While it’s great to show your love and appreciation year-round, there is something truly special about the feeling of love during February. Grocery stores are filled with cards covered in pink and glitter proclaiming affection. But, love doesn’t always have to be loud and it certainly doesn’t have to be romantic. So, this Valentine’s season, we asked students why they love UCA.
For many, that love begins with involvement. The wide range of clubs, organizations, and service opportunities makes it easy to find their place and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
I love all of the different ways to get involved on this campus! There are an endless number of clubs and organizations to be a part of. Also, there’s several opportunities to give back to the community around you so you can contribute to something bigger than just school.”
Academics also play a major role in shaping the student experience. Small class sizes and supportive faculty create an environment where students feel seen, heard, and connected, not only to their coursework and academic pursuits, but to those around them.
Our class sizes are relatively small, it allows me to connect with my classmates and professors, opening great network opportunities. Additionally, I love the amount of diversity we see here.”
That sense of connection extends beyond the classroom. Campus is described as a welcoming place where friendly faces and genuine enthusiasm make our university feel personal.
I love UCA because there’s nowhere you can go on campus where you won’t feel welcomed! We may be a large campus, but everywhere you go there’s a smiling face to greet you, and you can always feel how happy other people (especially faculty) are to be here, which makes you yourself happy!”
Beyond love, we wanted to know what truly makes UCA feel like home. Students pointed to the unique balance of a close-knit atmosphere within a vibrant campus community.
There is a space for everyone on our campus! While we do have a large campus community, there are so many sub-communities that manage to find a niche for every student, and at the same time be connected to others! That sense of connection and community makes UCA feel like home.”
Others emphasized the role of support in their daily lives, noting that reassurance from professors and peers makes a lasting impact.
Constant reassurance and encouragement.”
“It’s small enough to feel like you know lots of people. The professors are very welcoming too!”
For many students, feeling at home on campus isn’t about buildings or schedules, it’s about the people. Encouragement from professors, familiar faces, and knowing there’s always a place where you belong.
This Valentine’s Day, love at UCA looks like community, encouragement, and connection. It shows up in classrooms, student organizations, and everyday moments across campus. So, regardless of how you celebrate, one thing is apparent: students love UCA.
Written by Jamie Jewell, Strategic Communications Student Assistant