Attending the Hope Collegiate Academy was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It provided me with an incredible opportunity to advance my education in a way that was both challenging and rewarding, all while being surrounded by a supportive, like-minded community. I chose the Collegiate Academy because I knew it would push me to grow academically and personally, and it didn’t disappoint.
During my time in the academy, I had the privilege of building long-lasting, irreplaceable relationships — not only with fellow students but also with faculty and staff who genuinely cared about my success. This support system was invaluable, especially when navigating difficult coursework or juggling my academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities and work. Managing my time wisely and maintaining an organized schedule helped me stay on track, and I constantly reminded myself that academics were my top priority.
One of my proudest achievements was earning the Top Student Award from the UAHT Math, Science, and Social Science Division. Receiving that recognition from faculty and staff made me feel like all the extra hours of studying and hard work had truly paid off. Beyond the awards, the Collegiate Academy offered countless opportunities I never expected — from exploring new subjects to experiencing college life early on.
Earning my associate degree before transferring to Arkansas State University has been a huge advantage, not only by reducing the financial burden of higher education but also by giving me firsthand experience with college-level coursework and responsibilities. I’ve learned how to communicate with advisors, manage deadlines independently, and handle the rigors of collegiate academics — all of which have prepared me for my future studies in Information Systems Business Analytics and my goal of becoming a data analyst.
My advice to prospective students is to be ready to commit fully. Success in the Collegiate Academy requires effort and dedication — it’s not something you can excel in by being half-engaged. But if you’re willing to put in the work, manage your time effectively, and take advantage of the resources around you, it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Even when the coursework is tough, leaning on the supportive community and pushing through challenges will help you grow in ways you never imagined.
Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for everything the Collegiate Academy has given me. It’s been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone considering the program. The experience, the connections, and the personal growth are truly priceless — and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
-Tara Henry, Hope Collegiate Academy Class of 2024
Apply for the Hope Collegiate Academy today at https://www.uaht.edu/academics/hope-collegiate-academy.php.