Why did you choose to attend UM?
When I was in high school, I was heavily involved in our broadcast journalism production. I had never planned to go to college because of money and a general unknowing of what I wanted to do. Our publication would submit our work to the Mississippi Scholastic Press Association which is housed in Farley Hall and that's how I got my foot in the door without even knowing that my home would soon be in Oxford. My advisor at the time pushed for me to at least look into the School of Journalism and I fell in love. Without his help, I don't know where I would've been, but I'm so happy that I decided to come to Ole Miss! Now I work for the Overby Center and help with the Mississippi Scholastic Press Association. It all came full circle.
Why did you choose your major?
I chose IMC because I heard about how flexible it is in the sense that you can do anything with IMC. At the time, I was really interested in photography and videography and the school has provided me with so many opportunities to express that creativity.
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they’re interested in pursuing that field of study?
IMC is a spider web of opportunities. No matter what you want to do, it can tie into marketing and communications. The major itself is such a great place for creatives. Most of your assignments will be project based instead of writing a long paper. If you already have some sort of experience out of high school, it will take you so far.
Why is your school a special place?
The School of Journalism is special to me because it feels like a home away from home. The professors that I've made connections with so far have my back in any of my future adventures. While working at the Overby Center, I have always been seen as a student and a human being rather than someone that can make someone else money. I am able to work on strengthening my weaknesses in a space that is safe and supportive.
What are your 3 favorite things about your major/department?
- Creative Control
- Community
- Variety of Opportunities
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you’ve taken that has had the most impact on you?
Dr. Morgan was one of my biggest influences on enrolling in the University. He was the director for the Mississippi Scholastic Press Association when I was submitting my broadcast work in high school. Part of the reason why I landed a position in the OC was for the portfolio I submitted for both MSPA and for a scholarship to Talbert Fellows. While I did take his class my freshman year, the impact came from my work in the Overby Center. During the spring of my freshman year, I was one of the first student workers that Dr. Morgan brought onto the team. There was a lot of room for improvement. The OC had no social media presence, no brand guidelines, and a lot of things that needed to be updated. Our team has done so much in the few years that we have been in this office and I have seen so much growth not just from the Overby Center, but from myself. Dr. Morgan was patient and worked with us as a team rather than a boss. I am so thankful for the experience that I've gotten thus far and the time that the Overby Center has given me.
What has been one of your most memorable or enjoyable moments at UM?
One thing I always wanted to do when I got to Ole Miss was to grow my photography skills. I joined the yearbook during freshman year and absolutely loved experiencing new things in Oxford! While walking around Farley, I saw one of my photos displayed in the Farley Student Gallery. I was ecstatic! I had never seen my photos professionally framed before and it was an amazing feeling.
What do you hope to do after you graduate? What are your career goals/plans after graduation?
As of right now, I want to keep being creative in some form or fashion. I originally wanted to pursue photography full time but have recently found a love for organization and social media. Whatever I do, I hope I am happy. If all else fails, I'll open my own coffee shop in a small town and create a place for community.
Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford? What are your hobbies, favorite places to go, etc.?
One of my favorite things to do is explore new places, especially coffee shops. I have always loved the ambiance of a coffee shop because it reminds me of my barista job in my home town. I also love spending time with my friends and my cat, Sunshine.
What is your go-to meal in Oxford?
As of right now, I love Amore on Sisk Ave. Their food is reasonably priced and tastes like a nice home cooked meal.
What are you binge-watching or reading right now?
I am SO late to the trend but I'm currently binge watching Grey's Anatomy. My roommate always rewatches it around this time and I got hooked.