OUT-OF-STATE STUDENT

TESTIMONIALS

WHY THEY CHOSE UA
Find out why other out-of-state students chose UA, and see their advice for you.

Meet a UA Student From Michigan

Meet a UA Student From Michigan

Meet a UA Student From Illinois

Meet a UA Student From Illinois

Meet a UA Student From Pennsylvania

Meet a UA Student From Pennsylvania

Dennis Williams

Hometown: Wayne, Michigan
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Class: 2022

How Dennis Made His College Decision

When he started his college search, Dennis knew he wanted to attend a highly reputed engineering program and explore a new state. His mom mentioned The University of Akron’s notable College of Engineering, and after some research, he narrowed his shortlist down to UA and University of Pennsylvania.

What Made UA His Top Choice

The Akron Guarantee Scholarship promised yearly renewals—and even increases to his scholarship amount—as he earned credits. Dennis loved that he could increase his scholarship amount over time, on top of the Akron Advantage Award he received as an out-of-state student.

Campus Experience

Dennis immediately felt at home walking around campus and meeting new people. He decided to stay on the engineering floor of his residence hall, which helped form his core group of friends and study partners. On top of landing a summer co-op at Swagelok, he’s hosted events, volunteered and met friends through his student organizations.

Student Organizations

He’s been able to grow personally and academically by getting involved with:

  • National Society of Black Engineers
  • Rugby
  • UNICEF
  • Student African American Brotherhood

“I really enjoy it here. People are welcoming, nice and kind. I didn’t know anyone in Akron when I came, so I was meeting all new people. Campus is warm and I enjoy being here.”

Jessica Levya

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Major: Anthropology
Class: 2021

How Jessica Made Her College Decision

When Jessica Levya started her college search from her hometown of Chicago, she already knew she wanted to be an anthropology major. She also knew she needed an affordable and safe school. So when she heard about The University of Akron in an email and found their anthropology degree program, she decided to schedule a visit.

What Made UA Her Top Choice

While Jessica was also considering universities in Chicago, Philadelphia and Tampa, her visit to UA changed everything. After visiting and applying, Jessica and her parents ultimately decided on UA because of the affordable degree she could earn while thriving in a safe and vibrant campus community.

Campus Experience

As a college freshman, Jessica wanted to use her college experience to get involved and gain independence. Jessica loves the people she’s met and built relationships with at UA. She feels welcomed and helped by her professors, the UA staff and her peers.

“Without these people, I wouldn’t have grown and prospered as much as I have this past year.”

Student Organizations

She’s been able to grow personally and academically by getting involved with:

  • A campus sorority
  • Greek Leadership Program
  • CHAARG
  • Sociology Club
  • AK-Rowdies
  • Bierce Writing Commons

"I knew right away it was the school for me. I loved the people, the area and the campus. Everyone was friendly and kind, and it felt like home. Even my parents loved it and said they could see me succeeding here.”

Jessica’s Advice for You

While she misses her Chicago family, friends and pets, Jessica believes the independence she’s gained at UA has given her the tools she knew she needed. To other out-of-staters considering The University of Akron, she says:

“You [will] learn to do things you never thought you could, and you make new friends from different cultures….I would 100% recommend this school. The campus is beautiful, the people are great, the school feels safe and the academics are astounding.”

John Maly

Hometown: Aliquippa, Pennsylvania
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Class: 2021

How John Made His College Decision

John Maly first heard about The University of Akron when his neighbor decided to enroll in the biomedical engineering program a couple years ago. When making his own college decision, John applied to Penn State, but he was impressed with UA’s highly rated College of Engineering, so he decided to visit.

What Made UA His Top Choice

While he expected an overwhelming campus, John loved the atmosphere, and ultimately, UA offered the best financial package and academic opportunities, including the engineering co-op program, for John.

Campus Experience

Before attending college, John was heavily focused on earning his degree and getting a job immediately. When he got to campus, he was pleasantly surprised by the number of extracurricular opportunities — and how easy they were to join.

Student Organizations

He’s now considering earning his master’s degree, and he’s involved with the following campus organizations and resources:

  • EUREKA
  • RePlay for Kids
  • Human Powered Vehicle Team
  • Science and Technology Library

"I really enjoyed how closely knit it was. I enjoyed the vibe I got from campus.”

John’s Advice for You

As an out-of-state student, John encourages you to consider the benefits of UA over a school close to home:

“Personally, I love being out of state and getting the opportunity to study in a whole new environment. Don’t worry about going somewhere no one you know goes. Akron checked all of the boxes on my search.”

Hear More From Current Students »