Meet Jackson Stanford
Why did you choose to attend UM?
As a transfer student, Ole Miss was on a list of multiple universities I had to choose from. After looking at all of my choices, Ole Miss had a little bit of everything that I wanted out of a University I wanted to transfer to.
When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I chose to major in math during the summer after I graduated community college. I was already on the STEM path with my courses, but I did not really know what I wanted to do exactly. I ended up choosing math because I like the challenge that it brings.
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they’re interested in pursuing that field of study?
I believe math is a language of its own. It requires a lot of patience and repetition to learn and understand it. Math gives you the necessary problem-solving skills needed for post graduate fields. If you put in the effort and enjoy it, then you will be very successful.
Why is your department a special place?
I like that the department is smaller than some others. It helped me get to know my department faculty and professors better. The department always wants what is best for me, and they help point me in the right direction.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you’ve taken that has had the most impact on you?
So far, the class that has had the most impact on me was my Foundations of Mathematics class. The way Dr. Reid explains and teaches that class has helped me understand math in a completely different way.
What do you hope to do after you graduate? What are your career goals/ plans for post graduation?
I hope to either go to medical school or continue down the field of math.
Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford? What are your hobbies, favorite places to go, etc.?
I play tennis with the club team during the week. I like to go run and workout at the south campus rec center. Sometimes I play pickleball with mt friends too.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
I would tell myself get involved on and off of campus, and to have a great time while it lasts. Do what you find interesting and pursue success.