Vivian Angeles Graduates with Two Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice and English
UA Little Rock student Vivian Angeles has graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock on May 17 with two bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and English.
Originally from Glenwood, Arkansas, Angeles decided to go to UA Little Rock after hearing so many great things about it.
“I had heard so many great things about UA Little Rock, especially concerning their criminal justice and English programs,” she said. “I had a few friends and teachers that had attended UA Little Rock, and they had nothing but great things to say about the university.”
During her time here, Angeles was involved in a variety of student organizations. She was a writer for the student newspaper, The Forum. She served as communications director for the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) from 2023-2024 and was vice president from 2024-2025. Angeles was also a senator for the Student Government Association (SGA), and public relations manager for the Model Arab League for the 2024-2025 school year.
Her favorite memory on campus was the Late Night Pancake dinners, where she could spend time with friends, play games, and have fun with other students.
“My friends and I would go and have such a great time eating breakfast food for dinner, playing the numerous games they had in the cafeteria, participating in the raffles, and getting up to dance with the rest of the students,” she said.
Numerous events on campus helped her learn more about the field and prepare her for her future endeavors.
“The Criminal Justice program had numerous events where police officers, lawyers, and judges would come visit the university and chat with the students,” Angeles said. “Additionally, LULAC held several professional mixers that allowed us to hear from and connect with professionals around the area.”
She was also an intern at Braddock Avenue Books and works at the Communications Skill Center.
“These were such great places to work at,” she said. “I think both of these places showed me valuable skills that will help me in my future career.”
Angeles is grateful for multiple professors who helped her along her educational journey.
“I am forever indebted to Professor Jeffrey Condran, Dr. Angela Hunter, Professor Heather Hummel, Dr. Kris McAbee, Dr. Rebecca Glazier, and Dean Richard Harper,” she said. “They have truly made my years at UA Little Rock an unforgettable experience. They have helped me and guided me throughout my four years here, and I am eternally grateful to them.”
After graduating, she plans to go to law school and pursue a career as a family and immigration lawyer. Her advice for future students is to enjoy their college experience.
“Enjoy the butterflies,” she said. “Make friends, find your people. Join clubs. Go to the events the university holds. These things all seem so nerve-wracking at first, but I guarantee, you will not regret it.”