UALR freshmen – the class of 2016 – filled University Theatre on the day before they started their college careers and got the message from regalia-clad faculty, deans, and administrators – they are not in high school any more.

It was UALR’s Freshman Convocation – the official start of college life for 939 first-time freshmen, UALR’s second largest freshman class ever. A video produced by the Office of Campus Life documented activities that welcomed the freshmen, and had then looking forward to what lay ahead.

Chancellor Joel E. Anderson advised the new students to take advantage of all UALR and Little Rock offers them – from world-class faculty to a vibrant city culture.

“We will be a part of your university family at UALR. And at UALR, we look out for each other,” Anderson said. He urged them to “hit the books really hard this first semester and you will be off to a good start.”

But if they find themselves falling behind, reach out for help. There is plenty of help available.

“You have the drive. You have the motivation. You bring hope and potential,” said Dr. Jamie Byrne, interim dean of the College of Professional Studies who delivered the class’s charge as the students join the UALR community.

She urged them to declare a major early so they begin to organize their degree plan and stay on track to graduate in four years.

“You are going to fly. You are going to grow. You are going to succeed, and you are going to graduate,” Byrne said.

All the speakers repeated one piece of advice – go to class.

“It’s not the same as high school. Remember why you are here. Go to class, be on time,” said Rizan Mohsin, president of the UALR Student Government Association. “Freshman year is an amazing experience. Explore opportunities and give your academics your full attention, but still have time for fun.”