It’s Homecoming week, Bears — a spirited week that calls on UCA alumni from every corner of the nation to join current students in a host of pride-inducing activities and fun. 

After the pandemic’s disappointing influence over the past few years, UCA has focused this year on a theme of reliving university traditions and making new memories. 

This year’s homecoming calls for student pep rallies, the revival of the traditional homecoming parade, the Student Activities Board Fall Festival, the annual Greek step show and the long-awaited tailgate and football game. 

If you aren’t taking advantage of all that this week has to offer, you’re missing out on an opportunity to meet new people, network with alumni and make memories. Plus, you’re already paying for it. You might as well get your money’s worth.

Maybe we’re biased, but UCA just does homecoming better. The university makes a solid effort to pack the week full of activities for current students, alumni and families. It’s the perfect environment for an alliance among the groups, all in the name of school spirit. 

There will never be a better opportunity for students to meet and network with alumni in their desired field of study. 

Networking is essential for any major, and the fact that UCA’s alumni make the trip back to the university for every homecoming week is a good sign that it works.

These connections could lead to mentorships and letters of recommendation, internships and even job opportunities after graduation. 

Alumni are the production of everything the university has to offer. Take advantage of the information and experiences they have learned ahead of the process you are new to, in order to set yourself up for success. 

Alumni networks are the best way for students to get their foot in the door, and homecoming week provides the perfect opportunity for this connection. 

It also provides an opportunity for cultivating friendships on campus. There are events for everyone, no matter your interests or classification, that will bring you closer to your peers.

Of course, the football game and the tailgate are the main events that the week builds up to, but there are plenty of other activities planned throughout this week that appeal to everyone. 

UCA is a diverse campus, full of a variety of students from different backgrounds. Homecoming gives you the opportunity to connect with different people in support of the school you both love.

Focusing on coursework and your education is important, but social life is arguably just as crucial to a well-balanced college experience. That means putting yourself out there and attending activities that will allow you to meet new people. 

College is more enjoyable when you feel a sense of pride and belonging to your campus and the people around you. It is so much more than meeting deadlines and studying for exams. 

So, go to the Greek show and cheer on your favorite step show champions, cast your vote for homecoming Queen and King, eat good food and play games at Fall Fest, connect with the alumni through Alumni arts and crafts night, and cheer on the Bears at the big football game. Most importantly, enjoy the time you have in college. Soon enough, you’ll be an alumnus anticipating any opportunity you can get to reconnect with the friends you made in college.