Welcome to the beginning of your higher education journey, Class of 2027. These next four years (give or take) of your life will be filled with irreplaceable memories you will treasure forever. Starting this journey can be exciting for some and nauseating for others.
For most “baby bears,” being at UCA means living away from home for the very first time. You’re away from your friends, family and comfy bed and expected to start from square one all on your own. From roommates to meal plans to parking on campus, it’s all a little daunting. Luckily, there are many ways you can make your college experience the best it can be. These next few tips are beneficial to any freshman or upperclassman. Here is everything you need to know about UCA and beyond:
The basics
Finding resources around campus is crucial. No matter who you are, we all need a little help from time to time. UCA provides useful resources to students in almost any area, from homework help to mental health counseling.
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For all things academic, your adviser is here to help. Your adviser knows your degree plan better than anyone else on campus and it is their job to provide you with guidance. Concerned about your class schedule? Want to change your major? Do not hesitate to make an appointment with your adviser, talk it out with them and see what they encourage you to do next.
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For financial aid, scholarships and more, visit the UCA Financial Aid office located in Harrin Hall or the Student Support and Resource Center. Apply for UCA Foundation scholarships when they open in November, so you aren’t scrambling to finish them all in January.
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If you need help with your classwork or need to study before a test, the UCA Tutoring Center located in the Torreyson Library is the perfect place to be. Tutors are students themselves, so they know exactly what you’re going through. Tutoring sessions can be held in person or through Zoom. If you need essay help, visit the Center for Creative Writing and Communication in Thompson Hall.
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Your student health fee pays for your access to UCA’s campus health services, so take advantage of them. The Student Health Clinicprovides a wide range of medical services to students and staff, including X-rays, immunizations, women’s health services, flu shots and more. UCA is also home to the UCA Counseling Center, which provides mental health consultations, counseling services, education programs and more.
Take a break
Have some fun on campus. There are many ways you can take a break and de-stress from your classes.
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UCA students can get free tickets to all shows, excluding the Broadway series, performing at Reynolds Performance Hall.
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If theater isn’t your thing, visit the Dr. Edmond E. Griffin Planetarium every Friday and Saturday night at 7:00. Planetarium shows change every week and also include an informational look at the night sky. Not to mention, it’s free.
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If you’re an art lover, the Baum Gallery is also free and houses artwork from artists around the world. Keep up with events happening in your halls and around campus.
Branch out
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Make new friends.
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Talk to your professors and the people you sit next to in class. You never know where you will make your new lifelong best friend or gain valuable connections for the future.
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Join an RSO — UCA is home to nearly 200 of them. From anime to chess to minority mentorship, there’s an RSO for everyone.
Remember to take a deep breath and know that you’re not alone. College is a new and challenging experience for everyone, and it’s OK to feel overwhelmed. Your dedication and drive to succeed will help, but don’t be afraid to reach out to others.
For a full list of resources, visit the link below.
