By Francis Von Mann
LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 3, 2025) - The energy on campus is palpable. Every fall, new Wildcats arrive from across the Commonwealth and beyond to begin a new chapter in Lexington.
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Kentucky proudly welcomes the Class of 2029. The first-year students represent 102 Kentucky counties, 39 states and 30 countries. Every student is part of Kentucky’s bright future; future doctors, lawyers, policymakers and scientists all beginning here. Lucy Short, Kendall Hughey and Brenna Mefford are just a few of the students starting that journey.
Lucy Short (History)
Madisonville, Kentucky
Lucy Short’s deep love for learning is what led her to the College of Arts and Sciences. She’s eager to connect with faculty and peers who share her curiosity and passion for knowledge.
“I’m really looking forward to connecting with my professors and other students this upcoming year,” Short said.
Outside the classroom, Short is a multi-instrumentalist. She plays five instruments, including trumpet and ukulele.
Kendall Hughey (English)
Bowling Green, Kentucky
For Kendall Hughey, Arts and Sciences is a perfect place to grow as a writer. Hughey has directed three short films already. With an English major, she looks forward to sharpening her craft and finding her voice in new ways.
“One thing I’m looking forward to the most is the strong sense of community UK fosters,” Hughey said.
Brenna Mefford (Psychology)
Carrollton, Kentucky
Brenna Mefford chose Arts and Sciences because of the doors it opens. Before coming to UK, Mefford served as the student body president at her high school. Now, she’s eager to explore the many opportunities that come with her psychology major, from research to student organizations.
Kendall, Lucy and Brenna are three of the more than 1,600 first-year students in the Arts and Sciences Class of 2029. Together, they join classmates from across Kentucky, the nation and the world – scholars, leaders and changemakers who will shape the future of Kentucky and beyond.
Welcome, Wildcats. Your bright future starts here.