JTC 25: From Color Guard to the Capitol
Accounting major excels through campus involvement while preparing for professional future
This story is part of the 2025 Journey to Commencement series, which celebrates the pinnacle of the academic year by highlighting University of Mississippi students and their outstanding academic and personal journeys from college student to college graduate.
As Oxford native Eva Reynolds prepares to graduate in May with a degree in accounting and minors in Spanish and intelligence and security studies, she concludes a college experience marked by leadership, academic excellence and global perspective.
Though initially hesitant to attend a university so close to home, Reynolds was drawn to Ole Miss for its distinctive programs, including the nationally ranked Patterson School of Accountancy, intelligence and security studies program, Croft Institute for International Studies and Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College.
Q&A with Eva Reynolds
What standout experiences have you had at Ole Miss?
Participating in the band and performing on the football field at some of Ole Miss’ most memorable games, such as the Georgia game this fall, was an unforgettable experience.
Simultaneously leading the Ole Miss color guard and serving as the elected treasurer of the Associated Student Body provided incredible leadership opportunities, each of which provided me with unique and rewarding experiences. I also took advantage of Ole Miss’ study abroad opportunities. I took classes abroad in Italy, Costa Rica and Spain!
Were there any challenges you overcame during your college journey?
Learning to balance being an honors student and an effective student leader was very difficult at first. I credit the amazing support network I was able to build at this university for my success.
Friends, family and fellow leaders rallied around me and supported me in my efforts to make positive change on campus and provide positive experiences for my fellow students.
Who has been your most influential mentor, professor or supporter at Ole Miss?
(Accountancy lecturer) Lou Burney has been the most influential mentor in my academic journey. I greatly valued her classes, which provided me with the confidence and foundational knowledge necessary to succeed in my major.
A year later, she still remembered me and offered encouragement as I tackled more challenging courses.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I will return to Ole Miss as a master’s student. After graduating with my master’s degree, I will work for the accounting firm KPMG in Washington, D.C., in their federal audit division.
How has your Ole Miss education prepared you for your next steps?
My education and internships through the Patterson School of Accountancy have thoroughly prepared me for the workforce, transforming opportunities that once seemed out of reach into reality.
In one sentence, what would you tell future Ole Miss students about your experience here?
Being involved and active on campus is very rewarding and allows you to make so many lifelong friends!
Top: Oxford native Eva Reynolds graduates in May with a degree in accounting and a global perspective shaped by study abroad, campus leadership and academic excellence. From leading the Ole Miss color guard to preparing for a career with KPMG in Washington, D.C., Reynolds has made the most of every opportunity. Submitted photo
By
Staff Report
Campus
Published
April 26, 2025
Topics
Eva Reynolds
Eva Reynolds (right) and Tozie Goulet celebrate after being recognized at the 2025 Who's Who celebration. Submitted photo
ASB executive members and advisersattend the SEC Exchange conference at Oklahoma University. The group includes (back row, from left) Caleb Ball, Walker Jacklin, Cross Del Tatto, Jack Jones and, Haley McGlone, and (front row, from left) Ashley Baxter, Braxton Dagg, Hannah Watts, Alex Kipping and Eva Reynolds. Submitted photo
