This year marks the largest class of freshmen the university has ever seen, according to the President’s State of the University address. With some of the best academically prepared students ULM has ever received, the future seems bright for this freshmen class.

“They mentioned we were the largest freshmen class at prep, and it really feels good to be a part of that,” Tiamon Robinson, a communications major said. “I don’t feel much pressure, just like another kid on campus just trying to do his best.”

Seventy percent of incoming freshmen have TOPS supporting their tuition and generally have higher GPAs and ACT scores than previous classes, according to the president’s address.

“I’m really proud to be a part of such a large and well prepared class. We all work hard and these numbers show that,” said freshman pre-Radtech major Jessica Phillips. “It also feels nice to know that our GPAs and ACT scores aren’t just ignored after high school and that colleges actually take note of that.”

The new freshmen class was reported as 1,353 students classified as Academically Prepared first-time freshmen. The 2013 class is comprised of 19 states outside of Louisiana and 43 international students.

“I love talking to the international students around campus and learning about their cultures. I think them just being here helps us get a better understanding of the world,” Robinson said.

As the largest freshmen class to enter ULM, all of the hype can be hard to live up to for some.

“It’s an honor, but it also adds a bit of pressure to our class to stay that academically accomplished,” Phillips said. “But with all of our previous accomplishments our class should be able to fulfill those expectations.”

“I wasn’t surprised this class had such achievements, I believe it shows that we are dedicated to excellence and a getting a good education,” said E’terica Holmes, a freshman pre-Radtech major. “[College] is going to be hard, but you have to want to pull through to succeed. Our future is in our hands and these years control out future careers.”