Linna Zheng

Why did you choose to attend UM?

I decided to study at Ole Miss simply because of the warm environment. From the professors to the students, everyone embraces one another and respects each other’s values, and I find this to be very uplifting as they are my “support system”.  

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

As a performance major with a pre-dental track, I have been playing the violin since the age of 5 and have been playing flute since middle school. My whole life, I have been encompassed by music, and I really enjoy performing and making music with peers, because it is a big “relaxation” moment from schoolwork. Aside from music, I have an interest in the dental field. Every time I visit the dentist, I am amazed and drawn to how the dentists function. I know that along with my passion for playing music, I want to one day become a dentist myself.  

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 say my biggest insight about being a music major is that you get to be “yourself”. Music is one of those things where you can express your opinions confidently, because there is no exact science to it. I think an important detail about pursuing a field in music is to be engaged in ensembles. You definitely learn by working with others, and of course, there will be friendly competitions (which I find as a strong motivator to me in becoming a better musician).  

Why is your department a special place?

It is the place where I feel a sense of belonging.  

What are your 3 favorite things about your major/department at UM? (keep these short and brief).

Being a music major, I like that (1) there is no definite in music, (2) it allows me to learn who I am as I perform and learn with peers, and (3) music is all around us every day! 

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

I took Honors 102 with Professor Balach, who is the chair of the music department, and I think it is fascinating how a professor in music is able to teach and “pitch” ideas through the knowledge of science, religion, philosophy, and phenomena in the natural world. 

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

I am part of different ensembles such as the band, string quartet, and piano trio. Being with these groups, I have the opportunity to build friendship, travel, and make music! During spring break of 2023, my string quartet and I traveled to Orlando, FL for a national conference, and we had the opportunity to perform in a masterclass led by the Marian Anderson String Quartet! 

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

Because I am on the pre-dental track along with my performance major, I wish to attend dental school after graduation, and I hope one day I can start my own dental practice. Along with the goal of becoming a dentist, I also want to be able to play with different orchestras, even solo, in order to fulfill my passion for performing.  

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

I like to hang out with friends, get coffee, shop, or binge-watching movies/TV shows. On nice days, I like to go out for a run and enjoy nature. 

What is your go-to meal in Oxford?

I like the tacos at South Depot! 

What are you binge watching or reading right now?

Currently, I have been binge watching some horror movies from Netflix, and I have been reading some mystery books such as those by Agatha Christie. 

What are some dream travel destinations?

Literally anywhere! But, I would say Europe would be number 1 on the list.  

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

The one thing I wish I knew as an incoming freshman is having good time management. Time goes by so fast every day, and it is important to utilize the time well in order to have the best balance between a good study schedule and social life.