University of Arkansas at Little Rock

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, AR, USA
Public
4 Year

's Review

Review of University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Did learn a lot

Obviously not an Ivy League school, but virtually all of my teachers were very helpful, and almost none of them would simply pass someone for giving a half-hearted effort.

Did enjoy being here

This is a nice school and the perfect place for the serious professional who is interested in learning and getting a degree while working. All business degrees, including an MBA, may be obtained by taking night classes, if preferred. This is not a party school, and it's not defined by its athletics and social life. Some transfer students from other mid-level state schools have told me it's much tougher than where they came from, with the possible exception of UA-Fayetteville.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

While not the most inexpensive school, it's still a good value for a degree from a respected school. Being located in the capital city, as well as the business and financial center, many of the professors are employed in government or business, and only teach here because they love it. A state Senator taught one of my government classes, and I've had professors who were lawyers, financial advisers and accountants. You can gain a lot of practical knowledge from such experienced professionals. Additionally, there are partnerships with local companies, and if you keep your GPA up you will have lots of job opportunities.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

You will never make it if you don't study. This isn't at all like high school. Most students really don't understand the importance of maintaining a good GPA of at least 3.2 in order to obtain good job offers and internships. Otherwise, you are just another average student with a diploma, which is certainly vastly better than having nothing at all. It's critical to network with other serious student, and stay away from the slackers. The good students will help you if you help them - share notes, keep in touch via email, help them if they miss a class, and then try to coordinate your future class schedules with theirs. It pays off, big time! I got my first interview from a former professor (thank goodness I aced her class!), and when I went to the interview and met my would-be boss, he was a former classmate who I'd befriended. Of course I got the job!

Which types of students will excel at your college?

People who want to learn and who want to avoid the social distractions of schools with a lot of students living on campus will do great here. The bar is set a bit higher than some of the other schools because students are older, more disciplined and dedicated to their goals. Employers, at least the local ones, know this and have a higher regard for UALR graduates than graduates from most of the other state schools. The average age at the school is 27, but lower for students attending day classes.