've met with are mostly into UH sports and having a good time, anyway possible.

In Closing...
Anyone considering going to college on their own dime should seriouly look at UH. It's a prestigious school with a great history located in an awesome town. The University of Houston is one of best schools in Texas. Go Coogs!