JTC 26: Finding His Place, Paying It Forward

When Noah Watts arrived at the University of Mississippi as a first-generation freshman, he didn't know anyone on campus and had no road map for navigating college life. In May, he graduates with a master’s degree in higher education and student personnel, as well as a full-time career already underway in the very office that helped shape him.

The New Albany native credits the First-Generation Student Network with pointing him toward campus resources early on, but it was his work with the Office of Pre-College Programs that defined his Ole Miss years.

Q&A with Noah Watts

What brought you to Ole Miss? Why did you choose your major?

As a freshman, I chose Ole Miss because it just felt right. The campus was beautiful and near my home, and the faculty and staff were beyond incredible.

For my master's, I chose to stay at Ole Miss because I see the immense value the institution provides to north Mississippi. I have chosen higher education because I am deeply passionate about access to education, particularly in rural areas of north Mississippi.

This degree has opened the opportunity to work with a dedicated team of higher education professionals to serve students.

What standout experiences have you had at Ole Miss?

My standout experience has to be working as a pre-college team manager. This position pushed me to be a better and more intentional leader, and I am beyond grateful for the experience.

 I even work full-time for the pre-college office now. I worked with Summer College for three years, and I can confidently say I would not be where I am today without it.

Were there any challenges you overcame during your college journey?

Challenges have certainly been present along the way. I started at Ole Miss as a freshman without knowing anyone on campus. As a first-gen student, I had no idea how to access the resources that campus provided. It took about a semester before I felt confident in myself as a college student.

Fortunately, I had some upperclassmen through the First-Generation Student Network point me in the right direction.

In graduate school, I found it difficult to balance my education, personal and professional pursuits. It has not been easy finding this balance, but I have had an amazing support system, especially with my fiancee, family, Higher Education faculty and my pre-college team.

It is the people in my life that continue to push me to be the best version of myself.

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

While I cannot choose one most influential person at Ole Miss, I have to say the entire pre-college programs team has been the most impactful on my journey. They have served as mentors all the way from my undergrad into my professional career. I am beyond grateful for this team and what they have done for me.

Outside of Ole Miss, my fiancee, Paige, has always been my biggest supporter. She has been by my side, cheering me on every step of the way.

What are your post-graduation plans?

After I finish my master’s, I wish to pursue a Ph.D. in higher education. I have already started my professional career as the enrollment coordinator for noncredit programs with the Office of Pre-College Programs.

How has your Ole Miss education prepared you for your next steps?

Ole Miss has prepared me for this position as the institution has pushed me to grow as a leader and scholar. Not only do I have the knowledge required to serve, but I have also developed the hands-on and practical skills.

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

Ole Miss is home to some of the best faculty and staff. My experience was significantly heightened because I was not afraid to utilize their support.

Top: Noah Watts, a higher education and student personnel graduate student from New Albany, graduates in May having turned a first-gen freshman experience into a full-time career with the Office of Pre-College Programs. Photo by Srijita Chattopadhyay/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services