Nancy Stephan
Staff Writer

Photo by Nancy Stephan

Bookstore - Lisa Higgins checks out students in the UAM Bookstore during Graduation Prep Days.  The Bookstore holds this event in order to help UAM's graduating students.

    Students swarmed the University of Arkansas – Monticello Bookstore early Wednesday and Thursday morning hoping to get a glimpse at the class rings, announcements, diploma frames and other goods offered for spring graduation. 

   Representatives from Balfour Jewelry took orders for official graduation announcements and class rings. Although the university provides keepsake caps, gowns and tassels to undergraduate and graduate students, representatives took orders for hoods for graduate students planning to participate in Commencement Exercises. 

   If graduating students missed the Bookstore's Graduation Prep Days, they can still order their graduation materials by visiting www.balfourcollege.com.  However, if students order from this Web site, they should do so as soon as possible.  Delivery takes approximately four to six weeks, so students are encouraged to order no later than April 1.

   Many students took the opportunity to have a cap and gown portrait taken by a professional photographer while the normal sitting fee was waived.  

   When asked how it felt to find herself so close to graduation Senior Patty Magana said, “I cannot believe this day is so close. Time passes so quickly. I will cherish so many memories as I walk across the field.” 

   In addition to the traditional gifts offered at the bookstore, UAM also offers collegiate license plates, available as an official Arkansas car tag for $35 above the cost of a standard tag. The UAM Foundation Fund receives $25 for each tag purchased. This tax-deductible contribution helps UAM students and programs.  

   Over 10 revenue offices in southeast Arkansas offer the UAM plate, as well as the state office located in Little Rock. Currently, over 179 license tags have been purchased. To place an order for a plate call 800-467-8148, 870-460-1028 or visit www.uamont.edu/alumni for more information. 

   Students may consider purchasing a brick on UAM’s Weevil Walk for a graduation gift that will last a lifetime. Over 700 bricks have been purchased for Weevil Walk. The engraved bricks cost $100, and the Office of Advancement offers them at www.uamont.edu/alumni or by calling 870-460-1028.