When Billy Whitt graduates from Southern Arkansas University on May 12, he believes that his diploma will compare favorably with others from around the country.
“I would hold my degree against any university in the United States,” says the senior biology major from Texarkana, Texas. “Just because we are a small school, does not mean that our professors don’t expect students to meet high standards.”
One of the reasons Billy chose to attend SAU was because he felt he could receive a quality education and form personal relationships with his professors.
After graduation, Billy will continue to receive a quality education through the SAU School of Graduate Studies. He will pursue a master’s of art in teaching degree. He will then apply to dental school and physician assistant’s school.
“I want to be a dentist in the Liberty-Eylau area,” said the 2002 Liberty-Eylau High School graduate. “I want to contribute to the community that gave me my start and helped me arrive at this point.”
Billy’s favorite thing about college is the student activities he has been involved with during his four years at the University.
“There is always something going on around campus,” said Billy. “I have met so many people through my work as a President’s Ambassador and through my fraternity. There are all types of different people that I have come in contact with through my on-campus activities.”
He offers some words of advice to prospective students.
“Get involved in campus activities, and keep your grades up,” he suggests.
Billy credits his parents, Ray and Genie Whitt, with being the most influential people in his life. Both of his parents work in the Liberty-Eylau Independent School District. His dad teaches auto mechanics and his mother is a secretary on the pre-kindergarten campus.
“My parents have always encouraged me to do my best,” he said.
