Academic Program: Associate of Arts in General Education; Bachelor’s degree in Communications Sciences and Disorders

Hometown: West Plains, MO

“My dream is to open my own practice and focus my practice on young children. My even bigger dream is to start a program where I travel all over America and to other countries, helping children with their speech through mission work.”

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

I chose to attend Missouri State-West Plains because it was right in my home town! I have a large family and I wanted to be able to stay home a couple more years to see their pretty faces as much as possible. It was also the perfect opportunity to use my A+ scholarship to get my general education classes out of the way.

How would you describe your experience here?

My experience at the campus has been amazing! I am so thankful that I decided to stay close to home for the first two years of my college experience. I am also so blessed that God lead me to this campus and that he is giving me the opportunity to further my education.

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

My favorite part about Missouri-State West Plains has been becoming a Student Ambassador. My first year I was not a part of the program and I felt very distant from the campus because I would just go to class for a couple hours a day and then go home. It has been such a blast and has also helped me step out of my comfort zone in so many ways. As a Student Ambassador it is so special to help individuals decide college is an opportunity they need to grasp onto, whether they decide to go to Missouri State-West Plains or somewhere else.

What has been your favorite course?

My favorite course has been my biomedical class! Although it was a tough class, I truly learned a lot through my experience. It has also been the most relative class to my CSD degree that I have taken so far.

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

Everyone has been so great and eager to help me learn and enjoy my college experience. They truly care about helping you grow and learn in all aspects of life.

How did you choose your major?

I actually chose my major in middle school! I have always loved children and helping them grow and learn, but I knew I didn’t want to teach in a classroom setting. I researched a lot when we would do career days at school, and that is when I came across speech pathology. I will be able to teach kids one-on-one and change their lives in many ways. There are also so many opportunities and callings for the job other than just working with children, so I know I will never get bored.

What are your plans after graduation?

My plans after graduation are to transfer to Missouri State-Springfield and begin my communication sciences and disorders degree, and then get a master’s in speech pathology. My extended plans as of right now are to come back to West Plains and work for the hospital and through the rural schools. My dream is to open my own practice and focus my practice on young children. My even bigger dream is to start a program where I travel all over America and to other countries, helping children with their speech through mission work.