Matelyn Hill

Honestly, the University of Mississippi just made sense for me. There are so many different scholarships available that make it financially accessible, and I could tell that the faculty care about their students. What really sealed the deal for me was seeing how much encouragement there is to make your interests work with your academics. You don’t have to fit into a single box here. You can mix disciplines, join clubs, and explore different opportunities without feeling stuck on one path. That kind of flexibility and support was really important to me, and it has shaped my college experience in ways I never expected. 

 If you’re thinking about majoring in theatre, the biggest thing you need to know is that it takes commitment. A lot of people assume that a theatre degree is easy, but it requires just as much dedication, time management, and passion as any other field. You’re balancing rehearsals, classes, and independent projects, so it’s a full experience. But the amazing part is that you’re constantly surrounded by people who share that passion. The faculty pushes you, but they also support you, and you form connections that go beyond the classroom. These aren’t just classmates; they become your collaborators, your mentors, and often lifelong friends. 

The Department of Theatre and Film is a unique space where your education is not just about studying theatre but actively practicing it. Whether you want to act, direct, design, or work behind the scenes, you will be given the tools and opportunities to develop as both an artist and a professional. This program is demanding, but if you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll find a place where you can truly grow. It is both my family and my professional network, filled with people who will be part of my artistic journey for years to come. 

The Department of Theatre and Film at the University of Mississippi is special because it feels like a true creative home. Everyone here, students and faculty, is passionate about the work, and that energy is contagious. You’re not just taking classes, you’re actively creating, collaborating, and learning by doing. There’s a strong sense of community, and no matter your role, whether performing, directing, designing, or working in tech, you’ll find people who support and challenge you in the best ways. 

The opportunities to work on productions, explore different roles in theatre and film, and learn from experienced professionals make this department an incredible place to grow as an artist. It’s the kind of place where you’re constantly inspired, and if you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll come out of it a better artist and a better person. 

One of the most impactful classes I’ve taken was Introduction to Gender Studies with Dr. Theresa Starkey and Dr. Obianuju Njoku. They used modern music, film, and case studies to show how historical and cultural moments can be reexamined through new perspectives. This course changed how I view the world, teaching me to approach everything, including art, with a more critical and thoughtful lens. 

This class has also shaped my future career in dramaturgy, which involves analyzing theatre through historical and cultural perspectives. Because of this class, I am presenting my research at The Isom Student Gender Conference, an experience that will further develop my skills in academic and artistic analysis and prepare me for future work in dramaturgy. 

After graduation, I plan to pursue a master's degree in dramaturgy, building on my passion for research and analysis in theatre. My studies in sociology and gender studies have shaped my perspective, allowing me to engage with storytelling in a more meaningful way. I want to work in theatre and film, specializing in classical texts, new works, and adaptations that bring fresh perspectives to the stage. Additionally, I hope to be involved in educational theatre, using dramaturgy to help shape productions and deepen audiences' understanding of the material. My experiences at the University of Mississippi have given me the foundation to pursue these goals, combining my love for performance with my dedication to research and storytelling. 

I would tell my past self that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. College is about growth, exploration, and discovering what truly excites you. It’s important to take risks, ask questions, and allow yourself to evolve. I’d also remind myself that success isn’t just about achievements, it’s about the relationships you build, the lessons you learn, and the person you become along the way. 
When I first arrived on campus, I thought I had to have everything planned out, but I’ve since realized that some of the best experiences come from being open to new opportunities. I’ve discovered unexpected interests and learned that you’re never out of time to explore new passions. College is a continuous process of finding what excites you, and there is always room to grow in ways you never anticipated.