Behind the Homecoming elections: a Q&A with Kyle Gordon
Q: What made you decide to run for Homecoming King?
A: For years, people have referred to me around campus as “King Kyle,” and even though everyone pushed me towards the crown, I didn’t make the decision to run for myself until the fall of junior year. I worked my three jobs, which at the time were Neilson’s, Social Media Content Creation, and my photography business @KyleSnapped, all while balancing a social life, and even still made the Chancellor’s List. These accomplishments made me realize that campus elections should reflect more people who reflect a “normal student.” In the past, you’ve only seen students who are super involved in numerous campus-affiliated clubs or those with Greek affiliations, which I am neither. Though those individuals are amazing, I thought it would be nice for the student body to see that those positions are for anyone. More importantly, that a meaningful connection with the university alone is more than enough to win the support of your peers!
Q: What was your biggest fear during your campaign for Homecoming King?
A: During my campaign, I had two fears, one stemming from an awful case of imposter syndrome, and the other being, “Wow, I hope nobody drops my stickers,” because that is an action that could have possibly gotten me disqualified depending on where the sticker was dropped.
Q: What do you want the students and Ole Miss community to learn from you during your reign?
A: During the campaign season I learned that you can’t be “royalty” to others unless you are loyal to yourself. Being dedicated to ourselves will lead to greater self-respect, love, and support. You can’t expect to win the love and support of others if you haven’t earned it from yourself first. After campaigning ended and my official reign began, I felt for me personally, this crown represents something bigger than yourself. Once I heard the news I won, all I could think about were the people who got me there. And at that point, knowing that I got a chance to represent each and every one of the 4,047 people who got me to the title of [Homecoming] King made all the difference in the world.