Antonella Rescigno from Venezuela is earning her bachelor of science degree at The University of Mississippi.

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

Since I was little, it was a dream of mine to come to the USA and experience the richness of the culture and all the advantages of firsthand technology and opportunities pursuing a career in the USA gives you as a student.

Why did you choose your university?

I decided to apply to seven Southeastern Conference (SEC) schools and I fell in love with The University of Mississippi (aka Ole Miss) at first sight. There is no place like Oxford, Mississippi. 

In Ole Miss you get the experience of an SEC school while still having a partially small school that lets you get involved and enjoy all the awesome faculty, staff, and students we have. Ole Miss offers scholarships that make it possible for students like me to make their dream come true.

Have you taken any classes outside your major that you’ve enjoyed?

I used to be a nutrition and dietetics major, which let me experience courses outside of my current major of integrated marketing and communications, and it was worth every minute and credit. I took a culinary science class in which I learned a ton of cooking skills that to this day help me. I also made lifetime friends that will ever be in my heart.

What were some struggles you faced and how did you handle it?

The legal paperwork to be here in the USA was the hardest part of my journey because I didn’t have information about it. I started listening to advice and reached out to friends and professionals, which made me realize that it was easier than I thought, and everything started flowing.

What is your favorite place on campus?

Definitely the Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Football season at Ole Miss is a symbol of memories, friends, and family. It’s amazing how more than 23,000 people have unforgettable memories in only one place.

What do you want to do after graduation?

I would love to do a master’s degree in marketing and publicity while working on a magazine as a designer and photographer.

What are some of your summer plans?

I love traveling in the U.S. with all my friends, and I tend to do that for the beginning of break and then I go back home to Venezuela to spend some time with my family.

Does your university organize any fun events you’ve attended or are looking forward to?

Yes! Morgan Wallen, who is a country artist, came here two times, and rumors say they are planning on doing at least one big concert per year. We also have our football season, which starts in September and ends in November.

We have free concerts and a bunch of free events like shows, theater, and parties for us students to bond and feel welcome to the Ole Miss family. Outside of our university you can easily find more fun stuff to do like go to bars, Double Decker art festival, movies, bookstores, and more!

Have you traveled around the U.S.? What were some of your favorite places?

Favorite places: Nashville, Tennessee; Chicago, Illinois; San Francisco, California

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a student?

My job as a photographer in the student media center for The Daily Mississippian.

Describe your experience in three words.

Best decision ever.

What would you tell students who are considering studying in the USA?

Just do it. It’s worth every penny.