The University of Central Arkansas welcomed the class of 2027 with a hearty “Bear Claws Up!” during the annual freshman convocation Aug. 20. 

Each fall semester, the class convocation is the first of many welcome week events designed to help freshmen transition to college.

“We are excited about an academic year that’s going to offer you friendships, opportunities that are disguised as challenges, the tools to find success, and the momentum to be right back here in the Farris Center to receive a well-earned and deserved degree in four years,” President Houston Davis said. “We’re a very proud university with 116 years of outstanding legacy, but I can assure you, we know we will be made better by your four years with us and the community you will share.”

Both Davis and Provost Patricia Poulter stressed the growth freshmen will face during their college careers. Poulter emphasized pushing forward when faced with challenges.

“The UCA faculty are here to help you, and they want you to succeed. We know you’ll experience successes and also times of struggle. That’s why we have so many ways to support your academic and personal success because it’s normal,” Poulter said. “We just have to learn how to fail forward.”

Colby Wilson, a senior and health promotion major, is the executive president of UCA’s Student Government Association. Wilson offered some tips to freshmen at the convocation on navigating their first few weeks on campus.

“If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be that it’s okay not to know exactly what you’re doing as a freshman,” Wilson said. “I always tell people to come in with an open mind because you don’t know everything, and that’s okay. If that first test humbles you like it did most of us, try again.”

Wilson said, “College will be the best four years of your life, hands down, but it’ll also be the hardest times as well.”

“We know that your class represents young people in the world that are committed to others and to make their place in this world better, to make it stronger, to make it more hopeful. I’m proud to welcome your entire class into our community and know that you’re going to collectively do great things,” Davis said.

Student Orientation Staff members ushered students to Estes stadium for the freshmen class photo after the ceremony. After the photo, a surprise fireworks show concluded the night.