“My experience at Missouri State-West Plains has helped me grow as a person.”

Why did you choose to attend Missouri State-West Plains?

It was closer to family, a smaller campus, provided more one-on-one interaction with teachers, and I had accepted the A+ Scholarship.

How would you describe your experience here?

My experience as Missouri State University-West Plains has been very beneficial. It’s helped me grow as a person. I am a Student Ambassador, and that program has helped me fine-tune my personal skills and public speaking skills. I’m not as nervous to start a random conversation with a stranger anymore. I’m also a student worker through the Corps of Opportunity program, and that has helped me learn more about the campus and become even more familiar with professors.

What has been your favorite thing about Missouri State-West Plains?

My favorite thing has been all of the friendly people. It is so incredibly easy to just say “Hi” to someone and start talking to them.

What has been your favorite course?

My favorite class has been Physical Geography with Dr. Rajiv Thakur. It’s not a class I would have expected to be my favorite, but it has helped me realize all of the global environmental issues we have every day.

How have faculty and staff helped you during your time at Missouri State-West Plains?

As a student worker in the advising and testing center, I encounter professors multiple times a day. They are always so friendly! During class, professors are always open to more discussions after class – even if it doesn’t pertain to their class!

How did you choose your major?

I knew I wanted a job where I could help children and would be truly beneficial. My mom has her master’s in counseling, and I always thought that was a nice occupation. My grandma was actually a social worker for quite a while, and I think it just fit for me and what I wanted to accomplish.

What have you learned from the advising office that will help you succeed in your education, career or life?

I am there 20 or so hours a week, so I get a lot of time with the people who work there, especially my boss, Becky Estes. She and many other people there have helped me realize that in order to succeed, you need to be a dedicated, hard working, organized and proactive. Working there has taught me a lot more than just good work skills.

What are your plans after graduation?

Register for more classes and work on getting my bachelor’s in social work.