University students, faculty, staff and administration gathered in the Sandy and John Black Pavilion on Tuesday, Aug. 27 for Fall Convocation.

This year’s keynote speaker was Arthur Brooks, author of “Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier.” Brooks’ book is the selection for the common reading experience, a tradition started in 2011 in which first-year students are provided and read the same book before the start of the school year.

Brooks shared ways to make the college experience and life more meaningful through happiness. Although most people describe happiness as a feeling, Brooks said that happiness is tangible and that there are techniques that can be used to help people happier.

“You want to add people and memories to the things you like. That’s the point here in college, to do things together with your new friends and the people that you love,” Brooks said.

Brooks encouraged students to find their own definitions of happiness by asking themselves, “Why are you alive?” and “For what would you give your life?” Brooks also implored students to take the opportunity while on campus to discover the answer.

Brooks wrapped up by encouraging students to share the ideas in his book.

“The more you share the ideas, the more that these ideas will be permanently launched in your brain and written on your heart,” Brooks said. “It’s a good thing to help other people be happier, and you will be doing good (for) yourself, because you’ll never forget.”

St. Amand Outstanding Award Recipient Lou Burney gave an address and new commemorative coins were given to students. The ceremony concluded with a reading of the University Creed by Associated Student Body President Hannah Watts and the singing of the Alma Mater led by the University of Mississippi Chorus members.

Freshman biology major Izzy Goddard enjoyed hearing the speakers’ advice.

“It was really motivating,” Goddard said. “I feel like it was a good start to the year.”

Another freshman biology major, Katie Norris, shared the same sentiment.

“I thought it was a really good start to the year, and it just gave me a new perspective on going to college and how to get about things,” Norris said. “And it was really great hearing from the author and about his book.”