The beginning of a new academic year evokes many emotions among the student populace. A new semester means many things. It is a time to re-evaluate one’s successes and failures and an opportunity to continue to strive for one’s goals. More than that, fall semester at The University of Mississippi presents an undeniably unique chance for students to create the fond memories our university is seemingly built upon. And whether you are a freshman or a senior this fall, the excitement and anxiety that a new semester promises are definitely real.
For students entering The University of Mississippi for the first time, opportunities to improve and define themselves are seemingly endless. For freshman journalism student Belle Ernst, her first semester at Ole Miss is a chance to improve herself.
“I really want to make new friends, become a better student and be more self-disciplined,” she said when asked what she was looking forward to her freshman year. Her only real worries about this year are maintaining her finances. Regardless of this worry, Belle is very optimistic about her impending college experience. She already has a job on campus and hopes to get involved in various student organizations.
Senior general studies major Cedric Garron also expressed his excitement about his last fall semester at Ole Miss.
“I’m ready to build on relationships with my friends and finish the Ole Miss Bucket List,” said Cedric in regard to the new semester. While he is afraid of graduating and what comes after, Cedric believes that his time at Ole Miss has given him the confidence to pursue his goals.
Looking back on his tenure here, he remembers the first time he saw the Grove on game day.
“It was the first time I saw the Ole Miss family idea personified.” Realizing that he was a part of the Ole Miss family was a crucial part of defining Cedric’s college experience, and he attributes his success as a student to the support he has received from the many faculty, staff and friends he has met over the years. His advice to freshmen is to be confident and take chances.
Regardless of whether we are a freshman, senior or anything in between this year, I think it safe to say that the best years of our lives are still ahead of us. So, students, stand up, express yourself and let your voice be heard. Maybe if you scream loud enough your voice will echo throughout the buildings of our beautiful campus, and you too will never forget the fond memories of this wonderful place and time in your lives.
