03/12/2026
One of our amazing students!!!
When I transferred to Longwood, I was still figuring out exactly what I wanted to study and where I truly belonged. I spent a semester at VCU and another at community college, searching for the right academic path. A friend who attended Longwood kept telling me how supportive the professors were and how much she loved the environment here. I visited a few times, applied over the summer and arrived in the fall as a physics major. What I didn’t expect was how much Longwood would open the door for me to pursue all of my interests.
Originally, I thought science would be my sole focus. But my Citizen 110 course with Dr. Derek Taylor (professor of English) completely changed that. I realized I had been missing the humanities side of my education. After talking with him about the English program, I decided to add a second major in English literature alongside physics, and I tacked on a minor in mathematics. It might seem like an unusual combination, but at Longwood it felt natural. My professors encouraged me to explore every side of my interests, and that freedom helped shape my academic journey. I’m proud of that.
During my time here, I’ve tried to embrace Longwood’s citizen leader mantra by getting involved wherever I could. I’ve been active in the Society of Physics Students and the Math Club, and I’ve also worked with The Rotunda campus newspaper, where I currently serve as the news and features editor. One of the projects I’m most proud of was planning and leading a trip for students to travel to Cleveland, Ohio, to witness the 2024 total solar eclipse. After securing funding, 22 Longwood students were able to experience the eclipse for less than $50 each. I also organized a lighting talk event titled “Who Tells Our Stories?,” which brought together the Longwood community to discuss the importance of preserving inclusive histories, cultures and communities. Watching the eclipse and standing alongside other students who attended the talks showed me just how much Longwood supports student ideas.
Longwood has also helped me connect deeply with the Farmville community. Through Farmville Pride, I found mentors and friends who helped me build a sense of belonging. Last summer I worked as an intern helping organize and promote the town’s Pride event. I got involved in Waterworks Players, the brilliant, local community theatre. I’ve also tried to show up to community gatherings, from local events to knitting groups, and spend time in places like Three Roads brewery, where people come together to talk and connect. Those experiences helped Farmville feel like home just as much as Longwood has.
If I had to give advice to someone considering Longwood, it would be simple: do it. This is a place where professors truly care about teaching, where mentors invest in your success and where opportunities grow out of the connections you build. Longwood has helped me explore my interests across disciplines, find my community and turn ideas into real experiences. For me, it’s been the perfect place to learn, grow and discover what matters most.
Jordan McPherson '26, physics and English
More 👉 go.longwood.edu/HoL
