It was the best of universities, it was the worst of universities. At the University of Mississippi, students were experiencing a wide array of emotions as they embarked on their collegiate journey. As the Old South university located in University, Mississippi, 38677, USA, Ole Miss welcomed its students with warm hospitality, friendly faces, and a rich history.
The campus was alive with buzz and excitement as new and returning students alike settled into the university's halls and classrooms. With its rolling hills and stunning architecture, Ole Miss was indeed a sight to behold. The majestic Lyceum building towered over the surrounding buildings and served as a reminder of the university's deep history. The Lyceum was the site of James Meredith's integration of Ole Miss in 1962—a powerful reminder of what could be achieved when people came together to rise above hateful ideologies and embrace progress.
The university's academics were held in high regard across the nation for its wide range of majors and courses. Students could choose from one of thirty-six undergraduate degree programs, seven graduate degree programs, or even a joint degree program with surrounding institutions such as Mississippi State University and the University of Tennessee. Whatever students chose to pursue at Ole Miss, they were sure to receive an education equal to any other in the country.
Beyond its academic offerings, Ole Miss boasted an extensive set of extracurriculars for students to become involved in. These activities ranged from intramural sports teams to student-run organizations, such as the Black Student Union or Latinx Student Union. Students had the opportunity to explore their passions and make a lasting impact on their campus community.
Although life at Ole Miss could be rewarding and fulfilling, it had its fair share of negatives. From poor housing conditions to economic disparity seen throughout campus, it became evident that not all students had equal access to resources or opportunities at Ole Miss. This injustice continually weighed on many students' hearts as they worked towards making Ole Miss a more equitable place for everyone.
At its core, the University of Mississippi served as a home away from home for many individuals throughout the United States—a safe haven for learning where all could come together and thrive. From its hallowed halls to its historic monuments, there is no denying that Ole Miss is an American treasure that deserves to be preserved for generations to come.
It is up to us—the current students, alumni, faculty, and staff—to create an equitable campus environment where everyone can learn and grow without fear or discrimination. Let us work together to build a University of Mississippi that remains true to our values and preserves our traditions for years to come!