Grace studied at The University of Southern Mississippi for 1 academic year (2015-2016) as part of her American Studies degree at Swansea University. Here are some of the comments she made about her experience:
Student experience in Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi
"The University of Southern Mississippi was my first choice when applying for universities in the United States. I first picked it because of the rich history and variety of cases, it was the closest university on offer to New Orleans...When I first researched Mississippi, it came up as the ‘hospitality state’, ‘the South’s warmest welcome’ and the ‘birthplace of America’s music’. It started to paint a picture of a dream, big plantation houses, sweet tea, friendly faces, jazz music, and the classes that went with this."
Culture Shock
"Here in America the workload is much higher, you have regular papers, quizzes, and exams throughout the semester, and it takes some time to get used to. However, although it seems like a lot of work, its no where near as hard to do well, as it is back at home; and there are many things you can do for extra credit to get your grade up."
"I lived in a dorm for the first semester, and it was probably one of the biggest cultural shocks I encountered. Every person has a roommate, something I have never had to have in my life, so I had to very quickly adapt that aspect of my life, as I had another person to consider when I was in my room."
Biggest Highlights
"Mississippi, is a remarkable place, which over the course of the year, I have slowly fallen in love with. I have visited a lot of different states over this year, and every time I have travelled, I have ended up counting down the days till I get back to Hattiesburg. Over the course of the year, I have cheered on the football team, attended a rodeo, spent Mardi Gras in New Orleans, seen Stevie Wonder live, and generally had the best time."
Reflection
I would recommend a year abroad at Southern Miss to anyone, its truly been the best thing I have ever done...This state, really is the hospitality state, everyone greets each other with a warm welcome, neighbours get to know each other, there is a lot of sweet tea, and I never want to leave, Hattiesburg is my home."