Bear Family HANDBOOK
About This Guide
CollegiateParent has published this guide in partnership with Missouri State University. Our goal is to share helpful, timely information about your student’s college experience and connect you to relevant campus and community resources.
Please refer to the school’s website and contact information below for updated information in the guide or with questions about its contents. CollegiateParent is not responsible for omissions or errors. This publication was made possible by the businesses and professionals contained within it. The presence of university/college logos and marks in the guide does not mean that the publisher or school endorses the products or services offered by the advertisers.
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For more information, please contact Missouri State University Family Programs 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897 �� 417-836-3060
WELCOME
TO MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY
Dear Bear Family Members:
The office of family programs is excited to welcome you and your student to Missouri State University. Our goal is to help family members support their student while also giving them the independence they desire. Rather than calling this “letting go,” we say “letting grow.”
Please consider us your resource for everything Missouri State. Our office assists you by providing:
• Information on events, such as our annual Family Weekend.
• Bear Notes, our monthly e-newsletter of campus news and tips.
• A first point of contact to answer your questions and much more.
Please encourage your student to take advantage of the opportunities at Missouri State. By becoming an informed
partner, equipped with knowledge of campus resources, events and policies, you’ll be prepared to coach your student to success. Again, welcome to the Bear Family!
Go BEARS!
Priscilla Childress
director of new student orientation, family programs and student affairs special events
Please don’t hesitate to contact me!
MEET DR. DEE SISCOE
VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS
Dr. Dee Siscoe, an alumna of Missouri State, joined the university staff as the vice president of student affairs in 2013. Under her leadership, the division of student affairs is committed to supporting student success, instilling pride and traditions, fostering student engagement, and inspiring a commitment to public affairs.
The division consists of multiple support services, including departments dedicated to:
• Access and Support Services/Bears Lead
• Bookstore Resources
• Campus Recreation
• Career Center
• Community Engagement
• Counseling Center
• Dean of Students
• Family Programs
• Health and Wellness Services
• Orientation and Transition Programs
• Plaster Student Union
• Public Affairs Support
• Residence Life, Housing and Dining
• Student Conduct
• Student Engagement (including fraternity and sorority life, leadership programs, student organizations, and a variety of other programs and activities)
• Student Support and Opportunity Services
Q: What advice do you have for families as their student begins their journey at MSU?
A: I’ve been doing this for a long time, so I’ve interacted with a lot of students and family members. The best advice for families is to give their students some space. As a mother, I know that’s not easy. But students must learn how to make their own decisions, as well as make and learn from mistakes. Even the best kids have a misstep and that’s okay.
Q: What’s one aspect of MSU that’s improved since you graduated?
A: The addition of the public affairs mission in 1995 has allowed the university to focus on the three pillars: cultural competence, community engagement and ethical leadership. Everything that happens on campus is rooted in the mission, and that’s significant.
There’s the Public Affairs Conference and initiatives such as Ursa, where students learn about the mission. Everything is executed in accordance with the three pillars. I didn’t see that when I was a student, and I think it sets Missouri State apart.
Q: What resources are available for family members to stay connected with their students at MSU?
A: A relationship with Priscilla Childress, director of new student orientation, family programs and student affairs special events, is most important. She sends out regular newsletters and has a huge presence on social media, so it’s a great way to stay informed and engaged. Just being aware of what’s going on, attending events such as Family Weekend and periodically coming to campus is a good way to stay connected. Blogs.MissouriState.edu/BearsFamilies
INCOMING STUDENT CHECKLIST
Students have a lot to remember as they start classes at Missouri State. Use this checklist to remind your student of requirements and best practices.
Required
�� Complete the online tuberculosis screening questionnaire.
Missouri law requires all Missouri institutions of higher education to perform a targeted tuberculosis testing program for all on-campus students. Your student can complete the online survey through their My.MissouriState.edu portal. Scroll down to Discover More and enter “Magers” in the search bar to find the card for Magers Health and Wellness Center. Click on “TB Information and Screening Survey” to complete the questionnaire.
�� Complete the sexual assault prevention online program.
The sexual assault prevention program is required for incoming freshmen and transfer students. The purpose of this training is to initiate understanding of consent, sexual assault, relationship violence and bystander intervention. Completion of the program is required prior to registering for your next semester. The training link can be found in the student portal of My.MissouriState.edu .
�� Review tuition and fees statement.
Statements are sent monthly to your student’s Missouri State email account. Payment is due on the 10th of the month. Statements are not mailed. Your student can access statements by logging in to My.MissouriState.edu , locating the “Billing-University Account” card and clicking “Statement and Payment Portal.” The “Statement” option is on the left of the screen. Your student can also complete their FERPA for Financial Services and submit their non-payroll direct deposit information from the “Billing-University Account” card to allow financial aid refunds to directly deposit into a personal bank account.
Highly recommended
�� Download our mobile apps. Your student can get quick access to campus resources such as Blackboard, Microsoft 365, the Bear Line, Starship campus food delivery, and more: MissouriState.e du/Mobile.
�� Order textbooks.
Ordering textbooks early via the bookstore’s online system is a great way for your student to save time and money. Your student can view their booklist and select rental or purchase options. Opt to have them shipped or held for pickup during move-in weekend. Orders can be charged to your student’s charge account or paid with a credit card. Dates for each term’s purchase window are listed on the bookstore website. Shop.MissouriStateBook store.com .
�� Purchase a parking permit. Students who bring a vehicle to campus must have a valid Missouri State University parking permit. Enforcement of MSU parking regulations is 24 hours a day, seven days a week. MissouriState.edu/Parking.
�� Review the “What to Bring” list on the Residence Life website. This list outlines items your student will need in the residence halls, plus items that are not allowed: ResLife.MissouriState.edu/WhatToBring.
�� Prepare for a visit to Magers Health and Wellness Center. Students will be required to fill out a Medical History Form during their first visit to Magers Health and Wellness Center. Make sure to go over your student’s health history with them. Students must also bring their BearPass card and updated health insurance information when they visit Magers, so they should bring a copy of their insurance card with them to campus. Health.MissouriState.edu .
ACADEMIC RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS
For many students, the transition to college courses can be challenging. Missouri State offers resources to support students as they become comfortable with the format of their classes.
Nearly 80% of students who use these services see an increase of one letter grade! Encourage your student to take advantage of the following resources:
Academic Advising and Transfer Center
The advisors in the Academic Advising and Transfer Center empower undeclared students to explore majors and make meaningful academic decisions. They help students plan courses and schedules, identify campus resources and establish educational and professional goals. Advisors help students learn more about themselves, options available at Missouri State and which academic program aligns with their unique strengths and interests. Students with a declared major are assigned an advisor within their academic college. MissouriState.edu/Advising
Bear CLAW (Center for Learning
and Writing)
Where should your student go to find help in:
• Subject-area tutoring?
• Writing?
• Computer and information technology?
• Public speaking?
The Bear CLAW, an interactive space in Meyer Library, is an environment that fosters informal, collaborative work and social interaction with fellow students. Bear CLAW is open during regular library hours. BearClaw.MissouriState.edu.
Students can also get help from our Peer Assisted Study Session (PASS) program, designed for students taking historically challenging courses. Pass.MissouriState.edu.
Writing Center
Located in Meyer Library, the Writing Center is a welcoming place for your student to gain advice on any writing assignment, regardless of the course or topic. Whether they are just beginning an assignment or are in the final stages of a project, the Writing Center can help. WritingCenter.MissouriState.edu.
Disability Resource Center
If a student anticipates a barrier related to a disability affecting their participation in academics, housing or activities, students are encouraged to contact the Disability Resource Center (DRC). Students can complete an online application to request accommodations, and provide any supporting documentation regarding their disability and request. Students will then meet with an Access Advisor at the DRC to determine appropriate accommodations and referrals. MissouriState.edu/Disability
Open-access computer labs
Computer services maintains three computer lab locations on campus: Cheek Hall, Glass Hall and Meyer Library. Students can visit the computer labs for assistance with wireless setup on a laptop or mobile device, help with using specific computer programs and handy access to computer and printer services. MissouriState.edu/ComputerLabs .
CAMPUS SAFETY
The office of university safety coordinates campus safety, dispatch, emergency preparedness, parking, shuttle service, vehicle and bicycle registration, safe walk services, the Missouri State Alert system and many other safety programs.
Bear Line shuttle service
Bear Line is MSU’s free shuttle service for students, faculty, staff and guests of Missouri State. The shuttle makes numerous stops across campus and downtown. Track shuttles through the Passio GO! app: MissouriState.edu/Bearline.
Bicycle
registration and u-bolt
bicycle lock
Students are encouraged to register their bicycle with Campus Safety and use a U-bolt bicycle lock to keep the bike safe. Bring the bicycle information to the parking office at 700 E. Elm St. to register.
Blue light safety phones
Blue light safety phones are located around campus. If students are in an uncomfortable situation, pressing a button on the phone activates flashing blue lights. Students will be connected with campus safety, and a safety specialist will be dispatched to their location.
Dean of students office
The primary role of this office is to help students accomplish personal and educational goals. This includes removing barriers that might make those goals difficult to reach. The office houses the Behavioral Intervention Team. The team’s mission is to identify students who exhibit behaviors that are detrimental to their success or to the success of others on campus.
The dean of students office also houses the Bias Response Team. This team serves as a resource to people who have concerns or complaints about perceived bias-related situations and coordinates an appropriate response to reported instances.
We understand that emergency situations can arise where a student may be absent from their courses for an extended period and is not able to communicate with their faculty. In such an event, the dean of students office will notify the faculty of the absense, on behalf of the student. MissouriState.edu/DOS .
Missouri State Alert
Missouri State Alert is the university’s mass notification system. It uses a variety of methods to contact students, faculty and staff in the event of an emergency, severe weather or school closing. MissouriState.edu/Alert .
Office of student conduct
This office is responsible for implementing the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities, adjudicating alleged violations of the code, safeguarding student rights and dealing with emergency situations
that involve students. Staff members within the office recognize that every facet of student life is an opportunity for learning and inquiry. The office of student conduct has a participatory process and encourages students to attend conduct meetings. The Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities should be viewed as an educational tool designed to assist students in their endeavors to educate themselves and become active, involved and responsible citizens. MissouriState.edu/StudentConduct .
Safety and prevention training
The office of university safety offers a variety of training opportunities for the safety of the campus. Examples include sexual assault prevention and defensive tactics 101; defensive tactics 102; defensive tactics 103; Run, Hide, Fight active shooter training; fire prevention/fire extinguishers; emergency preparedness; CPR/AED and first aid; and hands-free CPR and Stop the Bleed training. Find course listings: MissouriState.edu/Safety.
Safe Walk services
Students who do not feel safe walking from one campus location to another after dark can request a safety specialist to accompany them. To do this, students can call and state their name, location and destination. A specialist will be dispatched to that location. Encourage your student to add this number to their contact list: 417-836-5509.
Springfield Police campus substation
The Springfield Police Department maintains a substation at MSU. Located at 636 E. Elm St., this substation places officers on campus, making them readily available to the university community. Commissioned Springfield police officers regularly patrol campus and partner with university faculty and staff to provide programs and information.
SELF-CARE FOR A BEAR
Encourage your student to live well, be well
Did you know that the top 10 reasons why students struggle in their first year of college are related to health and wellness? Concerns like stress, sleep problems, depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse have been linked to failure in college. Partner with us to ensure these issues don’t become barriers to your student’s success.
Help enhance your student’s overall well-being by encouraging them to:
› Make time for nutritious meals.
It can be difficult to find the time for regular, nutritious meals during busy days. MSU offers several dining options around campus, including Einstein Bros. Bagels in Glass Hall, dining centers and a food court in Plaster Student Union. Missouri State’s food delivery service is an especially helpful tool during serious study sessions. Use the Starship app to have select food options delivered by one of the campus delivery robots. MissouriState.edu/Mobile.
› Use the Magers Health and Wellness Center.
If your student becomes ill, Magers Health and Wellness Center provides free general office visits. It includes on-site access to a treatment clinic, pharmacy, lab, X-ray service and specialty care. Make appointments online: Health.MissouriState.edu.
› Stay physically active.
Foster Recreation Center is the student’s ultimate destination for fitness and fun. They can experience the numerous benefits of physical exercise, including enhanced strength, stress relief and improved mental clarity. Our community offers recreation and wellness opportunities for everyone. The center also organizes outdoor trips and activities for students looking to explore the beauty of the Ozarks. Remind your student to visit the rec center, try a rec sport, take a BearFit class or go on an outdoor Adventure Trip.
› Recharge with sleep.
Seven to nine hours of sleep are crucial for optimum performance.
› Get connected with friends and organizations.
While homesickness can be a normal part of the college transition, residential students who are engaged on campus cope better when dealing with homesickness. We encourage commuter students to connect with students and organizations rather than leaving campus between classes. Involvement is linked to student success.
› Address signs of stress early. Forgetfulness, moodiness and fatigue can all be early signs of stress. Bears need to make stress management a part of their everyday college life. Encourage your student to take ownership of their selfcare by utilizing free resources available to them through the Counseling Center, such as Welltrack Boost and Togetherall. Welltrack Boost gives students access to interactive tools to help them assess and understand their behavioral health, as well as develop personalized coping strategies. This resource is available online and through a mobile app.
The Counseling Center also offers workshops and psychoeducational groups focused on stress and anxiety, often with little to no wait for access. Counseling Center staff members are committed to student mental health and wellness. CounselingCenter.MissouriState.edu
A FAMILY’S GUIDE TO FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects your student’s privacy and grants them the exclusive right to view and share educational records such as grades, transcripts, disciplinary records, contact information and class schedules. Under this law, colleges and universities may not disclose educational records to anyone other than the student, including family members.
These restrictions may be challenging to family members who are accustomed to having full access to their student’s educational records. Rather than seeing these restrictions as obstacles, we encourage you to view them as an opportunity to have important discussions with your student. Relationships between families and students are strengthened when students have independence to grow and support when they make mistakes. When it comes to grades and academic work, talk to your student as an adult. Share your opinions, but respect their decisions, too. MissouriState.edu/FERPA .
Partners
in Education (PIE) program
Partners in Education aims to help firstyear students and their families build a relationship of trust and communication
and improve students’ academic success. By enrolling in the program, students can grant authorization to a designated partner (usually a parent or family member) to receive information regarding the student’s academic progress for their first year. The partner will be mailed or emailed the student’s mid-term and final grade reports. Students may withdraw permission to release information to the partner at any time. Please note that only the student success office personnel may release academic information to the partner indicated on the PIE form. We encourage you to sign up for PIE during SOAR or before the beginning of the first semester. Students enroll by visiting the Partners in Education Agreement link on the Student Success Resources card in your My Missouri State portal. MissouriState.edu/PIE .
COLLEGE NIGHTS JUST GOT BETTER
Enjoy a FREE Buffet & Drink with the purchase of a $20 Game Card! Make memories, not leftovers.
WHAT IF MY STUDENT WANTS TO...
Become an Army officer?
The military science department, Army ROTC, offers a variety of leadership development courses. The introductory courses, which involve no military obligation, are available to all students and majors. Eligible students who make a commitment to become an Army officer will receive additional benefits while in college. Scholarships and tuition assistance are common within the program. MissouriState.edu/MilSci
Develop leadership skills?
MO State LEAD, part of the office of student engagement, offers your student programs and opportunities to develop the skills needed to thrive in college and in our ever-changing world. Through immersive experiences and social interactions, these signature events are some of the top leadership development opportunities on campus. MissouriState.edu/LEAD.
Explore education abroad opportunities?
Encourage your student to watch the Education Abroad 101 video on our web page. They can also book a peer advising session in our office to learn more about education abroad programs for any major, from one week to one academic year, while using financial aid and scholarships. International. MissouriState.edu/EducationAbroad
Find a part-time job?
There are a variety of job opportunities through student employment services. Most campus departments hire student employees. Benefits of being a student employee include developing time management skills, gaining work skills and enhancing a résumé. Professional relationships can lead to future letters of support and recommendation. Positions for off-campus employers are also listed. MissouriState.edu/StudentEmp.
Find something fun to do on campus?
Student Activities Council is the premiere programming board on campus. They host multiple events each week ranging from concerts and films to speakers and craft nights. Funded by the student involvement fee, SAC provides all the entertainment your student could want for free. Students can apply to become a member of SAC during the first two weeks of each semester and to gain leadership and programming skills. Encourage your student to stay in the know about SAC events by following them on Instagram @MOStateSAC or visiting their webpage. Organizations.MissouriState.edu/SAC .
Get involved in a campus organization?
There are more than 325 student-led organizations at Missouri State! There’s bound to be something for everyone on campus, and if you can’t find the one for you, you have the ability to start an organization yourself. Student organizations offer a variety of leadership opportunities, careerbuilding events and more ways for your student to connect learning to life. The office of student engagement (OSE) is a great resource for students who want to make their Missouri Statement. Feel free to have your student reach out to the OSE’s team of Involvement Ambassadors for guidance on how to get involved on our campus. Explore student organizations on BearLink: MissouriState.Presence.io. Reach out to Involvement Ambassadors: MissouriState.edu/Involvement .
Join a fraternity or sorority?
Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL) at MSU comprises more than 2,000 students and 28 chapters, made up of Interfraternity Council fraternities, Panhellenic Association sororities and National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities. FSL members are deeply committed to making a difference, with active involvement in community service, philanthropies and leadership roles across campus. By joining FSL, you’ll gain access to social networks, academic support and a welcoming environment to grow, connect and create lasting memories. MissouriState.edu/StudentEngagement/FSL
Meet new people in the residence hall?
Residence Life, Housing and Dining Services provides opportunities for students to get involved with others living on campus. Encourage your student to join the Residence Hall Association or their building’s hall council. They can be involved in creating events, engaging in leadership development and influencing their residential community. ResLife.MissouriState.edu
Fight food insecurity?
The Bear Pantry, located in Plaster Student Union, is an on-campus resource for students of the Missouri State community who may be facing food insecurity. Members can access food and hygiene items, as well as connections to other basic-needs resources on and off campus. MissouriState.edu/B earPantry
Make a difference in the community?
Missouri State is a campus that is devoted to developing ethical leaders, whether it be on campus, in neighborhoods or globally. The Center for Community Engagement offers programs and resources that help students discover passions, talents and leadership skills. It gives them the opportunity to work with their communities to create positive change. MissouriState.edu/CCE
Learn more about choosing a career?
Encourage your student to visit the Career Center. It offers career assessments, career counseling, job search coaching, résumé critiques, practice interviews and career fairs. Internships and full-time professional employment opportunities are posted on Handshake, the online career management system. CareerCenter.MissouriState.edu
Consider an accelerated master’s degree?
Your student is just beginning their higher education journey, but did you know that many departments offer an accelerated master’s degree? Qualified students can start taking graduate-level courses while working on their undergraduate degree (during their junior or senior year). Your student can ask their advisor if this option is available in their area of study. G raduate.MissouriState.edu/ FutureStudents/Accelerated.htm .
Play esports?
The Plaster Student Union is host to Missouri State’s scholarship esports program. Competing in the Missouri Valley Conference esports league, selected students are awarded a $1500 annually renewable scholarship to represent the university in Rocket League, Overwatch 2 and Super Smash Brothers Ultimate. The university also has a club team competing in a variety of titles and competition levels. MissouriState.edu/Esports
Learn more about their dining plan?
Students select their dining plan as part of their housing contract. Plans can be viewed and changed through the housing contract until early August. After this time, changes can be made through My Missouri State from the “Dining Services” card. This is also where you can check balances for dining dollars or weekly meal swipe balances. Meal plans can be upgraded at any time. Decreases to meal plans may only be made through the third week of classes each semester. DineOnCampus.com/MissouriState.
CONVERSATION STARTERS FOR FAMILIES
Try these questions to get the conversation flowing with your student:
̙ What groups or organizations have you joined?
̙ If you haven’t joined one yet, have you found some that interest you?
̙ How are you managing your workload?
̙ What's your study schedule?
̙ What resources have been the most helpful to you and why?
ADVICE FROM CAMPUS EXPERTS
Good news — your student cannot make a wrong decision about a major. There may be better decisions than others but no wrong decisions. Encourage your student to meet with faculty, senior students and alumni who can help them make good decisions. Encourage your students to challenge themselves every day. The faculty at MSU will be there to help your student face their challenges.
– Dr. Tammy Jahnke
dean,
College of Natural and Applied Sciences
As your student embarks on this exciting journey of growth and learning, your support continues to be invaluable. We encourage you to gently guide them towards independence by empowering them to tackle challenges on their own. If they call home with a concern or problem, consider asking questions that help them think through potential solutions, rather than solving it for them. This approach will help them build confidence in their problem-solving abilities — a skill that will serve them well throughout life.
– Dr. Richard B. Williams president, Missouri State University
While it is tough to see them learn on their own, encourage them to make the call or send the email when they need resources instead of you doing it for them. They will know you care when you encourage them to advocate for themselves while standing next to them in the process.
– Dr. Andrea Weber
assistant
vice president – Student Affairs, dean of students
THERE’S NOTHING TO DO...
If your student tells you, “there’s nothing to do on campus,” remind them about the resources that were presented at SOAR. Suggest visiting the office of student engagement website to check out the events calendar and explore the many options: MissouriState.edu/StudentEngagement.
¨ Join the Student Alumni Association
The SAA is sponsored by the Missouri State University Alumni Association. The SAA is about getting involved with the university, developing leadership skills, connecting with alumni, building relationships, community service and much more. Alumni.MissouriState.edu/SAA .
¨ Explore Springfield
Springfield has all the conveniences of a large city, but the charm and familiarity of a small town. Here, students can explore great restaurants, a vibrant downtown and arts scene, and the natural beauty of the Ozarks. There are many free events and the park board has more than 100 miles of trails.
¨ Attend a professor’s office hours
Getting to know professors is one of the most beneficial things a student can do at Missouri State. Stopping by the professor’s office hours is a great way to make the connection.
¨ Attend an athletic event
Bears sporting events are fun for everyone! Show off your school spirit and cheer on the Bears all year long. With 19 NCAA Division I athletic teams at MSU, there’s something for everyone. Find schedules for all teams: MissouriStateBears.com .
Follow us on social media: @MissouriStBears
Download our app: MSU Bears
¨ Meet with an Involvement Ambassador
To get advice on getting involved, meet with an Involvement Ambassador in the office of student engagement. They are valuable for questions, resources, and other advice. Each ambassador is heavily involved with student organizations on campus and are experts at what they do. MissouriState.edu/Involvement
To document their first and last day of college, students take a photo with the large Bear statue, located in front of the Plaster Student Union.
MISSOURI STATE TRADITIONS
Traditions Council
Traditions Council plans events across campus and allows students to learn more about our long-running favorite events. More information: MissouriState.edu/TraditionsCouncil
Take a photo with Boomer
Every student needs a photo with our favorite bear, Boomer! Catch him at an athletics event or one of the many activities on campus.
Attend a student concert
Missouri State has a variety of student musical groups including the orchestra, jazz band, choral and several acapella groups. Most of these groups host at least one concert per year. By attending concerts, students can see a great show while supporting their peers.
Attend SAC’s Headphone Disco
Headphone Disco is an event put on by the Student Activities Council during Homecoming each year. After the Homecoming activities during the day, go to Headphone Disco to keep the fun going in the evening.
Attend May Day
The last Wednesday of classes is one of the biggest parties on campus. Student Activities Council takes over the Plaster Student Union and North Mall to celebrate the end of the academic year. Participate in the oldest traditions on campus by jumping on some inflatables or checking out some of the games, food, and other activities.
ASK A BEAR
If you could design a workshop or event for incoming students based on your experiences, what would it focus on?
If I could design a workshop for incoming students at Missouri State, it would focus on helping students explore their interests and passions in college. One of the biggest challenges for new students is discovering how to align their personal interests with the opportunities on campus. This workshop would guide students through a series of activities to help them identify what excites them, from academic interests to hobbies and causes they care about. When students find activities that align with their interests, they are more likely to stay engaged, motivated and connected throughout their college experience. This sense of belonging can lead to stronger friendships, better academic performance and greater overall satisfaction. Early involvement builds confidence and encourages students to take advantage of opportunities they might otherwise overlook.
— Abby Dunker, junior
Can you share a specific moment during your freshman year that shaped your college experience?
The first time I spoke up in one of my classes truly shaped my college experience. I was so nervous to speak, feeling like my voice wouldn’t be heard. For the longest time, I worried that maybe college wasn’t meant for me. When I finally decided to share my thoughts, I received so many compliments and positive feedback from my classmates and professor. That moment reassured me that I belonged here. It made me realize that college truly is for everyone and that we shouldn’t be afraid to be ourselves and share our voices. Everyone here is happy to support you and help you make your Missouri Statement!
— Walter Reyes, junior
How did your perspective on time management change from high school to college, and what strategies did you adopt?
In high school, my biggest priorities were to attend class and do my homework. In college, I now have to attend class, do homework, manage a team of students in my organization, meet with my advisors and administrators on campus, work at my on-campus job, pay bills, get gas, make food and, of course, take care of my cat. I am very fortunate to have a strong family and support system, but I had to adopt some strategies to keep myself afloat. Over the years, I have learned to say no to things. My motto is quality over quantity. Yes, you can join as many clubs as you want, or you can take 18 credit hours, but what are you gaining from stretching yourself thin? I have minimized my involvement to one or two organizations and only take 13-15 credit hours each semester. I can now invest more in fewer things, and the experiences are more meaningful.
— Collin Chastain, senior
What
unexpected opportunities or experiences did you discover at Missouri State that you wish you had known about earlier?
In high school, I was a maximalist when it came to my schedule. I took the hardest classes available to me and packed my after-school schedule with extracurriculars. When I came to college, I had that same mindset. I quickly found out that if I continued to manage my time the way I did in high school, I would burn out quickly. It is important to recognize just how different college is — classes are harder, you may be working a job and time to spend with friends becomes so valuable. I'm a big proponent for getting involved, but it's important that those activities refill your cup, not drain it.
I also set aside time to do homework and found a place that was conducive to my work. I recommend keeping an updated calendar, whether on a physical planner or through Outlook. It is so important to remember to take some time for yourself as a reward for getting work done, too!
— Susan Hardy, senior
KEY CONTACTS
DEPARTMENT NAME
Academic Advising and Transfer Center 417-836-5258
Athletics 417-836-5244
Bookstore 417-836-5403
Campus Directory Assistance 417-836-5000
Campus Recreation 417-836-5334
Career Center 417-836-5636
Center for Academic Success and Transition & First-Year Programs 417-836-8343
Center for Community Engagement 417-836-5774
Counseling Center 417-836-5116
Dean of Students 417-836-5527
Dining Services 417-836-5660
Disability Resource Center 417-836-4192
Education Abroad 417-836-6368
Family Association 417-836-3060
Financial Aid 417-836-5262
Magers Health and Wellness Center 417-836-4000
Office of Student Engagement 417-836-4386
Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs 417-836-5526
Orientation and Transition Programs 417-836-7641
Parking and Transportation 417-836-4825
Partners in Education (PIE) 417-836-8346
Plaster Student Union Info Desk 417-836-5885
Police Substation 417-836-5509
Residence Life, Housing and Dining Services 417-836-5536
ROTC 417-836-5793
Student Conduct 417-836-6937
Student Employment 417-836-5627
Student Government Association 417-836-5500
Student Support and Opportunity Services 417-836-8921
University Safety 417-836-5509
Veteran Student Center 417-836-6199