Undergraduate

Gentry Friend

  • Class

    Class of 2026
  • Program

    Criminal Justice ( School of Applied Sciences )
  • Hometown

    Wichita, KS (Southwest)
  • About

    Gentry is a criminal justice major with emphasis in homeland security from Wichita, Kansas. He is also involved in Army ROTC to commission as Second Lieutenant.
Gentry Friend portrait.

Why did you choose to attend UM? 

I chose to attend Ole Miss for the learning opportunities and because of the campus it isn’t too small or too big.

When and why did you choose your major/minor? 

I chose my major/minor when I was at a community college, and I chose it because of the future career I want to have in the Army.

What are your career goals? 

To be an officer in the United States Army.

Is there a professor who has been particularly helpful to you? 

Jefery Johnson, has been extremely helpful to me. 

What has been a particularly meaningful way you have engaged in a community? (Either on or off campus?) 

I have had the opportunity to work on the Square in Oxford, which has allowed me to meet a lot of different people. 

What do you like to do outside of school (hobbies/interests)?

I enjoy working out, playing video games, and target practice.

What are you binge watching/reading/listening to? 

I am a reader and currently I'm reading two military non-fiction books, Black Heart and 82 Days on Okinawa.

What is your favorite place to eat in Oxford?

Walk On’s. Great food. Great atmosphere. And a great place to eat and watch the game. 

What are some dream travel destinations?

Italy, Ireland, and Spain.

What’s your favorite place to study on or off campus and why? 

I enjoy studying at the George Street house, for veterans and military services. 

Why is your department a special place?

My department is a special place because it allows students like myself to have hands-on experiences and we are taught by people who have real-world experiences.

What are your 3 favorite things about your major/department at UM?

First by far is real world experiences and knowledge. Second would have to be people in leadership positions are very helpful and care about their students. Finally would have to be our advisors becaues they care and take care of all of us.