Throughout the course of your time here you’ll likely get asked, “what is the best part of being a student at the University of Arkansas?” The best part of being a student at the U of A is, actually, being a student at the U of A! Here, one finds no shortage of academic, life-experience, and networking opportunities at every turn. You can pursue anything you are passionate about and find your path to changing the world. Students in all areas of study get to be part of a community where they are supported by fellow students, staff and faculty, and a vibrant and growing Northwest Arkansas.
Northwest Arkansas itself is one of the major draws to the U of A. Every student can tell you their favorite things to do in the area because it has so much to offer. I personally love hunting for unique things at local thrift stores and bookshops. You never know what you’ll find or what characters you’ll meet! I also enjoy all of the great entertainment available here. The biggest names in music come to the Arkansas Music Pavilion- good concerts are the perfect way to get a big group of friends together! There are always good plays and concerts on campus and at the nearby Walton Arts Center as well. Most of all, you can often catch me seeing a movie at one of the theaters in the area. Thankfully, most of them offer discounts to students; just show your UARK ID!
When it’s time to work, however, small, local coffee shops are my preference. They offer some activity but not too much noise (not to mention a caffeine fix). I’ve always had an especially good experience at Mama Carmen’s on College Ave, and it has become a favorite. Whether it’s quiet, individual study or meeting and discussing with a group, you’ll have no trouble getting it done here. Time spent studying at the coffee shop pretty well reflects the way I’ve approached my education, and the best advice I could give: you have to put in the work, but do it in a way that is enjoyable to you, and don’t forget to relax sometimes. The best way to enjoy your education is to study something that matters to you and give it your all, and the U of A is a place that truly helps students do that.
