What's Next: Lexi Weeks on Four-Year Colleges
By Arkansas NEXT on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Lexi Weeks
University of Arkansas
Undergrad degree: Chemistry major with minor in biology
Hometown: Cabot • Age: 19 • Year: Sophomore
Sophomore Lexi Weeks has been making headlines for years. In high school she was ranked nationally in high school for her skill in pole-vaulting, along with her identical twin sister, Tori. Lexi made her dreams a reality by qualifying for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. The twins were both recruited by the University of Arkansas to pursue collegiate-level pole-vaulting, and it helps that the university happens to have one of the best track and field programs in the country. Plus, they both plan on becoming pharmacists one day, so a four-year university made the most sense for their future career goals.
What has college been like so far?
We [Tori and I] lived in a four-person suite and everyone had their own room with a common area. It was the first time in 18 years that Tori and I had our own room, which was kind of weird. There’s lots of fun that comes with the U of A. Everyone is cheering for the Razorbacks. In Texas, they have a bunch of schools, but here, everyone is rooting for the Hogs.
This option is for you if:
√ You want the traditional college experience
√ Dorm life doesn’t scare you
√ You plan to pledge or rush
Length of Program
Most bachelor’s programs are on a four-year track, but how long it takes is up to you. Take caution: an overloaded class schedule can stretch you too thin and result in bad grades. At the same time, some scholarships require a certain number of credit hours each semester, or are only renewable for four years. Find an on-campus academic advisor to help you out.
Cost
Scholarships, loans and grants are available regardless of where you go to school. If you’ve already declared a major, check out scholarships that might be available through that college or department.
Admission Requirements
Universities typically require a high school or equivalency diploma along with a minimum GPA and ACT or SAT score.
Housing
Most four-year colleges offer multiple options, including dorms and on-campus apartments.
