From the moment Jake Sisson moved into East Hall and joined other students as the inaugural class of the Residential College on the campus of Southern Arkansas University, he met people that would be friends for life.
“Being a member of the Residential College was amazing,” said the sophomore political science major from Little Rock. “We had so much fun, and we learned so much from each other.”
Beginning in the fall, Jake and his friends will be spread around campus in various residence halls.
“Of the 17 new resident assistants, 10 of them were from the Residential College,” Jake said. “Since we won’t be living in the same residence hall anymore, we are already planning activities for reunions.”
Jake believes that being the first students in the newest program on the SAU campus was a lot of fun. It also helped him grow up and adjust to college life.
“It was a learning experience,” he said. “It took me a while, but I finally settled in.”
Meeting new people and making friends is a natural trait for Jake. He plans to use his people skills to become a lawyer and then enter the world of politics.
“I have always been a people person and very outspoken,” said the 2005 graduate of Catholic High School. “I love public speaking. Speaking to a lot of people is something I’m good at and something I enjoy.”
Jake is gearing up for his future by serving as president of the East Hall Council and the Residential College. He also served as the freshman senator for the Student Government Association and will be an associate justice when school begins in August. His other activities include the Judicial Board, the Residence Hall Association, and the cheerleading squad.
“Being involved has helped me with time management and organizational skills,” he said.
In May, Jake was recognized for all of his campus involvement with the Donald Haefner Freshman of the Year Award.
“I was extremely excited to receive this award,” he said. “It was a very nice surprise. I tried to be as active as possible and still be able to keep up with my school work.”
