For Will Smith, the University of Central Arkansas has been a place of transformation.
Originally from Little Rock and a graduate of Little Rock Central High School, Smith chose UCA after an injury altered his plans to attend school farther from home. While attending a cheer clinic in Texas, he broke his femur and decided recovery would be best supported closer to family. He joined the UCA cheer team and competed during his freshman and sophomore years, beginning a college experience shaped by involvement and discovery.
Now a senior marketing major, Smith has spent his time on campus growing into leadership and purpose.
“I would say that I’ve grown substantially,” Smith said. “The William Smith that walked into UCA in fall 2022 is not the same one that is walking out in 2026.”
He describes his time at UCA as a period of substantial growth.
“I think UCA has taught me so much about myself,” he said. “It’s allowed me to explore my freedom in a controlled way where I’ve learned so much, and I’ve really grown as an individual.”
Smith has taken on several leadership roles during that time, including serving as president of the First Generation Scholars Society, vice president of communications for Bear Den and holding the title of Mr. Esquire. Through these roles, he founded and funded a scholarship for first-generation students, advocated for student mental health and helped coordinate menstrual product kit donations. He also serves on the Student Success Committee, representing first-generation students.
In addition to his campus leadership, Smith coaches cheerleading for students ages 4 to 18 in Little Rock and recently began an internship at The Design Group, a downtown Little Rock marketing firm. The experience, he said, has allowed him to explore different areas of marketing as he prepares for graduation.
Reflecting on campus life, Smith encourages others to make the most of their experience.
“UCA provides such a great community with so many different opportunities to get involved on campus,” he said. “It’s really a great place for you to flourish.”