Hi,
I’m moving into my dorm at Ole Miss tomorrow, and I have to admit I’m a bit apprehensive. I’m a transfer student (sophomore) and I’m worried I’ve made a mistake. I grew up in NC but moved to MS in high school because my dad got transferred. Only reason I’m going to school in the state and not back home is because in-state tuition is obviously going to be cheaper.
With that said, everything I’ve read about the school suggests that the Greeks run it, that it’s extremely conservative, and that if you’re not a part of the accepted clique you won’t have much of a social life.
I’ve been going through near-crippling depression the last two years for the very reason that I felt like I could relate to no one. I thought things would be better in Oxford, but the more I read the more it sounds like it might be worse.
I have no problem socializing with people and I have lots of hobbies–they just don’t seem to fit into the Ole Miss mold. I’m liberal, I like politics, I work out every day, read, write, and play video games. I don’t know if any of that is helpful information, but I’m looking for anything I can get here.
I’d rush but apparently there’s no formal process in the spring and as a sophomore I doubt many would want me anyway.
I think that you will be just fine at Ole Miss. My daughter is a freshman from OOS(NC) and loves it. She did rush last Fall and that has certainly helped but she also has made friends from class, her dorm as well as the campus recreation center and a few clubs that she joined.
Go in with a positive attitude, believe in yourself and put yourself out there as soon as you get to Ole Miss. Introduce yourself to people on your dorm, join study groups, go to the campus gym etc etc.
It will not happen as fast as you may like, but it will happen.
Also, go to Panhellenic and let them know of your interest in rushing in the Spring. I think you will have a few options there as well.
I really wish you the best and know that you can thrive at Ole Miss. Keep doing things daily to interact socially with others.
While my D is not at Ole Miss yet, I agree with what @uncletupelo said. Go with a positive attitude and find clubs or organizations you are interested in to join. I know it will seem slow at first, but if you throw yourself in, you will find your place. I truly think people bloom where planted, but you have to make the decision to put yourself out there.
There are over 250 student organizations outside of Greek life to get involved in and meet people. Attend campus events, meet people in your residence hall. Reach out to your advisor or staff on campus. They are happy to help you get connected with resources that can help you have a successful semester. You should reach out to Mr. Ryan Upshaw. He has been helpful with lots of students coming into the university. His email is rlupshaw@olemiss.edu.
Don’t worry, there’s plenty of liberal at university campuses! Ole Miss is a very big university that has a lot of students with diverse backgrounds. Just join a liberal student group. Honestly, most people won’t care much what your political views are.