UC recognizes freshman honors students with annual banquet

The University College held its fifth annual Honors Banquet Jan. 31 in the Willie Tempton Memorial Student Center Ballroom. Some 190 freshmen students were recognized for their scholastic achievements during fall 2007 semester. Among them were 40 students who earned a 4.0 GPA.

"We honor those students who have at least a 3.5 GPA," said Linda Barrs, freshman advisor and program coordinator. "We like to recognize even those who are in developmental classes but have still achieved the GPA."

Professor Tiu Kadhi and Director of Career Services Glenda Jones were speakers at the program.

"I think the speakers were good because each one brought a different approach to education," said mechanical engineering major Terrence Hunter. "The most enjoyable thing of the night was Dr. Kadhi's Ten Commandments for Being Successful in College."

The program was simple, ensuring that the focus on highlighting the students and their achievements was not lost.

"I learned how few will matriculate from this university and that I have to keep focused on the task at hand. Also, I plan to use what I learned and the resources given to me to be proactive in pursuing internships that could lead to post graduation employment," said Hunter.

The students were each given a certificate and an engraved pen. Dinner was served and each building received the opportunity to take pictures.

"We promote education first, so any time a student does well we always try to applaud them," Barrs said.

"I think that it's good for students who are doing well to be praised. It helps them to want to continue to do well," Hunter said.