Enrichment
As a University Science Scholar, you will become part of a small, select group of science majors working together. You will get to know faculty through interaction and research opportunities, which is advantageous to professional development. You will have an opportunity to live in a residence hall with other scholars and continue to develop your peer group support.
If you enter the program as a freshman, we you will take a three-credit course, “Science Skills.” This is a freshman experience course that will help you adjust to a college environment and get a head start on your science major. You will build connections with your peers and make an immediate connection with science faculty. Experience at UALR and other universities have shown that these types of courses dramatically help new college students.
You also will have special opportunities for additional professional growth through special sessions. The USSP will provide optional workshops (for example, resumé writing, computer applications, or applying for internships, jobs or graduate school), field trips to employers (for example, The UALR Nanotechnology Center, the Arkansas Crime Lab, The Nature Conservancy, or the Arkansas Geological Commission), and luncheon discussions (for example, how to find an internship, job or graduate program). All of these special sessions will be tailored to the needs and interests of the students in the program.
You will have research opportunities with UALR faculty or other mentors. We will encourage each of you to participate in research because the value of research experiences as an undergraduate cannot be overstated. Conducting research teaches you to teach yourself–a premier tool for success. It also helps you improve your knowledge, thinking, self-discipline, and problem-solving skills. Each year, many University Science Scholars present their work at forums or conferences. We encourage everyone associated with the program to celebrate their success.