Esther Appiah
Hundreds of days in her lap is definitely enough to give me the license, if not the legitimate right as a daughter, to be taken seriously when I say anything about my mother. My mother has the unique name, the University of Mississippi. For what else can I call the provider of shelter, love and intellectual food?
Let me first identify myself. I am in the category my mother calls international students. I couldn’t be more special than that, right? I have known a mother before this mother so believe me when I say I know a good mother when I see one. Ole Miss is definitely a great mom. I now realize she doesn’t know white from black.
Ole Miss gave me many opportunities that have left indelible memories with me. I was in Ole Miss Chancellor Dan Jones’ office few days ago. My mission just ended at the front desk there. On the desk was a glass bowl of candies packaged in white and red– Ole Miss candy. I helped myself to one. I couldn’t help but appreciate the sweetness of the candy as it melted on my tongue. By the time I finished with it, I realized that Ole Miss is indeed as sweet as that candy.
One spot I like to spend time at when I am free is the Grove. It is such an incredible scene. The grass smiles at you as you walk past it. The height of tall trees there inspires you to know that the sky is the limit and the pathways lead you to a destination of importance. Among these destinations is the Meek School of Journalism and New Media, my school. The professors there couldn’t be any better. They are dedicated. These professors are selfless and worthy of their tittles. Despite their many assignments and quizzes, I still love them. The Meek School is also as sweet as the Ole Miss candy.
Ole Miss gave me the opportunity to intern at its Office of Communications. I met Ole Miss Public Relations Director Danny Blanton and I wondered if a man could be any more humble. Sharon Morris was my supervisor. She is amazing. The entire staff at there is awesome. I could ask anyone any question without any hesitation. Gay is usually at the front desk there and she always welcomes you with a smile. Just visit them at Sam/Gerard Hall one day and see. I am sure after a visit there, you can’t help but to agree with me that the Office of Communications is as sweet as Ole Miss candy.
As an international student, I frequently visited the university’s Study Abroad office. From the reception area to Molly Fryman’s office, the place is full of broad smiles. I appreciate the patience with which they answered the many questions my friends and I had. Ole Miss Study Abroad is also as sweet as Ole Miss candy.
I live at University Trails so I have to ride the bus to campus. The bus drivers are efficient and friendly. I appreciate the drivers very much. Sweet Ole Miss drivers, thanks for your hard work.
My overall one-year experience here at Ole Miss has been incredibly awesome. I recommend this great school to anyone who wants to study abroad. It is hard to leave behind this wonderful mother I have come to love. It will be Mother’s Day soon and I want to say thank you to my sweet mother, Ole Miss. I will miss you! Hotty Toddy!
Esther Appiah is a junior journalism major from Cape Coast, Ghana.