“Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. The challenge is what makes it worthwhile.”
Those are words of advice from Dr. Lynne Belcher, professor of English and director of the Honors College at Southern Arkansas University, to prospective students who are interested in applying to the Honors College program offered by the University.
“One of the greatest aspects of the Honors College is the diversity of the student population,” said Belcher, who was just announced as the 2006 Honor Professor, the highest honor bestowed to professors by their peers. “Both students and faculty enjoy that aspect of the program.”
Belcher also believes that taking the same classes, sharing the same curriculum, and studying together has formed strong bonds among the students.
“Students have developed life-long relationships through their involvement with the Honors College,” she said.
Beginning freshmen with a composite ACT score of 26 or higher are encouraged to apply to the Honors College. Students accepted into the Honors College must maintain a 3.25 grade point average in order to remain in the program.
Those in the program find the courses to be both challenging and rewarding. In addition, the Honors College provides students with an opportunity for a quiet living/learning environment in a designated residence hall. As a part of their studies, students in the Honors College will enroll in 18 hours of lower level Honors courses and six hours of upper level Honors courses.
Students who qualify and participate in the program will also receive a $250 a year stipend in addition to their academic scholarships.
By completing the program, students receive special recognition at graduation and receive the distinction as “Southern Arkansas University Honors College Scholar” on their transcripts and diplomas.
Now is the time to accept the challenge offered by Belcher and apply to become a part of the Honors College program at Southern Arkansas University.
Visit the Honors College website, www.saumag.edu/honorscollege/, to learn more.
