JTC 25: Finding Purpose in Every Connection

From his first visit to campus as a high school junior for a Trent Lott Leadership Institute conference, Jakota White felt the “magnetic atmosphere” of Oxford calling to him. The Gulfport native couldn't shake “how Ole Miss had made me feel, and who they believed I could be” – a feeling that has continued throughout his college career.

A senior majoring in integrated marketing communications with a minor in general business, White has become deeply woven into the fabric of campus life. He served as an orientation coordinator during his second year in the Orientation Leaders program, became a member of the Columns Society and was crowned Mr. Ole Miss – experiences he describes as the highlights of his four years at the university.

Q&A with Jakota White

What drew you to your major? 

I chose my major mostly based on the love I have of the stories of others. I believe communication, relationship building and storytelling are three pillars that drive the human experience. This is a theme that has been apparent throughout my entire college experience and drove the decision to choose and stick with my major.

Were there any challenges you overcame during your college journey? 

My freshman year was actually really challenging for me for a number of reasons. The transition from high school to college was rocky from the start and I did not find community immediately. Getting involved on campus was what allowed me to escape the hole that I had arrived in naturally.

Getting involved helped me to find community, develop personally and be a part of opportunities I otherwise would not have had.

Who has been your most influential mentor? 

The most influential mentor I have had at Ole Miss continues to be Dr. Martin Fisher. Martin serves as the director of campus visits and orientation programs at the university.

I first met Martin during my first summer as an orientation leader the summer following my freshman year. He has impacted my journey directly by serving as a model of the kind of leader I wanted to and still want to become.

From my first few moments meeting Martin, he saw something in me that I did not see at the time, and I will always be grateful to him for pouring into me.

What are your post-graduation plans? 

I plan on attending graduate school at the University of Mississippi as a part of the higher education master’s program.

In one sentence, what would you tell future Ole Miss students about your experience here? 

Serve this campus and its people, allow it to empower your love of this place, and everything else will fall into place.

Top: Jakota White, a senior integrated marketing communications major from Gulfport, has been deeply involved in campus life, serving as an orientation coordinator and member of the Columns Society. Photo by Thomas Graning/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services

See more photos from Jakota White's Journey to Commencement