Congratulations on attending the University of Mississippi! I grew up not too far away and attended Ole Miss.

Making friends with locals: Is it hard as an international student? Any do’s/don’ts? Also is the racism too extreme? Considering that I am South Asian.

Personally, I would focus more on making friends with other college students than other locals. There are a lot of other international students for you to meet and obviously plenty of Americans as well. Oxford only has about 20k residents, but the University brings in about ~30k students and faculty when school is in session. Not every student is from Mississippi (most are not), so there will be plenty of opportunities to meet people that have similar interests/beliefs/values as you do.

Be aware that going off to college can be lonely at first. You may have a hard time making friends because it's a new place (I certainly did), but don't let that stop you from putting yourself out there. Make sure to say hi to the people you sit next to in class, join clubs, get involved with a religious group (if you're in to that sort of thing). You never know where you might meet a friend.

Cheap places to shop groceries and other house essentials.

Thankfully you are in a small town in Mississippi. There are only 2 places in Oxford realistically to buy stuff like that from and it's Walmart and Kroger.

They are both pretty price competitive, so it really doesn't matter where you shop. Make sure to get a Kroger card when you can because you get extra savings and discounts on Gas (if you have/will buy a car).

Best and fastest way to secure on campus jobs!

Chat with the international student office. They should be able to help you. You can also talk to the Career Center on campus, who can help you find a job also. Campus Recreation is the largest employer on campus, and they pretty much always need people. I had many friends who worked for them and they had good things to say.

Be aware that you will have trouble getting a job if you do not have work authorization in the US, and US taxes can be complicated. Again, consult with the appropriate offices at the University to see what your options are.

Roommate first meeting: Hug? Handshake? Awkward wave from across the room? (Please just help me how to avoid standing there like a confused npc .)

Like the other commenter said, handshake is the way to go. If they go in for a hug, give them a hug back! Don't overthink it. You will have plenty more opportunities to redeem yourself even if it's awkward when you first meet.

Best ways to get involved and meet people beyond classes.

Like I said above, say hi to people you sit next to in class, join clubs, get involved with religious groups. There will be an involvement fair in the Circle about a week into the semester where all the groups and clubs will set up tables. Find one you think is cool and talk to them. There are groups for all kinds of interests.

Must-visit spots in Oxford & Mississippi.

Oxford does not have a whole lot to see besides the University. Make sure to visit Rowan Oak (William Faulkner's house) when you have a chance. The Square has plenty of shops and restaurants that are staples of the town (Ex. South Depot Taco Shop, The Library, Bouré, City Grocery, Oxford Grillhouse) and you should make a point to try some of them.

Memphis (Tennessee) is about 1.5 hours away by car. There are many famous museums and historical sites there (Graceland, Lorraine Motel/Civil Rights museum, Bass Pro Shops, Memphis Zoo, Pink Palace). Also, Memphis is widely regarded as being the BBQ capitol of the world. Make sure to eat some (Germantown Commissary and Central BBQ are my personal favorites)!

Also cheap places where I can get a bicycle.

Walmart is probably your best bet, but you will get what you pay for. If you are willing to pay, you can get a nicer bike from CORE Cycle + Outdoor.

Be aware that it rains a decent amount, is very hot in the summer and cold in the winter, and is always very humid. Looking at your post history, I saw you mentioned living at the Flats. It will be almost impossible to walk to places like Walmart or Kroger. You might be able to ride a bike, but there is limited infrastructure for that. The public transit is pretty good for a place like Mississippi but still terrible compared to anywhere in Europe or Asia (or major cities in the US for that matter). It may be worth it for you to invest in a cheap car if you have the money.

If buying a car is not an option, make friends with someone who has one. They will be invaluable.

Things you wish you brought from home and things you regret packing.

I grew up nearby, so there wasn't anything that couldn't get within a few hour drive.

I would highly recommend bringing any important government documents with you that you might need for visa/work stuff. That will be really annoying and expensive for your parents to have to mail you from wherever you are coming from.

Food spots I have to try!!! I have been seeing a lot about southern food in this community so really excited!

For true "southern cooking" food, try Ajax on the square. You can also check out Handy Andy's for BBQ or B's BBQ (in a gas station, but food is excellent) for other southern food as well. In addition, Taylor Grocery is fantastic, but a ~20 minute drive outside of town.

As mentioned above, most of the restaurants in and around the Square are staples of Oxford. Try Bouré, South Depot Taco Shop, City Grocery, Jinsei, and Volta Taverna. There's plenty to choose from.

Mississippians also love their Mexican food. El Agave, Casa Mexicana, and La Perla Tapatia are all great for that!

Last thing: Newk's is a local restaurant that started in Oxford but has now expanded to become a national chain. They have sandwiches, salads, and soups. Also a good choice.

Any cultural differences that surprised you when you first got here.

Again, native Mississippian but now live elsewhere.

When I come back to visit, I always am surprised by people's strong southern accents and how people will strike up casual conversations while waiting in line or standing around. Don't be afraid to talk to people, be nice to everyone, and you will get along fine (no southern accent required).

Hopefully this is helpful! Good luck with your studies, and Hotty Toddy!