Ashton Stephens
Student Q & A
Hometown and state or country: Springdale, Arkansas
Year in School: 5th year senior
College: Fulbright Arts & Sciences
Major of Study: Biology, Spanish and Medical Humanities Minors
Tell us something about your academic passions and how those relate to your role in Student Affairs program or department?
The biggest draw the medical field has always had on me is the potential to serve people in huge ways when only given small interactions with them. As a resident assistant on campus, I have been given ample training and plenty of opportunity to practice this. Through this job, I have seen how significant short positive interactions can have on someone. I have also been able to practice using every moment I get with someone to further our relationship or their confidence. I know the skills I have developed while working with Student Affairs will translate smoothly to my potential career as a physician.
What has been your greatest experience outside of the classroom?
All of my greatest experiences have been because of my job in University Housing. The teams I get to work with have become my family over the last 4 years. Working closely with partners across campus has provided me with such a sturdy support system and a constant influx of encouragement. Having an entire building of students to, in turn, give out that support and encouragement has been incredibly rewarding. Most of all, getting to walk away from college with long-lasting relationships and a more grown version of myself has made every up and down of my time in University Housing worth it.
What advice would you give new students about getting involved on campus?
Mostly, don’t be afraid to try things and then don’t be afraid to walk away from things. Self-empowerment will come from putting your time and efforts into an organization, hobby, or job that you love and that loves you back. There is something for everyone on this campus, so don’t force your involvement into something that isn’t growing you.
What do you like to do with your time outside of the university?
Most of my time outside of the university is spent outside. I am an avid rock climber and hiker. One of my favorite things to do is bring new climbers out to learn how to outdoor rock climb.
When do you plan to graduate and what is coming next for you?
I plan to graduate in December 2021. After graduation, I’ll be working toward finding a career in medicine outside of the United States. I will begin training to be sent to a different part of the world where medical providers are scarce. There I will train and work under the medical system of that region.
Is there anything else you would like to add or let our readers know?
Plans will always change, so try not to be too focused on them. Life happens one small step at a time, and the greatest thing my time in college has taught me is that it’s impossible to get ahead in life. When we start following that “one step at a time” habit, that’s when we can allow ourselves peace and pure enjoyment.