What made you choose the University of Mississippi?
I chose the University of Mississippi because of the environment. Ole Miss has developed a winning and fun culture throughout Oxford, and I could not wait to be a part of it. The track and field team was initially what drew me in, but after learning that Ole Miss has one of the top business schools in the country, as well as a great college town, I knew it was the place for me.
When and why did you choose your major/minor?
I chose my major because I wanted to be in one of the top business schools in the nation. General Business has given me so many opportunities to find what I am passionate about as well as expose me to different groups of people. I chose Sports Recreation and Administration as my minor because of my passion for sports. SRA and General Business combined to give me the option to explore my career choices in all areas.
Why is the UM a special place?
The University of Mississippi is such a special place because of its desire to grow and excel. This is especially prominent in the business school and the sports. In the past two years, Ole Miss has accepted a record number of new students, and this is positively affecting the university and Oxford as a whole. I am so excited for the years to come.
Is there a professor who has been particularly helpful to you?
The most helpful person to me in my time at Ole Miss has been my academic advisor, Lena Roesner. Her office door is always open to me and all of her students. It does not matter if we need help with a class or just a friendly ear, Lena is there!
What class has had the most impact on you?
The class that has had the most effect on me is Business Law, BUS 250, taught by Professor George Haymans. Professor Haymans has also had a large impact on me because he calls his students to think critically and teaches us things we need to know in the future. Because of him and this class, I feel more prepared for life after college whether that is professionally or signing a lease for a place to live.
What has been a particularly meaningful way you have engaged in a community?
Ole Miss Athletics partners with many organizations around Mississippi to help those in need, but my favorite is ‘Feed the Sip’. This past year, Ole Miss athletes donated over 6,000 items to help feed those in our community. Hunger is a real issue, and I am proud to be a part of a group that sees an issue and chooses to make a change.
What has been one of your most memorable moments at UM?
One of my most memorable moments at UM was this past football season when Ole Miss beat LSU. The school pride and energy in that stadium were absolutely unmatched. It felt like we were on top of the world when the game clock hit zero and of course, we had to rush the field. That feeling and these people are what makes Ole Miss’s winning culture a special reality.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self
Really put myself out there. When I transferred to Ole Miss at the beginning of my sophomore year, I kind of kept to myself. I was very tied up in the change and stayed where I was comfortable. When my junior year started, I told myself I was not going to do that. Since then, I have developed so many new relationships that have made Ole Miss that much more fun.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
I just accepted a sales internship this summer with United Rentals in Huntsville, Alabama which I am extremely excited for. After graduation, I plan to continue in sales or real estate, but I really just want to travel. I do not have a set plan for my future, but I know it is bright.
What are your currently reading?
I am currently reading Essential Wisdom by Randy Hain. I was fortunate enough to meet him and hear a little bit of his story in Atlanta for the SEC Career Tour. 10/10 recommend.
Do you have any hobbies outside of school?
I really like to paint. I would not say I am good at it, but I really love when it all comes together.
What are some dream travel destinations?
There isn’t anywhere I would not like to go. In my family, we have a running joke when someone asks, “where are going?” and we all say, “everywhere”. But if I had to choose, I would pick Italy. It is just so beautiful.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Oxford, MS?
My favorite thing to do in Oxford is to walk around Lamar Park. It is such a great place to exercise and catch up with friends. Oxford is just so beautiful, and Lamar Park is a large part of that.
What’s your favorite place to eat in Oxford, MS?
My favorite place to eat in Oxford is Bouré. The location right off the square is perfect for any night and the food just fantastic.