James Polk

I chose to come to the University of Mississippi first and foremost for academics. Secondly, I wanted to come to a university that was the forefront for progress in the state of Mississippi. As the flagship university of the state, the future happens at UM and to be apart of the community that is shaping the state of Mississippi is something special.

I was originally a psychology major. However, at the beginning of my sophomore year, I began to miss critically thinking, writing, and discussing complex topics in class. Moreover, I realized that I liked the philosophical implications of psychology more than the science of human behavior itself. A philosophy major, with small classes and great professors, allows me to learn not only about philosophy itself, but about ways in which to lead a good life.

My most memorable moment was being "tapped" by the Columns Society after my chemistry class. The day began with one of my best friends receiving his letter of acceptance at 9:00 am. Which, at the time, I did not understand that the letter was given to you in person and it wasn't just an email sent out. So, for the next couple of hours I was coming to terms with the fact that I did not get into the society. Then, after my chemistry class, two Columns members that I knew came to me dressed in the blazer to hand me my acceptance letter. After the essays and two rounds of intense interviews, I was overjoyed to have been selected.

I want to go to medical school and one day either become an Interventional Cardiologist or a Family Medicine Doctor. In fact, what drew me to medicine was philosophy. I saw that physicians, and those in the larger health care field, devoted their lives to helping those in need. They are, everyday, limiting the suffering of others - something I see as noble and exciting.

I am involved in many clubs and societies around campus. I enjoy playing playing pickle ball, disc golf, and working out. When I am not studying or doing some activity I enjoy just hanging out and talking with my friends.

My second-semester writing professor, Mr. James Thomas, had a huge impact on me. His willingness to talk after class, give constructive feedback, and his efforts to ensure we understood the material, yielded a great learning environment with motivated students. The topics we wrote on were always engaging and exciting. He always had clear times when we could meet him outside of class as well.

I would tell myself that it is okay. To be stressed and anxious simply means that you are going through Freshman year the right way. It is important to keep a balance in all things, especially college. You need to study hard but you also need to enjoy the unique life that you are about to lead.