Modern Languages Student Ambassadors

Emily is double majoring in Chinese and Chemistry, and minoring in Biological Sciences. She participates in the Chinese Language Flagship program, and is a member of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College. On campus, she serves on the executive board of the International American Student Alliance, and the First-Generation Student Network. In her free time, she volunteers at the Oxford Animal Resource Shelter.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend UM because of the Chinese Language Flagship Program, a unique and prestigious Chinese language program that is only offered at 12 schools in the country. I also wanted to attend a university where I would have the perfect work-life balance, so overall, UM was the perfect fit for me!

When and why did you choose your major(s)/minors?
I chose my areas of study in high school. I wanted to major in Chinese because I wanted to better understand my family’s cultural background and strengthen my relationship with my family. (Additionally, I am interested in the sciences and am on the pre-dental track, so I chose chemistry as my other major and biology as my minor.)

What are your career goals?
I plan to be a dentist! I also would like to travel to China again, and hopefully this time, I would be able to express myself better when chatting with family and friends.

Why is your department a special place?
I love that my department is a close-knit community. Professors genuinely care for you and want to get to know you as a person. For example, many foreign language classes host weekly language tables where students can casually have lunch with professors and practice conversational skills together.

What are your 3 favorite things about your major/department at UM?
This may be limited to students in the Chinese Language Flagship Program, but I have really enjoyed the study abroad opportunities that the program arranges for us! Even when we’re in the US, my professors strive to create an immersive cultural experience by celebrating Chinese holidays together and bringing us Chinese snacks. Lastly, I have thoroughly enjoyed the small class sizes because I get to have a better connection with my professors and peers.

What do you like to do outside of school (hobbies/interests)?
I value the little things in life, so during my free time, I like to have a meal with friends and just hang out. As for hobbies, I like arts and crafts! I love to paint scenery and crochet small projects.

What is your go-to meal in Oxford?
My current favorite is Zaap Thai Kitchen. The workers are really friendly and the food is amazing. Cook Out is also a good choice for my occasional all-nighters.

What are some dream travel destinations (and why)?
I want to travel to Hawaii! I want to explore the culture there as well as Hawaii’s natural features in general.

What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
Talk to people! Whether it is befriending a random classmate or joining an organization, make connections because not only can y’all be resources to each other, you also never know who you are going to meet. Let’s just say that in my case, a stranger whom I befriended in my physics class turned out to be my neighbor in China… what are the chances of that happening?!

Perla is majoring in International Studies in the Croft Institute and double minoring in Italian and Intelligence & Security Studies.  She is a member of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, and the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. She has interned in Washington, D.C. with VSFS helping to modernize Spanish training for U.S. diplomats. She has also spent time abroad in Italy.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
I decided to attend Ole Miss because I absolutely love the atmosphere and all the programs the university has to offer. Whether it’s academics or extracurricular activities, there’s a lot to do here.

When and why did you choose your major(s)/minors?
I decided to major in international studies with the Croft Institute because learning about different countries and how they all interact with one another is a passion of mine. Specifically with how different countries interact with the US, therefore, I decided to minor in Intelligence and Security Studies (CISS).

What are your career goals?
I hope to either work as a US Diplomat for Foreign Relations or work in the Intelligence Community.

Is there a professor who has been particularly helpful to you?
My program manager for CISS Mrs. Kelly has been extremely helpful to me since I arrived in Oxford. Whether I’m having issues with my classes, needing help with various applications, looking for advice about my life goals, or even just needing someone to talk to, Mrs. Kelly has always been there for me and continues to support me in every way possible. Out of everyone I have met at UM, her mentorship is the one I am most thankful for.

Why is your department a special place?
The department of Modern Languages is special because we teach others how to communicate with a vast variety of people. By learning another language you gain the ability to express yourself with others and immerse yourself in other cultures in a way you would not be able to without speaking that person’s native language.

What are you binge watching/reading/listening to?
My current music obsessions are Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, and Christian Nodal. My taste in music varies a lot and depending on my mood is what I will listen to.

What is your favorite place to eat in Oxford?
If you have not been to Volta Taverna you are missing out on some of the best Greek food! Their food is amazing and the service is always welcoming. The place has a cool vibe going on and is definitely worth the wait for a table!!

Calloway is majoring in German, International Studies, and Public Policy Leadership. A member of the UM Model United Nations, he won the Best Delegate Award at the National Model United Nations World Health Assembly in 2022. He also participates in the Associated Student Body, the National German Honor Society, and is a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
The programs that I was accepted into upon applying to the University, being the Trent Lott Leadership Institute, the Croft Institute for International Studies, and the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, presented me with the best possible opportunities to have the best possible undergraduate experience that would prepare me for my career and mold me into a better person.

When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I knew my majors when I enrolled at the University. Being in Public Policy Leadership and International Studies, we had to be accepted into the program when we applied to attend this school, so I knew coming in that I would be majoring in those two disciplines. I originally had a German minor, but decided to declare a major in German when I started taking classes here and realized I wanted to take my language learning more seriously and grow closer to the faculty in the German Department.

Why is your department a special place?
From the moment I stepped foot on campus, the Department of Modern Languages has been nothing but helpful in every way that I have engaged with them. From scheduling classes in accordance with the language requirements of the Croft Institute, to advising me on my language learning journey, and even to helping me navigate internships, research, and study abroad programs in Germany, they have been nothing short of exceptional. The faculty are brilliant and enthusiastic when engaging with students in and outside of the classroom, and are always looking for new ways to challenge students. I have benefitted greatly from the relationships and connections I have made in the Department of Modern Languages and I know that these will continue to grow and prosper in the coming years.

Career goals?
I plan to either go to law school and pursue a Juris Doctor or go to a graduate program to pursue a Masters in Public Policy. My dream school for this would be the University of Virginia. After finishing school, I would like to work in economic and trade policy either in Washington, DC or in a state-level department that focuses on economic development. Ideally, I would like to spend some time abroad in Germany, either for research or for work in economic policy on a global scale. My long-term career goal is to become a Foreign Service Officer, specifically on the Economic Officer track.

Any particular support or encouragement you have received from a professor?
I took German 304 in the spring semester of the 2022/23 school year. My professor was Herr Wash. I came into the University with prior experience in German and took German 211 in the fall to help fine-tune my grammar and vocabulary base, and taking German 304 allowed me to confidently take a step further towards fluency. Herr Wash is an exceptional teacher, and his class forced me to work hard to develop better listening and speaking skills. After taking this class, I am confident that my German language skills have improved dramatically and the engaging lectures from his class have given me more motivation and inspiration to take my German to the next level.

Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford? What are your hobbies, favorite places to go, etc.?
I love to go play golf at the Ole Miss Golf Course. During the school year, I have a student membership that allows me to play more often at affordable rates. I also love to hang out at my fraternity house and watch sports with some of my friends. Oxford also has a great scene on the Square, with so many unique restaurants and stores to check out with friends.

What is your go-to meal in Oxford?
I love to go to Maharaja Indian Cuisine, a great Indian restaurant on Jackson Avenue. I always get the Chicken Tikka Masala, on the hottest spice, with a side of naan.

What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you’d tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
Say yes to everything. So many new opportunities will present themselves to you in college. Just say yes. Experiencing new things and growing is one of the fundamental benefits of the college experience, and you will only grow if you allow yourself to.

Kappy is a senior majoring in French and International Studies, and minoring in English. She is a member of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College. She also writes and edits for the Ole Miss Yearbook and volunteers at FURR of Oxford in her free time.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend UM after deciding that I wanted to major in International Studies. In high school, I knew that I wanted to major in something relating to French, but I wasn’t sure exactly what. After touring the Croft Institute junior year, I figured out pretty quickly that it (and, subsequently, Ole Miss) was what I had been looking for.

When and why did you choose your major(s)/minors?
I chose to be an International Studies major after visiting the Croft Institute during a preview day my junior year of high school. In applying for those studies, I knew I would be required to take a significant number of French courses, and because I knew I was interested in going into a French-related field for post-grad, I decided to cut the middle man and add French as a major as well. As far as my minor goes, I’ve always loved to read and write, so since I was planning on taking English-related classes anyway, I thought it would make sense to tack on the minor officially.

What are your career goals?
I would like to get my Master’s degree eventually, but after graduation I think I’d like to take a break from school and work for a year or two before continuing in higher education. Ideally, I would love to end up in a job where I can speak French as well as exercise my love for writing, and I would also like to return to France (or another francophone country) some day in order to continue developing my language skills!

Is there a professor who has been particularly helpful to you?
The Shakespeare course with Ivo Kamps that I took for my English minor was hands down my favorite class I’ve ever taken. In-depth analysis, varied mediums, his passion for the Bard–all of these contributed to a rigorous, comprehensive, and remarkably interesting class. (Fun fact: when I had the chance to see A Midsummer Night’s Dream in London this past spring, I spent the whole time whispering tidbits of information from class to my mother. She was probably very annoyed. I, however, had the time of my life.)

Why is your department a special place?
The team of French professors at UM is small and extremely supportive, meaning they can really get to know their students as they progress through the major. The staff is also knowledgeable and passionate about the subjects they teach, which makes participating in class (and improving your language skills) all the more interesting. The exact same thing can be said for the International Studies program, where the teachers are highly qualified, closely knit, and invested in their students’ success.

What do you like to do outside of school (hobbies, interests)?
My three favorite spots (for work as well as leisure) are Lamar Park, the Croft porch, and the Honors College (specifically the sitting area on the third floor). If I really need to focus, I’ll hole up in a booth at High Point with my headphones and an iced coffee. Outside of class, I spend time interviewing cool people and writing articles for the yearbook, which has been one of the coolest opportunities Ole Miss has given me. I also like to read, journal, and watch the sunset (preferably from the top of the Pittman parking deck).

What are some dream travel destinations?
The top country on my to-visit list is Japan! I lived in Tokyo with my family as a baby, but I was young enough that I don’t really remember it. I’d love to go back to see the places I knew as a kid and make some new memories (that I’ll be able to hold on to this time).

An honors student who is a double major in Arabic and International Studies, Abigail is part of the prestigious Arabic Language Flagship program and studied abroad at the Modern Arabic Language International Center in Amman, Jordan this summer. She selected the Global Economics and Business thematic emphasis for her international studies major with the Croft Institute for International Relations. She is a Croft ambassador and a member of the Chi Omega sorority.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend UM because of the opportunity it gave me to study Arabic in an in-depth and immersive way through the Arabic Language Flagship Program. Also, I knew that programs like the Honors College and Croft would give me small class sizes that allow for more discussions and opportunities to get to know my professors.

When and why did you choose your major(s)/minors?
I chose my majors when I decided to attend Ole Miss and join the Croft Institute and the Arabic Language Flagship Program. I decided to double major in Arabic and International Studies with a focus in Global Economics and Business because I want to work with refugees in the future, and studying Arabic will help me communicate more effectively with refugees that speak Arabic. Also, international studies will help me learn more about how the relationships between countries and the dynamics within them affect people around the world.

What are your career goals?
I would like to work with refugees, but I’m not sure yet if I will do that through a legal career, the government, or the private sector. I have also considered teaching because I enjoy helping others connect the classroom to real world experiences.

Is there a professor who has been particularly helpful to you?
My Arabic professor Dr. Clark has been helpful in teaching me how to rethink the way I view mistakes. Rather than seeing them as a failure, he has taught me to view them as an opportunity for growth. Removing the stigma around mistakes creates a safe space for learning to happen.

What will be your legacy at UM?
When I graduate from Ole Miss, I want to be able to look back and say that I never let a fear of failure stop me from challenging myself.

What is your favorite place to eat in Oxford?
My favorite restaurant is Rice and Spice. I love the red curry!

What are some dream travel destinations (and why)?
I would love to travel to Egypt to practice my Arabic and visit the historical cities and ruins. I would also love to go to Italy and France to visit the art museums there.

An English and Linguistics major, Emily is principle oboist in the University of Mississippi Symphonic Band and a member of the Korean Students Association. In her spare time, Emily enjoys reading, watching anime, and admits she may watch too much Saturday Night Live for her own good.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
One of the defining factors that made me choose UM was the fact that it was close to home for me. But what also made me choose UM was the beauty of the campus. There is so much plant life and huge trees, and it offers a natural environment to work in.

When and why did you choose your major(s)/minors?
I chose my major pretty early. By senior year of high school, I knew I was going to major in English, but it wasn’t until the end of the first semester of my freshman year that I decided to double in Linguistics. I chose Linguistics because I always had a love for language and how it works in society and literature.

What are your career goals?
Honestly, I’m not one-hundred percent sure, right now. I’m in a constant battle between teaching, editing/publishing, writing, etc. But the great thing about my major is that I have an endless number of possibilities of what I can do! I do plan on going to graduate school after my undergrad.

What will be your legacy at UM?
I hope to be able to come out of Ole Miss as an inspirational student represent UM in a positive way!

What has been a particularly meaningful way you have engaged in a community – either on or off-campus?
I am currently an Academic Guide for Mission Acceleration. This is a tutoring program for elementary students to help with reading growth. Although I am unable to work in person this year, I will be working virtually!

What do you like to do outside of school (hobbies, interests)?
I like to read and write, but I also like to watch movies and shows. Parks and Rec is a favorite that I go through a lot. I love Disney movies and I will freak out about any new Disney movie whether it’s animated or Marvel-related. I watch anime as well, my favorite of all time is Barakamon, but Ouran Highschool Host Club will always hold a special place in my heart. I also play the oboe!

What are you binge watching/reading/listening to?
Currently I am watching New Girl. I can’t say I’m “binge watching” it because I’m in school, but I’m trying to get through it. Once I finish it, I’ll probably start Schitt’s Creek. In terms of reading, I have The Song of Achillesby Madeline Miller, and after that I’ll read “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. I’m listening to different music every day. I listen to a lot of TikTok songs (sadly) and any pop song that’s popular. Once Taylor Swift comes out with her version of Red, it’s game over. I’ll be back in the Taylor Swift vortex and you won’t be able to get me out.

Ally Watrous is a German, Physics, and Chemistry major with minors in Math and French. She has used her skills in German while on a Study Abroad internship where she worked at the Institute of Science and Technology in Austria. At UM, she is involved in computational chemistry and computational astrochemistry research. Ally has also contributed to a number of published research articles.

Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend UM because of the research opportunities for undergraduate students including freshman! When I visited the University and got a chance to talk with the current students and professors. I could tell how many opportunities there were for undergraduate students and how much the students loved being here.

When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
Coming to UM I thought that I wanted to be a Chemistry major with minors in math and French. I knew I wanted to study Chemistry because I loved the idea of chemistry research and I had been taking French since 6th grade and I wanted to continue. The chemistry department offers emphasis for the B.S. Chemistry major so I decided to add an emphasis in chemical physis. I quickly realized that a lot of what I loved about Chemistry overlaps with Physics, and I decided to add a B. A. in Physics. The summer before my freshman year, I was accepted into the German intensive summer program so I thought I would also minor in German, even though I had never taken German before college. After taking German classes for a few semesters, I decided that I wanted to keep taking classes and became a B.A. German major as well.

What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they’re interested in pursuing that field of study?
Being a German major is so much more than just learning a language. It exposes you to a whole new culture and community. You also don’t need to have taken German in high school to major in German- I didn’t. A great way to get started learning German is through the Intensive Summer Program in German at the University of Mississippi. There are also so many more opportunities with German from studying abroad to researching in German speaking countries.

Can you tell me about a professor or a class you’ve taken that has had the most impact on you?
Dr. Hutchinson has been amazing at encouraging me in my journey of learning German. In addition to being a great professor, he helped me find a January study abroad program in Berlin that fit my schedule and encouraged me to find research opportunities in German speaking countries which led to me to apply for and attend a summer research internship program near Vienna, Austria.

What do you hope to do after you graduate? What are your career goals/ plans for postgraduation?
After graduation I hope to continue to graduate school for a Ph.D. in Chemical Physics. I want to go into a career in Computational Chemistry research. I hope to collaborate internationally with my research and to use my German to aid in research communication.

Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford? What are your hobbies, favorite places to go, etc.?
There are a lot of coffee shops around town that are fun to study at! I also love going to the local farmers market on Tuesdays!