Samorria Williams

I chose to attend the University of Mississippi because of its reputation for creating strong leaders in government and politics, not only in the state of Mississippi but nationwide. In addition to that, the University offered so many great programs that would ultimately prepare me for leadership roles, such as the Luckyday Scholars Program. Lastly, the University felt like home. From the smiling faces of the students on campus to the wonderful faculty and staff, I knew Ole Miss was the right fit for me.

In middle school, I took a Mississippi Studies class, and here, we went in depth about the state’s history, especially as it dealt with the Civil Rights Movement. It was here that I realized just how much of an impact that the law can have on others, especially when it came to unjust laws. So, it was around that time I realized I’d like to study law and politics in college so I could go on to pursue a career as a lawyer and maybe a politician. After some research, I found that majoring in political science would allow me to better understand politics and how analyzing political activity and behavior would be useful. Then, I chose to minor in law studies after looking at the associated courses and seeing that it would build a good foundation for the skills and information I’d see and use in law school.

For anybody who might be interested in majoring in Political Science, I would say that there are so many different things a person could use this degree for. Typically, when people say they’re majoring in Political Science, people assume that they want to be a lawyer. While this is true for many people, this is not the only career one can have with a degree in Political Science. For instance, many people with this major go on to find careers in business, teaching, lobbying, government, law enforcement, and even nonprofit organizations. It is important to emphasize this because this allows students to explore and find things that they’re truly passionate about, rather than feeling as if they must conform to one career path.

My most memorable moment at the University of Mississippi would have to be becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Not only did I gain sisters, I gained a support system that helped to push me to be my best at all times and uphold the values of our beloved sorority. Furthermore, since becoming a member, I have been able to gain indispensable leadership skills and professional development, along with being able to interact with other likeminded African American college educated women and learn from them and their experiences. My sorority will be something that I hold near and dear to me for the rest of my life.

Apart from school, I typically spend my time focusing on self-care. After long days of class and extracurriculars, I love to have time for myself to just unwind. I do this by going for walks, listening to music, reading, or drawing. I’ve learned to make crocheted stuffed animals, and I’m looking into starting an Etsy store to sell them. I’m also a huge fan of retail therapy, and it is likely you will spot me occasionally at the Oxford Galleria in either Marshalls, Home Goods, or Ulta Beauty buying clothes, room decorations, or makeup.

I’ve traveled to quite a few places with the United States and abroad such as Dublin, London, and Paris, So, in the future, I’d like to travel to St. Thomas, Toronto, the Jordan River, and Milan.

One thing I wish I knew as an incoming freshman is that you do not have to do it all at once. I know that as an incoming freshman, you are going to be presented with so many different opportunities, and you’re going to want to participate in them. But how much is too much? For me, I remember taking 15 hours my first semester and then taking 18 hours my second semester, while also being in 6 registered student organizations and doing community service. As you can imagine, this resulted in major burn out. While I was able to maintain good grades and good involvement in the organizations, I just remember being worn out with rarely any down time to just decompress. So, for incoming freshmen, I’d advise you to find some balance. Yes, being involved on campus is important. Yes, taking all the necessary classes is important. Yes, being ambitious is okay. Just don’t overdo it. Balance is key and it is looks different for everybody. Don’t try and compare yourself to others and what they do. Don’t feel like you’re behind or not as prepared as your classmates or friends. Each person’s path is different. It is okay to take time for yourself, and this way, you’ll be able to put your best foot forward in every aspect of your college career.