Arkansas Tech University freshman Loral Shapter of Conway was one of 29 incoming students who participated in the ATU First Generation Institute in preparation for the fall 2026 semester.
She described it as a pre-orientation orientation.
“It’s been really educational and very helpful,” said Shapter. “Before I came on campus, I was really nervous. I only knew five people here beforehand. There was a movie night on the first night of the first gen institute. I actually met some of my friends there, and because of that and other activities we’ve done throughout the week, we’ve all gotten closer. I now have a pretty good sized friend group. The people here are really nice. It’s very comforting to come into a new place and have a whole bunch of people welcome you.”
Shapter chose Arkansas Tech because it provided her with the best opportunity to pursue a degree in communication and theatre. Her goal is to become a high school oral communication and theatre teacher.
She said she was impressed with the beauty of campus and the friendliness of the people during her initial visit to ATU.
Shapter’s ATU First Generation Institute experience helped her understand how to find her classrooms and how to apply for jobs on-campus and off-campus through the ATU Norman Career Services Office.
She is looking forward to becoming involved in the ATU theatre and film program. She plans on auditioning for the fall production of “Electra.”
Austin Jordan of Bryant was also among the participants in the 2026 ATU First Generation Institute.
“Tech really appeared to me as the most affordable university, and I heard they had a good institution for education,” said Jordan. “My major is history education. The staff here is amazing. I love the campus. It’s very green and bright. I’ve had a great time, and I’ve only been here for a few days.”
ATU First Generation Institute participants learned about student resources, navigating campus and engaging in academic success programs. Tours of buildings such as Ross Pendergraft Library and Technology Center, Chambers Cafeteria and Ferguson Student Union helped the institute participants acclimate themselves to some of the campus facilities where they will spend a great deal of time as ATU students. The group also participated in social activities and learned more about the opportunities that exist in the Russellville community.
Jordan said he is looking forward to the flexibility of college life and the relationships he will develop with his faculty members.
“I knew (college) was going to be different and difficult,” said Jordan. “I came in with high anxiety. I think some of the best things that have changed is I’ve become attuned to the schedule. I was a go to sleep at midnight and wake up at noon kind of person, but I’ve adjusted to the sleep schedule. I feel a lot more welcome and more involved, and I think that’s the whole point of (ATU First Generation Institute). That’s what makes this experience amazing.”
Other participants in the 2026 ATU First Generation Institute included Laray Armer, Lanee’ Bailey, Kaden Bring, Madelynn Cameron, Caia Morris Cooper, McKenzie Danker, Olivia Fritts, Marissa Gray, Abigail Griffith, Joseph Guerrero, Stephanie Ham, Colton Howell, Katerine Interiano, Kinleigh Jones, Balahram Leyva, Amberlee Long, Rheanne Mason, David Medina, Peyton Parker, Jordan Patrick, Rhiley Reece, Kyle Reynolds, Julian Robertson, Sydney Sanchez, Harlee Williams, Kadynce Williams and Luke Williams.
The program is offered through the ATU Department of Campus Life.
“Definitely, if you get the chance, I would strongly suggest to do it,” said Shapter when asked if she would recommend the ATU First Generation Institute to future Arkansas Tech freshmen. “It’s really helpful to start college a bit earlier than everyone else. It gives you a chance to get to know some people before you jump in with two feet. It’s a great experience.”
