Built on Tradition, Focused on Growth
For Billy Gates, Ole Miss has always felt like home. His parents met at the university, married in the Grove and he spent part of his childhood living in Oxford. But family tradition wasn't the only reason he chose to become a Rebel.
Planning to study accounting, Gates was drawn to the Patterson School of Accountancy's national reputation and strong career outcomes. Beyond academics, getting to experience campus as a prospective student confirmed that Ole Miss offered the community he was looking for.
This fall, Gates said he is both excited and nervous about meeting classmates from across the country and finding his place on campus. He looks forward to embracing traditions like football Saturdays in the Grove, Locking the Vaught, singing "Dancing Queen" after wins and becoming involved with Reformed University Fellowship.
His visit to the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College also left a lasting impression. After touring with a cousin in the program and meeting SMBHC Dean Ethel Scurlock, he saw a close-knit community where students genuinely support one another.
"If our leadership cares about us, it trickles down to students," Gates said. "It builds a culture of going through hard things together and achieving success together."
He plans to combine opportunities in the Honors College, the Center for Manufacturing Excellence and the Patterson School of Accountancy, believing an interdisciplinary education will prepare him to think broadly and solve complex problems.
When he graduates, he hopes his legacy won't be defined by awards or accomplishments.
"I want people to see me as a service-oriented person”, Gates said. "If I'm in a leadership position, I want to improve the group as a whole and serve the people I'm leading."
For Gates, Ole Miss isn't simply continuing a family tradition—it's where he hopes to grow into a leader committed to serving others.