LOUISVILLE, Ky.  – Preliminary figures released today by the University of Louisville show that the university’s incoming freshman class is large, diverse and represents a growing number of out-of-state students.

Of the nearly 2,800 incoming students, 22 percent are from outside Kentucky. Administrators believe that may be the highest percentage of out-of-state freshmen in university history.

“Attracting students beyond Kentucky is a trend we’ve been seeing for years,” said UofL President Neeli Bendapudi. “It’s gratifying to know that students from near and far are choosing our university. This will be my first incoming class and I’ve been counting down the days until the fall semester begins.”

Here’s a snapshot of the incoming class:

• 55 percent have some college credits
• 15 percent are African American
• 6 percent are Hispanic/Latino
• 73 percent will live on campus
• 16 percent are first-generation college students
• 25.6 is the average ACT score, well above the 2017 Kentucky average of 20
• 3.6 is the average high school grade-point average, based on a 4.0 scale
• 78 percent are Kentucky residents 
• 22 percent are from out of state
• 12 foreign countries are represented
• Engineering, biology, business, education and nursing are the five most popular majors.

The fall semester also marks a new record for the J. B. Speed School of Engineering: its largest incoming class ever. Speed expects 521 first-year engineering students, a significant jump over last year’s 472 first-year students.

Jim Begany, vice provost for enrollment management and student success, said his enrollment team was pleased to see positive trends in overall growth, academic preparedness and diversity.

“The class is 5 percent larger than the previous year. Plus, the ACT scores and high school GPAs continue to tick upward,” said Begany. “Those are trends we like to see.”

As part of the university’s ongoing efforts to boost enrollment and improve college affordability, Begany said the university also launched a new need-based scholarship program specifically for Kentucky students. The grant provides $3,000 per academic year as long as the student continues to qualify. UofL has awarded the grant to 670 students so far this year.

UofL’s first-year students will begin to arrive on campus Aug. 15. Classes begin Aug. 20.

For more information, contact Jenny Sawyer at 502-852-4957.

As a freshman in college, my hardest obstacle was balancing everything I had on my plate.  I enrolled in 16 hours, which is challenging for any student.  I have a daughter and work over 20 hours a week, so I have more responsibilities than a typical freshman.  What I learned as a freshman was to work on my time management.  I tend to procrastinate and I struggled with my classes and everyday life because I had to take care of so many things in such little time.  I began to change that when I got a taste of what it’s like to complete homework and projects weeks in advance.  The main thing I suggest to any student is to get a planner!  Professors do not always remind students about approaching deadlines.  Having a planner really helps map out what is due in advance.  I also learned that professors love to help, even though they may come off as intimidating.  I often went to some of my professors’ offices to ask questions and have them help me understand the information more clearly.   Also, I am applying for UofL’s highly competitive nursing program in the upcoming months.  I have been stressing about getting good grades to obtain my dream. I feel I am well on my way to obtaining that dream thanks to my hard work, improved time management, and helpful professors.

I have had a great time in college so far.  I have exceeded my own expectations I set for myself both academically, professionally, and personally.  I have A’s and B’s and have been succeeding as a student.  I am also currently a CNA at a nursing home to begin my work as a nurse.  UofL has given me the greatest opportunity to become what I’ve always dreamed of being.

Heather Glidewell

Freshman, University of Louisville School of Nursing

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a Louisville Cardinal. All of my family members are hard-core UofL fans. I have gone to homecoming events with my dad and watched football games in the Papa John’s Stadium with my mom. I have met old and new basketball players. So even before I became a student, I felt like I was part of the UofL Family. A couple of years ago, I hit a bump in the road. I didn’t know if I was going to attend college, let alone graduate high school. I was in a very dark time of my life, but I knew I needed to step up and get my head on straight. I finally got my act together and graduated high school. When I spoke to UofL students, athletes and faculty members, they treated me with respect. Through scholarships and financial aid, I was able to fund my education. I am finally able to be the Louisville Cardinal I have always dreamed of being.

I am now on my way to gaining my bachelor degree to become a nurse. I finally feel equal to the peers I have long admired. My time so far as a freshman has been amazing. UofL is such a beautiful campus and thrives on diversity. There are so many clubs and organizations that students can become a part of and feel like they fit in. There are spiritual opportunities on campus for those with religious backgrounds. Tutors are available through the REACH program in the Ekstrom Library. Also in the library is the Writing Center, which helps students write and revise their papers for class. The University of Louisville provides every opportunity for students to succeed in achieving their degrees. I am very proud to call myself a Louisville Cardinal.

Heather Glidewell

Freshman, University of Louisville School of Nursing

Hello, Ruth here!

                  I am more than happy to share with you all the things that I have been up to at UofL. It has been quite an eventful few weeks, filled with joy and constant laughter. In late January, I participated in the 15^th Annual International Fashion Show, applied to become a Resident Assistant, Peer Advisor, Muhammad Ali Scholar, and REACH Ambassador, and joined the BourGeoiSie Modeling & Fashion Troupe.

                  The International Fashion show is an amazing annual event held by the Student Activities Board. 2017’s overall theme was “A Worldwide Movement” which included subthemes such as “Feminist” “Black Lives Matter” and “LGBTQ” social movements. I had the honor of modeling for the “Feminist” movement which allowed me to build relationships with wonderful and talented students on campus. Participating in the show really was a way for me to meet Mr. Medley, the organization leader of the BourGeoiSie Modeling & Fashion Troupe (BMFT).

                  Simultaneously, I had other things cooking on the back burner. I was nominated and applied for Peer Advisor, and have an interview coming up. I applied to become a Resident Assistant and had an interview which I thought went great. I am expecting to hear back within the first week of March. I also had an interview for Ali Scholars, which I felt confident in. Although the applications for REACH Ambassador are still open, I have submitted mine and am waiting for an interview date. On top of these applications and interviews, I have been honored to be a part of BMFT, with my first performance on Tuesday, February 21^st.

                  The ability to do all this, and then some, has been a complete confidence booster. An enormous course load, a part-time job, and other non-academic responsibilities, have given me such a drive. Not to say that this works for everyone. I would advise to join one or two clubs/organizations, and climb the executive ladder. For me, the juggling of multiple things is not only manageable but what I strive for. Like I said, this does not work for everyone, but there are exceptions.

                  Although I am dividing my efforts and time between extra-curricular and non-academic activities, I am still well-aware of my goal here at the University of Louisville. Building relationships through networking in different clubs and organization should never impede the academic goals set for oneself. I would go as far as to say: stay on the academic path as much as possible and the outside involvements should come second. Without the degree you are here to obtain, the networking is likely not enough to get you to your goal.  

                  With that, I want to leave you with the thought of (if you aren’t already) getting involved. If you are already, keep up the great work. Get to know your strengths and make the changes necessary to incorporate your strengths to pursue your goal.

REMEMBER: Not all positive changes feel positive in the beginning but at the University of Louisville, you will be just fine!

 Learn more about student involvement and activities when you visit UofL!

Ruth Peter

Publications Assistant

Class of 2020 

Hello, Ruth here! 

Okay, okay, it has been a while. I have missed sharing my college experiences with you all. I am happy to tell you all that the welcoming of the New Year has been filled with well-needed changes, new opportunities, and overall mental stability. I hope you can say the same for yourself. 

I know that I left you all with the suggestion to put down your work for the break; catch some sleep, spend time with family, relax. Now, two weeks into the semester, I assume that we are on the same page when I say that we must pick back up where we left off.  So, let’s.   

For starters, I am now a Sophomore! Yes, you read that right. Having taken Advance Placement courses, AICE Cambridge courses, and taking a few courses at Jefferson Community and Technical College, I was able to start my Fall 2016 semester at UofL with 21 college credits. With the 15 credit hours I earned this past Fall semester, I am currently at 36 credit hours- officially making me a Sophomore! How amazing is it that I can say that with only one UofL semester under my belt? 

As many would concur, the Fall 2016 semester flew by. My finals grades reflected the persistence of countless sleepless nights, early mornings, missed meals, frequent vent-sessions to my mother, study sessions that ran longer than the showers I had time to take, etc.  

My sophomore status opened many doors for me. With my 3.93 GPA (I was cursed with one A-) and the encouragement of Jenny Sawyer, the Executive Director of Admissions and my admissions counselor, I applied to the Honors Program and got accepted! I got to meet with Kirsten Armstrong, an incredible advisor for Honors students, who walked me step-by-step through the rather dramatic transition necessary to maintain Honors status. Along with the aid of Annie Fitzpatrick, my College of Education adviser, I managed to create a close-to-flawless Spring 2017 schedule, jam-packed with academically stimulating courses. 

In the span of two months, I accomplished more than I could have ever imagined for my very first semester at the University of Louisville. I am proud to say that I am one milestone closer towards receiving my degree.  

As someone in college, stressfully working towards the chance to make a real impact in this world, I understand that there are moments (and sometimes days) that feel completely against you. These moments are what essentially changes you into the individual you are to be.  

REMEMBER: Not all positive changes feel positive in the beginning but at the University of Louisville, you will be just fine! 

Ruth Peter 

Publications Assistant 

Class of 2020 

Spring into positive change at UofL with a campus visit.

The University of Louisville Office of Admissions is committed to helping you find the best match for your college experience…we hope it is with the Cardinal Family at UofL! Check out these first steps to your college search.

1. Establish a specific place for storing and accessing your college materials. By designating a binder or drawer to file pamphlets, postcards and catalogs, you’ll always have the information you need at your fingertips. To keep track of online resources, create a new bookmarks folder in your browser. Check your e-mail regularly for updates from schools and create a folder for important e-mails.
2. Create a list of potential schools and research them online. Visit the schools’ websites and social media accounts, as well as those for student organizations and various academic departments.
3. Carefully research the programs your potential schools offer. College is a time to explore your passions, but also open yourself up to new ideas experiences so you can challenge yourself to become the person you want to be!
4. Picture yourself at each potential college or university and be sure to note the location. Do you want to go away to college or stay close to home? Do you see yourself in a big, exciting city or a small, cozy town? Downtown or in the suburbs? Is the size of your preferred campus large or small?
5. Plan your visits! Visiting a college or university in person is the best way to learn more about the school and explore the campus. The spring semester of your Junior year is a great time to visit schools. Be sure to look out for college preview days and special visit opportunities.
6. Connect with an admissions counselor. An excellent college admissions counselor will provide you with information about the school, help you navigate your college search, and be a resource for you throughout the entire admissions process. Be sure to keep in touch with your counselor and schedule an appointment with them when you visit campus.

We wish you all the best on your college search! Connect with your University of Louisville admissions counselor for guidance with your next steps. Go Cards!

Hello, Ruth here!

I never knew how true the saying “time flies” was until now. A lot has happened this year, more specifically, this semester. As a Freshman, here at the University of Louisville, I am far from an expert when it comes to being a college student. I can remember back to the first time I stepped foot on campus, on a field trip that felt more like a free day out than anything. I did not know just how amazing this community is or how it would impact my life in the most dramatic ways possible.

I remember applying to the University and having no doubt in mind that I would get in. I remember getting accepted and watching my mother cry as we danced barefoot on our warm porch. I remember making my final decision to attend the University of Louisville, signing my academic scholarship contracts. I remember finishing off my senior year of high school, walking across the stage to receive my diploma.  I remember Freshman Orientation and bonding with the girl I now call my best friend. I remember counting down the days until move-in day. I remember meeting my roommate and speaking about how this is the first time the both of us will have been on our own. I remember the first day of classes, the first week, the third week being the week I hurriedly drove home to hug my mother. I remember my first paper, first exam, first mental breakdown, first missed class, first study session, first perfect score, first brush-teeth-run-out-the-door-because-I-overslept-for-class. I remember attending meetings and feeling like an adult, being so busy that I forgot to eat, staying up until 5am to type my first 15-page paper. I remember computer-problems, last minute editing, five-minutes-to-print-a-paper-and-rush-to-class. I remember watching Netflix with my dorm mates and Residence Assistances. I remember the 1am Waffle House runs. Lastly, I remember finding a home, here at the University of Louisville.

I know a lot more has happened, and with barely a week left, more is bound to happen.

So, this is the part where I give some advice.

Here we go.

First and foremost, prioritize. I, for one, need to work on this. With finals in our midst, this is not the time to slack. I know that I can tell you to prioritize, to ace the last exam, to finish the semester off strong, but ultimately, it comes down to you. So, realize that this experience is all yours. Whether you are a freshman-to-be and are picking your grades up before the break, or if, like me, you are a freshman who needs to keep pushing or even a senior who needs one more semester in order to get the 8am’s out of the way. Whatever your case may be, realize that this experience is yours to craft.

With the Winter Break quickly approaching, I ask you to momentarily put down the work, cast aside the stress that this semester may have left you with, and make time for the people and things you love.

It has been a pleasure sharing my experiences with you all this semester.

REMEMBER: Just a reminder that not all positive changes feel positive in the beginning but at the University of Louisville, you will be just fine!

Ruth Peter

Publications Assistant

Class of 2020

My journey of "firsts" began with a campus tour. Schedule a visit to start your journey at UofL!

Happy December! It’s hard to believe that 2016 is almost over, and we are half-way through the school year. The holiday break will be here before we know it. This year the University of Louisville’s Scholarship, Honors and Guaranteed Entrance Deadline is December 15—less than two weeks from today.

During my 10 years at UofL (has it been that long???), I’ve worked with a lot of scholarship students. I have complied some helpful (I hope) advice based on the top FAQs I get concerning the scholarship application:

1. The resume – take your time!!! Don’t forget about the student-involvement resume! This is such a key piece of how we award scholarships and we want to make sure students don’t treat it like a throw-away item. Please include everything that gives us a complete picture of who you are as student: honors, awards, athletics, service, work experience—it’s all relevant! Make sure your resume is grammatically correct and everything is spelled correctly. This sounds like such an obvious advice, but you would be surprised how many resumes get points deducted for incorrect grammar. We want you to know exactly what we are looking for when we look at your resume! 

2. Make sure you review all pages of the scholarship application! The student-involvement resume is on page 5 immediately before the signature portion of the application. Don’t panic if you don’t see it on the previous pages! Essays and other supplemental materials are on previous pages. My advice is review all your work before submitting. Save it and look at it the next day.

3. Letters of recommendation—start early. If letters of recommendation are required for your scholarship or program, please know that you CAN submit these PRIOR to submitting your application. Letters of rec are on page 4 and you can enter your recommender names and e-mail addresses and notify them immediately. You can also check the status of any of your recommendations—you can send reminder e-mails or even change recommenders. Please note: the Trustees’ and Vogt scholarships DO NOT require letters of recommendation.

4. Confirming you ACT and GPA—we will always award your scholarship based on OFFICIAL scores and grades. If you are taking the December ACT, please feel free to enter your ANTICIPATED score to get access to the award or program you want to apply for. Don’t worry about entering “false” information—we always verify, and this is truly the way to gain access to our application. And finally, don’t forget to make sure all official scores and documents are on file January 13, 2017.

5. Work with your admissions counselor. Contact your admissions counselor if you have any questions concerning your resume prior to submission. I am always happy to review resumes now and identify areas student can improve upon! Find your admissions counselor.

No matter what—please feel free to reach out your counselor for any questions or concerns. We are here to help, and we want to make this process as simple as we can. This is your future and it’s worth taking your time to get it right!

Happy December and Go Cards!!

Liz Fitzgerald
Assistant Director of Admissions

The UofL scholarship and honors program deadline for entrance Fall 2017 is December 15, 2016. Learn more about honors and scholarships!

9 Ways UofL Addresses Campus Safety

College Choice recently ranked UofL the 20^th safest large university in the country. College Choice, an internet resource for prospective college students, bases its ranking on data from the U.S. Department of Education, US News and World Report, and the National Center for Education Statistics. The ranking has a comprehensive definition of student security, including student health and well-being. College Choice includes specific ratings for general safety, anti-discrimination, women’s safety, party scene and fire safety.

No other Kentucky college was mentioned in the College Choice’s top 50 list, highlighting UofL’s unique and concerted effort to promote campus safety in this state through the CardSafe program. CardSafe is a multifaceted approach to addressing the safety needs of not only our students, but our faculty, staff, and visitors through the following programs:

1. The L Trail: This well-lit, patrolled route promotes safe travels from the middle of Belknap Campus to the Swain Student Activities Center, the Ville Grill, and to some of the affiliated residence halls. When you’re out walking, follow the white signs with the large red “L.” See the map for the L Trail route.

2. CardGuard: With this phone app, you can instantly dial 911 or UofL Police, send a tip if you see a crime happening, or set a timer to alert your friends and police if you are late in arriving to a pre-determined destination. Download iOS version or Download Android version. 

3. UofL Alerts: All UofL students, faculty and staff should sign up for UofL Alerts, which will send you a text message in case of an emergency on campus. It’s also the fastest way to hear about snow days and other weather cancellations. (All members of the UofL family receive UofL Alerts emails, but you must sign up for the text service.) You can add a second phone number or family members’ phones to the system or update your information at: getrave.com/login/louisville.

4. Campus Escort: When walking on campus during the evening hours, you should walk with another person and use well-lit, well-traveled routes like the L Trail. But that's not always possible. If you get stuck out late at night studying or working on campus and don't want to walk alone, request an escort. This service is provided for any member of the university community from dusk to dawn any day of the year. Escort Service boundaries on Belknap extend within the campus, to University Park Apartments and up to four blocks off campus. At the Health Sciences Center, escorts also are available to the parking lots or nearby vehicles. Call 502.852.6111.

5. Cardinal Safety App: This phone app offers tips on how to respond to emergencies ranging from an active shooter to an earthquake. It also offers tips on how to avoid becoming a victim and preventing thefts, as well as what steps to take if a crime occurs. This app also includes Belknap, HSC and Shelbyhurst campus maps and an auto-dialer to 911, the University Police and the campus escort service. Download iOS version.

6. Green Dot: Sponsored by our PEACC Center, the Green Dot Bystander Campaign is our community response to violence. A Green Dot highlights a behavior, choice, or statement that makes it less likely that someone will experience sexual assault, partner violence, and stalking. No one has to do everything, but we can all do something! Find out about trainings and programs for Green Dot at louisville.edu/peacc 

7. Campus Shuttle: Need to get from one side of campus to the other? UofL’s campus shuttles are a great resource. The university operates a shuttle Monday-Friday from Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium to sites around Belknap Campus. The West Campus Shuttle connects the residence halls to the main campus Monday-Friday evenings. And the Health Sciences Campus shuttle circulates to many of the key buildings on and around HSC. 

8. If You See Something, Say Something: Students, faculty and staff play a role in keeping our campus safe. UofL is part of the If You See Something, Say Something national campaign that encourages citizens to report suspicious objects or behaviors. If you see something suspicious, call UofL Police at 502.852.611.

9. UofL Police: The UofL Police Department is a fully accredited force that serves UofL’s three campuses 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The department consists of about 45 sworn officers, 30 security guards, and a K-9 unit. (Look for Sampson, a black Labrador, training around campus.) ULPD patrols all UofL campuses. You’ll see officers on foot, bicycles and ATVs, and you’ll notice their patrol vehicles. The university fire marshal also is part of ULPD. Find out more about ULPD, including updates on new initiatives as well as the latest crime reports at louisville.edu/police. 

Check out UofL's campus for yourself! Schedule a campus visit. 

Hello, Ruth here!

If you have been on UofL’s Belknap campus any time between the beginning of this semester until now, you have probably been a witness to various renovations taking place. Like the best of us, questions arise: “What is going on?” typically being the first.   

Everyone seems to know of the roundabout construction that took place on Floyd Street and Brandeis/Cardinal Boulevard. With traffic having been completely shut off for a week or two, those who were on or around campus during the construction know the struggle of taking the longest route possible to reach a once-simple destination.

Everyone also seems to know of the Student Activity Center renovations, taking place right behind Threlkeld Hall. I would say, those who know of this construction better than anyone else would be the Freshman students living in Threlkeld Hall; hearing the banging and clanging of machines and tools as early as 7am on weekdays.

Few seem to know of the Belknap Academic Building being built directly in front of the Office of Admissions. Although we have all seen the existing building come down—an amazing sight—we still question of what and why it is going on.

An $80 million, four-story building will be replacing the once loved Crawford Gym. Rest assured, this is something that will benefit us students along with the faculty and staff. The new building will be called the Belknap Academic Building, as I’ve previously mentioned. Referred to as a “student success building” by the University’s Acting President, Neville Pinto, this construction will result in 17 classrooms, more science labs, space to hang out with your friends and even more food options.

This means that us undergraduate students will not be crammed in 200+ student lecture halls. The labs will allow for more explorations when it comes to the biology or chemistry class you are more than likely dreading. Also, keep in mind that more food options equal less lines and speedy service. So you can take a science course, ask questions and have discussions in the provided area, grab lunch and hang out with friends, all in one convenient building!

As you walk to and from class and take a look at any of the construction happening right before your eyes, think of the beauty that will soon occupy many of the blank spaces. Give it some time; keep in mind that Rome wasn’t built in a day.

REMEMBER: Not all positive changes feel positive in the beginning but at the University of Louisville, you will be just fine!

Ruth Peter
Publications Assistant
Class of 2020

See all of these campus improvements in person! Schedule a visit today!