Mississippi State University’s Story State 2025—an annual contest aimed at sharing Mississippi stories—is open for entries for new and original stories from all students enrolled at any Mississippi institution of higher learning.

For Mississippi State University graduate Alijah Jones, the road to a Fulbright Scholarship began in the stillness of the pandemic. Feeling a lack of connection, Jones said he “indulged” in internet browsing, happening upon a YouTube video––“Dinner with my Italian Host Family.” Stepping outside the loneliness of isolation, he found not just a glimpse into another culture, but a spark that would one day take him across the world.

Judge K. Dustin Markham donned his black judicial robe when he approached a group of Mississippi State University-Meridian students in his courtroom—immediately garnering their full attention.