University of Southern Mississippi

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS, USA
Public
4 Year

Erika's Review

Review of University of Southern Mississippi

from Gulfport, MS

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

All of my teachers at Southern have extensive knowledge in their field of study. Several of them have written books, my history teacher was featured on history channel, my Anatomy and Physiology teacher wrote our textbook, and one of the therapeutic recreation teachers is the former president of therapeutic recreation's national organization called ATRA. Also the teachers are very willing to help students and all of mine have been very welcoming during their office hours to discuss any questions.

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

Southern Miss has a lot to offer and is a very positive environment. There is a wide variety of people so everyone will find friends. They have numerous honor societies, special interest groups, community service groups, religious groups, and other groups to join. They also have very active sororities and fraternities that are very friendly, work together, do not have rival sororities and fraternities, and do not exclude non-Greek students from activities. USM also has very many intramural sports along with a great gym called the Payne Center which offers classes ranging from aerobics and Zumba to yoga and Pilates, a weight center, basketball and tennis courts, a walking track, and a pool. The campus is small and it's very easy to walk to classes and back to dorms.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

USM is a state school so the tuition is relatively low compared to others. They have a great academic program and prove that you can get an excellent education without paying an Ivy League price. In 2010 dorms ranged from 1500 to 2500 depending on whether the room was single or double, or community or private bath. I considered this a very good price because everything's included, internet, cable, water, heat, and even laundry. The basic meal plan includes all you eat at the cafeteria called the Fresh Food Co. Also with your tuition you receive free entry into sporting events and use of the Payne Center.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

The campus is small and there is a police escort service at night so feel free to schedule classes with only 15 minutes between and night classes. Also, definitely read your textbooks and look in your syllabus. Unlike high school, teachers do not have to tell you about an assignment, they expect you to know to do it. Get involved in student activities because they are a great way to get to meet people. Your adviser is very smart, but always double check everything after being advised for classes because they may make a mistake.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

USM is great for everyone and is welcoming for everyone. For people who do not want a very large college, USM has a great size of about 13000 students. Also for art majors, USM has an excellent and accredited art department. They also have great therapeutic recreation, polymer science, nursing, and business departments. Anyone who would love to travel abroad, USM offers several study abroad programs. Also, for students wanting to join an honors college, USM's honor's college provides small classes and travel opportunities.