Becca Baier

rbaier@go.olemiss.edu

My name is Becca Baier and I am a graduate student in the Higher Education and Student Personnel master's program here at the University of Mississippi. I am the Residence Hall Director of Martin Hall. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Monmouth University in West Long Branch, NJ. I was born and raised in Columbia, NJ and my big family lives throughout the NY, NJ, and PA area. I am a huge New York Yankees fan and love going to game in the Bronx.

In my downtime, I love to craft and spend time with friends. I moved to Oxford in July 2012 and it has truly been a cultural and diverse experience for me! Folks down here think I talk too fast and you'll probably agree, but I am loving the Mississippi and Ole Miss lifestyle. From the Grove and football games, to the Hotty Toddy chant and amazing school spirit, I know this is where I was meant to be for graduate school. I have enjoyed every moment of my first year here and I look forward to my second! Hotty Toddy y'all!

Fun Facts:

Pets: no pets in the residence halls but maybe someday!
Secret indulgence/guilty pleasure(s): Driving my truck with all of the windows down and the bass bumpin
Favorite Food(s):I love peanut butter, especially in the form of Reese's.
If I had to eat dinner with one person, who would it be and why? I would have to say Mariano Rivera. I have always wanted to meet him and I would love to ask how his time with the Yankees has been. I love hearing his thick accent and the words of wisdom he shares with his teammates. Gotta love Mo!
If I were trapped on an island with one person, who would it be and why? I can't pick just one person! I would want to bring my two nieces and my two nephews, because they are always so adorable and hilarious and I miss them because they live in NJ. But they are all tiny, so they can add up to one person.
Favorite place you have traveled to: I lived in London for four months when I studied abroad and it was the best experience of my life. Santorini, Greece was my second favorite.
Favorite Book(s): All Nicholas Sparks book (typical, I know), books about leadership and student affairs resources, and Oh, the Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss

Courtney Pearson

crpearso@go.olemiss.edu

My name is Courtney Pearson. This is my first year in the Higher Education and Student Personnel master's program at The University of Mississippi. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Education in Secondary English-Education in 2013 from The University of Mississippi. I was born in Athens, GA. I was raised as a Navy-brat, so I moved around a lot; therefore, I claim Memphis, TN as my hometown.

My mother and father, as well as many other family members, are alumni of The University of Mississippi. I have an older sister, a step-brother, and a younger sister, as well as a wonderful nephew. When it came to deciding where I would receive my education, I knew there was no better place than The University of Mississippi. I have had immeasurable, life-changing experiences and opportunities at The University of Mississippi. Oxford, Mississippi is absolutely one of my favorite places in the world and there is nowhere more beautiful than this place. I am proud to call Oxford, MS my home. The University of Mississippi has a very special place in my heart.

Fun Facts:

Pets: I do not own any pets, but I wish I had a little dog to put little bow ties on.
Secret indulgence/guilty pleasure(s): Watching movies over and over again. I have probably seen Harry Potter, Twilight, and various other movies 20 times more than the average human. I really enjoy movies. I also love Pinterest, Etsy, and crafting.
Favorite Food(s): Spinach or anything with spinach in it. And rotel.
If I had to eat dinner with one person, who would it be and why? Michelle Obama or Oprah Winfrey. They have both had such amazing experiences and exemplify the epitome of integrity and elegance.
If I were trapped on an island with one person, who would it be and why? I am not sure, but I hope this never happens.
Favorite place you have traveled to: I would not consider it my "favorite" place, but it was definitely the most interesting and culturally diverse place I have ever been. My father was stationed in The Kingdom of Bahrain, middle-eastern island near Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and I had the opportunity to visit during his tour. I also really enjoy visiting Washington, D.C.
Favorite Book(s): The Twilight Saga, The Hunger Games Trilogy, and Tuesdays with Morrie, and Angels in America.

Murphy Turner

mwturne2@go.olemiss.edu

My name is Murphy Turner and I am a graduate student in the Higher Education and Student Personnel program. I spent my first year working as a graduate assistant in the Academic Support Center and will spend my second year pursuing my passion for orientation with the Office of Enrollment Services. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Education from The University of Mississippi with a concentration on Secondary Education and certifications in history, science, and instrumental music. I was raised in a small town in northeast Mississippi called Caledonia but I rarely want to leave the amazing town of Oxford! I have a passion for student engagement and I hope to pursue a career in an area that allows me to have a direct connection and an impact on student lives. After transferring from Itawamaba Community College, I fell in love with the university and I have spent my time since looking to improve it and the experience students receive here.

In my personal life, I like to follow my favorite sports teams and travel as much as possible. I coach my little league Dodgers and umpiring baseball and softball tournaments when I can. I enjoy the outdoors and things like camping and kayaking and being an all around country boy that likes to fish and hunt. I also enjoy grilling out for my friends and girlfriend, and entertaining family and guests when possible.

Fun Facts:

Pets: Back home I have a little mutt named Tippy that I have raised from a pup. He is going on 14 years now!
Secret indulgence/guilty pleasure(s): Netflix, organization, technology
Favorite Food(s): Asian pears, venison, steak, water.
If I had to eat dinner with one person, who would it be and why? I'd love to sit and eat with Chipper Jones. I feel like the experience would change my life and he is definitely a childhood hero of mine.
If I were trapped on an island with one person, who would it be and why? I would choose my brother James. He and I make a good pair and we are both great with our imaginations, work ethic, and general know how. Plus, he is a better hunter and fisher than I.
Favorite place you have traveled to: I haven't had the opportunity to travel around the world but I have been to a few places around the states. I really enjoy going to Texas and the pride Texans have. I also love going to nice lakes to boat or kayak.
Favorite Book(s): Atlanta Braves, Tennessee Titans, Kentucky Wildcats Basketball, any former Kentucky NBA players and the King, LeBron James, and of course, THE REBS!!