MBJ_NEXT_2014

A product of the

2014-2015 edition

Meet Our 7 Really Cool People, pg 39

INSIDE

Âť Insight and information for high school students on life before and during college Âť Information on the public, private and junior colleges across the state

An experience

! " % " " " " $ $ "

" " # % "

AA/EOE/ADAI

www.usm.edu/admissions

/ ( + 0 1 2 0 0 ( , 3 (

( 1 2 4%& 3553 6 1 (0 0 ( (

, :;<;=9

( + ( 0 ,

3 0 7 + ( 8 ( + ( +

7 2 1 (

0 1

( , 0 ( +

Summer Developmental Program. / 0 ( Summer Developmental Program Grant 0 ( , 5 ( + (

! ""#$% &&# '# ! & ( $&"#% #$!!' ) *+

, ) ,+

, -.

1 '$ + +, %- &(' * "(' % (%% + ' -'". *+"," + "' ,! (-,! 0 U.S. News & World Report 1 '$ ( (. * (%% + "' - , ,( * * + ' ,"(' % (%% +-*. 0 + (' (+,+ ( ,, ' ' ' +,- ', &)%(0 "%",0 , * * - ,"(' 1 "%", *0 *" ' %0 !((% ' * '$ () & *" ' (%% /",! (/ +, ((& ' ( * 1 ,- ', -%,0 * ,"( ( 1 -' * * - , & #(*+ &"'(*+ ' (' ',* ,"('+

William Carey University Hattiesburg and Biloxi, Mississippi

1 * - , * + "' %- "' (-* ( ,(* % )*( * &+ 1 *"' &"%0 ,&(+)! * 1 ' " % )% ,( % *' *(/ ' + *.

A member of the Mississippi Press Association and the Alliance of Area Business Publications www.mspress.org www.bizpubs.org 200 North Congress, Suite 400 Jackson, MS 39201-1902 Main: (601) 364-1000; Toll Free: 1-800-283-4625 Faxes: Advertising (601) 364-1007; Circulation (601) 364-1035 E-mails: mbj@msbusiness.com, ads@msbusiness.com, photos@msbusiness.com, research@msbusiness.com, events@msbusiness.com Website: www.msbusiness.com NEXT! Life After High School 2014-2015 edition

CONTENTS

2014-2015 EDITION

ALAN TURNER Publisher alan.turner@msbusiness.com • 364-1021 ROSS REILY Editor ross.reily@msbusiness.com • 364-1018 WALLY NORTHWAY Senior Writer wally.northway@msbusiness.com • 364-1016 FRANK BROWN Staff Writer/Special Projects frank.brown@msbusiness.com • 364-1022 TED CARTER Staff Writer ted.carter@msbusiness.com • 364-1017 BOBBY HARRISON Contributing Writer mbj@msbusiness.com • 364-1015

Advice for college

7 really cool people

Mississippi colleges

6 Careers

41 Andrelle D. Harris

24 Public 4-Year Schools

8 High school checklist

43 Eden Brent

29 Private 4-Year Schools

10 Campus visits

45 Brad Edwards

32 Public 2-Year Schools

11 Selecting a major

47 Katrina Myricks

12 Where to live

49 Maj. Hugh Walker

13 Dorm room essentials

51 Joe Stradinger

14 Roommates

53 Katy Tillman

LISA MONTI Contributing Writer mbj@msbusiness.com • 364-1041 TAMI JONES Advertising Director tami.jones@msbusiness.com • 364-1011 MELISSA KILLINGSWORTH Sr. Account Executive melissa.harrison@msbusiness.com • 364-1030 VIRGINIA HODGES Account Executive virginia.hodges@msbusiness.com • 364-1012 TACY RAYBURN Production Manager tacy.rayburn@msbusiness.com • 364-1019 CHARINA RHODES Circulation Manager charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com • 364-1045 MARCIA THOMPSON-KELLY Business Assistant marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com • 364-1044 SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES (601) 364-1000 subscriptions@msbusiness.com Mississippi Business Journal (USPS 000-222) is published weekly with one annual issue by MSBJ 200 N. Congress St., Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201. Periodicals postage paid at Jackson, MS. Subscription rates: 1 year $109; 2 years $168; and 3 years $214.

To place orders, temporarily stop service, change your address or inquire about billing: Phone: (601) 364-1000, Fax: (601) 364-1035, Email: charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com, Mail: MS Business Journal Subscription Services, 200 N.Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mississippi Business Journal, Circulation Manager, 200 North Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 To submit subscription payments: Mail: MS Business Journal Subscriptions Services, 200 North Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201.

No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent.

Editorial and advertising material contained in this publication is derived from sources considered to be reliable, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Nothing contained herein should be construed as a solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities.

It is the policy of this newspaper to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

The Mississippi Business Journal, is an affiliate of Journal Publishing Company (JPC), Inc.: Clay Foster, president and chief executive officer.

Entire contents copyrighted © 2014 by Journal Inc. All rights reserved.

» LISA MONTI: Monti is a freelance

writer/photographer/blogger in Bay St. Louis. A University of Southern Mississippi graduate, she has hosted a radio show and co-written a travel book about Mississippi.

16 Social Media A product of the

18 Campus life 2014-2015 edition

19 Counseling 20 Paying for college 22 Student loans

Meet Our Really Coo 7 l People, Page 39

INSIDE

» Insight and information for high school students on life before and during college » Information on the publiic, private and junior colleges across the state

ON THE COVER » Professor Christopher Jurgenson assists students during a chemistry lab at Delta State University in Cleveland.

Photo courtesy of Delta State

Mississippi Business Journal

» CONTRIBUTORS

www.msbusiness.com/next

» LYNN LOFTON: A freelance writer living in Gulfport, Lofton is an honor graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi where she wrote for the Student Printz and was editor of the Communication Journal. » BECKY GILLETTE: A free-lance writer\photographer whose work has been published in about 50 magazines and newspapers nationwide. She received the 2008 Special Achievement Award from Sierra Club for work done to expose formaldehyde poisoning in FEMA trailers and other buildings. She was named Mississippi 2008 Small Business Journalist of the Year by the Small Business Administration. » RUSTY HAMPTON: Hampton is a newspaper veteran and former sports editor who covered all areas of sports in Mississippi and nationwide. He currently is part of the media relations team at NeelSchaffer engineering firm.

NEXT! 2014 5

NEXT!: CAREERS

WHERE DO YOU GO FROM HERE?

Photo courtesy of Hinds Community College

6 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

Begin your career search early

BY BECKY GILLETTE REPARING FOR college means preparing for a career. So while you are giving thought to what college you want to attend, and what cool activities are ahead, don’t forget that choosing a career that will afford you the lifestyle that you want in the future is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life.

College is expensive, and you don’t want to pile up large student loan debts without getting a degree that provides a pathway to a profitable career.

No, it doesn’t all need to be about how much the career pays. That should be a factor, but you also need to find something you love doing.

Students should look for a field of study that they are passionate about, said Mississippi State University Career Center Director Scott Maynard. “Every university and community college has a Career Center where students can take interest inventories to help guide them to majors and careers,” he said.

“Conducting informational interviews and job shadowing are some other ways to gain real insight into the day-to-day activities of careers.”

Don’t just do book and classroom study. Look for opportunities such as co-operative internships to find out if the profession you are considering suits you. Experience is important.

Maynard recommends finding a way to gain practical work experience in your field of study prior to graduation.

“We just completed a study that showed students with co-op experience were three times more likely to have a job at graduation and students with one semester of internship were

P

Mississippi Business Journal

twice as likely to have a job at graduation,” he said. “That experience truly makes a difference in the eyes of a potential employer.”

Don’t wait until you have graduated from college to put together a resume. While learning your field of study, also learn how to build and write a resume.

“Students should begin developing their resume as a freshman or sophomore and build it from there,” Maynard said. “Most Career Centers publish a Career Guide that includes helpful tips on resume development.

At Mississippi State, our guide is at http://issuu.com/msucoop/docs/caree r_center_handbook_website.”

Learning how to do a good job interview with a prospective employer is also a valuable skill to get under your belt. Interviewing is like any skill. It takes repetition to master it.

“Participating in mock interviews with your schools’ Career Center is a great place to start,” Maynard said.

Four-year colleges are not the only option for higher ed. In fact, twoyear programs at Mississippi Community Colleges not only are much less expensive, but have a number of workforce training programs that pave the way to good paying jobs.

Dr. Eric Clark, executive director of the Mississippi Community College Board, said someone with a technical degree from a community college initially could make more money than a person who has just graduated with a bachelor’s degree. One year after graduating with an Associate of Applied Science, 80 percent are employed at an average annual salary of $31,355.

“When someone learns to work on air conditioners or to become a plumber, there are jobs available immediately that will pay a good liv-

www.msbusiness.com/next

ing and allow a more prosperous life,” Clark said. “Ten years down the line, someone with a bachelor’s degree from college may make more, but sometimes a technical degree has more value right after graduation.”

Average tuition and required fees for the 2014-2015 school year are $2,476 at a community college compared to about $7,000 per year at four-year colleges in state. Those cost savings can really add up, plus you can get on the job two years earlier and start paying back any loans.

“When you consider the opportunities that a community college education provides, there is simply no better return on investment,” said Clark. “We have a huge number of students who may have financial challenges, but manage to come to community colleges, and the payoff is enormous. We can take students, regardless of their educational background, and help them become whatever they wish to be.”

In addition to traditional academic classes, community colleges teach job skills. There are smaller classes with a lot of interactions with instructors.

There are 15 community colleges in the state making it likely that you have one close to where you live. If transportation is an issue, or you’re working and need to study odd hours, the Mississippi Virtual Community College is a great choice.

In the fall 2014 semester, nearly 30,000 students were taking 64,000 online courses. The MSVCC allows students the option of taking classes online while receiving the same support from an instructor as a student in the regular classroom.

“Our online courses are one of the great success stories in our state,” Clark said. “There has been a tremendous growth pattern since they started in 2000.”

NEXT! 2014 7

NEXT!: HIGH SCHOOL CHECKLIST

START EARLY Preparing for college is now a 4-year process, so get busy FRESHMAN YEAR

JUNIOR YEAR

» Choose a college-preparatory curriculum. » Take aptitude or career-interest inventories available through your high school. » Work hard! Remember you begin compiling that cumulative GPA this year. » Make a commitment to one or more extracurricular activities or a job. » Create a portfolio (samples of good work, report cards, documentation of other successes). » Before registering for sophomore year, evaluate your academic program — are you still on track for meeting your goals? Have your goals changed? » Look into summer academic programs or jobs that might be of interest. Begin researching ways to pay for college.

— Lynn Lofton

» If you haven’t taken the ACT and SAT, take it. » Begin visiting campuses of colleges you’re considering. » If available, sign up for an ACT/SAT workshop at a local university or at your high school. » Take the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT). » Meet with your guidance counselor to review courses, plan for senior year and discuss colleges. » Maintain your portfolio of achievements. » Attend college fairs, or write or call colleges on your list and begin reviewing their literature and websites. » Begin thinking about which teachers and others you might ask to write recommendations in the fall of your senior year. » Use your spring and summer breaks to visit college campuses. » Look into summer jobs or academic programs. » Save money whenever possible to help pay for college. » Take a life skills class.

— Lynn Lofton

SOPHOMORE YEAR » Take pre ACT college entrance test. It’s free, and a low score won’t count against you. » Make sure you are taking the right courses and are on track for graduation. » Participate in extra curricular activities. » Be concerned about your GPA, but also take challenging classes. » Investigate career choices. Meet with the counselors. Talk to adults about work. Consider job shadowing and internships. » Volunteering in the community looks good on your resume — and can be rewarding. » Get organized in whatever ways work for you. » Avoid your comfortable cliques and interact with a wide variety of people with different interests » Make a list of schools that interest you, and talk to others about what schools they like and why.

— Becky Gillette 8 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

SENIOR YEAR » If planning to attend college, take the ACT or SAT college entrance tests. This isn’t necessary if you took entrance exams your junior year and are satisfied with your score. » Spend some time online researching various colleges and trade schools. » Research your career options. Attend the school and college career fairs. Consider job shadowing or a part-time job in a field that interests you. » Once you have narrowed your school choices, schedule a visit to the campus. » Apply to three to five of your first choice schools. Be sure to carefully proofread applications, and it doesn’t hurt to ask a friend or parent to double check. Make copies of applications. » Meet with the school counselor for more insight into after-high-school career choices. » If available in your area, consider dual enrollment in college so you can get college credit while still in high school » Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as close to January 1 as possible. » Research and apply for all available scholarships. » Check on housing options at colleges you plan to attend. » If you didn’t do it first semester, make sure you meet the deadlines for applying for college, paying fees, and providing requested materials like proof of vaccinations. » Build your resume with both paid work experience and volunteer jobs. » Take a career aptitude test if you want more direction on choosing a career. » Don’t fall victim to Senioritis. Keep your grades up. » Manage your time wisely. Keep a calendar! » Enjoy extra-curricular and social activities.

— Becky Gillette Mississippi Business Journal

N EXT!: CAMPUS VISITS

Walk around campuses and talk to other students when visiting colleges.

Courtesy of Mississippi College

Seeing campuses a must-do

BY LYNN LOFTON HOULD YOU visit the college campuses where you’re thinking of enrolling? Absolutely, say college officials, but there are a few things to keep in mind while planning those visits. Visiting campuses is a great way to get a feel for what college is like. Visits can range from a quick hour tour to an overnight stay. High school students may telephone, send an email or set up a visit online at college and university websites.

“Visiting campus is likely the most important aspect of the college selection process,” says Naron Remillard, director of student recruitment at Mississippi State University. “During a campus visit students are able to immerse themselves in the college experience and gain an understanding of what it’s like to be a student, as well as picture what their home away from home will look and feel like. At State, we offer everything from large exciting events to smaller half-day events to individual campus tours.”

At the University of Southern Mississippi visits are tailored to each student, according to Ronnie Hebert who works with first year students. “On a visit, students meet

S

10 NEXT! 2014

people, which I think is important,” he said. “They can talk to someone in their field of study, have a tour led by a student, have an opportunity to ask questions and get tidbits of information.”

It’s the information gained from asking questions, along with learning the university’s history and traditions the Hebert feels are important.

The Office of Admissions at the University of Mississippi offers weekday campus visits Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

“A normal visit includes a 45minute information session with a regional admissions counselor, a 45minute walking tour of campus, and a 30-minute tour of both a traditional and contemporary residence hall,” said Assistant Director of Admissions Ty Allushuski.

Special requests for visits may be made online and must be done at least 48 hours prior to the visit. The Office of Admissions also offers Saturday Special Events periodically throughout the year for those who cannot attend a weekday campus visit. That schedule is also posted online. “Finally, the Office of Admissions can issue school excuse notices for students who sign up for and attend a daily campus visit,” he added. www.msbusiness.com/next

Campus visit check list » Contact the college admission office through the website, by email or telephone to get details and make a reservation. » When you get to the campus, don’t be shy about asking questions. » In most cases there is an information session followed by a campus tour. » With prior arrangements, at many campuses you can also arrange to attend a class; meet with a professor, admissions officer and financial aid officer; attend a club meeting or a sports practice session; eat in the dining hall; and spend the night in a dorm. » Before the visit, prepare by exploring the college’s website and reviewing any materials the school has sent you. This will help you determine any questions specific to that college. » Make a list of questions to ask staff members and students. » Remember to pack a notebook to record your impressions. » Make fair comparisons of the colleges you visit.

Mississippi Business Journal

NEXT!: CHOOSING A MAJOR

Keep degree options open

BY LYNN LOFTON Now that you’re set to attend college, what will be your major or career path? It’s a question often asked by family and friends. Declaring a major is usually done during the second year of college, and it’s one of the toughest decisions college students must make.

What factors should be considered?

Some helpful hints for making this important decision are offered by Cassandra Latimer, associate director of the Career Center at Mississippi State University. “Picking a college is tough enough on a student, but do you have to pick a major, too?” she says.

“Even if you have mentioned the same major or career path since pre-school, it’s reasonable to assume that your mind will probably change after a semester or two of college, but there are things you can do now to get started on the right path.”

At the University of Southern Mississippi, Ronnie Hebert serves as assistant director for the First Year Initiative and formerly worked in recruitment. “A lot of students declare a major upon admission, but it’s typical for them to change two or three times, especially the first couple of years on campus,” he said. “I tell students not to stress out about it because the first couple of years they’re knocking out the core curriculum.”

Hebert recommends test driving a major by taking a class in that discipline to see it you’re interested in it.

“By doing that, you’re making an informed decision and you’re not losing those credit hours,” he said.

Additionally, he advises using the college’s career services center that’s available to work with students from day one to post graduation. “That’s a great place to start,” he said. “They can tell you what jobs are available to majors; they have different assessment tools and a staff to help with the process.”

N

Ty Allushuski, assistant director of admissions at the University of Mississippi, says most majors on campus will allow students to simply declare their intentions when they submit an application for admission to the university. “However, some programs such as early-entry pharmacy and the Center for Manufacturing Excellence do require additional applications through the Special Programs and Scholarships application,” he said.

“This information can be found online at olemiss.edu/apply.”

» KNOW AVAILABLE RESOURCES Resources exist on every college campus that can be valuable tools in the choosinga-major process. Every college employs career counselors and academic advisors who can provide students with assessments to identify interests, abilities and skills.

“They also make students aware of majors in their area of interest and then offer strategies to discover more about those majors,” Latimer said. “These professionals can also lend an objective ear as you walk through this process. Many colleges even offer courses on how to choose a college major.” » EXPLORE OPTIONS “While colleges encourage you to decide on a major early in your college career (as long as you’ve done your research), they don’t make you choose until sometime your sophomore year,” Latimer said. “High school is a great time to begin exploring college majors.” » CHECK OUT COLLEGE CATELOGUES & WEBSITES “Find out all you can about majors of interest – admission requirements into particular majors, graduation requirements, course descriptions, etc.,” Latimer advises.

“The more you like about certain majors, the more in depth you should investigate those majors.” » CONDUCT INTERVIEWS AND JOB SHADOWING WITH PROFESSIONALS “Continually reflect to help you decide if those options are right for you,” Latimer said.

Photos courtesy of respective colleges

Among career options are, from top, Communications at Belhaven, Nursing at Alcorn State, and Hospitality and Resort Management at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

Mississippi Business Journal

Cassandra Latimer says

www.msbusiness.com/next

» KEEP AN OPEN MIND “It depends on what you choose to do with the major; not what someone assumes you can do with it,” Latimer said. “Only through knowledge and experience can you truly realize the academic major that ultimately captures your interest and passion.”

NEXT! 2014 11

NEXT!: HOUSING

Courtesy Ole Miss

Recently completed Ridge Hall is one of the many living options in Oxford for students at the University of Mississippi.

So, where will you live?

A

BY LISA MONTI

MONG THE many decisions involved in going away to college is choosing a place to live. For the most part, students have four options: campus dormitories, on-campus apartments, fraternity or sorority houses and offcampus housing.

The first thing to decide is whether to live on campus or off campus.

Consider that living on campus, in the middle of all the collegiate events and activities, gives students an insider’s advantage of being near whatever is happening, whether it’s athletics or academics. On campus living is certainly convenient, with shorter commute travel, and residents have the opportunity to meet and interact with other students on a regular basis.

The drawbacks of living on campus can be higher costs and a feeling that you are never away from school or your fellow students. Dorm life means you’ll probably have a roommate and maybe share a bathroom with other residents.

If you live off campus, a roommate might not be necessary but if you do need one, it doesn’t have to be another student. Off campus usually means larger accommodations and depending on your budget can range from a studio apartment to a house you can share.

Living off campus also gives you more freedom from college rules. Unlike dorms, your apartment won’t be locked

12 NEXT! 2014

On Campus

Off Campus

PROS: » Socializing with other students » Easy access to classes and other facilities » Meal ticket

PROS: » Freedom and privacy » Roommate or not?

Your choice » More space, including a kitchen » Learn to live on your own CONS: » Commuting back and forth to campus » A disconnect with campus life » Utility, grocery costs

CONS: » Close living quarters » Too many distractions from studying » Dorms closed for breaks and holidays » Privacy at a premium

during the summer or holiday breaks.

And instead of meals in the dining hall, you can cook what you like right in your own kitchen. It’s also helpful for learning how to live responsibly on your own and manage a household. It also helps to start a rental history for later on.

On the down side, living off-campus includes extra costs such as Internet service or utilities and it usually means a longer commute, which you may have to take more than once a day. Finding a parking spot can be a problem if you’re coming from off campus.

Cost and convenience are the biggest factors to consider in your choice of housing options. When you compare dorms to apartment living, don’t forget to factor in the cost of meals. If the dorm includes a dining hall allowance, www.msbusiness.com/next

that’s key to formulating a decision.

Look closer at what your college choices offer for housing. For example, the University of Mississippi has several options. The contemporary halls have private bathrooms, community kitchens, study rooms on every flood and come equipped with a microwave/fridge. The traditional halls, where most freshmen live, have double rooms shared with a roommate and community bathrooms. Apartments are open to students with 30 or more credit hours and are available for single students and families.

College websites including those of Ole Miss and Mississippi State University include a section on rental properties for those looking to live off campus.

Joining a fraternity or sorority and living in the house has its own set of pros and cons. Joining one can mean close and lasting relationships that can influence job searches and career advancement throughout your career. On the other hand, consider how you could get any studying done in a frat house where parties might be loud and frequent.

Sharing bathrooms and kitchens with a large number of members also can become a cleanliness issue. And consider the distance from campus when commuting may become a problem.

Before any decision is made about which housing option is best, students should do a their homework by making pro and con lists along with a basic budget for such things as food and cable.

Mississippi Business Journal

NEXT!: DORM ROOM ESSENTIALS

Buy, borrow or share?

Electronics

Bedding Just like at home, you’ll need sheets and pillow cases, a pillow or two, a light blanket for cold climates and a comforter or bedspread. Check with the school for mattress measurements before buying anything bed related.

Bath You’ll want to have two or three towels and wash clothes, a robe and slippers or flip flops and something in which to carry your shampoo and other bath accessories.

Dorm Room Checklist » Laundry bag or basket » Laundry detergent » General cleaning supplies » Dish washing liquid » Small trash can » Plastic trash bags » Small broom and dust pan or hand vac » Alarm clock » Backpack » Toiletries and a shower tote » First aid kit » Tweezers » Air fresheners » Iron and ironing board

» Can opener » Foam mattress pad » Sewing kit » Scissors » Refillable water bottle » Umbrella or rain gear » Stapler » Dish towels » Pot holders » Bean bag chair » Prescriptions, medication and vitamins » Mop and broom » Tool kit » Hand sanitizer » Flash light » Hair dryer

Rugs A rug for your bedside is a nice, warm touch for your room and protects from what might be well worn flooring. A larger rug makes floor sitting more comfortable and so does a nice throw.

Kitchen appliances Kitchen basics No dorm room would be complete without a small refrigerator and a microwave but don’t forget a coffee maker and toaster over. Again, check with your roommate so you won’t have two of something you only need one of.

You’ll need the obvious, including a few plates, small bowls, water glasses, silverware and coffee mugs. If you plan to prepare food in the room, you’ll need the basic pot, pan, wooden or plastic spoon and any other cook’s tool required for your needs.

Decor It’s your temporary home so you might as well decorate your dorm room with framed photos, artwork or posters for the walls and maybe a bulletin board for reminders or a calendar.

Mississippi Business Journal

Clothes Your wardrobe, or at least everything that will fit into your closet and other storage space.

A laptop or tablet with all the accessories, including cables and a power strip, is essential. A television set and something for music like wireless portable speakers or a DVD player will certainly come in handy for your entertainment or background noise. Good lighting helps with studying so you may want to invest in a small desk lamp. A small fan that won’t take up much space is a nice thing to have on hand for keeping the fresh air circulating in your room. Check with your roommate to avoid duplication on the shareable electronics.

Storage aids Your dorm room likely will be small and so will the closet so make the most of the space you’ll have to put all your things. You’ll need hangars, something to keep your jewelry in, containers to store some things along the bottom of the closet and even under the bed. Food storage containers also are helpful to keep snacks and leftovers stored safely.

Compiled by Lisa Monti www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 13

NEXT!: HOUSING

One word...

Courtesy of Belhaven University

As a college freshman, you can usually choose your own roommate or let the college choose one for you randomly.

ROOMMATES

C

BY LISA MONTI

HOOSING A COLLEGE roommate is one of the biggest decisions a college freshman has to make and in some ways it is even more important than deciding where you pick to live.

Anytime two people spend so much time together in a small living space, it’s hard to predict how the actual day-to-day living arrangement will work out.

It may seem like the best of all possible situations if you and your best friend from high school happily agree to room together. For one thing, it’s comforting to know that you have someone famil-

14 NEXT! 2014

iar who’s close at hand as you enter a new life away from home.

Then again, you likely have never lived with your best friend, so things may not be as compatible as either of you had thought.

If you decide to take your chances and go with a roommate picked randomly for you by the college, you may be lucky enough to meet a stranger who turns out to be your friend for life. And that new friend will open up a new social circle you might otherwise never have been introduced to in the first place. Or you could end up in the opposite situation — a really incompatible roommate — though colleges attempt to match students so that a worst case scenario doesn’t become a reality.

Colleges offer incoming freshmen who are seek-

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

ing a roommate the opportunity to fill out a questionnaire so they can pair up students based on similar interests and habits.

The University of Southern Mississippi has the Southern Miss Roommate Connection program on its website where students create a profile and search others who have compatible profiles. Then the students can email each other to find out more about their potential room sharing.

Roommate searches using social media including Facebook is a growing option for freshmen as well.

Most schools including Mississippi State University say if two incoming freshmen request each other as a roommate, they will make every effort to honor the request. Otherwise roommates are matched based on their answers to roommate compatibility questions. Room assignments are made according to a student’s

preferences in things like bedtime, the amount of quiet needed, study habits, neatness, room temperature, major and music.

If things don’t work out, colleges offer students a final chance to find another roommate. At Mississippi State, there is Room Change Week. At Delta State University, Room Change Day is the second day of classes.

So to avoid a second move to another dorm room in the first place, incoming freshmen should know what they’re looking for in a roommate and go into the process of selecting one with open eyes.

The college experience offers many lessons outside the classroom and learning to live with someone, a friend or a stranger, can teach you about different cultures, politics and lifestyles.

Respect and communication can make living with a roommate a beneficial experience.

Roommate considerations Here are some things to consider in a potential roommate and some key questions to be asked up front: » Cracking the books. What sort of study habits do you have and how much distraction can you tolerate? What if your roommate likes loud music and you need quiet to study and work? » Socializing. A new friend means meeting more new friends but what if your roommate has a steady stream of guests coming to visit? What if your roommate doesn’t want your friends to visit? » Sleep habits. Say you like to get 8 hours of sleep to be ready to go in the morning and your roommate likes to stay up until 1 a.m. That incompatible arrangement could get very tiresome quickly. » Hygiene and neatness. If you like order in your room and a clean living environment you don’t want to room with a slob who doesn’t pick clothes up off the floor or never empties the trash. Find out your potential roommate’s expectations for housekeeping. » Sharing and common courtesy. Do you mind if your roommate uses your stuff, eats your snacks or borrows your clothes? Do you tend to casually borrow things? People’s preferences when it comes to sharing can be vastly different and can cause a lot of tension if you don’t understand what’s expected.

GOOD NEWS IS WORTH REPEATING! Framed Article Articles are reformatted to fit on either one or two pages with Mississippi Business Journal masthead on the top of the page. Article size is 8.5” x 11”.

Framed articles take approximately one month to complete.

Digital Reprint Frame size - 14” x 16.5” - $199

Plaque - 9”x12” or 8”x10” - $125

Article or list will be reformatted with Mississippi Business Journal masthead on the top of the page and be provided in PDF format.

WAYS TO ORDER » Call: 601-364-1013 Fax: (601) 364-1007 Fax or mail: Mississippi Business Journal Attn: Marcia Thompson-Kelly 200 North Congress St, Ste 400, Jackson 39201 Email: marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com or print off form at http://msbusiness.com/wp-files/forms/article-request-form-web.pdf Mississippi Business Journal

Introductory Offer $199

R Digital Reprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$375

R Framed Article 14” x 16.5” cherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$199 R Framed Article 23” x 16.5” cherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250 R Plaque 8” x 10” or 9” x 12” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 15

NEXT!: SOCIAL MEDIA

Someone is always watching Even potential employers look at your profile

W By

Courtesy of Belhaven University

Laptops and cellphone keep these Belhaven students constantly plugged into social media and the Internet.

16 NEXT! 2014

BECKY GILLETTE HAT ARE THE chances a prospective employer is going to check your Facebook page? It is almost a given — about 90 percent of employers or recruiters check Facebook and half check other social media sites like

Twitter and LinkedIn. “Some of the best advice I can give to high school students is to always think twice before posting to social media,” said Ryan M. Whittington, assistant director of Public Relations for Social Media Strategy, The University of Mississippi. “Whether it be friends or family members, admissions officers or even prospective employers, someone is always watching. As scary as that may seem, social media is one of the best ways to improve your reputation. I would urge students to create a LinkedIn account, Google themselves frequently and clean up existing profiles on all social media platforms to make sure they are ‘putting their best foot forward’ on social media.”

LinkedIn is one of the best ways for individuals of all ages to improve their online reputations. Over time and by using the right key words, not only will a LinkedIn account prove helpful to join the workforce, but it can also allow individuals to highlight their strengths.

“Students should Google themselves to make sure positive information exists in the digital realm and also find past photos or news items that may put the individual in a negative light,” Whittington said.

“With all of the social platform options that exist for high school students, they may find themselves creating accounts on a number of different platforms over the course of their lifetime. From MySpace and Path to older blogging platforms in which younger audiences lost interest quickly, I've known many students who have created accounts on a number of different networking sites years prior, but see old posts to their private sites pop up in random searches. It's good practice to go back and delete or clean up some

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

of these older profiles to ensure that they are presenting one identity in the social sphere."

It’s ok to be social and share your personal life. Just make sure not to over-share.

“Make sure you have a positive tone when posting, as a consistent negative tone may give people an impression of you that's not necessarily true,” said Olivia Ann Hurst, social media specialist, Office of University Communications, University of Southern Mississippi. “Post about your hobbies. Employers like to see a well-rounded view of you.

Know what industry you're interested in? Start doing your research and become familiar with companies in that industry.

“Follow them, comment on their content and share it, and make sure to share similar industry content on your own personal channels,” Hurst said.

“They'll start to become familiar with who you are if this is consistently done.”

Social media is constantly growing, changing and developing. From new apps to new platforms, it seems like there's something new every week.

Hurst said while users previously primarily used one platform, now

there is a shift with the influx of new apps and platforms, therefore creating multi-platform users.

“Almost every industry you can think of now has a presence on social media, and it infiltrates our daily lives now more than ever,” she said.

“Whenever I speak to students, I like to mention the ‘grandmother’ or ‘newspaper/billboard’ test. If you wouldn't want your grandmother to see it, or wouldn’t want it splashed across the front page of a newspaper or billboard, then don’t post it!

Overall, I'm seeing that more and more students are being cautious about what they’re posting.”

Spelling and grammar are extremely important.

Employers also do not look well upon social media shorthand (u in place of you, smh in place of shaking my head, etc.). Use correct spelling and grammar, as employers feel that incorrect spelling and grammar can easily translate over to the work place.

One more note: You should behave on social media as you would behave being face-toface with someone.

Common mistakes with social media: » Errors in spelling and grammar » Complaining about schoolwork or a current job » Consistently making posts with a negative tone » Venting or posting a rant on social media » Consistent negative interactions with others » Posting inappropriate photos.

Do's and Don'ts of Social Media

» Do be discreet in sharing your personal life. » Do be aware who can see it. » Do double check your spelling and grammar. » Do be professional. » Do always respond in an adult and mature way. » Do thoroughly check your social media profiles. » Do let your profiles work for you. » Do make your social media presence part of your resume. » Do make sure you convey a positive attitude. » Do post stuff that makes you look good. » Don’t be a cyber bully. » Don't over-share small, everyday details of your life. » Don’t complain about school or your job. » Don’t get rid of your social media profiles. » Don't make your profiles completely private or hidden. » Don’t try to friend professors. » Don’t spend too much time on social media. » Don’t over share.

Other important tips » What you post online is not always visible to just you and your friends. » Check your privacy settings at least once a month.

Good things to know » The Internet always remembers. There's no guarantee you can ever permanently delete anything. » One in five technology industry executives have not hired an employee based on the applicant's social media profiles. » Be safe. Protect yourself and your identity. You never know who is trolling the Internet right now looking for some trusting, naive soul to exploit. Don’t give out your phone number or home address in messages that can be seen by “friends of friends”, which basically can mean “anyone.”

Source: Olivia Ann Hurst, USM social media specialist,

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 17

NEXT!: CAMPUS LIFE

Keep campus life balanced

BY LYNN LOFTON OU’VE HEARD from everyone that going to college is a BIG step as you’re on your own for the first time.

Without Mom and Dad’s help you must adjust to campus life and manage your time, finances and social life while keeping up the academics. Whew! But there is help available.

Many colleges have an office such as the First Year Initiative Office at the University of Southern Mississippi.

“This office has the sole purpose of helping students transition through a whole host of issues, such as time management, course load and financial problems,” says Ronnie Hebert, who directs the office. “We take time to talk to stuRonnie Hebert dents about scheduling phone calls with parents and a vast array of things.”

At the University of Mississippi, Ty Allushuski, assistant director of admissions, says the two best resources for help with making the transition to college are the Office of the Dean of

Y

Time management Students quickly learn that time management is a challenging and difficult part of being in school away from home. Here are some helpful tips: » Get and use a calendar; a paper calendar, cell phone or other device. » Write down everything in one place. The crazier your schedule gets, the more important this becomes. » Schedule time to relax. Just because your calendar goes from 7:20 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. doesn’t mean you can. » Keep trying new systems. If your cell phone calendar isn’t big enough, buy a paper one. » Allow for flexibility. » Plan ahead. » Plan for the unexpected. » Schedule rewards for yourself.

18 NEXT! 2014

Courtesy of ECCC

Studying in library, such as this one at East Central Community College, will likely have less distractions.

Students and the Center for Student Success and First-Year Experience.

There are also other programs that are options for freshmen students and first-time transfer students.

“These graded, three-hour courses are seminar-style and do a great job of introducing students to campus resources,” Allushuski said.

Hebert agrees that courses such as University 101 will help students learn

valuable study and note taking skills.

“New students may be living with strangers for the first time in their lives, and they’re in a new academic environment with challenges,” he said.

He points out that college offers lots of opportunities beyond sitting in classes. “There’s a greater level of achievement as you prepare to be a citizen of the world and have a world view,” he said.

Financial responsibility

Balance school and social life

It’s easy to spend money and not know where it went, or to have more month than you do money, or to be forced to ask Mom and Dad for a bailout. Taking charge of your own finances will make you feel good about yourself and is a huge step toward being an independent adult. » Be responsible for your own spending money. You’ll be less inclined to spend that way. » Getting a job on or off campus can help with day-to-day expenses. You may also be able to find work during summer vacations and semester breaks. » If you have or will have a credit card, be ready to exercise great responsibility with it.

Maybe you and your parents can set a prepaid spending limit on the card. Credit cards can be helpful in certain circumstances and will begin to build your credit history.

How do you juggle the demands of class work, home work, special reports, labs, term papers and much more while still having time to go out with friends on Saturday evening? Freshmen aren’t accustomed to a typical college schedule which can mean only one or two classes on some days – or even none some days. That seems like a lot of free time just waiting to be filled with socializing and fun.

Deadlines for course work may be weeks or months ahead. It takes organization and self discipline to get it done AND have time for a social life.

www.msbusiness.com/next

A few tips » Work in the library, not in your dorm room. There are fewer temptations there. » Select your dorm thoughtfully. Some dorms have themes to attract more serious students and some have resident faculty members who oversee mini courses available only to residents. » Join a club or organization (or a few). Social life doesn’t have to mean sex, drugs and loud music. » Get outside help. If you’re really struggling to maintain balance, talk to your faculty advisor or a member of the college counseling staff. That person can offer advice that’s specific to your campus situation.

Mississippi Business Journal

NEXT!: COUNSELING

Finding help LISA MONTI

L By

Photo by Deryll Stegall / Stegall Imagery

Mississippi Business Journal

EAVING HOME to go off to college is a lifechanging event that has its unpredictable ups and downs, so colleges and universities have in place active programs staffed by professionals who are available to help with life’s challenges. They are there to help guide students through everything from homesickness to major crises including drug abuse and suicide.

Ole Miss has the University Counseling Center, a professional facility that offers assistance not just to students but also to faculty and staff through individual counseling, couple’s counseling, group counseling, stress management, crisis intervention, assessments and referrals, outreach programs, consultations and substance abuse services.

Individuals can talk to counselor about any issues that may be troubling them, the university said, even if they don’t quite know what the problem is.

“The people we work with discuss a variety of topics, including relationship issues, stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, sexuality, eating issues, perfectionism, academic concerns, discrimination, and transition difficulties,” according to the university’s website.

Students who make use of the free, confidential counseling shouldn’t think there is anything wrong with them for wanting to go to the Counseling Center, the university said.

“Most students who use our services are interested in their personal growth and adjustment to changes in their lives.” according to the Counseling Center’s website. “Many students face normal developmental concerns and academic pressures while at the University of Mississippi, and at times feel anxious, angry, or depressed. It is often helpful to gain the perspective of a www.msbusiness.com/next

neutral professional. The UCC staff is trained to help you think about alternatives or options to your behavior and ways of dealing with the world.”

In addition to individual counseling, the University Counseling Center offers several group experiences for students, faculty, and staff.

One is a class for military veterans to help them move into campus and civilian life. An Early Intervention Group is for students who want to examine alcohol and drug use habits.

The Home Away From Home support group is for students experiencing feelings of homesickness or difficulties adjusting to Ole Miss.

The center’s outreach program includes a class called “Calm in Chaos” that teaches the tools to help calm even on the most chaotic day.

Over six weeks, participants are taught techniques such as rhythmic breathing muscle relaxation and meditation in one- hour sessions.

Mississippi State University offers its students individual counseling and topic-focused group counseling that in the past have covered issues related to being a woman of color on campus, eating and body image issues and coming-out issues.

MSU also puts on free educational programs and workshops on various mental health topics to reach out to its students.

As part of the MSU Connection Project, the staff provides training to campus groups to recognize warning signs of suicide. Called QPR, it stands for Question, Persuade and Refer, the steps to help save a life from suicide.

At the University of Southern Mississippi, the Student Counseling Services staff recognizes that when students leave home, parents are concerned about their student’s welfare and safety. The school said parents should encourage their student to get counseling if they feel they may benefit from discussing concerns or to get information about feelings of depression, panic attacks, motivation, overeating or discrimination.

NEXT! 2014 19

NEXT!: PAYING FOR COLLEGE

How much will you need?

Borrow what’s necessary — not more than you need By

BECKY GILLETTE

ETTING A GOOD education that provides the training you need to land that dream job is a great plan. So is trying to get out of college without a large amount of student loan debt that could haunt you for the next 20 years.

The graduating class of 2014 had the highest ever student loan debt average — $33,000 — twice the average of 20 years earlier. Sadly, only about half of graduates end up in a job that requires a four-year degree.

The very first thing to do is explore how much financial aid is available from the federal and state governments. Financial aid includes grants, like the Pell grant or the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant, and scholarships for academic or performance merit.

After applying to college, complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) available online at www.fafsa.gov. Completing the FAFSA will tell you if you are eligible for a federal subsidized loan, which does not accrue interest while you are still in

G

20 NEXT! 2014

Loan Considerations » All loans are not created equal.

Some loans are better than others. Look at interest rates and repayment options. » Trouble is ahead when you borrow more than you need. When a loan is offered, you don’t have to accept the entire amount. If you only need an extra $3,000 to cover the dorm, don’t take out a $5,000 loan just because that is what is offered. » There are those who borrow too much and those who borrow too little.

Borrow enough that you can focus on doing well in your classes and finishing on time rather than on working three jobs to cover your costs. » Stay the course and finish your degree. If you take out a loan for a degree you never finish, you still have to repay the loan.

— Jennifer Rogers, Mississippi IHL school. You should also complete the state application, which is available online at mississippi.edu/financialaid, between Jan. 1 and Sept. 15 every year.

Student loans are not all bad, said Jennifer Rogers, director of Student Financial Aid, Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. After all, student loans are an investment in

www.msbusiness.com/next

your own future. But knowing how much or how little to borrow can be tricky and the right amount of loans will vary by person.

“Sometimes it is necessary and acceptable to finance an investment, but as with any investment such as that of a car or home, putting money down will reduce the overall cost,” Rogers said. “When financing a college education, grants, scholarships, and income from work act as money down, thereby reducing the amount of tuition and other expenses that must be financed with interest. You should always seek grants and scholarships that do not have to be repaid before seeking loans.”

Working part-time including a work-study job with the college is highly recommended as a way to reduce the loan totals.

Students should certainly consider their future job opportunities before choosing a major, but job opportunities should never be the only factor. You also need both an aptitude for and interest in the field.

“After all, people are more likely to be successful in jobs they are good at and enjoy,” Rogers said. “Students should

Mississippi Business Journal

also keep in mind that some fields require a graduate degree. You can major in premed, but you can’t be a doctor without going through medical school, and you can’t be a surgeon without additional training after medical school. The additional cost of the graduate degree may be worth the potential salary (think about those surgeons), but it might not.”

Talk about the cost of college usually centers around tuition, but there are other costs to plan for. Each college creates an annual budget to help students be prepared.

The budget is commonly referred to as the Cost of Attendance (COA) and usually includes estimates for the following costs: » Tuition and fees. » On-campus room and board (or a housing and food allowance for off-campus students). » Allowances for books, supplies, transportation, loan fees, and, if applicable, dependent care. » Costs related to a disability, if applicable. » Miscellaneous expenses, including an allowance for the rental or purchase of a personal computer.

“Keep in mind that the COA is an estimated cost,” Rogers said. “Some elements of the COA may not be as high for all students.

Students can lower their actual cost by trying to save on travel expenses, textbooks, and other miscellaneous costs associated with going to college.”

Mississippi Business Journal

Paying for college Students find numerous ways to pay for college. 529 Plans are also a popular option for paying for college. A 529 Plan is an education savings plan operated by a state or educational institution to help families set aside funds for future college costs. » MPACT – Mississippi Prepaid Affordable College Tuition Plan (www.collegesavingsmississippi.com), allows Mississippi residents to pre-pay for college tuition and mandatory fees (thus locking in the rates) at Mississippi public colleges and universities or for private or out-of-state colleges based on Mississippi’s average tuition rates. » The Mississippi Affordable College Savings Plan (www.collegesavingsmississippi.com). MACS is an investment program that allows families to invest money for tuition, books, room and board, required supplies, and graduate school.

MACS funds may be used at any accredited college or university anywhere in the U.S. » Many employers will pay tuition and other fees for their employees. Some employers will even pay your entire college tuition and allow you to attend school full time in exchange for your commitment to work with the company for a specified period of time after graduation. » And military service offers a number of education benefits that can be used while you are on active duty or after you leave the service.

The GI Bill (www.gibill.va.gov), provides educational benefits for serving in the military.

Rogers said you might also consider ROTC – Reserve Officer Training Program (ROTC), which helps pay college tuition and book costs and provides a monthly stipend.

ROTC allows you to earn a degree while developing military skills.

— Jennifer Rogers, Mississippi IHL

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 21

NEXT!: PAYING FOR COLLEGE

They’re loans, not free money

BY BECKY GILLETTE COLLEGE EDUCATION is an investment in one’s own future, which is possibly the most important investment a person will ever make. But before getting a loan, exhaust all possibilities to finance college. Apply for all financial aids and scholarships that are available. Keep living expenses low.

Work part-time to help cover costs.

Borrow only what you need instead of being among those 10 percent of

A

4 MAIN SOURCES OF FINANCIAL AID » Federal government » State government » Colleges. » Private scholarship providers, such as foundations, organizations and employers.

“You should start the search for private scholarships as early as possible,” Rogers said. “There are millions of dollars in aid available, but you must actively seek out the dollars and apply. Websites like Fastweb.com and FinAid.org have powerful scholarship search engines. Keep in mind that application deadlines for private scholarship dollars may be earlier than college admission deadlines.”

Typically, you will apply for institutional financial aid as part of the college admissions process; however, some colleges have separate scholarship applications. The scholarship application deadline may also be earlier than the college admission deadline.

22

student loan borrowers who end up with $40,000 or more in debt. Realize that student loans must be repaid.

“Sometimes it is necessary and acceptable to finance an investment, but as with any investment such as that of a car or home, putting money down will reduce the overall cost,” said Jennifer Rogers, director of Student Financial Aid, Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. “When financing a college education, grants, scholarships, and income from work act as money down, thereby reducing the amount of tuition and other expenses that must

FAFSA FIRST After applying to college, you should first complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), available online at www.fafsa.gov. You should then complete the state application, which is available online at www.mississippi.edu/financialaid between January 1 and September 15 every year. Mississippi students who complete the FAFSA first, can link directly to the state application via a link on the FAFSA completion page and the demographic data will transfer into the state application automatically.

Completing the FAFSA will determine whether you are eligible for a federal subsidized loan, which does not accrue interest while you are still in school. However, Rogers said even federal unsubsidized loans, which do accrue interest while the student is in school, often have repayment terms that are better than some private loans.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN LOANS » What are the interest rates? » Is their loan subsidized? If so, you don’t have to pay interest while in college. » What does it cost to take out the loan (the origination rate)? » Does the loan include favorable repayment options like income-based repayment and deferments for economic hardship or additional education?

be financed with interest. You should always seek grants and scholarships that do not have to be repaid before seeking loans.”

Loans are often packaged along with scholarships and grants in an amount equal to the college’s entire cost of attendance. Cost of attendance includes tuition, room and board, books, and living expenses. If you do not need all of the loan money offered in order to be successful in college, you should reduce the amount you borrow. You have the right to determine what you borrow.

BEWARE OF DEBT While getting through college with little or no student loan debt is a lofty ambition, the reality is that an estimated 60 percent of the 20 million college students in the U.S. borrow money to help cover the costs of getting a college degree. That has added up to a staggering $1 trillion in outstanding student loan debt in the U.S. today.

In may seem like a no brainer, but if you don’t want to join the ranks of people who may be paying off students loans until the time their kids head off to college, borrow the least amount possible.

Currently nearly 42 percent of people repaying their student loan are between the ages of 30 and 50.

It is a good idea to consider the amount of potential salary from the field of study you are pursuing when deciding how much in total student loans to take out.

“A wise investor will always consider the potential return on his or her investment,” said Jennifer Rogers, director of Student Financial Aid, Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning. “You should consider whether your field of study will lead to employment with a livable income. No one wants to postpone life’s major milestones, like getting married, buying a home, and starting a family, because they can’t afford to do those things and repay their student loans.”

Mississippi Business Journal

Public Universities Alcorn State University Page 24

Delta State University

Private Universities Belhaven University

Page 25

Page 29

Jackson State University

Blue Mountain College

Page 25

Mississippi State University Page 26

Mississippi University for Women Page 27

Mississippi Valley State University

University of Southern Mississippi

Page 32

Page 38

Page 32

Pearl River

East Central

Page 38

Page 32

Southwest Mississippi

Millsaps College

Page 34

Page 30

Hinds

Mississippi College

Page 34

Page 30

Rust College Page 31

Page 31

William Carey University Page 31

Page 27

Northwest Mississippi

Copiah-Lincoln

East Mississippi

Tougaloo College Page 27

Coahoma

Page 30

Page 27

University of Mississippi

Community Colleges

Page 38

Holmes Page 35

Itawamba Page 36

Jones County Page 36

Meridian Page 36

Mississippi Delta Page 37

Mississippi Gulf Coast Page 37

Northeast Mississippi Page 38

Courtesy of Rust College

Mississippiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colleges

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 23

MISSISSIPPI PUBLIC COLLEGE S

» Address: 1000 ASU Drive, Lorman, Mississippi 39096-7500 » Phone: 800-222-6790 » Fax: 601-877-6347 » Email: admissions@alcorn.edu » Website: www.alcorn.edu » Year founded: 1871 » President: Dr. Alfred Rankins, Jr. » Enrollment: 3,717 (autumn 2014) » Admissions information: Students must graduate from a recognized high school or pass the General Education Development (GED) test and make a satisfactory score on the ACT and/or SAT to be eligible for admission. » Application deadlines: Applications for admissions are accepted any time during the calendar year. » Financial aid options: Financial assistance available includes federal aid – grants, loans, work study – and scholarships. » Annual tuition: Mississippi residents - $6,192; Out-of-state residents - $15,432

Courtesy of Alcorn State University

Alcorn State is the oldest public historically black land-grant institution in the United States and the second-oldest state-supported institution of higher learning in Mississippi.

Saluting the women who define Regions – and our communities.

There’s nothing that gives us more pride than our communities. Our neighbors inspire us and shape who we are as a bank. To the many women who are constantly working to improve our company and our communities, we offer our thanks, our assistance and our commitment to making great neighborhoods even better.

Congratulations to the Top 50 Leading Business Women.

regions.com

© 2014 Regions Bank.

24 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

MISSISSIPPI PUBLIC COLLEGES » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses - $8,650 (room and meals only) » Admission test score requirements: Complete the College Prep Curriculum with a minimum 3.2 GPA. Complete the College Prep Curriculum with a minimum 2.5 GPA and score at least 16 or higher on the ACT (at least 790 on the SAT) or rank in the upper 50 percent of your class and score at least 16 or higher on the ACT (at least a 790 on the SAT). Complete the College Prep Curriculum with a minimum 2.0 GPA and score 18 or higher on the ACT (at least 870 on the SAT). » Satellite/ annex campuses: Natchez and Vicksburg. » Alcorn says: Alcorn is the oldest public historically black land-grant institution in the United States and the second-oldest state-supported institution of higher learning in Mississippi. Alcorn University was founded in 1871 as a result of the people of Mississippi’s efforts to educate the descendants of formerly enslaved Africans. It was named in honor of the sitting governor of Mississippi, James L. Alcorn.

» Address: Kent Wyatt Hall Room 117, Cleveland, MS 38733 » Phone: 1-800-GO-TO-DSU ext. 3 » Fax: 662-846-4684 » Email: admissions@deltastate.edu » Website: www.deltastate.edu » Year Founded: 1924 » President: William N. LaForge » Enrollment: 3,614 (autumn 2014) » Admissions Information: Director Dr. Deborah Heslep, Director of Recruiting Chris Gaines » Application deadlines: Year-round application » Financial Aid options: Scholarships, federal aid, student loans, work study – 75 percent of students receive scholarships, and there are over 325 opportunities to work on campus. » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $6,012; Out-of-state residents – $6,012 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses, $6,744 » Admission test score requirements: 16 ACT, 760 SAT » Satellite/annex campuses: Greenville, Clarksdale » Delta State says: Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State University offers over 40 bachelor degree options in programs like elementary education, biology, business, and family and consumer sciences. Our diverse and unique institute offers a devoted and genuine educational experience. We are a family-oriented campus where our professors know students by their name, not a number. The skills and connections gained while earning a bachelor, master, or doctorate degree lead to career opportunities beyond the classroom.

At Delta State University, our students not only build partnerships with teachers, they also experience the true culture of the Delta.

Mississippi Business Journal

Courtesy of Delta State University

Delta State University in Cleveland is home to the famous “Fightin’ Okra” mascot.

» Address: 1400 John R. Lynch St, Jackson, MS 39217 » Phone: 601-979-2121 » Fax: 601-979-3445 » Email: Admissions@jsums.edu » Website: www.jsums.edu » Year Founded: 1877

www.msbusiness.com/next

» President: Carolyn W. Meyers » Enrollment: 9,508 (autumn 2014) » Admissions Information: www.jsums.edu/admissions/requirements/freshman/ Admissions application deadlines: Registration deadline for upcoming term. » Financial Aid options: Federal Pell Grant, FSEOG, Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education, Summer Developmental Program Grant, Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant, Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant, Federal Direct Stafford Student Loans, Federal Direct Plus Loan, Federal Direct Graduate Plus Loan, Federal Perkins Loan, Federal workstudy » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $6,602; Out-of-state residents – $16,174

NEXT! 2014 25

MISSISSIPPI PUBLIC COLLEGES » Room and board: Estimated » Admissions Information: annual on-campus expenses: $7,626 www.msstate.edu/web/prospective » Admission test score » Director of Undergraduate requirements: Admission is granted Admissions: Lori Ball based on College Preparatory Curriculum » Application deadlines: The whith ACT scores ranging from 16-18 or scholarship priority date is December higher and a high school GPA of 2.00 to 1st and the priority date for financial 3.20 or higher aid is April 1st. » Satellite/annex campuses: » Financial Aid options: Jackson Medical Mall (College of Public Scholarships, grants, loans and Service), Mississippi E-Center work-study.

(Department of Mass » Annual Tuition: $7,140 inCommunications/JSUTV/WJSU), JSU state/$11,338 out-of-state Courtsey of JSU » Average annual on-camMadison, JSU School of Lifelong Jackson State University maintains a modern campus in the middle of Jackson.

Learning. JSU 101 Building pus Room and Board: $8954 (this is a weighted average for on» Jackson State says: Jackson campus housing plus $3128 for the State University, founded in 1877, is a ultimate meal plan) historically black, high research activity university located in Jackson, the capital city of Mississippi. Jackson State’s » Application Deadline: Rolling admission nurturing academic environment challenges individuals to » Admission test score requirements: ACT change lives through teaching, research and service.

23.8 Officially designated as Mississippi’s Urban University, » Address: Mississippi State University, P.O. Box 6018, » Satellite/Annex Campuses: Meridian Jackson State continues to enhance the state, nation and » Mississippi State says: As the state’s largest Mississippi State, MS 39762 world through comprehensive economic development, university, MSU takes pride in offering opportunities for » Phone: 662-325-2323 health care, technological and educational initiatives. The everyone. We provide world-class professors, internation» Fax: 662-325-1MSU only public university in the Jackson metropolitan area, ally known performers and guests, the best in campus liv» Email: admit@msstate.edu Jackson State is located near downtown, with six satellite ing and exciting SEC athletics. From the time you arrive, » Website: www.msstate.edu locations throughout the metro area. For more informayou’re part of the Bulldog family, a fiercely friendly, loyal » Year Founded: 1878 tion, visit www.jsums.edu or call 601-979-2121. and down-to-earth group. One visit, and you’ll feel part » President: Dr. Mark E. Keenum of it. » Enrollment: 20,138 (autumn 2014)

Looking for a great education that gives you a great value?

The W is for you.

With an affordable tuition, The W offers a private-college feel, with a student-faculty ratio of 14 to 1. Your classes will be taught by professors who know you and mentor you.

We’ve been consistently ranked one of the top public regional universities by U.S. News & World Report, Washington Monthly Magazine, and Online College Database.

Dare.

Dream.

Achieve. at a place where you matter...

www.muw.edu/admissions 26 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

MISSISSIPPI PUBLIC COLLEGES

» Address: 1100 College Street, Columbus, MS 397015800 » Phone: 1-877-462-8439 » Fax: 662-241-7481 » Email: admissions@muw.edu » Website: www.muw.edu » Year Founded: 1884 » President: Dr. Jim Borsig » Enrollment: 2,697 (autumn 2014) » Admissions Information: http://web3.muw.edu/admissions/apply/freshmen/require ments » Application deadlines: The W has rolling admission; students have to attend by the last day to add classes for each term » Financial Aid options: Scholarships, state aid, financial aid, student loans, work study » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $5,640; Out-of-state residents – $15,360 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $6381 » Admission test score requirements: http://web3.muw.edu/admissions/apply/freshmen/require ments » Satellite/annex campuses: Tupelo » MUW says: The W has a family-like atmosphere, which helps prepare students to become tomorrow's leaders by focusing on scholarship, leadership, development and community service.

» Address: 14000 Highway 82 West » Phone: 1-800-GO2MVSU » Email: admsn@mvsu.edu » Website: www.mvsu.edu » Year Founded: 1950 » President: Dr. William B. Bynum, Jr. » Enrollment: 2,294 (autumn 2014) » Admissions Information: 662-254-3347 or 1800-GO2MVSU » Application deadlines: Rolling » Financial Aid options: Grants, scholarships, loans and work-study » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents: $5,916, Out-of-state resident: $5,916 » Average Annual On-campus Room and Board Costs: $6,836 (Standard), $7,387 (Premium) » Admission test score requirements: ACT 16 or higher » Satellite/annex campuses: Greenville » Mississippi Valley says: Mississippi Valley State University is a public, coeducational university serving over 2,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Established in 1950, MVSU is the youngest institution in the Mississippi Public Universities System. The University is fully accredited and offers 36 undergraduate and graduate degree

Mississippi Business Journal

Courtesy of MUW

Hastings-Simmons Hall is home to upperclassmen female residents at Mississippi University for Women. programs. The beautiful campus is located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. It’s a great place to discover yourself.

» Address: P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677 » Phone: 662-915-7226 » Fax: 662-915-5869 » Email: admissions@olemiss.edu » Website: www.olemiss.edu » Year Founded: 1844 (Opened 1848) » Chancellor: Dr. Dan Jones » Enrollment: 23,096 (autumn 2014) » Admissions Information: A freshman guide is available online at http://olemiss.edu/info/admissions/fresh_guide/ or by calling 1-800-OLE-MISS. » Application deadlines: Rolling » Financial Aid options: The University of Mississippi has dozens of financial aid options available, including scholarships, grants, loans and work-study. To start the process, students should apply for admission to the university and complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, available online. For complete information on financial aid options at Ole Miss, go to http://finaid.olemiss.edu/ » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $6,996; Out-of-state residents – $19,044 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $9908 » Admission test score requirements: Admission of entering freshmen is based on the completion of the required units of the College Preparatory Curriculum with either a specific minimum grade-point average or both a specific GPA and minimum standard test score. Minimum ACT scores range from 16-18, minimum SAT scores range from 760-860, and minimum GPA range from 2.00 to 3.20. » Satellite/annex campuses: Medical Center in Jackson, regional campuses in Southaven and Tupelo, and branches in Booneville and Grenada » Ole Miss says: Founded in 1848, the University of

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is the flagship university for the state of Mississippi. A world-class public research university, the institution has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and innovative research. UM is the state's largest university, with a major medical school, acclaimed accountancy and law schools, and 15 academic divisions offering more than 100 academic majors. It has been ranked as one of America's best college buys by Kiplinger's Personal Finance, and graduates of both its schools of Accountancy and Pharmacy enjoy 100 percent job placement by graduation. The university's Honors College has been named one of America's finest.

» Address: 118 College Drive No. 5166, Hattiesburg, MS 39406 » Phone: 601-256-5000 » Fax: 601-266-5148 » Email: admissions@usm.edu » Website: www.usm.edu » Year Founded: 1910 » President: Rodney D. Bennett » Enrollment: 14,845 (autumn 2014) » Admissions Information: www.usm.edu/admissions » Financial Aid options: Merit-based scholarships, federal/state grants and loans, work study available to those who qualify. » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $6,980; Out-of-state residents – $15,550 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $5,091 » Admission test score requirements: ACT: 22; SAT n/a » Satellite/annex campuses: Long Beach » USM says: With attentive faculty, nationally recognized academic programs, study-abroad opportunities and support offices for freshmen, Southern Miss is a great value.

NEXT! 2014 27

0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0

0

EXPERIENCE

DELTA STATE

#& ',+ %') ',+ ',) . (+#'& $ ()'!) %* % + ',) &+",*# *+# ()' **')* & * /)*+ " & -" + #+ % &* +' $+ + + *+, &+

www.deltastate.edu/admissions

0

MISSISSIPPI PRIVATE COLLEGE S

Âť Address: 1500 Peachtree St. Jackson, MS 39202 Âť Phone: 601-968-5940 Âť Fax: 601-968-9998 Âť Email: admission@belhaven.edu Âť Website: www.belhaven.edu Âť Year Founded: 1883 Âť President: Dr. Roger Parrott Âť Total enrollment: 4,215 (undergraduate, online, adult and graduate). Âť Admissions information: 1-800-960-5940 or 601-968-5940, email: admission@belhaven.edu Âť Fax: 601-968-8946 Âť Application deadlines: Rolling admission Âť Financial aid options: GMAT scholarship, Military scholarship, Dean's Scholarship, pastors' scholarship, federal grants, and student loans are available. Âť Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $20,780 Out-of-state residents â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $20,780 Âť Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $ 7,700.00 Âť Satellite/annex campuses: Main CampusJackson Adult and Graduate Campus-Jackson, Atlanta,

Courtesy of Belhaven University

Belhavenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bitsy Irby Visual Arts and Dance Center showcases a creative spiral staircase.

Memphis, Chattanooga, Orlando, Houston, Online Âť Belhaven says: Belhaven University is a Christian liberal arts university dedicated to excellence in Christian higher education. Situated in the heart of one of Jackson's

most beautiful historic neighborhoods, Belhaven offers a residential campus within minutes of fine dining, good shopping and a thriving arts community. Belhaven University has received national recognition for its aca-

A Career in Engineering â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Each Day Brings Something New BEYOND YOUR BES

T

Do you want a career that allows you to be creative, solve problems, change the world each day, AND have the money and free time to enjoy the things that you love to do?

Everything around you that you use each day is possible because of an Engineer.

Excel beyond your highest goals. At Belhaven University, you will find yourself in a place where top-rated faculty and a nurturing environment converge to bring you to your bestâ&#x20AC;Ś then propel you beyond what you believe is achievable.

Nationally recognized academics. Vibrant campus life.

Christ-centered worldview. The faith-affirming support to become more. Aim for excellence from Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective.

Visit Belhaven Universityâ&#x20AC;Śyour place to discover your purpose.

In the future, YOU could be the person who saves the planet, builds the tallest building in the world, launches the space program to further explorations, or creates the next big thing in social media!

Did you know that there are Scholarship programs to help you achieve this type of career?

Contact Mississippi Engineering Society Get started on the road to success!

belhaven.edu Schedule a personal visit to Belhaven University or attend our next Discover Day. Mississippi Business Journal

ZZZ PVHQJVRF RUJ Â&#x2021;

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 29

MISSISSIPPI PRIVATE COLLEGES 0001; 800-352-1050; admissions@millsaps.edu » Application deadlines: Early Action, Nov. 15; Regular Decision, Feb. 1 » Financial Aid options: Millsaps College offers assistance to students based on academic merit, special talents and financial need. » Annual Tuition: $31,872 tuition plus $2,110 fees for full-time undergraduate students » Room and board: $6,704 room and $5,174 board » Admission test score requirements: Standardized test scores, either ACT or SAT, are required from applicants. » Satellite/annex campuses: Millsaps College has facilities in Mexico on the Yucatán peninsula that provide study abroad opportunities for students. » Millsaps says: All students gain a body of useful skills: critical reasoning, historical consciousness, creative thinking, teamwork, social and cultural awareness, and— perhaps most important of all—the ability to write with clarity and confidence. These abilities distinguish our graduates, allowing them to succeed in any context—and to be nimble and flexible as contests inevitably change.

Courtesy of Blue Mountain College

Blue Mountain College in North Mississippi offers a Christian education in a rural setting. demic programs and affordability, and the University has earned regional accreditation by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Belhaven University is one of only 33 institutions in the nation accredited in all four areas of the arts - visual art, music, theater, and dance. Offering 27 undergraduate majors and a 12:1 student to faculty ratio for the traditional undergraduate program, Belhaven provides a close-knit learning community where students see the university’s vision and mission lived out in the lives of faculty members.

» Address: 210 West Main St.; P.O. Box 160; Blue Mountain, MS 38610 » Phone: 662-685-4771 » Fax: 662-685-4776 » Email: admissions@bmc.edu » Website: www.bmc.edu » Year Founded: 1873 » President: Dr. Barbara Childers McMillin » Undergraduate Enrollment: 520 » Admissions Information: Lynn Gibson, director.

Campus tours available. College fairs. » Application deadlines: Open » Financial Aid options: Federal, state, veterans assistance programs; BMC scholarships (academic, athletic and service). » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $9,240; Out-of-state residents – None » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $8,800 » Admission test score requirements: 18 ACT

30 NEXT! 2014

» Satellite/annex campuses: None » Blue Mountain says: We’re a small, affordable, Christian liberal arts college offering a safe environment in a rural setting. » Address: 200 South Capitol St., Clinton, Mississippi 39056 » Phone: 601-925-3800 » Address: 1701 North State St., Jackson, MS 39210 » Fax: 601-925-3950 » Phone: 601-974-1050 or 1-800-352-1050 » Email: admissions@mc.edu » Fax: 601-974-1059 » Website: www.mc.edu » Email: admissions@millsaps.edu » Year founded: 1826 » Website: www.millsaps.edu » President: Dr. Lee Royce » Year Founded: 1890 » Undergraduate enrollment: 3,392 » President: Dr. Robert W. Pearigen » Admissions information: Contact admissions » Vice President for Admissions and director Kyle Brantley at 601-925-7634 or 800-738Communications and Marketing: Rob Alexander 1236 toll free » Undergraduate Enrollment: about 1,000 » Applications deadline: Rolling admissions dead» Admissions Information: Office of Admissions, line. Students can apply and be accepted up until the start 1701 North State Street, Jackson, Mississippi 39210date for the semester they enroll. » Financial aid options: Scholarships are offered through the Office of Admissions.

Financial aid is available if the student files a FAFSA. » Annual tuition: $15,458 » Room and board: $7,474 » Admission test score requirements: Must have at least an 18 ACT to be admitted as a freshman or 2.0 cumulative GPA to be admitted as a transfer student. » Satellite/annex campuses: None » Mississippi College says: Mississippi College is a 5,000-student comprehensive university affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention since 1850.

America’s second oldest Baptist college, MC Courtesy of Millsaps College has enjoyed a building renaissance in recent Millsaps provides a tranquil, green campus in the middle of years along with the addition of new academic Jackson. programs. The university’s physician assistant

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

MISSISSIPPI PRIVATE COLLEGES

Courtsey of Mississippi College

Mississippi College is the second-oldest Baptist college in America. program is unique in the Magnolia State. MC is transitioning to NCAA Division II athletics and returning to the Gulf South Conference in Fall 2014.

» Address: 150 Rust Avenue, Holly Springs, MS 38635 » Phone: 662-252-8000 » Fax: 662-252-8863 (President’s Office) » Website: www.rustcollege.edu » email: admissions@rustcollege.edu » Year Founded: 1866 » President: Dr. David L. Beckley » Undergraduate Enrollment: 973 » Admissions information: www.rustcollege.edu/administration/enrollment-services/index.html » Application Deadline: open » Financial Aid options: Pell Grant, Black College Fund-United Methodist Church, UNCF, student loans » Annual Tuition: $13,286.00 for students living on campus; $9,286.00 for students living off campus. Tuition at Rust College covers classes, room and board, books and other student fees. » Admission test score requirements: Rust College does not require a minimum ACT score; however students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.25. » Satellite/Annex Campuses: None » Rust says: Students at Rust College are groomed to enter the professional world. Rust College is supported by the United Methodist Church and faculty, staff and administrators work to instill and uphold Judeo-Christian values.

Rust College is a family-oriented institution whose alumni stretch across the world. Faculty members and other personnel have an “open door policy,” so students are encouraged to discuss any issues or concerns they may have about their classes, student activities, or residence life. Once you’re a “Rustite,” you’re always a “Rustite.”

Mississippi Business Journal

» Address: 500 West County Line Road, Tougaloo, MS 39174 » Phone: 601-977-7700 » Fax: 601-977-7739 » Email: admissions@tougaloo.edu » Website: www.tougaloo.edu » Year Founded: 1869 » President: Dr. Beverly W. Hogan » Undergraduate Enrollment: 900 » Admissions Information: 2.00 GPA, ACT or SAT score, High school transcript or GED with an acceptable passing score. » Application deadlines: Tougaloo College accepts applications and admits students on a continuous basis. » Financial Aid options: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), federal work study, federal loans, Critical Needs Teacher Loan/Scholarship, Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG), Nissan Scholarship, William Winter Alternative Route Teacher Scholar Loan Program, United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarship, Other private scholarships » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $9,740; Out-of-state residents – $9,740 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $6,336 » Admission test score requirements: ACT or SAT » Satellite/annex campuses: None » Tougaloo says: Tougaloo College is a private liberal arts institution, accessible to all persons regardless of race, ethnic origin, religion or creed. Our trademarks are academic excellence and social commitment. We prepare our students to produce the “next new idea” and to become the servant-leaders that will effect order and change in a global society by incorporating new technologies, practices and knowledge into our teaching, service and research by offering a high quality liberal studies program.

Courtesy of William Carey University

William Carey’s “Carey Turns to the World” greets students at the Hattiesburg campus. » Address: 498 Tuscan Ave., Hattiesburg, MS, 39401 » Phone: 601-318-6051 » Fax: 601-318-6454 » Email: admissions@wmcarey.edu » Website: www.wmcarey.edu » Year Founded: 1892 » President: Dr. Tommy King » Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,385 » Admissions Information: Office of Admissions, William Carey University, Box 13, 498 Tuscan Ave., Hattiesburg, MS 39401, Phone: 800-962-5991 ext. 103 » Application Deadlines: Rolling » Financial Aid Options: FAFSA » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents: $11,400 ($10,500 for 30 hours tuition; $900 administrative fees).

Out-of-state residents: $11,400 ($10,500 for 30 hours tuition; $900 administrative fees) » Room and Board: $4,080 (Bass Hall, Bryant Hall

www.msbusiness.com/next

or Polk Hall for 3 trimesters; 12-meal plan) » Admission Test Score Requirements: Minimum ACT score of 16 for provisional admission, minimum ACT score of 20 for regular admission » Satellite/annex campuses: Main campus in Hattiesburg and Tradition campus in Biloxi. » William Carey says: WCU is a 122-year-old institution that offers baccalaureate degrees in the areas of arts and letters, education, natural and behavioral sciences, business, religion, music, and nursing. Master’s degrees are offered in business administration, education, counseling, music education, nursing, biomedical science, English, and mathematics, and a specialist is offered in education. The Ph.D. in Nursing is offered along with the Ed.D. and Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration. WCU graduated the inaugural class of doctors from its College of Osteopathic Medicine (WCUCOM) in May 2014.

NEXT! 2014 31

MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES » Annual on-campus room and board: $983 » Application Deadline: August 11 » Financial Aid: Scholarships, federal aid, work-study » Satellite/Annex Locations: Clarksdale, Charleston, Marks, Mound Bayou, Rosedale, Shaw, Tunica, Webb » Coahoma says: Coahoma’s commitment to academic excellence, personal attention, from faculty to students, the school’s rural setting assures safety.

18.3 » Satellite/annex campuses: Natchez, Mendenhall » Copiah-Lincoln says: Co-Lin provides educational programs and development services through quality instruction with high expectations in a safe student-centered environment.

Courtesy of Coahoma Community College

Vivian Presley administrative building. at Coahoma.

» Address: 3240 Friars Point Road, Clarksdale MS 38614 » Phone: 662-627-2571 » Website: www.coahomacc.edu » E-mail: admissions@coahomacc.edu » Year Founded: 1949 » President: Valmadge Towner » Director of Admissions: Michael Houston » Enrollment: 2,305 » Annual Tuition and Fees: $2,100

» Address: 1028 J.C. Redd Drive, Wesson, MS 39191 » Phone: 601-643-5101 » Email: chris.warren@colin.edu » Website: www.colin.edu » Year Founded: 1928 » President: Dr. Ronnie Nettles » Enrollment: 3,500 » Financial Aid options: Financial aid available » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,555 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $1,500 » Admission test score requirements: ACT:

» Address: 275 West Broad Street, Decatur MS 39327 » Phone: 601-635-2111 » Website: www.eccc.edu » E-mail: drush@eccc.edu » Year Founded: 1928 » President: Billy Stewart » Enrollment: 2,811 » Admissions information: Required documents for admission: 1) Current application 2) ACT/SAT scores 3) Official transcripts from high school or GED and all prior college work » Application Deadline: Open » Financial Aid options: All state and federal aid,

the place to be.. successful >,::65 5(;*/,A :047:65

www.colin.edu Copiah-Lincoln Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or other factors prohibited by law in any of its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment practices.

32 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES scholarships » Annual Tuition and Fees: $1,980 tuition; Fees – approximately $200 » Annual on-campus room and board: $2,930 » Admission test score requirements: ACT/SAT scores are used for guidance and placement in English and Algebra course. » Satellite/Annex Locations: Decatur, Philadelphia, Carthage, Choctaw, Forest, and Louisville » East Central says: East Central Community College is a two year public comprehensive college that offers the Associate in Arts degree, the Associate in Science Degree, the Associate in Applied Science Degree, and certificates. East Central Community College has the highest average transfer grade point average among its transfers to public Mississippi universities.

Courtesy of ECCC

» Address: 1512 Kemper Street, Scooba, MS 39354 » Phone: 662-476-8442 » Fax: 662-476-5038 » Email: kbriggs@eastms.edu » Website: www.eastms.edu » Year Founded: 1927 » President: Dr. Rick Young » Enrollment: 4,364 » Admissions Information: www.eastms.edu/students/Pages/default.aspx or www.eastms.edu/about/policies-notifications/Pages/default.aspx . » Application deadlines: Rolling » Financial Aid options: Pell, FSEOG, college work study, direct student loans, state grants and scholarships, EMCC scholarships, tuition guarantee » Percentage of Students with Financial Aid: 84% » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,200; Out-of-state residents – $4,400 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $4,000 » Admission test score requirements: Open Enrollment except for specific Career and Technical programs. Reference the college catalog at http://www.eastms.edu/students/Documents/Catalog,201 4-15.pdf for specific program requirements. The ACT is required for students under 21. ACT and/or Compass scores are required for course placement. » Satellite/annex campuses: Scooba, Macon, Mayhew, West Point, Columbus AFB, Meridian NAS, Lion Hills, Marion » East Mississippi says: East Mississippi Community College is a public community college serving six counties in East Central Mississippi, offering university-parallel programs, career-technical programs, and workforce programs. EMCC is dedicated to improving the quality of life for our students, our community, and our personnel through instructional opportunities, with specific focus on a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

34 NEXT! 2014

East Central Mississippi Community College is located in Decatur.

» Address: PO Box 1100, 608 Hinds Blvd., Raymond, Miss. 39154 » Phone: Admissions: 601-857-3212; Information: 1-800-HindsCC » Fax: Admissions: 601-857-3539 » Email: Admissions: records@hindscc.edu; Information: info@hindscc.edu; » Website: www.hindscc.edu; www.hindsccsports.com » Year Founded: 1917 » President: Dr. Clyde Muse » Enrollment: Fall 2014: approximately 12,000 credit; 31,000 including annual credit and noncredit » Admissions Information: www.hindscc.edu/admissions/ and hub.hindscc.edu/download-your-checklist-forsuccess--hinds » Application deadlines: None for admissions. » Financial Aid options: Hinds Community College accepts state and federal financial aid. Hinds offers a number of program scholarships including as athletics, band and HiSteppers, as well as ACT scholarships beginning at an ACT of 21. The Hinds Community College Foundation awards about 500 scholarships annually; the deadline for application is March 1.

For more information see the scholarship webpage at

www.msbusiness.com/next

Courtesy of Hinds CC

First Day of class at Hinds Community College.

Mississippi Business Journal

MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES www.hindscc.edu/future_students/scholarships/ default.aspx » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,400; Out-of-state residents – $2,600 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $1,000 to $1,500 depending on the residence hall for Raymond and Utica campuses; meal plans range from $190 to $950 for Raymond and Utica campuses. » Admission test score requirements: Students need an ACT or COMPASS test score for placement but no minimum score is set. Like all Mississippi community colleges, Hinds is an open admissions institution. » Satellite/annex campuses: Hinds Community College has six locations spread over five campuses: Raymond Campus, Rankin Campus, Jackson CampusAcademic/Technical Center, Jackson CampusNursing/Allied Health Center, Utica Campus, VicksburgWarren Campus » Hinds says: Hinds Community College is Mississippi’s largest community college and the fourth largest higher education institution in Mississippi. Hinds is a comprehensive institution offering quality, affordable educational opportunities with more than 170 academic, career and technical programs. During the 2013-2014 year, Hinds enrolled more than 31,000 students in academic, career/technical, workforce, secondary and adult programs. Hinds serves the five counties of Claiborne, Copiah, Hinds, Rankin and Warren in west central Mississippi but also draws from a total 75 Mississippi counties.

» Address: 232 Hill St, Goodman, MS 39079 » Phone: 1-800-465-6374 (1-800-HOLMES 4) » Fax: 662-472-9152 » Email: jguest@holmescc.edu (Joshua Guest, Director of Admissions and Records) » Website: www.holmescc.edu/ » Year Founded: 1925 » President: Dr. Jim Haffey » Enrollment: 6,400 » Admissions Information: To become a student at Holmes CC, please visit www.holmescc.edu and click on Enroll Now. Additional information concerning financial aid, housing, advising, registration, etc. is located in Enroll Now. » Application deadlines: Rolling » Financial Aid options: Scholarship, federal aid, student loans, and work study » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents: $2,360; Out-of-state residents: $2,580 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus

Courtesy of Holmes Community College

Holmes President Dr. Jim Haffey on main campus in Goodman.

Fact: College Isn’t for Everyone Start your career right out of high school.

Fully-paid training in the Navy. Sign-on Bonuses.

Eye-opening salary & benefits on a solid promotions track.

Call for details. 1-800-284-6289 Jobs_nashville@navy.mil

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 35

MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES expenses: $700 » Admission test score requirements: None – Open admissions » Satellite/annex campuses: Ridgeland Campus, Grenada Center, Attala Educational Center in Kosciusko, and class offerings at the Wood Institute in Mathiston » Holmes says: Holmes Community College, a comprehensive public institution located in Central Mississippi, provides innovative educational and cultural opportunities to its constituents through campus-based and distance education programs. The college seeks to prepare its students for university transfer, productive employment and lifelong learning by offering an Associate of Arts degree, Associate of Applied Science degree, technical certificates and career certificates as well as workforce training.

Offering more than 50 academic majors and approximately 30 career technical programs, Holmes is committed to excellence in all areas and offers affordable, equal access to higher education in an attractive, secure, multi-campus environment.

» Address: 602 West Hill Street, Fulton, MS 38843 » Phone: 662-862-8035 » Fax: 662-862-8245 » Email: jrbunch@iccms.edu » Website: www.iccms.edu » Year Founded: 1948 » President: Mike Eaton » Enrollment: 4,694 » Admissions Information: Cay Lollar, Registrar – 602 West Hill Street, Fulton, MS 38843 – Phone: 662862-8032 » Application deadlines: None » Financial Aid options: federal grants, state grants, work-study program, student loans, county guaranteed tuition grants, veteran education benefits, state financial aid, local financial aid, institutional scholarships, and private donor scholarships » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,300; Out-of-state residents – $4 ,500 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $1,600. » Admission test score requirements: Open Enrollment – ACT or Placement scores required for admissions » Satellite/annex campuses: Fulton campus, Tupelo campus and Belden center » Itawamba says: If you are looking for a college that is big enough to provide you with many opportunities, but small enough to know you personally and meet your individual needs, ICC is the college for you.

» Address: 900 South Court St., Ellisville, MS 39437 » Phone: 601-477-4000 (Campus Information) » Fax: 601-477-4212 (Student Affairs) » Email: Kathryn.Davis@jcjc.edu (Director of

36 NEXT! 2014

Courtesy of Jones County CC

Lindsay Miller of Ellisville, Student Government Association President at Jones County Community College, stands in the arbors near the fountain which is a part of JCJC's historical or original portion of campus.

Recruitment) » Website: www.jcjc.edu » Year Founded: 1911 » President: Dr. Jesse Smith » Enrollment: 4,706 » Admissions Information: Depending on whether you are a new student, transfer student, or dual enrolled student, there are different requirements for admissions. JCJC Admissions Information Link » Application deadlines: Open New to Jones » Admission test score requirements: ACT 16 for college level courses » Financial Aid options: Pell Grants, Student Loans, MTAG, Service Scholarships-Band, Athletics, Choir, Newspaper and Yearbook are based on auditions/skills and limited space. Tuition and Fees JCJC Financial Aid » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,490; Out of State Tuition per semester: $4,490 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $2000 Fall semester for room and board @ $500 e-Books/hard cover books » Satellite/annex campuses: Jasper County Learning Center in Bay Springs; Greene County Learning Center in Leakesville and Wayne County Learning Center in Waynesboro. The Clarke County Learning Center is expected to open in 2015. » Jones County says: JCJC offers students a safe learning environment with access to technology, new and remodeled facilities and teachers who genuinely care about the success of each student. There are 30 career and technical degrees and more than 100 degree options with

www.msbusiness.com/next

opportunities to earn transfer scholarships and internships. Campus involvement is encouraged through organizations like the Student Government Association, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, College Democrats/Republicans, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Non Traditional Student Association, Forestry Club, Skills USA, Phi Beta Lambda, Science Club, Student Nurse Organization and Bobcat Brigade Ambassadors.

» Address: 910 Highway 19 North, Meridian, MS 39307 » Phone: 601-483-8241; 1-800-MCC-THE-1 » Fax: 601-484-8701 » Email: apayne@meridiancc.edu » Website: www.meridiancc.edu » Year Founded: 1937 » President: Dr. Scott Elliott » Enrollment: 3,665 » Admissions Information: Open » Application deadlines: April 1 » Financial Aid options: Scholarships, federal aid, student loans, work study » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,100;

Mississippi Business Journal

MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES Out-of-state residents – $3,380 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $3,585 » Meridian CC says: Since its beginning in 1937, Meridian Community College has continues to meet the diverse needs of its growing community area. In addition to a strong university transfer program, the College offers adult literacy and high school study programs leading to a GED diploma, one- and two-year career programs in a variety of business, health and technology fields, a model workforce training program and a comprehensive business development center. Its beautifully landscaped 94-acre campus hosts 51 various facilities including state-of-theart athletic facilities, a one-of-a-kind fine arts building and a natatorium. » Address: Hwy. 3 & Cherry Street, Moorhead MS

38761 » Phone: 662-246-6322 » Website: www.msdelta.edu » E-mail: admissions@msdelta.edu » Year Founded: 1926 » President: Larry Nabors » Enrollment: 3,302 » Admissions information:

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msdelta.edu/index.php/general-requirements » Financial Aid options: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the foundation for all financial aid at MDCC. » Annual Tuition and Fees: In-state — $2,520; out of state – $4,128 » Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $4,760 » Application Deadline: Rolling » Admission test score requirements: High school transcript or GED score. (If ACT is 16 or less you may be placed in general education courses.) » Satellite/Annex Locations: Greenwood, Greenville, Indianola, Drew » Mississippi Delta says: Classes at MDCC are still small by standards today in higher education that allows students to study in an environment where they are known by their name instead of a number. » Address: 51 Main Street, Perkinston, MS 39573

» Phone: 866-735-1122 » Fax: 601-928-6390 » Email: mary.graham@mgccc.edu » Website: www.mgccc.edu » Year Founded: 1911

www.msbusiness.com/next

Courtesy of MGCCC

Mississippi Gulf Coast campus. » President: Dr. Mary S. Graham » Enrollment: 10,209 » Admissions Information: www.mgccc.edu/future-students/admissions » Financial Aid options: see catalog.mgccc.edu/content.php?catoid=6&navoid=313 » Annual tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,300; Out-of-state residents $4,146. » Estimated annual on-campus expenses: Meal plans range from $1,900-$2,050; Lodging not listed. » Admission test score requirements: n/a » Satellite/annex campuses: MGCCC has four campuses: the Jackson County Campus in Gautier, Jefferson Davis Campus in Gulfport, the Perkinston

NEXT! 2014 37

MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES Campus in Perkinston, and Community Campus, which is a campus without walls. Centers include the West Harrison County Center in Long Beach, the George County Center in Lucedale, the Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Center in Gulfport, the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport, the Keesler Center in Biloxi and the Haley Reeves Barbour Maritime Training Academy in Pascagoula. » Mississippi Gulf Coast says: Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s mission is to provide superior instruction through traditional and technological formats and embracing lifelong learning, productive citizenship, service learning and leadership development in dynamic and challenging learning environments. » Address: 101 Cunningham Blvd., Booneville, MS

Courtesy of Pearl River CC

The Ethel Holden Brownstone Center for the Arts provides a state-of-the art venue for Pearl River Community College performances as well as the community and other groups.

38829 » Phone: 662-728-7751 or 800-555-2154 » Website: www.nemcc.edu » Year Founded: 1948 » President: Johnny Allen » Enrollment: 3,700 » Admissions Information: www.nemcc.edu/sample-page-2/ » Application deadlines: Rolling » Financial Aid options: Scholarships, federal aid, student loans, work-study, tuition assistance » Annual Tuition and Fees: $2,350; out of state $4,600 » Annual on-campus room and board: $2,700 » Admission test score requirements: Open » Satellite/annex campuses: Corinth, New Albany » Northeast says: Northeast provides comfortable and safe residence halls for students who wish to live on campus. » Address: 4975 Highway 51 North, Senatobia, MS

38668 » Phone: 662-562-3200 » Fax: 662-562-3499 » Email: pr@northwestms.edu » Website: www.northwestms.edu » Year Founded: 1928 » President: Dr. Gary Lee Spears » Enrollment: 8,004 » Admissions Information: Open Enrollment » Application deadlines: Rolling Admissions » Financial Aid options: Scholarships, Work-Study, Grants and Loans » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $1,275; Out-of-state residents – $2,475 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $1,700 per semester » Admission test score requirements: None » Satellite/annex campuses: DeSoto Center at Southaven and Olive Branch; Oxford Center; Benton County Career-Tech Center » Northwest says: With convenient online classes

38 NEXT! 2014

Courtesy of Northwest Mississippi CC

James P. McCormick Administration Building at Northwest Mississippi Community College. and locations in Senatobia, Southaven and Oxford, Northwest offers the pre-requisites you need to get ready for an exciting four-year degree at any of Mississippi’s colleges or universities or career and technical programs that gets students in the workforce in as little as nine months for less than half the price of any Mississippi public college or university. For more information, call 662-562-3200 or visit www.northwestms.edu.

» Address: 101 Highway 11 North, Poplarville, MS 39470 » Phone: 601 403-1000 » Fax: 601 403-1339 (admissions) » Email: admissions@prcc.edu » Website: www.prcc.edu » Year Founded: 1909 » President: Dr. William Lewis » Enrollment: 4,700 » Admissions Information: www.prcc.edu/admissions » Application deadlines: Open

www.msbusiness.com/next

» Financial Aid options: www.prcc.edu/financial_aid » Annual Tuition: Mississippi residents – $2,650; Out-of-state residents – $5,048 » Room and board: Estimated annual on-campus expenses: $4,700 » Admission test score requirements: ACT score plus official high school transcript » Satellite/annex campuses: Forrest County Center, 5448 U.S. 49, Hattiesburg, MS 39401; Hancock Center, 454 Highway 90, Waveland, MS 39576 » Pearl River says: Pearl River Community College, Mississippi’s oldest, offers the full range of academic courses for students planning to transfer to four-year institutions along with a variety of career and technical programs, including allied health, construction-related and clerical professions, at affordable prices in three South Mississippi locations. » Address: 1156 College Drive, Summit, MS, 39666

» Phone: 601-276-2000 » Fax: 601-276-3888 » Email: mattc@smcc.edu » Website: www.smcc.edu » Year Founded: 1929 » President: Dr. Steven Bishop » Financial Aid: Pell, SEOG, Work Study, ACG, MTAG, MESG, LEAP, Institutional » Enrollment: 2,130 » Vice president of Admissions: Matthew Calhoun » Annual Tuition and Fees: $2,090 » Annual on-campus room and board: $2,730 » Application Deadline: Ongoing » Satellite/Annex Locations: None » Southwest says: SMCC is an economical choice that provides its students an excellent quality education.

The campus is conveniently located and offers a safe, aesthetically pleasing environment. SMCC offers a variety of activities. There is something for everyone. Students enjoy sporting events, school sponsored trips, religious activities, tailgate parties, musical and drama productions, and leadership opportunities.

Mississippi Business Journal

Eden Brent 42

Hugh Walker 48

Brad Edwards 44 Mississippi Business Journal

Katy Tillman

50

www.msbusiness.com/next

Katrina Myricks

PEO PLE

REA L COO LY L

Andrelle Harris 40

Joe Stradinger

52

46

Page 40-53 NEXT! 2014 39

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: ANDRELLE D. HARRIS

$55,555

Photo courtesy of Andrelle D. Harris

Andrelle D. Harris successs in his first five years after graduation from Jackson State University allowed him to donate $55,555 to college of business.

‘It is cool to live within your means’

BY BECKY GILLETTE

A

NDRELLE D. HARRIS, 28, believes that success is all mental. It is all about where you want to be and how hard you are willing to work to get there. And the former president of the Jackson State University Student Body has proven that with the kind of financial success—combined with a commitment to help others — that allowed him to donate $55,555 for JSU College of Business scholarships.

Harris, who has thrived as a financial consultant since graduating with a degree in finance from JSU, said the reason he chose a figure with all fives was because he had graduated from JSU five years prior to making the donation.

Harris first started down the road to financial

40 NEXT! 2014

success when he was a teenager in high school, and purchased a used gumball vending machine to put in the New Deal Supermarket in Terry where he worked. Between the ages of 17 to 22, he built a vending machine business with about 65 machines in 35 locations in Mississippi.

But Harris doesn’t consider that the most important part of his story. Instead, he likes to talk about how despite three scholarships and income from the vending machine business, “somewhere I lost my way. I took out loans I didn’t have to take out. While I was in college, I racked up $90,000 worth of debt that I didn’t have to get.”

When he graduated in 2008, he vowed to pay off that debt as quickly as possible. That was accomplished by March 28, 2012. He has been debt free ever since.

“I refuse to go back into debt,” Harris said. “The

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

most important thing I could advise high school students is while you are going through college, be very careful about debt. If you don’t have to borrow the money, don’t. It was fortunate that while I was accumulating debt, I was studying finance. I was learning how to make money to get out of debt. I learned about stocks, investments, and being financially wise. I realized, ‘Man, I’ve been really reckless.’ That is when I hammered down and started paying off my debt quickly.”

With that being said, he does believe a college degree is worth the investment.

“There is nothing like a solid education from a good university,” he said.

“Throughout life it is paramount that you educate yourself.”

Harris has felt it is important to take the time to tell others about his story and be open about the things he has done in his life.

“As a young person, it is important to use our success as a shining light to others,” Harris said. “A lot of people have been unfortunate, and might come from bad circumstances. By telling your story, you give them inspiration that they can be successful, as well.

You would be surprised at the people who have done great things by being motivated by others. It is the mentor effect. If someone is successful in what you want to do in your life, their success mentors you and builds that drive to succeed.”

Harris is passionate about getting his story out, especially the part about avoiding the pitfalls of debt. His

Mississippi Business Journal

slogan is: “Invest more, consume less & save more, spend less.”

“Just because something is on sale, it doesn’t mean you can afford it,” said Harris, who would like to speak to high school and college students with his message about financial wellness and financial freedom. “So many people think they can afford to buy a $40,000 car, but they don’t have six months of savings to live on. My mandate to my and other generations is to use my example as a shining light to let other people know they don’t have to go into debt and it is cool to live within your means.”

He also recommends people think twice about the American dream of owning the home you live in. His American dream is not buying a personal home, but owning stocks, other investments and investment property that generates an income.

“I don’t want to be worth $1 million and $900,000 of it be in my home,” said Harris, who has worked for Morgan Stanley on Wall Street and spent three years in Asia following his career in finance. “People who understand true wealth understand they don’t need a big house and have as little tied up in their home as possible. Why invest $50,000 in your home when you could put that money in an investment property? It is paradigm change, and a mindset change.”

If you would like to know more about Harris’ formulas for financial success, follow his Facebook page.

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2013 41

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

Come to work every day — on time.

Make smart decisions.

Follow directions.

Concentrate on my work and care about the quality of my work.

Read, write and calculate well.

Recognize problems and find solutions.

Finish a job when I’m supposed to without sacrificing quality.

Be honest and dependable.

Work hard and take the lead.

Communicate well and get along with others — especially customers.

Dress properly and practice good grooming.

Be cooperative and have a positive attitude.

Be drug free.

601-948-1222; P.O. Box 22607, Jackson, MS 39225-2607 www.mma-web.org

For information about careers in advanced manufacturing, visit www.DreamItDoItMS.org.

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: EDEN BRENT

Unlocking the secrets to her music Brent is ‘ghosts of Mississippi in duet with future of blues’

M

By WALLY NORTHWAY

ISSISSIPPI RECORDING artist Eden Brent knew early on that she had musical talent, but it was only after getting her college degree and learning the basics of performing from one of the Delta’s most-respected and loved bluesmen that she realized music would be her career.

“When I was in grade school, every morning we would say the Pledge of Allegiance, and then we would sing a song, like the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’ or whatever,” said Eden, who grew up in Greenville, the daughter of a family that made a name for itself in the towboat business. “I was always asked to lead the singing. I didn’t volunteer — they would ask me. I guess that’s where it all started.”

Wanting a deeper, formal understanding of music, after graduating from high school Eden enrolled at the University of North Texas, eventually earning a degree in music theory. By that time, Eden was a veteran songwriter — she wrote her first song when she was only 3 years old — and she had performed for years both as a solo artist as well as in rock and jazz bands in and around Greenville. Still, she felt her education somehow just wasn’t complete.

Then, she met Abie “Boogaloo” Ames. Boogaloo was a self-taught, master blues pianist who had per-

42 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

“I learned so much in college, but I didn’t know how to really apply what I knew.

Boogaloo brought what I had in my mind down to my hands — he taught me technique and how to be an entertainer.”

Eden Brent

fected his boogie-woogie playing style over nearly 50 years of performing before he met Eden. At first, Eden said she was like Boogaloo’s “groupie,” hanging around with him, listening to him play then going home to try it for herself — with mixed results. Eventually, she would ask Boogaloo to be her teacher and mentor.

The two would, over time, become the closest friends — Boogaloo even began referring to Eden as “Little Boogaloo” and PBS filmed a documentary in 1999 titled Boogaloo & Eden: Sustaining the Sound about their friendship — and it was this relationship that would launch Eden’s performing and recording career.

“When we did the PBS documentary, I didn’t really think it was that big of a deal then; just a normal part of my life in Greenville with Boogaloo,” Eden remembered. “Now, it means so much more to me, and it is so neat to go back and listen to what we said and did.

“I learned so much in college, but I didn’t know how to really apply what I knew. Boogaloo brought what I had in my mind down to my hands — he taught me technique and how to be an entertainer.”

Sadly, Boogaloo died in 2002 at the age of 82, but Eden took his lessons and began building a reputation as a must-see blues performer, offering her Boogaloo-inspired piano work and gutsy vocals. Then in 2005, Eden got her big break when she won the Blues Foundation’s International Blues Challenge in Memphis.

“I had been playing regionally until then and had some success, but winning the International Blues Challenge put me on the national map I guess,” Eden said. “The Blues Foundation is to the blues what the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (which offers the Grammy Awards) is to all the forms of music.”

In 2009, Eden’s place among performers was firmly cemented when she was nominated in four categories at the Blues Music Awards, winning both Acoustic Album of the Year (for her “Mississippi Number 1”) and Acoustic Artist of the Year. The next year, the

Blues Foundation presented her with the Pinetop Perkins Piano Player of The Year award.

Chip Eagle, publisher of Blues Revue, BluesWax and Dirty Linen, said “in Eden’s huge playing and singing you can hear the ghosts of Mississippi in a duet with the future of the blues.”

Eden has now recorded numerous records, including “Jigsaw Heart,” which was released just this year by her label, Yellow Dog Records.

She has also performed all over the world. Eden has played at the prestigious Kennedy Center, the 2000 Republican Convention and the 2005 presidential inauguration ceremony (where she shared the stage with the legendary bluesman B.B. King), the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel — even the British Embassy. With the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise, she has performed along with musicians such as Marcia Ball and George Porter Jr., best known as the bassist and vocalist in the R&B group The Meters.

Through all of this, though, Eden has remained “true to her roots.” She still lives in Greenville, and she still leans on the lessons she learned from Boogaloo — play it from the heart, work hard and stay true to yourself and the music.

“There was a time when I was younger when I thought I wanted to be a rock star, but I realize now I never wanted that lifestyle.” She added with a laugh, “Be careful what you wish for — it might come true!”

Eden also still values her education.

“Apprenticeships are way too undervalued, I think,” Eden said. “I value my college experience, but I would not be where I am today if not for what I learned as an apprentice under Boogaloo.”

When asked what advice she would give to young people who want to be a musical performer, Eden said, “You need to dream big, but accomplish that dream in steps. Shoot for the mountaintop first, then the clouds, then the moon, then the stars.

“And, be yourself. Don’t try to be me.

Gosh, the world couldn’t handle more than one of me anyway!”

Courtesy of Julia Bailey/Yellow Dog Records

Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com/next

NEXT! 2014 43

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: BRAD EDWARDS

NUMBERS GAME

Courtesy of ESPN

Brad Edwards (center) is joined by University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban during a program on ESPN radio.

Always do your best, says ESPN’s Edwards, because you never know who might notice

BY RUSTY HAMPTON HEN BRAD Edwards speaks to student groups, the ESPN football analyst is invariably asked how he landed such a cool job with what has become the most powerful, most ubiquitous sports network on today's crowded flatscreen landscape.

And Edwards is quick with an answer.

Whatever you’re doing, Edwards tells the students, do the best you can, because you never know who might notice.

Because that is how the Jackson

W

44 NEXT! 2014

native got his start at the network 18 years ago, at the age of 25, two years after graduating from the University of Alabama, where for much of his time as a student he worked in the school’s sports information department. One of his duties in that role was to prepare a package of notes for each football home game that were distributed to media members in the press box. An ESPN producer took note of how much work Edwards put into his research, how much detail was contained in the data he prepared for each game.

“I was waiting tables at Chili’s and came home and had a message on my www.msbusiness.com/next

answering machine,” Edwards said. “It was the guy from ESPN. ... He just came out of a meeting where they decided to create a job and asked if I was interested. That’s how I ended up at ESPN. “I tell that story a lot,” Edwards said. “And my biggest take-away from it is to always do your best because you don’t know who’s watching. A lot of times the person you’re trying to impress is not the one who notices the work you’re doing. I could have put in a lot less effort and it would have got me by. It would have satisfied my boss, but I liked doing the research. That’s how Mississippi Business Journal

everything started.”

Nearly two decades later, Edwards has advanced from a football statistics researcher who expected to stay at ESPN “for two or three years” to an onair analyst who works with some of the biggest stars/personalities in sports television.

Each Sunday this fall, Edwards will appear on ESPN’s college football programming, analyzing the teams vying to grab the four spots in the major college playoffs. He’ll continue to write for ESPN.com and will make periodic appearances on the network’s other platforms throughout the week, on TV and radio.

It’s a dream job for Edwards, who played soccer while growing up in Jackson and then was a kicker for the Jackson Academy football team. He attended Alabama in hopes of making the Crimson Tide as a kicker, but that dream ended before it began, leading to the job in the sports information department that led to this: “In 18 years of working at ESPN I have never dreaded going to work one day, and very few people can say that about their jobs. That doesn’t mean every single day there’s no place I’d rather be. There’s some days I’d rather be playing golf, but in terms of ‘I really don’t want to deal with this or that,’ it’s never been like that. I’ve never dreaded going into work.”

While Edwards’ first big break came with that 1996 phone call, the next came in 1998, when the powers-that-be in major college football created the Bowl Championship Series as a way to determine a champion for the sport’s top college teams. The BCS devised a somewhat complicated formula for picking the title game finalists, using computer polls, strength of schedule and a little mathematics to determine the pecking order. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to follow along, but you did need to know some math and have a little bit of football intuition.

“With the BCS, I understood how the computers worked,” Edwards said. “I could tell you, ‘If this team wins and this other team wins, this is how it will impact the computers.’ I had a good grasp of what the (BCS) standings would do each week.”

Edwards quickly became the network’s BCS “expert,” a role that made him very popular among college football Mississippi Business Journal

“In 18 years of working at ESPN I have never dreaded going to work one day, and very few people can say that about their jobs.”

Brad Edwards Jackson Academy graduate now working at ESPN

fans for the last six weeks of each season, as teams angled for those top two spots.

When the BCS died following the 2013 season and was replaced by the new playoff format, a lot of people (Edwards included) wondered what would happen with Edwards and ESPN. The four teams that qualify for playoffs will be chosen by a 13-member committee comprised of current and former college administrators and coaches, one former beloved Ole Miss Rebel (Archie Manning), one former USA TODAY sports reporter, and one former U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Adviser (Condoleezza Rice).

The committee will determine a list of the top teams, releasing its first rankings on Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the conclusion of the ninth weekend of the regular season. Those rankings will be updated each week thereafter until the final four are chosen to play in the first College Football Playoff.

In the BCS system, the margin of error was so minuscule that even the slightest of change in the myriad polls and computer rankings could bump a team from contention. That led to much number-crunching and analysis.

With the new format, said Edwards, there will be less numerical analysis and more speculation.

“Things like, ‘What would it take for a certain team to get into the top four by the end of the season?’” Edwards said. “Or, ‘Can this team that’s No. 1 survive a loss and still make the playoffs?’ We'll have more of those types of conversations, more speculative, more forecasting, with a lot of hypotheticals.”

Edwards, who recently signed a new three-year contract with the network, www.msbusiness.com/next

returned to Jackson in early September to speak to the Jackson Touchdown Club. He’ll travel nearly every Saturday again this fall, working as part of the College Game Day radio crew that broadcasts live from one of the top games each week.

And he’ll continue to dig up statistics and information for and make TV appearances with some of ESPN’s top personalities, including three of his favorite announcers, Mike Tericho, Chris Fowler and Reece Davis. “You'll have a hard time finding any three who are any better than those three,” Edwards said. “I've worked with all three of them and that in itself was really fun.

“It’s really something to notice something in my research, then write it on a card and hand it to them and then hear them say it on the air. That was cool.”

Of all the people he’s interviewed for ESPN, Edwards said he got the biggest thrill out of talking to former Oklahoma linebacker Brian Bosworth and former Florida State coach Bobby Bowden.

“I watched them when I was growing up, so to interview them, that was fun,” Edwards said.

And the two he’s most admired while working side-by-side? That would be former baseball greats Orel Hershiser and the late Tony Gwynn, both of whom broadcast College World Series when Edwards was helping with ESPN's CWS coverage in Omaha, Nebraska.

“For the last 15 years I’ve had to step back and remind myself just how fortunate I am to do what I do,” said Edwards. “... Not only do I get a chance to meet guys like that, but I actually sit down and have conversations with them. ... I don't take it for granted.”

NEXT! 2014 45

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: KATRINA MYRICKS

BIKER BABE Former Mrs. Mississippi USA, part-time actor loves teaching and riding with husband

BY LYNN LOFTON

O

NE OF THE coolest people around is Katrina Myricks, a lady who wears all sorts of hats. She was the state’s first African-American Mrs. Mississippi USA, is a well-known educator and moonlights as a biker babe. She never expected to teach but life’s path led her to become an instructor in the business and office technology department at Holmes Community College’s Ridgeland Campus.

Her advice about choosing a career is that it’s okay to change your mind.

“Changing your mind is NOT a sign of weakness or failure. It’s a sign of being wise enough to understand you have options and don’t have to rush to choose your life’s career,” she says.

“Most of the time, students need to discover who they are, what they like, and how to make those things work for them in deciding a career choice.”

Myricks comes from a family of educators and thought teaching was the last thing she wanted to do. “It was

46 NEXT! 2014

not my first career choice but sometimes the call to do something is a lot stronger than one can resist,” she said. “My career path in high school was to become the first African-American female sports broadMyricks caster in Mississippi. I started out as a broadcasting major at Holmes Junior College in Goodman and changed my major to computer information systems.”

The Durant native attended Holmes Community College on a basketball scholarship and later earned degrees from Delta State University and Mississippi State University. With her job for Mississippi Power & Light company, she was involved with their Stay-In-School program, which led to leaving the company and doing what she has enjoyed for the past 23 years — being an educator.

Myricks has words of inspiration for students from a quote by Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will NEVER

www.msbusiness.com/next

forget how you made them feel.”

She also has words of encouragement for girls. “Don’t imitate others; be true to yourself, know who you are and aim for nothing less than the top.”

In 1992, Myricks was crowned the first African-American Mrs. Mississippi USA. She also placed as a finalist in the Mrs. USA International Pageant. “Being recognized by the Mississippi House of Representatives as an outstanding individual representing the married women of Mississippi and traveling the state as Mrs. Mississippi USA promoting my educational component was something I will never forget,” she said.

“Being Mrs. Mississippi also brought many more positive long-term elements in my life such as public speaking opportunities, modeling in and around the state of Mississippi in print and/or television.”

Being a positive role model for younger women was another good thing that came from her reign as Mrs. Mississippi USA. “I wanted to have an impact on a lot of females and promote education,” she said.

Outside of work, Myricks is something of a biker babe. “My husband

Mississippi Business Journal

Courtesy of Katrina Myricks

“My husband (Ken) loves to ride his Honda Goldwing and across the years I have learned that I enjoy riding as well; not on my own bike but with him,” said Katrina Myricks. loves to ride his Honda Goldwing and across the years I have learned that I enjoy riding as well; not on my own bike but with him. It gives us great quality time together,” she said.

Myricks has also found time to work as a movie extra for movies made in Mississippi — A Time to Kill, The Chamber, O’ Brother Where Art Thou?

— and served as a stand in for Lela Rochon in The Chamber. She used the hours of waiting around sets to read

Mississippi Business Journal

and grade papers. “I would do it again.

Once you’ve done it, you know the ropes. It was very interesting being behind the scenes and then seeing it on the big screen,” Myricks said. “In addition, I met quite a few famous people along the way.”

For 27 years she has been married to Ken Myricks and they are the parents of a beautiful daughter, Kaitlin.

Spending time with family, including their dog Koko, is how she likes to

www.msbusiness.com/next

spend free time, along with reading and working in the yard.

Looking ahead to retirement, Myricks would like to be a motivational speaker or talk show host.

“I served as co-host of the locally produced Geno Evans show that aired on WLBT as a pilot talk show years ago. Being involved with the show gave me a bug that is still there, and I would like to see where it can go in the future,” she said.

NEXT! 2014 47

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: MAJ. HUGH WALKER

TOP GUN PHOTOS COURTESY OF HUGH WALKER

48 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

Brandon pilot recognized as USAF’s No.1 fighter pilot

By LISA MONTI

W

HEN HUGH Walker was growing up in Mississippi, he developed a love of a aircraft and flying that has led him to be named the top fighter pilot in the Air Force.

Now a major in the Air Force, Walker, who calls Brandon his hometown, graduated from Northwest Rankin High School in 2000 and spent the next four years at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.

He received his pilot training at Columbus. “That was pretty awesome being back home,” he said. He went on to F-16 training in San Antonio, and then was assigned to bases in South Korea, Germany, and South Carolina. He later was assigned to Nellis Air Force Base, where today he is an instructor at the USAF Weapons School.

While stationed at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina, Walker was sent to Operation Unified Protector supporting NATO operations over Libya. He is credited with streamlining the operation there and ultimately reducing the time from the detection of targets to destruction.

Walker said when he was growing up he “always liked planes and flying.” His interest in the military came from his grandfather, Hugh E. Walker Sr., who served as a Marine.

Walker has accumulated 1,500 hours flying jets, including 700 hours in combat in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. He said 12-16 hour days, six days a week with two wars in two years “is just how it is for fighter pilots.”

In 2013 when Walker was a 77th

Mississippi Business Journal

“My mom raised me to always do better and not settle for less.”

Maj. Hugh Walker U.S. Air Force pilot Fighter Squadron weapons officer, he received two prestigious awards for his flying skills after returning from Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

One, the Lt. Col. Anthony C. Shine Award, is presented to the No. 1 fighter pilot in the Air Force.

It is awarded by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force to honor an outstanding fighter pilot for proficiency and professionalism in flying a fighter aircraft.

“Capt. Walker is the epitome of what being a weapons officer is all about,” said Lt. Col. Johnny Vargas, 77th FS commander. “He is humble, approachable and credible. He has instructed the men and women of the 77th FS and taken us to a level of capability previously not thought possible, enabling us to excel during combat operations in both Libya and Afghanistan. He is a true professional both on the ground and in the air.

He is a warrior. He is a fighter pilot.”

“He has instructed the men and women of the 77th FS and taken us to a level of capability previously not thought possible, enabling us to excel during combat operations in both Libya and Afghanistan,” Vargas said. “He is a true professional both on the ground and in the air. He is a warrior. He is a fighter pilot.”

The Robbie Risner Award is given to the Air Force weapons officer who makes the biggest combat impact in the first year after graduating from

www.msbusiness.com/next

the Weapons Instructor Course at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.

To those in combat aviation, the award is considered the equivalent of the Heisman Trophy in college football.

“Capt. Walker epitomizes the determination and leadership of the award’s namesake as he continually strives to train the men and women of the 77th FS and the 20th Fighter Wing,” said Col. Clay Hall, 20th FW commander. “Robbie Risner is a shining example of all that is good about the history and heritage of the U.S. Air Force and Capt. Walker has and will continue to proudly embrace that history.”

Of the awards, Walker said, “I was just doing my job. I try hard to do nothing less than 100 percent. It’s an honor to the folks who taught me to be like I am.”

He credits his mother, Sherri Walker of Brandon, as a major influence in leading him to a successful career. “My mom raised me to always do better and not settle for less,” he said.

His military mentor is Col. Vargas, who Walker said “was constantly pushing, looking out for opportunities to bring us to the next level, but he always took care of his troops and kept their best interests in mind.”

Walker said as a pilot instructor the qualities he looks for in his students are hard work and a good attitude. “They give 100 percent and are happy about it. They learn as they go and get better,” he said.

Walker, who lives in Nevada with his wife, Kristin, also from Brandon, and daughters Kaitlyn and Emma, said he gets home to Mississippi “every chance that I can.”

He plans to continue with his career in the Air Force. “My goal is to stick around and keep flying and make it better,” he said.

NEXT! 2014 49

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: JOE STRADINGER

OWN THE CO

Joe Stradinger and his wife enjoy time camping near Minturn, Colo., just outside of Vail.

Courtesy of Joe Stradinger

50 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness/next

Mississippi Business Journal

NVERSATION ‘I love Mississippi. I went away and saw the world, and wanted to come back’

J

By LISA MONTI

OE STRADINGER has been called a serial entrepreneur and it’s a good description for his ambitious and diversified career. The 45-year-old has been involved with start ups, either as a consultant or as a founder, practically since he graduated from Mississippi College in 1991.

As a young CPA with Arthur Andersen in Dallas, he was dispatched to Budapest and Prague after the fall of the Iron Curtain to privatize companies in Eastern Europe. “It was a really exciting time,” he said. “For those couple of years it was a unique experience.”

Stradinger was born in Texas but grew up in Greenville and calls Mississippi home. “I love Mississippi,” he said. “I went away and saw the world and wanted to come back.” He did just that and more than once. The first time was after he met his wife, a Vicksburg native, on a blind date in Dallas.

He later returned to Dallas to work as a financial consultant to telecommunications clients and in 1997 came back to Mississippi to help open the Arthur Andersen business consulting office. But he kept looking for more challenges. and left again in 1998 to start a couple of Internet companies in Dallas, including one that was the first to sell music online. “Back then Amazon was only selling books,” he said. In nine months

Mississippi Business Journal

Musicforce.com was sold to Gaylord Entertainment at a valuation of $30 million.

Stradinger and company moved to Nashville where he was put in charge of all business development, including investments and acquisitions.

But Mississippi called him again and this time he moved to Vicksburg.

In 2001, Stradinger formed Exposition Ventures LLC, offering social media consulting, financial and business development services to clients including Viking Range Corp.

Stradinger’s work with his friend and Viking founder Fred Carl was a milestone in his evolving career. Carl had built his brand around a culinary lifestyle, not major kitchen appliances, but he didn’t understand the emerging social media platforms as Stradinger did. “What I learned was there are a lot of Fred Carls out there, visionaries who know the brand but have no idea how to use social media.”

His work with Viking led to other clients and the formation in 2012 of what he called the world’s only “find engine” that uses social branding to pinpoint customers. Stradinger says Edge Theory, formerly Leadify, is the opposite of Google, which he said “is awesome when you are looking for something.” But there are a “heck of a lot more people not looking for you.” He calls them “pre customers.”

His goal is to bring his client’s brand to the attention of potential customers by using the good old Mississippi tradition of storytelling.

“Mississippi has some of the best conversationalists and storytellers in

www.msbusiness/next

the world,” he said.

For a large international hotel chain whose brand is familiar to older travelers, Stadinger’s strategy is to go after Millennials looking for its cool bars and locations through social media. For the Mayo Clinic, another client with a widely familiar name, he said. “We don’t talk about the Mayo Clinic, we talk about women’s heart health or other issues and engage them in conversation.

We help clients own the conversation. The more conversation, the more business.”

Edge Theory has more than 80 clients, including Match.com, Travelocity, Hearst Corporation and the Washington Redskins.

The Ridgeland-based company, which is owned by Stradinger and Netscape founder Jim Barksdale, has offices in Dallas, Los Angeles, New York and Boston and clients in Beijing, South America and Europe.

Stradinger credits his drive, which he inherited from his father, and his mentors with helping him reach his evolving career goals.

Mentors like Mississippian Barksdale have been important to Stradinger’s success. “What’s helped me in life so far has been reaching out to people who are wiser and lot smarter than I. I’ve always loved having mentors.”

One thing Stradinger advises to those starting out: “Be willing to do anything.” Also key are hard work, humility and listening to people.

“I am thankful every morning that I have been able to know some really interesting people,” he said.

NEXT! 2014 51

7 REALLY COOL PEOPLE: KATY TILLMAN

BANKING BAKING Lemon Dessert » 1 can evaporated milk (refrigerate overnight) » juice of 3 or 4 lemons » 1 tsp. lemon zest » 1 cup sugar » vanilla wafers Chill bowl and beaters. Whip milk until foamy. Slowly add sugar, while beating. Add lemon juice and zest and continue to beat until thick.

Line sides and bottom of round Pyrex dish with vanilla wafers. Pour in mixture. Freeze.

From the kitchen of Carol Buchwald and Katy Tillman

Katy Tillman with Paula Deen. Tillman won an appearance on the Food Network by submitting her Lemon Dessert recipe.

Photos courtesy of Katy Tillman

52 NEXT! 2014

www.msbusiness.com/next

Mississippi Business Journal

Cooking, running and career have led to many opportunities LYNN LOFTON

K By

ATY TILLMAN is one of those people who's good at many things and adept at keeping a bunch of balls in the air. The single mother of two sons keeps up with all their activities while holding down a job as a loan administrator with Southern AgCredit and staying involved with community events and hobbies.

At Southern AgCredit she coordinates the marketing efforts for all branches in addition to her duties as a loan administrator. “Aside from lending money to help people finance the land of their dreams, I am very passionate about Fit for Agriculture. It is my baby,” Tillman says. “Fit for Agriculture is a family friendly Half Marathon/10K event held annually in December with all proceeds going to Batson Children’s Hospital. 2012 was my first year as race director and we had 250 participants and were able to donate $7,500 to Batson.”

Participants and amount of funds raised doubled in 2013, Tillman's second year as chairman.

“Not only is this a fundraiser for Mississippi’s children’s hospital, but it also helps to raise awareness of our state’s need to become more active and promote healthy lifestyles,” she said.

As a runner, Tillman has completed one full marathon and several half marathons along with local 5K and 10K races.

“Running is my favorite hobby, but I also love to read, volunteer at community events and be involved with

Mississippi Business Journal

“Running is my favorite hobby, but I also love to read, volunteer at community events and be involved with my kids’ sports.”

Katy Tillman Southern Ag Credit my kids’ sports,” she said. “Both my sons — Dawson, 15, and Cash, 5, — play baseball during the spring and we travel for baseball all summer in the post season.”

Now a resident of Flora, Tillman grew up in Vicksburg where she spent lots of time in the kitchen with her mother and grandmothers as far back as she can remember.

That background and love of cooking led to Tillman winning a cooking contest and an appearance on the Food Network’s Paula's Party.

“My mother and grandmothers would let me ‘help’ in the kitchen from the time I was old enough to beg them to let me cook,” she recalls.

“They never seemed concerned with the mess or discouraged my assistance. We submitted our recipe for Lemon Dessert for the contest. A producer from the Food Network called to interview me about the recipe and about the relationship with my mom and our love for cooking together. A few days later we got the call to come to Savannah for the taping. I was very surprised to win!”

Tillman believes students face

www.msbusiness.com/next

more challenges now than in her student days.

“The biggest change I've noticed is that everything is recorded!” she said. “If these students make a poor decision such as sending an ugly message to a peer or partying too hard one weekend, there are screenshots, videos, photos all over social media and they never go away.”

She tries to remind her teenage son that all information and pictures on social media will be there for all time.

“Before you post anything, ask yourself if you would want your parents, youth leaders, employers, future spouse and children to see or read it,” she advises.

The most important advice she has for girls is to not let their goals be hijacked by the cute boy of the week.

“When you meet that guy and feel head-over-heels in love, it can cloud your judgement,” she said. “If it's meant to be, he'll still be there when you finish college and are on your way to achieving your career goals and dreams.”

For all students leaving home for college or work she says it's important to keep the Lord first in your life. “It's easy to put your relationship with Christ on the back burner when the newness and excitement of college or a new job becomes your priority,” she said. “Also, don't be in too big a hurry. Enjoy each phase of your young life as it comes.

Teenagers as well as young adults seem to be so focused on what's next they tend to miss out on how special the time is right now.”

Tillman also hopes young people will explore who they are and want to be, figuring out what motivates them and discovering their passion.

NEXT! 2014 53

! !

!

"

!

#

$ % & ' $ % & $ % & $ % % ( & ) $ % & % & % $

7 /%0 #0%$)2 (.30 7 &3++ 2),% (.301 13"*%#2 2. #(!-'%

7

7

1#(.+!01()/1

/%0 1%,%12%0

/%0 1%,%12%0 !".4% /%0 1%,%12%0 2(+%2)#1 .-.01 %0&.0,!-#% !-$ ,.0% 2(!- .3-$!2).- #(.+!01()/1

7 %1)$%-#% !++1 !2 !6,.-$ !-$ 2)#! !,/31 7 /+31 #+3"1 !-$ '0.3/1 7 /+31 )-20!,30!+ 1/.021 !-$ #(!++%-'%1 2(0.3'(.32 2(% 6%!0 7

4!01)26 1/.021

7 4%0 )-$)4)$3!+ /0.'0!,1 '3!0!-2%%$ 2.

20!-1&%0 2. )11)11)//)81 /3"+)# 3-)4%01)2)%1 7 -12)232% &.0 .-.01 %!$%01()/ !-$ -2%0-!2).-!+ 23$)%1 7 3!+ %-0.++,%-2 #.++%'% #.301%1 5)2( ()'( 1#(..+1

7 .0% 2(!- #!0%%0 !-$ 2%#(-)#!+ /0.'0!, ./2).-1 7 -301)-' !++)%$ (%!+2( /0.'0!,1

www.hindscc.edu 1.800.HINDSCC Jackson

I

Rankin

I

Raymond

I

Utica

I

Vicksburg

Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. Debra Mays-Jackson, Vice President for the Utica and VicksburgWarren Campuses and Administrative Services, 34175 Hwy. 18, Utica, MS 39175; 601.885.7002.

FIND YOUR PLACE IN THE WORLD

“Opportunities afforded me here exceeded everything I thought possible.”

Kate Thompson Biochemistry Major and the Malcolm and Olivia Portera Presidential Scholar

“My professors gave me concrete oncrete ways to be the best in my field. I couldn’t ask for anything more from a college ege education.”

Donald M. “Field” Brown English and Philosophy Graduate e 2014 Rhodes Scholar

FIND YOUR UR PLACE @

MSSTATE.EDU

“The goal of my lab is to train students – to help them find answers to the questions that challenge our world each day.”

Henry Wan, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Digital Biology