Considering he’s wanted to be a doctor since he was a kid, Marion High School graduate Dustin Walter’s decision to enroll in a four-year school like Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia was no surprise. When he finishes his double major in biology and chemistry, he plans on taking the next step to medical school.

How did high school prepare you for college?
Take the harder classes in high school such as AP courses instead of “blow-off courses.” Learning how to study for tests is key to college success. By taking the hard classes in high school, the jump from high school to college was easier.

What advice would you give to someone considering a four-year university?
When you go to college, you obtain a great amount of independence. While that means more freedom, it also means more responsibility. Learning how to balance both your studies and your social life is hard, but it will make college the most rewarding and fun time of your life.

How are you handling the dollars and cents of college life?
The full-ride scholarship I have is based on my high school academics and ACT score. College expenses can be lowered dramatically by working hard in high school. To cover any expenses that aren’t covered by my scholarship, I work over the summer and save the money I earn.

What’s your favorite thing about college?
Making connections with friends, professors, your school and the community makes college special and grows you as a person.

LENGTH OF PROGRAM
Most bachelor’s programs are on a four-year schedule, but how long it takes is up to you. Be aware: an overloaded class schedule can stretch you too thin and result in bad grades. At the same time, some scholarships require you take a certain number of classes each semester or are only renewable for four years. Don’t sweat it, though: an on-campus academic adviser will help you figure out the right workload.
 
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 grade point average and ACT or SAT score.

HOUSING
Most four-year colleges in the state offer multiple options, including dorms and on-campus apartments. Wanting to do the independent thing from the get-go? Make sure your college doesn’t require freshmen to live on campus.