Upcoming graduate ready for business
December 15-21, 2025
By Mara Crumby
After earning two business degrees debt-free and immersing herself in a community of mentors, leaders, and global experiences, Benton native An Le is stepping into graduation with something rare: genuine confidence about what comes next.
“I feel excited and honestly not nervous,” Le said. “UA Little Rock has prepared me for life after college very well. I will miss the community here, but I am excited about the opportunities after graduation.”
Le chose UA Little Rock for the Donaghey Scholars Program, whose generous scholarships allowed her to complete two business degrees debt-free while staying close to her family. Along the way, she built a strong sense of belonging on campus through faculty and staff mentors who encouraged her growth, both personally and professionally.
Le said UA Little Rock helped her build a community of support. Through mentorship from faculty and staff, she learned that while it is important to excel academically, it is just as essential to build meaningful connections and relationships.
During her time at UA Little Rock, Le was a part of many different extracurricular activities using these to help shape her future and what she wanted to do. She was part of the School of Business ambassador, she was part of the student government association and also participated in the Finance and Economics association. These opportunities led her to working full-time at the university her junior and senior year, which better prepared her for future endeavors.
Le’s extracurricular activities included Greek life, Student Government Association and School of Business Ambassador (SGA) group. These activities influenced her leadership style and communication with people as well making her a lot more social and confident in herself. She also was able to attend a couple of study abroad programs that helped her.
The School of Business allowed her the opportunity to go to Argentina, which inspired her to achieve more because she learned how to interact with people of a different culture, and it also allowed her to see how the world operates. It inspired her to look beyond the classroom and workplace.
Le’s favorite part about her career is building meaningful relationships with people. She will be working as the marketing and merchandising manager at a home decor and clothing boutique.
“My advice for future students is to have fun,” Le said, “Take advantage of all the opportunities UA Little Rock has to offer. Counseling services, group fitness classes, intramural sports, and more. You never know who you will meet or what new things you will learn!”
Photo Caption:
An Le
Photo Credit:
(Photo provided)
