Awards and Honors

Julia Bishop, a native of Hattiesburg, Miss., is a third-generation Golden Eagle. Bishop's major is Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Exercise Science and Communication Studies. She is a Discovery Scholar with the Honors College. Bishop is also a Luckyday Citizenship Scholar and a member of several honor societies on campus.

I chose Interdisciplinary Studies because it allows me the opportunity to learn about multiple disciplines while working toward my career goals. It gave me the flexibility to learn about the things that interest me and better prepare me for my future. I have gained so much because of this and I could not be more thankful!

Whitley Howell majored in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Emphasis in Business Administration and Exercise Science. Among other achievements, she is also a member of the Honors College where she is a presidential scholar. Howell has been accepted into William Carey University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program.

I decided to major in IDS because it allowed me to combine different areas of interest.  I enjoyed learning about several topics and knew a background in multiple disciplines would be beneficial in many careers.

Slade Wilks, from Columbia, Miss., is a member of the Southern Miss baseball team. After researching his options in Exploratory Studies, he will begin a Business Administration major in the fall.

Exploratory Studies was a great option for me because I was unsure what I wanted to major in at USM. During my freshman year, I have enjoyed taking general electives and having the opportunity to investigate different majors.