For Matthew Womack, an 18-year-old freshman from Poteau, Oklahoma, beginning college was a shock, but thanks to UAFS and the mentorship he received through the Chancellor’s Leadership Class, it was a shock that spurred immense growth. 

 

“Coming from high school to college was a huge transition,” said Womack, an international business and finance major. “But UAFS has taught me how to use the resources that I’m surrounded by to overcome any obstacles in life.”

 

Though he toured numerous universities and had college prospects across the region, Womack chose UAFS because the beautiful campus and the opportunities it offered spoke to him. 

 

“UAFS blew me away with the amazing campus and activities,” he said. “I’ve made a lot of new friends and found new activities and clubs that I love.” Womack has found a balance at UAFS, immersing himself in fun activities, leadership clubs, career advancement organizations and volunteerism. 

 

Womack is currently in the First National Bank Student Leadership Council, a member of the Freshman Council University Ambassadors and Hyphen Youth Ministries, and he was also chosen to become a member of the Chancellor’s Leadership Class. 

 

“Being a member of the Chancellor’s Leadership Class has given me the opportunity to meet so many amazing community leaders and has taught me much about leadership and responsibility,” he said. 

 

“The biggest assignment was to host an on-campus event that is relevant to our student body. My team chose to host an event that would raise awareness for heart disease, WeHeartUAFS. Community and campus groups came and worked booths providing information and training on relevant topics such as CPR and AED operation.” 

 

Womack’s team event also featured games to allow students to get active and exercise their cardiovascular systems. 

 

“Through this project, I learned an incredible amount about networking and organizing events. Working with a group of other young leaders taught us so much about how to juggle school and work schedules.”

 

Womack said he is proud to be a Lion because of the connections he has made on campus and in the community with people who are actively helping him reach his career goals.

 

 “Being able to brag to my family and friends about all of the amazing experiences that I have had at UAFS makes me so proud of this university.”