I have never regretted my decision to attend the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. I am so thankful that my Girl State counselors introduced me to this school because I could not imagine myself at another school in Arkansas. UALR is not perfect, but it is perfect for me. Here are ten reasons why UALR is the best university in Arkansas.

1. Great dorms.

Before I started school at UALR, I visited multiple universities in Arkansas. The other schools that I visited did not feel like home. As a freshman, UALR students are able to stay in the latest dormitory. West Hall is only five and half years old. If you can’t afford to stay in the apartments, students have a cheaper option with East Hall. Though East Hall is the oldest dorm on campus, I have heard from many transfers that it is better than other dorms in Arkansas.

2. UALR is in the heart of Arkansas.

Being in the heart of Arkansas gives UALR students more opportunities than other schools in Arkansas. As an education minor, I am able to observe at some of the best middle and high schools in Arkansas. One of my friends was able to intern at the Arkansas Department of Education in Little Rock. Being involved in social justice is also easier because a lot of non-profits are based in Little Rock.

3. Amazing professors.

The majority of the professors at UALR are incredibly qualified, motivating, interesting, passionate about their classes, and willing to help students make it through the year. I don’t know everything about all the departments on campus, but the English department has an incredible staff. I never doubt their ability or knowledge. They are always pushing us to do better and giving us great opportunities. I feel honored to be at a university that has a staff that cares about my education.

4. Strong focus on education.

I do not know if it is because we do not have a football team (yes, you read that right) or the dedication of our professors, but UALR does not play about their students’ education. I have heard from many people that transfer to UALR that UALR is harder than the schools that are supposed to be the best of the best in Arkansas. People have told me that they actually feel challenged at UALR and that they are learning.

5. Great scholarships.

The icing on top of the cake for me to attend UALR was getting a $32,000 scholarship. In addition to the scholarship that I have, UALR also has a number of private scholarships, department scholarships, college scholarships, and book grants. If you put in the work to apply for a scholarship, you will be able to afford an education. I love that UALR provides its current and prospective students with money to attend the university.

6. Many student-run organizations.

Since being a student at UALR I have encountered many student leaders. The programming board is student ran with three leaders (I’m one). The student government association is filled with student elected members from freshman to law students. Most, if not all, of the organizations on campus are ran by students. A faculty advisor is required to start and continue a club, but it is the students who make the decisions.

7. Diversity.

Growing up in a predominately African American community, I knew that I wanted to expand my horizon more by attending a university that had a range of backgrounds. I am learning so much about other people and their life experiences. In a way, I feel like I am getting a glimpse of what it is like being in the real world amongst people who are not like you. Not only is the population diverse, but UALR is also trying to provide more diverse events on campus to include everyone.

8. Little Rock Teams.

Recently, UALR athletic teams have changed their names from UALR Teams to Little Rock Teams. By changing the name we are claiming that we are the team of Little Rock. This name change has encouraged Little Rock to support UALR more. Our basketball team just become Sun Belt champions, the first time since 2011. We are currently in the bracket for NCAA Tournament. Though UALR is not all about sports, the success of our basketball team this year has brought a lot of attention to our school. Good attention could mean higher enrollment next year.

I have not regretted my decision to attend UALR. I love my school! Go Trojans!