I am a small town girl from north Mississippi, where most college apparel consists of red and blue or blue and white. I never saw myself going to a school in my state but when I visited Starkville, I traded in my Memphis Tiger blue for a Maroon cowbell and never looked back. If someone would have told my former self that I would be where I am today, I would think they were lying. Honestly, there's no place I'd rather be. Here is why:

1. You are never short of things to do.

Whether it's picnicking on The Drill Field, tailgating in The Junction, or even Pokemon hunting around campus, there is always something to do. Need to study? The Mitchell Memorial Library on campus is open until 1:45 a.m!

2. The local restaurants are the best.

I am from Memphis where barbecue and burgers are plentiful and delicious and even I think that Starkville has some of the best around! Mugshots and The Little Dooey win in my book all day, every day. Oh, and If you love cheese fries, Bin 612 never disappoints.

*breathes heavily*

3. The school pride is amazing.

It may get on our opposing team's nerves but we love ringing our cowbells loud and proud. If someone hasn't bought you a cowbell yet, a simple "G.T.H.O.M." would suffice no matter who we're playing. You can't match a Mississippi State Student's pride in their school. Win or lose, you can bet our cowbells will keep ringing!

4.Everyone can be themselves.

We don't all have to dress alike or join Greek life to fit in. There is a place for everyone and the freedom to be yourself and express yourself with one of the 200+ clubs on campus.

5. You never have to be alone.

Whether it be new people that you meet in class or your residence hall, or your friends that you've known forever, you always have a support system to back you up when you need it the most.

6. The professors actually want you to succeed.

Instead of hanging their students out to dry and not caring if you show up to class or not, the professors at state try to be personable with their students. I know a few professors who would do what ever it takes to make sure their students become involved and succeed.

7. Our mascot is the cutest.

This is not an opinion, it is a fact. Don't debate me on this.

8. It became my home-away-from-home.

If you ask any student here, they will tell you the same.