By Reagan Adams and Kyle Crutcher
For over thirty years, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) Recruitment Office has hosted its annual Lion Fever Day, which is an all day event that introduces incoming students to life at “the Pride.” On April 1, 2022, over 2,000 students met in the O.H Clemmons to participate in the festivities. From campus tours to free UAPB merchandise, students can be expected to have fun and learn about many academic opportunities. But has Lion Fever Day actually benefited the enrollment rate at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff? We seem to think so.
Office of recruitment member, Constance Castle, states that this year’s Lion Fever Day was the largest the campus had seen within the last five years. “This was our first LFD since the 2020 pandemic so we were determined to make it an event to remember.” Tables and booths are set up for students interested in extracurricular activities as well as scholarship opportunities.This luxury gives students a better chance of finding where they may fit in on campus. When asked about how she wishes to improve future LFD events, Castle claims that she wishes to expand the number of cities present at the events. “ We welcome students from all over AR, TX, LA, and IL just to name a few.”
Lions Fever Day is not only for future students but current students are given the opportunity to volunteer as greeters and tour guides. “ I had a great time greeting the incoming freshmen and answering their questions about UAPB,” said Indonesia Jackson, freshman. Though all students don’t participate in the event once they apply with the university, many current students can recall going to Lion Fever Day before coming to college. “I felt right at home in 2027 when I came to Lion Fever Day. It definitely helped me narrow down my options and ultimately pick UAPB.” said Jamaal Foote, junior.
With a mix of optimistic staff who push for improvement every year and enthusiastic students who are excited about mentoring the next generation of UAPB students, Lion Fever Day has had a positive effect on the enrollment rate. Most highschool students that attend LFD are indecisive about their decision determining which college to attend. The event gives a sense of clarity towards their decision. Jahleel Handson, senior at Booker T. Washington Highschool told sources “LFD has definitely helped my decision on which school I want to go to, I feel like I would be right at home, I can’t wait to be Golden Lion.” This is the ultimate effect of Lion Fever Day.
Quantitative research has not shown that Lion Fever Day has an ultimate effect on the enrollment rate but with qualitative research from students who have attended and now are enrolled at UAPB, it is safe to say Lion Fever Day is a great way to help students make their decision on choosing their school.