Thomas Tilleros

I certainly felt overwhelmed with uncertainties at first, and that is part of the reason why I have come to love the University of Mississippi so much.  The relationships between faculty and students are very present in the CLA, and everyone involved with the university facilitates a perfect blend of convivial and professional interactions.  Each day I am here, I seem to discover something new that I like about the university, and I hope you will be able to do the same! 

 You may be wondering what a Southern Studies student at UM does.  I certainly did before I considered applying for the program.  Since discovering the contents of the Southern Studies program, I have been nothing but pleased with the classes, faculty, course content, and fellow students that I interact with on a daily basis.  In our variety of Southern Studies courses offered, students can expect to learn about southern literature, race, class, identity, history, anthropology, culture, and so much more.  I think if any of these topics are of interest to you, then you should heavily consider the Southern Studies program at the University of Mississippi.  If you are from the south, or if you are a curious non-native, I highly recommend at least trying a southern studies class or two to see how uniquely thought-provoking the courses are.   

One of my favorite aspects of the Southern Studies department is the questions and subsequent conversations that arise in class.  These moments feel special in the sense that every student has the ability to weigh their thoughts on very pressing matters in our society.  Something that seems inherently unique about the Southern Studies program is the lack of a knowledge barrier to entry that can prevent individuals from sharing.  Everyone in each of my classes is encouraged to participate, and nearly all do, even if they are not scholars on the topic.  This almost colloquial atmosphere facilitates discussions, and I often find myself continuing these conversations outside of the classroom.   

While it is hard to narrow down the many great classes or professors I've encountered at UM, two specific examples come to mind.  The first of which is a class I feel everyone who has any sort of interest in race or sociology should take: SST 109-Southern Rights and Activism with Ralph Eubanks.  Professor Eubanks is a published author who is truly passionate about what he teaches. This class opened my eyes to many nuanced aspects of southern history, as well as taught me a great deal about the evolution of race relations in not just Mississippi, the South, or the United States, but the world as a whole.  The second is a professor many in the southern studies department are familiar with: Dr Xavier Sivels.  Dr Sivels was the first southern studies professor I had the privilege of learning from.  He engages the content to keep it not only interesting, but applicable and approachable, all while remaining highly educational.   

My plans for after graduation are not yet set in stone, but further education after completing my undergraduate degree is likely.  As far as career goals, I wish to be able to better communities as an educator.   

Do not be quick to omit classes or experiences based on your own preconceptions.  College has opened my eyes to many different opportunities and experiences that I feel every student should have the pleasure of experiencing.