Get to know Justin Boomgarden
Why did you choose PPL as your major and what was the appeal of the Lott program?
Going into college, I wanted to find a major that would grant me the widest range of opportunities and career paths. The Lott institute fit this bill, sending its students into a diverse array of internship experience, post-grad career options, and a plethora of students entering into further education. Additionally, the program and class sizes fosters a true sense of community, and I am so grateful to be able to contribute to that community and call everyone in the institute a friend.
What are your career aspirations?
In order to further my understanding of the legal system, I will continue studying at law school in the fall following my graduation. The Lott Institute has furthered my skills in logic, reading comprehension, and critical analysis. These skills will have me well prepared for my post-grad studies and for whatever ventures I may take on as an attorney.
Is there a professor that has been particularly helpful to you?
Dr. Novelli has been a fantastic influence on both my academic and professional careers. His classes foster a great deal of communication and collaboration, spurring education past just that of the content taught in the course. As fun as Dr. Novelli’s courses may be, you will still learn as much about public policy and leadership as you will in any other PPL course.
What is a particularly meaningful way you have engaged in a community either on or off campus?
I have been grateful to contribute to my fraternity’s annual philanthropy. We help raise money for Palmer Home by setting up competitive sports tournaments open to the Ole Miss student body. Palmer Home is an organization that helps to provide housing for underprivileged and foster children. It has been extremely fulfilling to play a part in helping children in Mississippi find housing, with the added benefit of fostering more camaraderie and friendly competition within the student body.