Student Spotlight: Coy Harrill
When Coy Harrill, an English major from Newkirk was searching for a school to attend after high school, his sister, a University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma alumna with a fine arts degree, played a significant role in his decision. Her positive experiences and accomplishments at USAO greatly influenced his choice to enroll. A recipient of the Oklahoma’s Promise scholarship, affordability was also a key factor in his decision.
“The Oklahoma's Promise program is very important to me, because I came from a single-income household with multiple siblings who have pursued college so our financial support was limited. This program was the key factor in my ability to seek a college education for myself. The affordability of USAO as well as the opportunity to work on campus is giving me the chance to go to college without a lot of debt.”
Coming from a small town in Oklahoma, the small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty were also major factors.
“I was drawn to the size of the university, the diversity among staff and students—not only in where people are from, but with how people think,” said Harrill. “The staff and people here are also amazing and genuinely want what is best for you, making you feel like you’re a part of a community that helps and pushes you to be the best you can be.”
With a passion for writing, choosing to major in English with an emphasis on creative writing was a natural step for Harrill, who aspires to become an author for adults or young adults. He is also involved in campus life. During his freshman year, he joined the Psych Club and plans to get even more involved when the new academic year begins.
One of Harrill’s proudest achievements during his time at USAO is making the Honor Roll in his first semester. Additionally, he has found a supportive group of friends. He was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly he adjusted to college life, thanks in part to the experiences shared by his two older sisters who also attended college.
“Putting myself out there, even if I am uncomfortable, has been the best thing I have done since becoming a Drover. I have gone to so many events, been a part of multiple activities, and have met so many people that are making my college experience so much better,” Harrill shared.
Harrill encourages prospective students to consider USAO for the supportive community and the opportunities to grow both academically and personally.
If you or someone you know would like the same supportive experience that Harrill has had, become a Drover! Applications for the 2024 Fall semester are now open. Complete your application at usao.edu/apply.
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. USAO fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly-changing world.