Coming from the small town of Merigold, Mississippi, my academic journey has been fueled by my eagerness to see the world. I spent my high school years at Virginia Episcopal School, where I learned how to be independent while 800 miles from my family.

After graduation, I ventured into the slightly more “real world” by taking on several college jobs that ranged from being a lifeguard and nanny in my hometown to being a counselor at Camp DeSoto in Mentone, Alabama. However, in my sophomore year, I decided to obtain my real estate license so that I could gain practical experience while pursuing my education.

My passion for travel and the Spanish language and culture was ignited on a trip to Peru during my junior year of high school. Throughout my years at the University of Mississippi, I have immersed myself in as many Spanish classes as possible in order to become as proficient as I am able.

Recently, I was given the amazing opportunity to travel alongside my School of Journalism and New Media professors on an exciting month-long adventure to Spain. We were able to study global brands and international communication, while also spending enough time to truly gain an understanding of the country and for me to practice my Spanish.

As I approach my upcoming graduation in May, I find myself torn between saying goodbye to Ole Miss and eagerly anticipating the beginning of a career in Marketing and Communications. But the only thing I can do is enjoy where I am now. The journey is just as important as the destination, and I will eagerly embrace every twist and turn along the way.