13 Things You Have To Do Before You’re An Official Mississippian

Think simply residing in the Magnolia State is enough to make you a Mississippian? Well, technically, it is. But to really be considered official, there are certain things you just have to do; here are 13 of them.

1. Master the art of avoiding whatever animal runs out in front of your vehicle.

2. Learn to navigate “back roads” (especially at night) as if you’re a professional driver.

4. Have the strength to survive a vicious attack...by fire ants or pesky mosquitoes.

8. Make it through at least one intense Mississippi summer.

9. Which means, finding a great swimming spot is necessary.

10. Dine at an amazing restaurant that’s hidden in a small town.

11. Spend an afternoon at a crawfish or shrimp boil.

12. Indulge on some famous Mississippi barbecue.

13. Remove a snake, raccoon, bird, or some other unwanted critter from your home. (I can personally attest to this one.)

Have you done everything on this list? What else would you add?

Daniella DiRienzo

Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.