News Summary
Nearly 60 students from Jones County are gearing up for their academic journey at Mississippi State University. The local MSU Alumni Association hosted a send-off party, allowing incoming freshmen to connect and alleviate pre-college anxieties. Students like Karsen Lightsey and Ethan Nguyen shared their excitement about forming friendships that will assist in their transition to college life. As the first semester approaches, the community’s support highlights the strong connections forged through shared experiences at MSU.
Jones County, MS – Nearly 60 students from Jones County are preparing to embark on their academic journey at Mississippi State University (MSU) this fall semester. The Jones County chapter of the Mississippi State University Alumni Association hosted a send-off party to celebrate the incoming freshmen and provide a valuable opportunity for these students to connect before their transition to college life.
Out of the nearly 60 attendees, 57 students are officially enrolled as incoming freshmen at MSU. The event served as not only a celebration but also as a platform for these new students to meet their peers, easing some common pre-college anxieties. Many expressed excitement about beginning this new chapter with a community of fellow students who share similar goals and backgrounds.
As students shared their thoughts, Karsen Lightsey, who is set to start as a freshman, emphasized the importance of knowing others before arriving on campus. This connection is valuable, as it fosters a support system that can prove essential during the initial adjustment period. Lightsey noted the significance of building friendships with individuals who have strong connections to the state university.
Another attendee, Ethan Nguyen, acknowledged the comfort in entering college alongside peers he has met, which will contribute to a smoother transition into dorm life and coursework. The familiarity with others can provide not just friendships, but also a sense of belonging during a time that often comes with uncertainty.
Kaylee Anderson was among those who shared her mixed feelings about starting her journey in Starkville. She conveyed a balance of nervousness and excitement that many freshmen typically experience when heading off to college for the first time. This sentiment reflects a common experience among those preparing to leave home and begin a new phase in their lives.
During the celebrations, the students took a moment to reflect on their high school experiences and offered advice for future high school seniors. They emphasized the critical nature of visiting colleges to find an institution that feels like home—an essential step in making an informed decision about where to study. Nguyen noted that hard work in high school pays off, unlocking new opportunities and paving the way for a successful college experience.
As the freshmen gear up for their first semester, classes at MSU will officially commence on August 20th. This timeline marks the beginning of an exciting academic year for the incoming students who have shown commitment and determination in their educational pursuits.
Alumni of Mississippi State University currently residing in Jones County are encouraged to connect with the local chapter of the MSU Alumni Association. Individuals interested in joining the chapter can reach out via email at [email protected] or follow the organization on social media for more information.
The send-off event not only marks the start of a new journey for these students but also highlights the strong community support evident in Jones County, where alumni and new students alike can enjoy the connections built through their shared experiences at Mississippi State University.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Starkville Community Unites for Christmas Celebration
Additional Resources
- WDAM: Nearly 60 students from Jones County heading to MSU
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State University
- Leader Call: Jones College’s welding program impact award
- Google Search: Jones County students MSU
- Free Press: Michigan State football news
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
- C Dispatch: Profile on Professor Bill Jones
- Google News: Jones County MSU students
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.

