Cooper Hardison (Atoka High School ’23) chose the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma for more reasons than continuing his golf career.
“I came to USAO to connect with new people, be part of something bigger than myself, and continue advancing both my golf and academic career,” Hardison said.
Hardison is a proud citizen of the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations. Growing up, he often attended sports camps that integrated Native American culture and history into the experience.
“USAO is incredibly welcoming, offering plenty of opportunities to connect with other Native American students and engage in learning about both our own culture and those of others,” Hardison said. “Being a USAO Drover makes you feel like you’re part of something really special. It’s like being in a close-knit community because everyone on campus is so engaged and involved.”
With a bustling campus environment of just under 1,000 undergraduate students and a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, USAO provides unparalleled resources for excellent students, like Hardison, to succeed in athletics, prepare for their future career and graduate on time.
“Academically, the support from advisors and tutors is awesome,” Hardison said. “On the athletic side, coach [Luke] Burns does a great job of getting everyone involved and creating a team dynamic that makes golf a lot more enjoyable, especially when things get tough.”
Hardison’s proudest accomplishments so far were placing third at USAO’s tournament this year or winning the long drive in Iowa.
“My athletic goals are, as a team, to play in the national tournament, and graduate with my degree and get good grades.”
