For many seniors, the fall semester is filled with stress about college and college applications, but for senior Melanie Crow, this decision was made long ago.  Now, she only has to worry about signing the official commitment to Ole Miss, where she plans to play volleyball at the college level.

While many factors went into her decision, as she has many offers, she finally decided that she wanted to branch out and go south and she began to look at schools in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

“I absolutely loved the campus, and it is one of the most beautiful universities I have ever visited.  I immediately fell in love with its southern charm,” Crow said.

Another big factor in her decision was the team itself, as that was going to be a big part of her collegiate experience.

“All of the girls made me feel so welcome.  I love their personalities and I just felt as though I was already a part of the Ole Miss family.  The coaches were exactly what I was looking for—they’re very intense, but they have such a love and passion for the game,” she said.

She conceded that the transition from high school volleyball, where she contributed to back-to-back State Championships, was going to be difficult.

“People hit harder, jump higher and dig everything.  There is a huge difference between college ball and high school simply because you are playing against girls with so much more experience than you.  You’re playing with the big girls now!” she continued.

However great the challenge, she is still very excited for college volleyball, and the opportunities it will give her.

“I’m looking forward to being on my own and becoming more independent.  It will definitely be different not being at home, but I’m ready for the change.  I’m taking so many memories to college that I will cherish forever.”