Hailey Barger enjoys the things that life typically presents to a young person, but always has her eye toward the future. It was that inclination that helped her choose ÉðÊ¿Âþ» as a place to attend college.
“There were several reasons why I chose the University of Akron, but the main ones were all based around the opportunities that were there to just get involved with student organizations and with local businesses. So, that way I could really prepare for life after college,” Hailey says.
A senior from Minerva, Ohio, Hailey was drawn to the accelerated accounting program in the College of Business, in which she majors. Through the program, she can earn both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in five years’ time.
Hailey has enjoyed her numerous experiences as a collegiate student and said selecting a favorite event over that time was difficult.
“There are a ton of experiences that I've had on campus, so it's really hard to pick out just my best one. But one of my favorites was the Emerging Leaders program here. That’s for only the freshman students and you just go through a yearlong training program to expand on your leadership skills, it’s like learning about yourself through readings and speakers’ presentations. It was great stuff.”
As Hailey prepares to join the professional ranks, she says she will always fondly recall UA’s ability to help shape and expand her talents and perspectives. “I really valued the opportunities here at the University of Akron because they just help to help me to grow as a person professionally. My leadership skills, everything there has just helped me be better and better for whenever I am transitioning into full-time situations.”
What would Hailey say to others considering UA?
“My biggest piece of advice for somebody considering the University of Akron is to just get in touch with the admissions office, get a tour of campus, and to go even further than that,” Hailey says. “Ask them to connect you the college that you're interested in for a personalized tour, because many of them have students there that their sole purpose is to bring you in and show you the campus and the college (where) you would be spending most of your time. They are really helpful, answering any questions you might have.”
Hailey says the resources offered by UA can propel a student from good to great. “Use the resources while you are here. This can be using the library, or it can be as broad as sharing questions (about academics and careers) of your professors. The experience really will be what you make of it.”
To learn more about scholarships at ÉðÊ¿Âþ», click here.