Chris Hamilton Jr.

Chris Hamilton Jr. is a senior Organizational Leadership major. He’s not only first generation but also a transfer student from Little Rock. It’s already a little intimidating to start school and meet new people, but picking up and moving to a new location is also a big, scary change. Chris did both.

Chris says he always knew that in order to make good money, he’d have to get a degree. So, during his senior year in high school, Chris made a plan for college. He initially chose to pursue a degree in computer science, but after talking with some advisors from UAFS, he decided that a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership was a better fit with his future goals.

Chris says most of his college preparation came through the TRIO program he was a part of his freshman year in college. They help students secure admission and financial aid to a four year college, and also provide personal counseling, tutoring assistance, career planning and more.

Chris’s education has not been without struggles. He talks about how he struggled financially and had difficulty understanding how to apply for loans, grants and scholarships. He said of these big decisions, “It made me take college more seriously.”

Chris shared how intimidating it was coming to a school where he didn’t see a lot of people of his own race. Chris encourages others to seek out or create student organizations that celebrate different cultures. He says he also wishes to see more African Americans in leadership and mentoring roles.

When asked who has influenced him most, Chris replies “Mrs. Othello Faison – a lady at my church in Little Rock. She bought me an ACT Prep book, she directed me towards ACT prep classes, and she always asks about school and has helped with resources.”

Chris said his parents are of very proud of him and always encourage him to do his best!

This is Chris Hamilton Jr., and he is #First2Go.