WHAT'S NEXT: Talon Newton on Transfer Degrees

By Katelyn Allen on Friday, September 25, 2020

TALON NEWTON

Age: 19
Hometown: Greenbrier
Graduation year: 2021
Currently Attending: University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton
Transferring to: University of Arkansas in Fayetteville
Working Toward: Bachelor’s degree in Communications or Sports/Broadcast Journalism

Growing up, Talon Newton can’t remember a time when he didn’t have a baseball bat or a football in his hands. He has always been passionate about how sports can bring people together. Talon decided to pursue a career in sports broadcast journalism because he is not afraid to speak in front of crowds of people and loves to share what is happening during a big game. “Most people are interested in sports because of the competition or the intensity of the game,” Talon said. “Don’t get me wrong, I adore both of those things, but there’s something about a group of people who all have a common goal, working together and giving every single thing they have to achieve that.”

Early on, Talon and his five brothers were told that their parents could not afford to send all of them to college. He followed in his older brother’s footsteps and pursued enrollment at UACCM and worked on his father’s tree service until he saved enough money to attend the college. Talon is transferring to the University of Arkansas to continue his education and pursue his career. “My uncle Daniel once gave me the best advice,” Talon said. “He said, ‘Talon, you know what the trick to life is? Show up.’ I know a lot of people wouldn’t listen to their uncle, but I decided I would.”


WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Cost
Community colleges cost significantly less than a four-year university. Community College Review reports that the average annual cost of a two-year school in Arkansas is $4,628. The average cost for in-state tuition is $3,014 and the cost for out-of-state tuition is $4,803.*

Admission Requirements
While four-year schools have GPA and other academic requirements, many community colleges have no entrance requirements or only require a high school diploma/GED.

Transferring Credits
Before enrolling at a two-year college, make sure the credits you’ll earn will count toward your degree at the four-year college you want to attend.

This option is for you if:
You want to save a lot of money.
You work full or part time.
You’re working to get into your dream school.

Housing
Two-year colleges don't typically offer on-campus housing, but once you transfer to a four-year school, there will be housing amenities.

Cool Perk
Public universities will often have 250-300 students per class, making it hard to approach a professor and ask for help when needed. At a community college, class sizes will often hold a max of 25-30 students, giving each student easier access to professors and enhanced learning opportunities.


"My uncle Daniel once gave me the best advice. He said, 'Talon, you know what the trick to life is? Show up.’ I know a lot of people wouldn’t listen to their uncle, but I decided I would.” –Talon


*Source: collegeboard.org