Graduation 2015

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The Standard

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4 Humans of MSU Students advise their freshmen selves 6 Acing the interview Rattled by resumes? Concerned by cover letters? Our advice here

16 DIY grad gifts Anyone can buy a gift — why not make one for the grad in your life?

17 Grad fashion Make sure clothes are the last thing you’re worried about when you walk

8 Is grad school worth it?

No, not the restaurant — are four more years of school a good call? 18 Making new friends If you’re going to be in a new city, 12 To GRE or not to GRE you’ll want some new friends as If you’re on your way to grad well school, do you need the GRE? 19 Julian Burton looks forward 13 Expand your network MSU Bears player considers his Advice from the Career Center on possible futures as he graduates networking 20 Editorial farewells 14 Job etiquette Editor-in-Chief Trevor Mitchell No matter how qualified you are, says goodbye to The Standard you need to act the part. Here’s how 21 Editorial farewells News Editor Rose Marthis gives 15 Student ID hacks her thanks as she graduates Your loans are paid off — now you need to save some money 22 Keeping in touch with Bears around town You’ve made friends in your time at MSU — how do you keep in 15 Student loans touch after graduation?

How do you successfully pay off your student loans?

Standard staff Editorial staff Bart Anders reporter Keenan Andrea columnist Elizabeth Armbrecht copy editor

Taylor Balleau copy editor/columnist Theresa Brickman copy chief Rebecca Biundo reporter Sofia Caito reporter Maddy Cushman photographer Nicholas Deckard photo editor Callie Dunaway reporter Zachary Fletcher reporter/photographer Andrea Koenemann distributor Rose Marthis news editor Spencer Martin columnist Trevor Mitchell editor-in-chief

Cover design by Brooke Partridge

Advertising staff Brandi Frye sales Holly Johnson sales Nick McConnell sales Brooke Partridge design Zach LaMarre design Emily Dilley office assistant

Taylor Mize distributor Nicole Roberts reporter John Robinson reporter Brittanie Schuette distributor Kayla Seabaugh copy editor Peyson Shields life editor Mike Ursery sports editor Eli Wohlenhaus digital editor Professional staff Jack Dimond faculty adviser Sandy King ad manager

Graduation 2015

This is a publication of Missouri State University’s student-produced newspaper, The Standard. The university has not approved and is not responsible for its content, which is produced and edited by The Standard staff.

The Standard 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897 417-836-5272 Standard@MissouriState.edu

Dear my freshman self: 4 | Graduation 2015

The Standard

Compiled by Callie Dunaway The Standard @Callie_Dunaway

MSU students give advice to their younger selves The idea for Humans of Missouri State was sparked by Humans of New York, a photoblog started by Brandon Stanton in 2010. Essentially, Stanton goes around to random people on the streets of New York, takes a candid picture of them and posts a short excerpt of some sort. The blog has gained lots of attention in recent years. Photographer Maddy Cushman and I walked around campus one afternoon, going up to random people and asking them if they were seniors. We then asked “If you could say something to your freshman self, what it would be?”

Photos by Maddy Cushman/THE STANDARD

“You will not like Missouri State at first, and that’s okay because it will turn into one of the best opportunities of your life. So hang in there for a year, and you’re going to be fine.”

—Lydia Welker, professional writing

“Pay attention to the little things, and time goes by quickly, so really stop and enjoy your time while you’re here.”

—Brian Schwabauer, electronic arts and video studies

“Have fun. It’s the college experience. But don’t let the fun distract from the work and the real reason why you’re here.”

“Make sure you go to class and wake up on time.”

—Jermaine Hill, communication

—Jordan Ousley, electronic arts and video studies

“Just do it. I kind of let a lot of small things keep me “Enjoy college life because it’s better from doing some pretty cool things and once I did it, I than you think. It passes fast.” don’t really know why it took me so long. College has —Renata Sander, exercise and been full of pleasant surprises ever since, so just do it.” movement science —Katelyn Laubaugh, anthropology

“I would say to definitely enjoy the next four years because, by the end, even though you think you wanna get out of school, you’ll be wishing you were still here.”

—Natalie Wilson, biology

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The Standard

Cover letters? Resumes?

We’ve got it covered

By Nicole Roberts The Standard @NReneeRoberts

Writing resumes and cover letters can be stressful, and it gets even more stressful when you get that interview for your dream job.

The Career Center understands this and has tips on how to write good resumes and cover letters and how to do well in job interviews.

Resumes are super important because they provide employers with information about you and your skills. Your resume should be tailored to each job you apply to.

There are multiple sections in a resume.

The first section includes your full name, street address, phone number and email address. The second section will contain information about your education, including your degree title, major and minor, university name, graduation year or expected graduation date and GPA. The rest of the sections can vary from person to person. These sections can be about your accomplishments, awards, community service, leadership experience and more. It is recommended that a resume be only one to two pages, so it is important to pick and choose sections that would best show off your achievements and skills.

There are some dos and don’ts when it comes to creating your resume.

Resumes

• Always use the spelling and grammar check and have friends look at it.

• Prioritize your resume so the top part of the resume focuses on your goals, why you are going to school and the job you are applying for.

• Use keywords that are tailored to the specific job position.

• Use consistent formatting.

Dos

In some jobs, cover letters are required along with the resume. In a cover letter, you can express your interest and the skills you have that would be appropriate for that specific job.

The cover letter should only be one page.

In the first paragraph, it is recommended you say which position you are interested in, why you are interested and why you would be a good candidate for this position. In the second paragraph, you should discuss your skills that would match the job’s qualifications. The third paragraph should re-emphasize your interest in the job and ask for an interview.

The Career Center offered several tips for writing cover letters: • Avoid using general phrases such as “To Whom it May Concern.”

• Do not put personal information in the letter.

• Be specific about your interests, passions and skills.

• Use examples when describing your skills.

Cover letters

It is common to be nervous about job interviews. The Career Center offered several tips for interviewing for a job.

• Emphasize your skill sets and level of interest in the job.

• Dress and act professionally.

• Practice a 30-second commercial pitch in order to respond to “Tell me about yourself.”

• Prepare ahead of time by knowing the names of the people in the interview and researching the employer.

• Do mock interviews with friends, family or the Career Center.

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer.

• Bring extra resumes and a portfolio of your accomplishments and references.

Job interviews

After the interview, it is important to send a personalized “thank you” note to each perDon’ts son in the interview. If a reasonable amount • Do not include information that is irrele- of time has passed and you still have not vant to the job position: disabilities, gender, heard from the employers, politely call or sexual orientation, religion, salary require- email them to ask about their decision on the ments, social security number and so on. position.

• Avoid using generic resume templates.

•Do not put references on your resume The Career Center is open Monday because those will be on a different docu- through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students ment. and alumni can set up appointments to speak • Do not overuse graphics and colors. with someone from the Career Center if they have questions about resumes, cover letters or job interviews.

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The Standard

Grad school vs. real world: Is grad school worth it?

By Sofia Caito The Standard @SofiaCaito

These students give their opinion and can help decide what is best for you.

Emma Rapp is currently studying student affairs in higher education. She chose grad school because, when looking at future job positions that she was interested in, the majority were in the higher education field.

“I knew that with only a bachelor’s degree I would not be able to obtain a position I would be happiest in unless I gained more experience, not only in the classroom, but also in the area of hands-on experience as well,” Rapp said.

Her dream job is to work her way up to being a dean of students at a university similar in size to Missouri State.

“Many positions in student affairs require a master’s degree, and some higher-level positions prefer a doctorate degree,” Rapp said. “With my goal in mind, I am sure I will need to continue schooling beyond a master’s degree once I have been in the workforce for a while.”

Her program at Missouri State allows her to be a graduate assistant where she can work during the day in the field and take classes in the

Grad students

evening. Rapp said she has been able to meet many different figures at Missouri State that have given her priceless advice she will use for the rest of her career.

Ryan Gilyard is studying communication with an emphasis in public and media relations.

He chose to go to grad school for two reasons. He was offered a graduate assistantship with the Alumni Center, which helps pay for his graduate degree. He also decided to continue his education to make himself more marketable in the workforce by giving himself two extra years to complete internships, all the while obtaining an additional degree.

His dream job is to work as a producer for a nationally televised program, preferably a talk show. He believes that continuing his education will help him stand out when he applies for entry-level positions in production.

“In my opinion, grad school isn’t the best option for everyone,” Gilyard said. “I do think it is great for people who want to continue their education. The classes are smaller and more focused, so it makes studying what you love a lot more fun. However, grad school takes a lot of focus and dedication. If a student doesn’t have this, I don't think it’s the best option for them.”

Andrew Pedersen is also pursuing his master’s in communication with an emphasis in public relations. He saw grad school as an

opportunity to refine his skills professionally while looking into what he wants to do in his future profession.

Pedersen did his undergrad at North Dakota State University and is now working for Missouri State Athletics Communications.

His dream job is to work as the main contact for athletics at a Division I university. He thinks that graduate school will help him reach this goal.

“It gave me a glimpse into how an athletic department operates,” Pedersen said. “Grad school was a good decision for me because it helped me refine some of the things I needed to know in the profession.”

Asher Allman is pursuing his master’s in global studies with an emphasis on national security and international relations. He is also completing a graduate certificate in homeland security and defense.

“Grad school was the way to gain a more holistic understanding of geopolitics and really be qualified for real-world work in the national security sphere,” Allman said.

Allman’s dream jobs range from CIA analyst to defense industry lobbyist.

“The advanced classes increase my knowledge of various related content areas and hone my critical thinking skills,” Allman said. “Accumulating term papers also leads to

greater understanding and the possibility to be published.”

In addition, he has political connections here in Springfield that he wanted to strengthen by living and studying here for two more years.

Johnathan Saunders is a public administration master’s student with an emphasis on public policy. In addition, he is in the graduate certificate program for conflict and dispute resolution. He chose to go to graduate school because he wanted to enhance his capabilities for higher management, as well as his love for knowledge.

His dream job would be secretary of state.

“Realistically speaking, I would love to be a legislator of some sort,” Saunders said.

“Graduate school challenges you in new ways. Your professional development soars to new heights and enables you to master your discipline.”

Kevin Sikes is a student affairs in higher education master’s student. This degree will help him enter the career path of working with college students in order to promote their success and holistic development in college.

u See GRAD, page 10

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Grad

Continued from page 8

“I chose to go to grad school because I was not as excited about entering the secondary teaching profession as I thought I would be after finishing my student teaching in undergrad,” Sikes said. “This graduate program was an excellent opportunity to apply my knowledge and experience in education and apply to a vibrant college campus setting, an environment that I feel more inspired to work in.”

He hopes to be a dean of students, a vice president for student affairs and maybe even the president of a university someday.

“I would love waking up in the morning to go work in any of these positions, knowing I have the opportunity to promote student success through creative approaches that can only be accomplished by dedicated higher (education) professionals,” Sikes said.

Jordan Coiner is an MSU alumnus who graduated last semester as a biology major with a minor in chemistry. He did not go to grad school but now has a job working for the Springfield Greene-County Health Department.

“This isn’t the first thing I would have guessed I would be doing,” Coiner said.

However, he is very satisfied with his job. He said the area he works in keeps him on his toes by allowing him to do new things each day. The job also gives him the flexibility to find a need in the community and look for ways to help.

“The pay is good for just graduating and the benefits are great,” Coiner said.

Coiner said he decided to wait to go to graduate school.

“I didn’t necessarily want to continue with school without knowing where I was going,” Coiner said.

He said there is a good chance he will get his master’s degree in the future in order to allow himself the opportunity to advance further in his career. His dream job would be something that helps people in some way.

“The job itself isn’t what really matters,” Coiner said. “I think it’s finding a place to work that you can live out your passion, and I am able to do that with my job now. I guess you could say I am living my dream.”

Sarah Ridenhour graduated from Missouri State with a degree in public relations and business. She is currently an executive team leader of human resources for Target. She said this is not what she imagined herself doing at all.

“Managing 156 people is challenging and has made me grow into a better leader,” Ridenhour said. “Taking care of my team is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.”

Ridenhour said the culture at her job is great among the executives. She said she originally imagined herself going to grad school but believes she wouldn’t be where she is now, even if she would have gone.

“It’s something I may do later on, but for now, I’m enjoying my job and working hard to

Non-grad school/real-world students

The Standard

be the best I can be,” Ridenhour said.

Carl Glenn got his BFA in musical theatre from Missouri State. He is currently living in New York City and is auditioning for different professional theaters as they hold auditions.

“This summer, I will be a performer at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This is right along the path that I want to be for being a professional actor,” Glenn said. “At this point, just being settled, happy and making connections in NYC is an accomplishment, and I’m having a great time.”

He said he chose not to go to grad school straight out of his undergrad for a couple of reasons. First, he wanted to try his hand at the professional world.

“In theater, grad school is not a necessity for furthering yourself in your field,” Glenn said.

“Of course there is tons of knowledge out there that grad school helps with, but, considering even an undergraduate degree isn’t needed, grad school is only extra.”

Glenn said he does plan to go to graduate school at some point because he would like to be a theater professor, and, for that, grad school is essential.

Addison Rowlett graduated from Missouri State with a degree in public relations and a minor in general business. She currently works for Maritz Travel Company in St. Louis. Maritz Travel Company produces corporate events and incentive travel for a wide variety of companies across the world. She graduated in December of 2013 and was hired as a temporary employee in April 2013 to work on a six-month-long project.

“At the completion of the project, I was hired on as a full-time travel consultant,” Rowlett said.

“With this position, I am responsible for creating travel arrangements for guests that are attending events for their company.”

Although this is not what she initially imagined herself doing, it led to her dream job.

“Starting in May, I will be transitioning into the role of travel director, where I will travel to programs that we produce to coordinate everything that happens on-site,” she said. “I will be traveling all around the world — about 300 days a year.”

Rowlett said she is satisfied with her current job.

“I knew that my role of a travel consultant would not satisfy me for long, so I immediately started networking within the company,” Rowlett said. “I sought out a mentor who helped me set up meet-and-greets with managers in different areas of the company; this is what ultimately led me to my promotion to a travel director.”

Rowlett decided not to pursue grad school right after graduating because she was ready for a break from school.

“Grad school is something that I can see myself eventually pursuing,” Rowlett said.

“However, I knew that I would not have been as excited about it had I gone straight into it following graduation from my undergrad. I am at a point in my life where I am ready to learn from experiencing my career in the real world, not just in the classroom.”

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Is the GRE right for me?

By Emily McTavish The Standard @EmMcT

The Graduate Record Exam can be the gateway for many to be accepted into a graduate program. However, is taking the GRE really necessary?

If you were to apply to one of the 80 graduate programs at Missouri State, odds are that you will need to take the exam.

Tara Simmons, a graduate student in the Communication Sciences and Disorder Department, needed to take the test in order to be accepted into the program at Missouri State.

Simmons’ advice is to reach out to someone in the department you are applying to.

“Don’t be afraid to make a phone call or email to see what kind of scores you need to achieve,” Simmons said.

Simmons said she spent three to four hours a week the summer before her senior year of undergrad preparing for the GRE. “I ended up taking the GRE in August, right before I started my senior year, and luckily, since I had kind of broken it up across the whole summer, it turned out well,” Simmons said. “I got the score I wanted to achieve on the first time.”

The General GRE is broken into three sections: verbal, quantitative reasoning and analytic writing. The verbal and quantitative scores are on a 130-170 scale, and the writing section is scored on a zero to six scale.

The GRE is offered many times during the year and costs $195 to take.

Some programs have more specific requirements. The clinical psychology graduate program recommends having a verbal score of 151 or higher, a quantitative score of 142 or higher and a writing score of 3.5 or higher.

However, being accepted into graduate school is not totally based on test scores.

“You don’t want to use them as a sole indicator of a student’s ability,” Tom Tomasi, the associate dean of the Graduate College, said.

Tomasi, who took the GRE years ago, said his advice for students is to be familiar with the exam and take practice tests.

“It’s like building your endurance as an athlete,” Tomasi said.

Tomasi also recommended checking each program’s requirements for admission because more than test scores and transcripts need to be submitted. Some graduate programs require additional documents, such as letters of recommendation, personal statements or writing samples.

Tomasi said going to graduate school can potentially mean an increased salary. According to data from the United States Census Bureau released in October 2012, a person who earned a master’s degree in business could earn about $1 million more in a lifetime than someone who just had a bachelor’s degree in business.

Simmons said she has enjoyed continuing her education at Missouri State because of the hands-on experiences in her program and the one-onone attention from professors.

For anyone looking to apply to a graduate program at Missouri State, the school code for sending test scores is 6665. The GRE lets you send scores to four schools for free.

More information regarding the GRE can be found at www.ets.org/gre.

The Standard

Study Tips Give yourself the best chance to do well on the GRE with these tips.

• Start studying early.

• Take the free practice exams online.

• Time yourself.

• Be able to mentally compute simple math.

• Take your time on the day of the test.

• Consider taking a GRE prep course.

• Consider buying study books.

• Sign up for the question-a-day email.

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Expanding your network

The Career Center shares tips on how to be an expert mingler

By Callie Dunaway The Standard @Callie_Dunaway

According to Jill Wiggins, the director TS: How do you get involved within of the Career Cendifferent networking groups? ter at Missouri J.W.: You need to identify the State Uniorganization that will best meet your versity, needs. Find something that aligns networkwith your career goals. Is it a proing is fessional organization? You have more to be comfortable and understand than just your time is valuable. It’s trying to meeting find people within that organization people; it’s that can bring you in and finding about the peoways to make it more comfortable for ple you are in you. Getting involved with the Chamcontact with. I had a ber of Commerce is always a good conversation with Wiggins place to start. about networking, and this is what she had to say: TS: How do you utilize those groups?

J.W.: I think the number one thing is to The Standard: What skills make introductions and break the ice. I can qualify a good networker? introduce people who are looking for an Jill Wiggins: I think someone internship and help. I think that’s a nice who does networking well looks at way, and, as a student, you can learn so every opportunity and treats every much from professionals, and they can interaction with people as a way to give you inside information. Generally, if figure out their passion and utilize you have some connection and Missouri other people within their network. I State alumni have a connection, they want love working in career services to help. If you find a common thread, peobecause of that. I think people who are ple generally like to help others. We expect really good at networking realize it’s we will pay it forward. not about them — it’s about who they are in contact with and asking openTS: How does networking advance you ended questions. It’s about getting the in your career and life? individual to talk and open up. It’s a skill J.W.: I guess from a personal standand very intimidating, but break it down point — by developing a professional neta little bit, and it becomes fun. work and advancing in your career — people within your network will reach out to TS: Cons to networking? you when they hear of other opportunities.

J.W.: I think it’s approaching it for People will say, “Do you know anythe wrong reasons and burning bridges. one who might be qualified for this If you reach out to someone asking for position?” This is the their assistance or connecting with somelifeblood of what I do. one and you don’t follow through, that’s when it’s bad. We really put our reputations on the line.

J.W: The list is endless. For me, networking happens on a daily basis and it’s what helps me get my job done. It’s everything. If you’re the job seeker, networking is the number one way to find a job. It’s just the exciting part of life and being able to connect and help them achieve their ultimate goals.

TS: Pros to networking?

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The Standard

Kill them with kindness How being courteous can land you your dream job

By Callie Dunaway The Standard @Callie_Dunaway

Upon entering the career world, there are a lot of do’s and don’ts. Jill Wiggins, the director of the Career Center at Missouri State University, has a background in human resources and a lot of experience with job etiquette.

When accepting a position, it is important to respond appropriately, according to how the offer is made. Wiggins said a lot of times, it will initially be made by phone, but having it in writing is better.

“If they make an offer to you, it is acceptable to ask for time to consider the offer,” Wiggins said. “Clarify when you plan on getting back to them.”

Along with accepting a position, it is important to properly decline a position.

Wiggins believes you should do it the same way.

“You want to thank the employer for the opportunity and how much you appreciated the process, but let them know you are declining the offer,” Wiggins said. “You don’t have to give specific reasons.”

Another good tip for people entering the workforce is how to handle not being offered the position properly.

“You handle it with tact and thank them for the opportunity,” Wiggins said. “If you want, you can ask them to let you know if anything opens up (and) to consider you in the future.”

Erica Cain, a senior elementary education major, has a background of being in pageants and being interviewed. While applying for teaching jobs, Cain has gained a lot of firsthand experience with job interviews.

“Whenever I heard back from someone that I hadn’t gotten the job, I always thanked them for the opportunity but asked for feedback to take with me moving forward,” Cain said. “If you’re genuine about it, people will typically want to help you.”

Wiggins said occasionally, recent college graduates will have room to negotiate a salary.

“Handle it tactfully and be able to justify why you think you deserve more,” Wiggins said. “Back it up with research, including the knowledge and skills that you are bringing to the organization.”

“Thank you” notes can be a large factor when it comes to applying for a job, according to Wiggins.

“The biggest mistake people make if you are just talking about general courtesy is not sending a ‘thank you’ note,” Wiggins said.

It is critical in the interview process.

“It could literally make or break the deal,” she said. “Another common mistake people make is not treating everyone in the process with respect.”

That includes the front line and everyone involved in the process.

“Treat administrative assistants and receptionists respectfully because that is a reflection of how you carry yourself,” she said.

Top tips to stay nice Job-hunting etiquette Information courtesty of quintcareers.com

• Be polite.

• Dress for the occasion.

• Learn to listen.

• Be upbeat.

• Communicate. Communicate.

Communicate.

• Avoid interruptions.

• Eat and drink well.

Interview etiquette.

Information courtesty of Hcarreers.com

• • • • •

Be punctual.

Turn off your cell phone.

Don’t be too serious.

Be prepared.

Say “thank you.”

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Student discounts after graduation

For The Standard

There’s no shortage of places around Ann Taylor: 15 percent Springfield that will give you a discount The Limited: 15 percent for being a student ... not that they necesBanana Republic: 15 percent sarily need to know when you were a stuChipotle: Free drink with purchase of a dent. meal If you keep your BearPass card around Subway: 10 percent after you walk across the stage at graduaBurger King: 10 percent tion, you’ll probably still be able to save Waffle House: 10 percent some money at businesses listed to the Chick-Fil-A: Free drink with purchase right.

Arby’s: 10 percent All information is from giftcardMcDonalds: 10 percent granny.com. Discounts are given if a valid Buffalo Wild Wings: 10 percent college student ID is shown.

Jiffy Lube: $10 off or 10 percent

Congratulations! Now pay up

By Lacey Curtis For The Standard

With graduation right around the corner for some, it is time to start thinking about paying off student loans. It can seem like a daunting task at first, but it is always important to start the process as soon as possible.

More often than not, students graduate from college with loans and are not quite sure where to start in terms of paying them off.

“So, I’m already in student loan debt, but it’s not quite real because I make small payments every month. I took a semester off and started getting $250-$400 payments.

That's terrifying! The even scarier thing is, I know those will start again once I graduate,” Heather Faires, a graduate psychology and gerontology major, said Faires is not the only one in this situation. Luckily, the financial aid services at Missouri State University have some advice for any seniors that might be panicking about how they are going to begin this

process. One of the simplest ways to begin is to thoroughly read all the information given, and stay in contact with your loan provider.

“Sometimes even one missed payment or form can undo years of compliance with very narrow repayment terms,” financial counselor, Stephen Garman, said. “Set up an online account with your provider, use automatic debit to save on interest and check your account every month before your payment is due.”

Garman also had tips on repayment options.

“Many students simply don’t pursue flexible payment plans because they don’t know about them or can’t be bothered to follow through with the paperwork,” Garman said. “The government can be surprisingly flexible with repayments, but you have to start that process.”

There is still hope for all of those graduating in just under a month. Make a payment plan, talk to financial aid counselors and pay off your loans in no time at all.

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The Standard

It’s the craft that counts

DIY gifts can be great for your graduating friends

Grad Cap Mason Jar With some colored paper and string, a mason jar can be turned into a cute graduation themed jar.

Fill with your friends’ favorite candy. We’ve chosen gummy bears to show school spirit — but maroon and white M&Ms would also be an excellent choice.

By Rebecca Biundo The Standard @rebeccabiundo

With graduation quickly approaching, party invites are filling up your schedule but your wallet is feeling the strain. While it’s not required to bring gifts to graduation parties, these are the people you’ve spent your college days with and showing up empty-handed isn’t ideal.

However, it can be thoughtful to make your own graduation gifts that are personalized for anyone. Here are some easy ideas that won’t break the bank for the favorite grads in your life.

After surviving for four years on ramen and Easy Mac, there’s a good chance graduates may not have the best repertoire of meals, and a handmade recipe book can provide that.

Recipe Book

Decorate a journal and leave a note on the first page. Avoid getting tears on the paper.

Journal to BFFs

Take it old school and make a CD full of songs that remind you of the past four years.

A feel-good playlist of college memories.

Mix CD

Take your friend’s favorite candy bar and wrap it with white paper. Tie red yarn around it. This cute favor is a great way to tell someone you are thinking of them during graduation.

Candy bar diplomas

This set of pre-written letters is an excellent way to say goodbye to your bestie. Each envelope is for a different mood and is filled with words of encouragement as graduates transition into the real world.

‘Open when…’ envelopes

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Don’t stress about what to wear on graduation You’ve known the date for graduation since when? You were born? This isn’t an on-a-whim event. Use this to your advantage. Figure out what the weather is going to be like and go from there. Will it be 70 degrees and sunny? Sleeveless it is. The next ice age? Your L. L. Bean parka will look just as fab.

1. Plan

Peyson Shields Life Editor

@peysonrose

Whew! You made it. Congrats, kid. You’re finally an adult.

Now you’ve got to seal the deal and strut across that stage.

Oh, and try not to trip.

Graduation is an exciting event. You’ve worked your whole life to wear that cap and that super figure-flattering gown and wave to the audience like you’re a prince or princess. Even though there were probably tons of questions related to graduation up until the actual date, one question might be the most important of all: What am I going to wear?

If you’re like me, deciding on an outfit is tougher than nails. When my friends are having difficulty choosing their outfits they call it a Total Peyson Moment; that time where you’re about to walk out the door and you doubt every stitch of clothing you have tucked around your body.

Here are some tips to avoid the Total Peyson Moment, especially before graduation.

Your friends have closets for a reason — raid them.

Chances are, if you have a similar body type as a friend, their clothes will also flatter you. If borrowing isn’t your thing, check out the local boutiques. Smaller stores often offer more unique items to help narrow down your search.

2. Shop, shop, shop, shop around

This is YOUR graduation day. It’s all about you. Choose an outfit that represents who you are, because if you’re comfortable, you’ll rock it.

Best boutiques in the 417 Local shops can offer unique clothing options: • The Uptown Boutique 1326 E. Battlefield Road • Envy 323 E. Walnut St.

3. Be yourself

• Modern Society 2652 S. Glenstone Ave.

This is advice I need to use myself: Don’t stress. Going out into the real world is stressful enough. Why let the decision over teal or lavender be your downfall? But hey, “stressed” spelled backwards is “desserts,” so you can always treat yourself after successfully dressing yourself.

Shopping second hand?

• Uptown Cheapskate 1724 E. Battlefield Road

4. Breathe

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every week with people who share your interests. If pottery and Zumba don’t strike your fancy, try joining a club, community sports team, political/religious group or volunteer organization. You might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but it will encourage you to interact with other people and to do something fun, and potentially informative, in the process.

You don’t have to meticulously plan out everything you do, but putting yourself in the same place at the same time on a regular basis will help you to form relationships with people you may not have thought twice about otherwise. If you make a habit of stopping by your favorite coffee shop every Thursday or walking your dog at the park each morning, other regulars will start to recognize you and initiate conversations. With a little time and effort, these sorts of casual interactions can blossom into full-fledged friendships.

2. Form a public routine

Despite what your parents told you, sometimes it’s all right to talk to people you don’t know. All friends begin as strangers, and the process has to start somewhere. Compliment someone’s shirt in the elevator. Ask questions when you see something unusual happening in public. Greet your neighbors when you see them. Obviously these encounters won’t always end in lifelong friendships, and you should be respectful of others’ privacy and comfort, but in general, you’ll find that it’s more rewarding to engage the people around you than to pretend they don’t exist.

3. Talk to strangers

Turning strangers in a new city into friends in your new home Maddy Cushman/THE STANDARD

By Zachary Fletcher The Standard @ZachSFletcher

How often have you told someone “We should do something sometime,” and then you never followed through with it? Next time an acquaintance brings up a potential hangout plan, try to pursue the subject and figure out some specifics. They may be startled by your directness, but if they’re serious about spending time together, they’ll appreciate your genuine display of interest. Life is a lot more exciting when you actually do the things you talk about.

4. Make commitments and stick to them

Moving to a new city can be one of the most exciting and most terrifying experiences of postcollegiate life. For many graduates, the thrills of new scenery and opportunities are lessened by the 5. Remember that you’re not the only one Making new friends is a daunting task for anyone, and no one has it all figured out. You may feel sadness of leaving friends and family behind. Those old relationships will continue to be important, but luckily, there are plenty of new ones awaiting you as well — you just have to know where to like your social skills are lacking or that you spend too much time alone, but chances are, most of the people you meet have the same hang-ups you do. Keep in mind that human interactions are look. Here are five tips for finding friendship in an unfamiliar place. always a bit messy and that it’s natural to make mistakes or miss opportunities. Anyone worth being friends with will understand and appreciate your efforts for what they are.

1. Get involved in your community Taking a class may be a cliche way to make friends, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to spend time

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Hoping for a chance to play in the big leagues After following his passion for playing football to Missouri State, Julian Burton hopes to find his place in the NFL

By John Robinson The Standard @SaxmanJohn

Julian Burton is at a crossroads in life.

Ever since he was eight years old, Burton knew football was what he wanted to do in life. After a successful high school career, Burton accepted an athletic scholarship offer from Missouri State to join the Bears as a wide receiver.

With his career at Missouri State over Burton wants to take the next step; He has his eye on the NFL. Burton put up the numbers at MSU, finishing his career at fourth in all-time yardage with 1,942 yards and second in receptions with 146. Two serious clavicle injuries caused Burton to miss two years, but he said it is just another challenge to overcome, and, combined with his experiences at MSU, he’s positive being a Bear helps his chances.

“I learned a lot from my coaching staff, and the injuries gave me a chance to grow as

a football player and an individual,” Burton said.

As for what he thinks will help him stand out to NFL scouts, Burton said he has spent the offseason focusing on every aspect of his game — with a little more emphasis on speed.

“Teams really look at the numbers you put up at your Pro Day,” Burton said. “I had a good time on the (40-yard dash) at the MSU one and that really helped me stand out.”

His time on the 40-yard dash was 4.54 seconds, about .26 seconds slower than the fastest time at the scouting combine, run by J.J. Nelson of the University of AlabamaBirmingham. Nelson ran a 4.28.

The numbers on the field and at the dash were enough to catch the eye of some NFL scouts, and though it may not happen in the upcoming draft, Burton is hopeful a team will give him a chance. “(My agent and I) have had some pretty nice talks; the Bengals are interested,” Burton said. “I have a good shot at signing as a

priority-free agent.”

What will he do if no NFL team comes calling? He still wants to find a way onto a football field, even if it means going to a smaller stage.

“If I don’t make the NFL, I’ll probably try the Canadian Football League; I just want to keep playing football,” Burton said.

As for his degree — recreation, sport and park administration with a minor in sociology — Burton doesn’t see it as useless for when his time playing football runs out.

“I want to be a sports agent later on in life,” Burton said. “I’m going to get my master’s and try for law school. I can also see myself coaching but not at my age.”

For now, the dream is the NFL, and even though it won’t be easy, he is not discouraged.

“All I need is one opportunity to get onto a team and prove what I can do. It’s all I’m looking for,” Burton said.

Burton followed his passion to Missouri State, and now he’s hoping he’ll be able to find his place in the NFL.

Courtesy of Missouri State Athletic Communications

Julian Burton

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Graduating editors Trevor Mitchell Editor-in-chief @TJM613

I’ve been in this office — the one I’m sitting in as I write this — on some of the best days of my life and on some of the worst.

For two years, it’s been a comforting constant to know that, no matter what’s happening in my life, come Monday, I’ll be sitting here, working with some of the best people I know to make sure The Standard is ready for readers to pick it up the next day.

By the time you read this, that constant will have ended.

May 4 is the last production day that I will oversee as editor-in-chief of The Standard. It will mark exactly 60 Mondays

that I’ve spent working anywhere from nine to 15 hours so that The Standard is the best it can be.

Some of those Mondays have been long. Some of them have been stressful. There have been arguments and raised voices.

There have been just as many Mondays, if not more, that ended in jubilation and hugs.

When I started working at The Standard two years ago, I couldn’t possibly have imagined how much of my life it would change or how much it would shape who I’ve become throughout my college experience.

I’ve written about Aaron Carter and gate arms. I’ve interviewed most of Missouri State University’s administration, Brian Regan and skyped a man living in Vietnam. I’ve tried to write about issues people care about. Sometimes I got letters telling me I was writing about “first world problems.”

Sometimes I got on CNN. I’ve learned so much from so many people I would have never otherwise had the chance to speak to, and I’ve been able to pass on their stories to others.

And I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever had. (It’s hard to sit in a room with someone for 14 hours every week

and not like them at least a little bit.)

I will never forget what The Standard has meant to me, the opportunities it has provided me and the doors it has opened for me. But the times I’ve shared with my fellow editorial staff, our writers, our photographers and our copy editors are the things I’ll remember the most.

And thanks to you, readers. Writing for the people means nothing if there’s no one to read it.

While I will be gone next semester, The Standard will continue on with an editorial staff I am confident will be able to carry on the tradition of excellence I’ve been proud to be a part of.

I’ll be sticking around Springfield a little longer — I’ll be working as a cops and courts reporter for The Springfield News-Leader after graduation, so you can find my work there.

It will be a strange experience indeed to pick up a copy of The Standard on Aug. 18 and not recognize every page from countless hours of staring at them the day before.

But life is full of strange experiences, and I’m ready to move on to the next ones. It’s been a great ride, but everything must come to an end.

C’est la vie.

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say their farewells

By Rose Marthis The Standard @RoseMarthis

Dear Missouri State, Thank you. Thank you for all the memories and experiences.

Thank you to my Woods 2 girls from freshman year. For becoming my #squadforlife senior year. For showing me new ways of life so I could learn more than my hometown taught me. For not running away when I would come to your room uninvited just to

talk and steal food.

Thank you to my residents and fellow RAs sophomore year. For annoying me and making me question why I took the job. For making me lose hours of sleep I will never get back. For making me face the responsibility of leading a floor of 48 women and listening while I complained about the responsibility.

For making me grow up.

Thank you to my bros/roommates from junior year. For sharing the bond of living in a run down house. For never complaining when I took over the only bathroom. For co-hosting some awesome, unruly parties and sending everyone home when they needed it. For always having my back with a cold beer and an open ear after a long day.

Thank you to my professors, especially in the Media, Journalism and Film Department and English Department. For teaching me lessons for my degree and, more importantly, for

life. For setting examples of the professional I want to be. For pushing me toward every goal.

For reading the awful assignments I did last minute. For giving me second, third and fourth chances I didn’t deserve, and teaching me that my personal value can’t be measured

by GPA. Thank you to my fellow Standard staffers.

For publishing my first, terrible, introduction to news writing story that gave me the encouragement I needed. For giving me the opportunity to interview so many interesting people from every area of campus. For helping make every issue week after week and desperately trying to stay positive through 18-hour production days. For sitting through my ridiculous rants and my incessant need to be office DJ. For being the best journalists I’ve ever known and teaching me how to be better.

Thank you to The Standard readers and fellow Bears. For being the reason I devote so

much time to this newspaper. For letting me pry into personal lives and letting me tell stories that need to be heard. For challenging us to improve every week and for supporting this passion of ours while we write about yours.

Thank you to this campus and everyone I’ve interacted with on it for being home. For allowing me to screw up. For giving me countless opportunities that I will forever be grateful for. For creating this foundation that I will build the rest of my life on.

Thank you for reading this series of words that only barely describes my feelings about the last four years of my life that I wouldn’t change a second of.

You rock. Don’t ever change. Have a great summer.

Sincerely, Rozlin Mathis (you never got it right anyway)

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Keep in touch with friends

By Rebecca Biundo The Standard @rebeccabiundo

Graduating is scary. The future is scary.

The thought that you’re going to have to face that future without the people you’ve spent the last four years with — now that’s just terrifying.

Formals, tailgating and student jobs will eventually turn into weddings, baby-gating and real-world careers. Friends will move away and, as time goes on, you’ll see less and less of people.

Yeah, sure, there’s Facebook and Instagram and we can all live vicariously through each other’s updates. But that gets old. That gets old real fast. Night after night, we’re scrolling through memory lane as picture after picture pops up of our awkward freshman days. Bonus points if you’re simultaneously playing Vitamin C in the background.

But it’s not all bad. Reunions aren’t impossible. It’s going to be tricky to get the whole gang together again. School isn’t there to force you to see each other every day, but the friends who want to hang out, will find a way.

Effort is what keeps friends in touch.

You don’t have to be best friends. However, you have to want to keep them in order to still be friends in your 40s. Even if the only thing connecting your group is college memories, you’re still friends who know how to have a good time. Why should that go to waste?

Communication is a two-way street. If you want to hang out with someone you haven’t seen in awhile, text them. Thinking about how much fun a reunion dinner would be? Plan it. Life can get hectic, and assuming people don’t want to hang out can be wrong. You’ll look back and be glad you took initiative because friends really are forever.

Transitioning into the real world can be tough after submerging yourself in maroon, weekend parties and the community of Missouri State. It’s going to be different, but it’ll be exciting and new. While some people will inevitably fade out of your life, your friends will always be there Call them. Never underestimate the power of remembering your favorite MSU memories. Because sometimes the best memories don’t happen until after graduation.

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