A Q&A with Ole Miss Cheerleader Paige Choppin
Q: When did you know you wanted to cheer at Ole Miss?
A: I knew around junior or senior year of high school. One of my friends cheered here and I came to visit her at a cheer clinic and fell head over heels with everything about this campus as well as what it stood for. I just knew there was nowhere else I was meant to be. It also worked out because the cheer team here is full of talented athletes which made the decision easier. I honestly did not think I was going to cheer in college but I realized the thought of quitting would have made me super upset and so I was like well why not? Let’s see if I can not only go to the school of my dreams but also cheer for that school and luckily here I did it.
Q: If you could change one aspect or rule of cheerleading, what would you change and why?
A: I would probably change the idea that it is something easy to do which some people seem to believe. I lot of people underestimate the time and effort put into this sport which is saddening for me because I love it even though it is super tuff. I’m not saying it’s the hardest or dangerous, I’m only saying that it is a true sport and difficult in its own ways. Girls and boys take a lot of their time and dedication in order to participate in cheer just like any other sport. I just would love for everyone to see that too.
Q: If you could get one-on-one advice from any well-known cheerleader, who would you choose and why?
A: I would actually choose my dad. My dad cheered in college too at Louisiana State University and was exceptional at it. When I first decided I was going to try out for the Ole Miss Cheer team I went to him first for tips since he’s been in my shoes before. He was a very big help for me then and continues to help me with stunting tips and things of that sort now. It’s definitely nice to have someone in my family who has gone through the experience so he can give me advice regardless of the different schools we cheer or cheered for.
Q: What’s your go-to restaurant or celebration meal after a big win?
A: My go-to celebration meal would have to be at Rice and Spice. I literally love their food and when I get done cheering a big game that’s my go-to.
Q: Do you have plans to continue cheering after you graduate?
A: I plan to continue working at UCA, which is a job where you basically teach high schools and middle schools material over the summer. It’s just like summer camp but just cheer. It’s probably one of the best jobs ever because not only do I get to continue my passion for cheerleading but I also get to give back what it has given me over the years. I also get paid, too, which is a triple whammy!
