JTC 26: Provost Scholar With a Purpose

Nilmary Padilla arrived at the University of Mississippi as a first-time visitor to the state and found her footing one conversation at a time. By the end of her freshman year, she had considered transferring back to Texas before the people around her convinced her otherwise.

That decision made all the difference. The Round Rock, Texas, native and Puerto Rican-born Provost Scholar spent four years building an academic record that earned her a place in one of the country’s most competitive audiology doctoral programs.

Along the way, she added a minor in ASL interpreting, served as an officer in the American Sign Language Honors Society and found an unexpected home in Oxford. In May, she will graduate with a degree in psychology before heading to Texas Tech University to pursue a doctorate in audiology with a goal of becoming a pediatric audiologist.

Q&A with Nilmary Padilla

What standout experiences have you had at Ole Miss?

Last semester, I was able to participate in a Study USA trip to Washington, D.C., where I attended the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention. I had so much fun, I learned so many new things and I made friends I never would have made if I had not gone.

Who has been your most influential mentor, professor or supporter at Ole Miss?

My most influential mentors and supporters have been the ladies I work with day in and day out in the Provost’s Office. Victoria Hughes, executive assistant, and Niki Witt, executive assistant, have taken me under their wings and made so many things possible for me. They have taught me so much, and I have appreciated having them with me every day.

My freshman year, I had decided that I wanted to transfer back to Texas. I did not end up making that decision because of the support I received from these ladies, who showed me that I could find my place here in Oxford.

What are your post-graduation plans?

After graduation, I plan to attend Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, and receive my Doctor of Audiology. My end goal is to be a pediatric audiologist. My education here has prepared me very well for these next steps. I may not have majored in what I am pursuing, but I have gained the skills I need to succeed.

In one sentence, what would you tell future Ole Miss students?

I came to Ole Miss for an education, and I am leaving with a home.

Top: Nilmary Padilla, a psychology graduate from Round Rock, Texas, graduates in May before heading to Texas Tech University to pursue a Doctorate of Audiology. She plans to become a pediatric audiologist. Photo by Hunt Mercier/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services