Mirielle Clayton

I chose The University of Mississippi because it had a forensic science program that greatly interested me. The school's professors were also engaging and readily available to answer any questions I had. When I first toured and felt at home surrounded by peers eager to learn like me, I knew UM was where I was supposed to be. The undergraduate research opportunities were just the cherries on top.

My major, Forensic Chemistry, drew me to UM in the first place, so I knew it was what I wanted to do. I decided to minor in Biology after enjoying the anatomy portions of my general biology classes. My Intelligence & Security Studies minor, though, was unexpected. I decided to apply for it because of how interesting my ISS 125 class was, which I took for fun. The teacher, Dr. Morris, and the topics made Intelligence a potential career I may want.

I would tell a high school student to not listen to everyone who tries to scare them away from STEM. Forensic Chemistry is hard, but the resources at the University of Mississippi are unmatched! The teachers truly care about your success, there are tutoring opportunities, and students support students. If you love chemistry and/or forensics don't let the difficulty stop you from pursuing it!

The chemistry department itself is small, so all the professors and students really get to know each other. It is easier to make close relationships with you peers and teachers. Additionally, there is so much opportunity to work in a research lab as an undergraduate, which isn't the case at many other universities. The Forensic Chemistry is even smaller and more connected. I've found my advisor to be especially helpful in telling me how to navigate my courses to reach my personal goals.

My Honors ISS 125 class with Dr. Morris was a breath of fresh air in the midst of more difficult Organic and Calculus classes. He made going to an early morning class more bearable because of his passion for the Intelligence & Security Studies minor. It made me apply and get this minor, opening more career doorways for me in the future.

I am involved in my sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi, and the SMACS club outside of school. Additionally, I love trying new food spots all over town or going for walks in Lamar Park. I also enjoy going to coffee shops to study or finding new places to do homework to get out of a confining dorm room. Lastly, I take a break from studies and distractions by going to Pine Lake College on Wednesdays and Pine Lake Church on Sundays.