Samantha Jackson

Spontaneous, Ambitious, Genuine, Scholarly, Impactful

The UHP has transformed my undergraduate experience from ordinary to extraordinary. As an honors student, I’ve had the opportunity to conduct one-on-one research with a professor, take an advanced writing class, start a cooking blog, and even go on a weeklong trip to Iceland! These are all valuable life experiences I would have never gained if it weren't for the honors program.

My favorite honors experience has been starting my food blog and Instagram account. I am typically reserved about presenting myself online, so creating a food blog was completely out of my comfort zone. My initial goal was to keep it active for about three months. A year later, it is still thriving. It has been an amazing journey, and I look forward to more experiences in the honors program.

My advice for anyone interested in joining UHP is to be open to taking opportunities outside of your comfort zone. Being an honors student offers the chance to do something extraordinary for credit. As a college student, it can be difficult to find time for hobbies or to try new things that don't directly impact your intended career. The best thing about being an honors student is that you can explore diverse interests and experiences that enrich your personal growth and still receive academic credit.

UHP has encouraged me to explore new opportunities and be spontaneous with my decisions. After an internship with Division L of the Civil District Court in New Orleans, I decided I intend to pursue a law degree and become an attorney focusing on plaintiff’s work in personal injury, specifically medical malpractice.