Khaled Abu Salah

Why did you choose to attend UM?

I have always lived in Mississippi, and UM had always been mentioned growing up. Although that was the case, I had never visited it once in all 19 years of living here. Once I took my tour, I knew it was home. The campus is beautiful, the programs are well developed, and I am still close to home.  

When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?

I came into UM as undeclared. I took my first Principles of Microeconomics class with Professor Thompson, and I fell in love with the subject. His passion was additively contagious. I couldn't help but see how economics is in our daily lives, and how crucial it is in everything we do. 

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 would tell them how important it is to get the principles of economics down to a T. I already have begun to take higher level courses, and they are all founded on the principles I learned.  

Why is your department a special place?

Each professor approaches each class in a unique way in the department. I have yet to have one economics professor who teaches the same way. Each is inclined to certain areas and certain beliefs they prove with the research they do in their own time. Being able to have that unique approach allows for different methods of teaching, allowing for a multitude of students to appreciate the field of economics. 

What are your 3 favorite things about your major/department at UM?

1.  Economics allows us to explain how humans behave without prejudice 
2. Economics can explain trends in everything around us; Markets, Schools, Governments 
3. UM offers a variety of econ classes from Natural Resource economics to Game Theory!

Can you tell me about a professor or a class you've taken that has had the most impact on you?

It has to be Professor Thompson. I mentioned in another question his impact, but it truly was great. His passion for what he does, and the way he delivers the material, makes you learn it. I walk around campus and see the effect of economics because of that man, and my passion for it was cultivated by his teaching style. I will forever be grateful to him for that. 

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

The UM Vs LSU game was crazy. Rushing the field with my friends, and just the nail-biting atmosphere was something not any other team could recreate. Truly a great moment. 

What do you hope to do after you graduate? What are your career goals/ plans for postgraduation?

I am pursuing a career in medical sales. I hope to work in the spine industry, pushing 3-d printed spinal technology in hope of changing peoples' lives. 

Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford? What are your hobbies, favorite places to go, etc.?

I am a very simple guy who hates party life, so you can always find me in Turner or playing some sort of sport. Other than that, you might catch me in a random kitchen on campus cooking something. 

What is your go-to meal in Oxford?

Gotta be South Depot. Can't beat the macros 

What are you binge watching or reading right now?

I am binge-watching One Piece, the greatest anime/ manga ever written. 

What are some dream travel destinations?

As a Palestinian-American, I have always felt distant from my homeland. In a way to reconnect to the land of my ancestors, I hope to walk my grandfather's olive fields for the first time and visit all the timeless holy landmarks. 

What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?

Be thankful for your faith. College tests you in many ways, and even if you think your values cannot be tested, they always will be. UM is a great environment to grow and learn, but also has temptations that may distract you. Regardless, stay focused and stay true to your values, not the values of others.