Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend the University of Mississippi for a few key reasons. Being from Mississippi, I always knew I didn’t want to be too far from home, and UM was the perfect balance of being close to my family while offering a high-quality education. I’ll never forget my campus tour in April of my Junior year of high school. The campus was beautiful, with the blooming flowers and the wide Grove. It really made an impression on me, and I could instantly tell it was a place I’d enjoy being. As I started looking for colleges, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in dentistry, and UM stood out with its strong biology program and academic courses that aligned with the prerequisites I needed. I’d always enjoyed science in high school, so it felt like a natural fit. Another big factor for me was the financial aspect. The scholarships UM offered me made me feel wanted as their student. I came from a small graduating class, and I didn’t know many people who were attending UM, but I saw it as a great chance to branch out, meet new people, and really grow in a new environment. The combination of strong academics, a beautiful campus, and a welcoming community made UM the best choice for me.
I chose to attend the University of Mississippi for a few key reasons. Being from Mississippi, I always knew I didn’t want to be too far from home, and UM was the perfect balance of being close to my family while offering a high-quality education. I’ll never forget my campus tour in April of my Junior year of high school. The campus was beautiful, with the blooming flowers and the wide Grove. It really made an impression on me, and I could instantly tell it was a place I’d enjoy being. As I started looking for colleges, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in dentistry, and UM stood out with its strong biology program and academic courses that aligned with the prerequisites I needed. I’d always enjoyed science in high school, so it felt like a natural fit. Another big factor for me was the financial aspect. The scholarships UM offered me made me feel wanted as their student. I came from a small graduating class, and I didn’t know many people who were attending UM, but I saw it as a great chance to branch out, meet new people, and really grow in a new environment. The combination of strong academics, a beautiful campus, and a welcoming community made UM the best choice for me.
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they are interested in pursuing that field of study?
If you're thinking about majoring in biology, one of the best things to know is that it’s such a versatile field. As a biology major, you can really make the degree your own. There are several concentrations to choose from, like Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology; Organismal Biology; or Pre-Health Biological Science. This allows you to focus on what interests you most or tailor the degree to your future career goals. As a Bachelor of Arts student, I also have the flexibility to choose a minor within the College of Liberal Arts, which has been an amazing opportunity. It’s helped me create a more well-rounded degree and really broaden my perspective. One of the coolest things about being a biology major here is that your minor doesn’t have to be science-related. One of mine is in art, and it’s been such an enriching experience. The classes are different, and my brain is engaged in new ways. If you’re interested in biology, don’t be afraid to explore the different concentrations and mix it with other interests you might have. It’s a great way to make your degree work for you, and it opens up a lot of different career possibilities.
If you're thinking about majoring in biology, one of the best things to know is that it’s such a versatile field. As a biology major, you can really make the degree your own. There are several concentrations to choose from, like Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology; Organismal Biology; or Pre-Health Biological Science. This allows you to focus on what interests you most or tailor the degree to your future career goals. As a Bachelor of Arts student, I also have the flexibility to choose a minor within the College of Liberal Arts, which has been an amazing opportunity. It’s helped me create a more well-rounded degree and really broaden my perspective. One of the coolest things about being a biology major here is that your minor doesn’t have to be science-related. One of mine is in art, and it’s been such an enriching experience. The classes are different, and my brain is engaged in new ways. If you’re interested in biology, don’t be afraid to explore the different concentrations and mix it with other interests you might have. It’s a great way to make your degree work for you, and it opens up a lot of different career possibilities.
Why is your department a special place?
The Biology department here is really special because of the people, both the professors and the students. The professors are incredibly passionate about their fields, and it’s clear that they genuinely want to help their students succeed. They’re always excited to share their knowledge and are very approachable if you ever need extra help or have questions about the material. It’s great knowing that they’re invested in your education and want to see you succeed. I’ve also met so many amazing friends who are pursuing degrees within the College of Liberal Arts. Whether you’re tackling a tough class or just need some advice, you’ll find people who are there for you. The sense of community in the biology department makes it a welcoming place to learn, grow, and make lasting connections.
The Biology department here is really special because of the people, both the professors and the students. The professors are incredibly passionate about their fields, and it’s clear that they genuinely want to help their students succeed. They’re always excited to share their knowledge and are very approachable if you ever need extra help or have questions about the material. It’s great knowing that they’re invested in your education and want to see you succeed. I’ve also met so many amazing friends who are pursuing degrees within the College of Liberal Arts. Whether you’re tackling a tough class or just need some advice, you’ll find people who are there for you. The sense of community in the biology department makes it a welcoming place to learn, grow, and make lasting connections.
What class or professor has had the most impact on you?
One of my favorite classes I’ve taken at UM so far has been Principles of Physiology with Dr. Dunagan. She’s the kind of professor who genuinely wants to see her students succeed in whatever career dreams they have. She’s not just focused on getting you through the course. She’s invested in making sure you have the knowledge and skills that will help you in grad school and beyond. What really makes her stand out is her energy and approachability. She’s lively, passionate about the subject, and always willing to help if you need it. It’s professors like Dr. Dunagan who really make a difference in the classroom and make learning feel like a collaborative experience.
One of my favorite classes I’ve taken at UM so far has been Principles of Physiology with Dr. Dunagan. She’s the kind of professor who genuinely wants to see her students succeed in whatever career dreams they have. She’s not just focused on getting you through the course. She’s invested in making sure you have the knowledge and skills that will help you in grad school and beyond. What really makes her stand out is her energy and approachability. She’s lively, passionate about the subject, and always willing to help if you need it. It’s professors like Dr. Dunagan who really make a difference in the classroom and make learning feel like a collaborative experience.
What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?
After graduation, I hope to attend dental school and become a dentist.
After graduation, I hope to attend dental school and become a dentist.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
If I could go back and tell my incoming freshman self one thing. I would tell her, don’t be afraid of the change that’s coming, and embrace it. College is a huge transition, and it can feel and be overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting opportunity for growth. I would tell myself that college is what you make of it. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and take chances. Don’t let opportunities pass you by. Focus on what’s important to you, stay true to your goals, and surround yourself with good people who want to help you succeed. It’s these relationships and experiences that will make your time at UM meaningful and rewarding.
If I could go back and tell my incoming freshman self one thing. I would tell her, don’t be afraid of the change that’s coming, and embrace it. College is a huge transition, and it can feel and be overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting opportunity for growth. I would tell myself that college is what you make of it. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and take chances. Don’t let opportunities pass you by. Focus on what’s important to you, stay true to your goals, and surround yourself with good people who want to help you succeed. It’s these relationships and experiences that will make your time at UM meaningful and rewarding.
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