University of Mississippi sophomore Hannah Parker of Biloxi visits prehistoric Stonehenge, one of the most famous sites in the world. Parker is studying this semester in the U.K., earning academic credit on her Ole Miss scholarships, including support from the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College.
OXFORD, Miss. – For University of Mississippi student Hannah Parker of Biloxi, this spring semester is turning out to be much more than the usual college routine.
The sophomore marketing communications major is studying at the University of Leicester in England, with plans to return to the Oxford campus in August.
“Studying abroad has forced me to let go of any reservations I may have and learn to adapt,” Parker said. “I have met people from at least a dozen countries and gained so much perspective from conversations. Having spent several months abroad and learning to adjust to every type of situation, I know I will come back home with much more confidence in myself and also a better appreciation for Ole Miss.”
A student in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, Parker is listed on the Chancellor’s Honor Roll. While in the U.K on her full Ole Miss scholarship, she is taking two courses in history and another in macroeconomics, which provide academic credit toward her degree.
John Samonds, associate dean of the Honors College, admires Parker’s adventuresome spirit.
“Most students who study abroad do so in their junior year, so I think it’s courageous of Hannah to choose this option as a sophomore,” he said. “But it’s not surprising, since from the beginning of her time here, she has shown she is a leader, willing to take chances.”
Parker said she chose the U.K. as her study destination because of its location.
“There is so much to see and do in England, and it’s also extremely easy to travel to Europe. England also has such a rich history.”
Parker’s adviser, Shelly McGraw, academic counselor in the Honors College, compliments her student.
“Hannah is a model Honors College student,” McGraw said. “Not only does she excel in the classroom, she’s also committed to the public good of the community.”
Outside the classroom, Parker volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and with the Leap Frog program, tutoring and mentoring young, at-risk kids in the local schools.
Parker said she chose to attend Ole Miss because she was impressed with the university’s offerings, including the Honors College.
“I felt like I would be getting a great education in a good program while staying in Mississippi,” she said. “The Honors College has given me the tools, and also the funds, to help make my college experience enjoyable and rewarding.”
Get more information about UM Study Abroad. Learn more about the Honors College.