August 2013
Dear Students,
Welcome to the 166th academic year for The University of Mississippi, the state’s flagship university. Whether you are a returning student, a transfer student or a new freshman, we are glad to have you on campus! We wish you well in your educational pursuits and thank you for choosing to be a part of the Ole Miss family.
You are joining a university with great momentum. Our academic standing continues to grow, enthusiasm is high for the upcoming football season, and although official counts won’t be complete for a few days, we are certain you are part of the university’s largest student body ever. Our reputation for excellence and our unique campus atmosphere are important reasons for our growth.
But with such growth, it may be easy to get lost in the shuffle. I encourage you to take time to connect with faculty, staff and fellow students and develop relationships across campus. Part of the magic of Ole Miss has always been the opportunity to connect with others, and we must reach out to keep this great tradition alive even as we grow. Your commitment to engaging with other people here will enrich your lives and make success more fulfilling. You will find our faculty to be among the best and most in tune with students of those at any public university. I urge you to take advantage of opportunities to form bonds with others.
I also hope you will take time to make a difference, in the Oxford-UM community, the state and even around the world. Learning to lead and serve others are huge parts of an Ole Miss education, and a number of academic programs and campus organizations provide opportunities in these areas. Be sure to make “giving back” a part of your Ole Miss experience.
Your time here will be filled with exceptional moments, from meeting people who will become lifelong friends to taking a class that ignites an interest and leads to a career. However, there are also the day-to-day challenges of navigating a campus that serves thousands of students. The parking system is undergoing major changes, and we may all have to walk a bit farther each day. Getting a quick lunch may be more challenging. Construction projects in several areas of campus have blocked off old routes and may require us to find new ways to class or work. But all these challenges are part of growing and building for the future, so please be patient and help us adapt.
We look forward to serving you this year as we grow together and continue the legacy that is Ole Miss. On behalf of the faculty, staff, alumni and all in the Ole Miss family, welcome, and best wishes for a great academic year.
