Arts and Sciences | Athletics | First Generation | Lion Voices | StudentsFebruary 08, 2024

First-Generation Student Spotlight: Hannah Boyett

Written By: First-Generation Committee

As a first-generation college student and student-athlete, Hannah Boyett faced unknowns when she first came to the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. However, her family’s support and her love for basketball fueled her desire to obtain a college degree.

“My family always taught me that the secret to success is education,” Hannah shared. “They were ecstatic when I committed to playing collegiate basketball at UAFS while pursuing an education. They have been my biggest supporters over the past four years, and I couldn't be where I am now without their unwavering love and support.”

In May 2023, Hannah, a guard on the UAFS Women’s Basketball team, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. However, the hardwood competitor wasn’t entirely done. Hannah has remained at UAFS and is working toward completing her Master of Science in Healthcare Administration.

On the court, Hannah has become a three-time Lone Star Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll student-athlete, a two-time All-LSC third-team member, and an All-Freshman Team selection for the 2019-2020 season.

Despite her success on and off the court, transitioning from high school to college was difficult. Hannah had to learn how to manage her time between her studies and athletics and develop coping skills for test anxiety.

“It was more difficult than I expected to find the time to study and keep up with all my assignments while balancing basketball,” Hannah said. “I didn't understand what it meant to make sacrifices for school.”

However, Hannah overcame these obstacles thanks to the Academic Success Center and its resources. She scheduled tutoring sessions and met with ASC staff to discuss ways to lessen her test anxiety.

As her family continued to cheer her on inside the classroom and on the court, Hannah thrived on the support she received on the UAFS campus. Armed with the knowledge of where to go for help, what resources she needed, and how to manage her stress, Hannah had a team of faculty and staff behind her as well.

“I want to thank Professor Otero for always having faith in me and seeing far more in me than I ever realized. She influenced my academic and first-generation student experiences through her mentoring and constant availability as a listening individual when I needed to talk about school or get a life update,” Hannah said of Dr. Nicha Otero, Interim Psychology Department Head and Associate Professor of Psychology.

“Mr. Derek Hill (Academic Coach, ASC) has also been helpful to me,” she said. “Derek has been my first choice for assistance with campus networking. He would always point me in the right direction, and if I approached him for assistance or advice, he would do his best to encourage me and offer words of wisdom.”

Reflecting on her journey at UAFS and becoming a first-generation college graduate, Hannah has advice for all current and future first-generation students.

“Push yourself beyond your comfort zone without fear. Enjoy yourself no matter what challenges you face because everything in life happens for a reason. It‘s all about making memories along the way and surrounding yourself with people who want the best for you.”

• Tags:
• Student Athlete
• First Generation Student
• Academic Success Center
• Women's Basketball