Undergraduate

Joy Faith Jennings

  • Class

    Class of 2023
  • Program

    Managerial Finance & Management with an Emphasis on Healthcare Management ( School of Business Administration )
  • Hometown

    Hattiesburg, MS (South)
  • Involvement

    Service and Community Engagement, Student Activities Association, Student Government
  • Social Media

  • About

    Joy Faith Jennings, a native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a senior dual majoring in managerial finance and management with a healthcare emphasis. Throughout her journey at Ole Miss, she has embraced opportunities for personal and professional development both within the classroom and through campus involvement. She believes that the University of Mississippi has played a pivotal role in shaping her future endeavors. Following graduation, she will be joining Raymond James to begin a career in wealth management.

Q&A

What made you choose the University of Mississippi?

I chose the University of Mississippi because of a variety of reasons. The beautiful campus, SEC spirit, and the most welcoming people convinced me that Ole Miss would be my home away from home for the next four years.

When and why did you choose your major/minor?

Upon entering college, I initially chose to pursue a major in management with a healthcare emphasis while also on a pre-physical therapy track. The intention behind this choice was to equip myself with the skills needed to manage my own physical therapy clinic in the future. However, my interests shifted midway through my sophomore year as I began taking more courses in the Business School, so I decided to drop my pre-physical therapy track. I decided to declare finance as an additional major. I chose my majors because of the intriguing and plentiful opportunities in both the financial and healthcare fields.

Why is the School of Business Administration a special place?

The School of Business is such a special place because of the people and inspiration. Students, faculty, and staff have constantly given me support, lessons, and advice to be a leader in the vast business world. From working with the Career Preparation Team to getting involved with student organizations within the Business School and attending events such as networking and career workshops, the opportunities to grow within the business school are invaluable.

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

Dr. Violetta Davydenko has had a pivotal role in strengthening my foundation of financial knowledge over the past couple of years. Her dedication to her students is evident in her genuine care for their understanding within the classroom to equip us for success in our future aspirations. Also, her courses are more engaging by incorporating real-world scenarios into her lectures. This has significantly enriched my learning experience and has provided valuable insights into the application of financial concepts.

What class has had the most impact on you?

Negotiation and Dispute Resolution taught by Keith Morris had a significant impact on me through developing essential soft skills. Negotiation is inevitable in life whether it’s negotiating business deals or salary. This class was full of learning and practicing negotiation and dispute resolution skills and strategies which will benefit me in the future.

What has been a particularly meaningful way you have engaged in a community?

The Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College has provided me with a community full of hard-working, inspiring people. The courses and people have continually pushed me to critically think outside of the box.

What has been one of your most memorable moments at UM?

During my freshman year, everyone got snowed in for almost an entire week, and the campus was shut down except for the Rebel Market. With classes canceled, this week, deemed as “Snow Week,” was so memorable sledding down the hills around campus, having a huge snowball fight in the Grove, and getting so much closer with my best friends.

What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self ?

I wish that I had known that I would constantly have the opportunity to meet new people and find my best friends in the most unexpected ways.

What do you hope to do after you graduate?

I hope to become a financial advisor or possibly go into healthcare administration one day! My main career aspiration is to be in a position where I am able to leave a positive impact on people.

What are your hobbies outside of school?

I love being outdoors, working out, and hanging out with my friends!

What are some dream travel destinations?

One of my dream travel destinations is Greece. The beaches and cities look so beautiful, and I love Greek food!

What’s your favorite thing to do in Oxford, MS?

Tailgating and going to football games! Some of my favorite memories are of spending Saturdays with my friends in the Grove and the Vaught.

What’s your favorite place to eat in Oxford, MS?

Jinsei