“The most genuine way to explain my experience here is that it is the best of both worlds.”

Academic Program: Associate of Arts in General Studies

Hometown: Willow Springs, MO

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

I chose to attend Missouri State-West Plains because of all of the opportunities it can provide, and it is close to my hometown. In addition to that, it is one of the schools around here that accepts the A+ scholarship.

How would you describe your experience here?

The most genuine way to explain my experience here is that it is the best of both worlds. You are close to home in the quaint city of West Plains, but when on campus it is a whole new community of people that you get the pleasure of meeting, and of course with all of these people comes an opportunity as well.

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

My favorite thing about Missouri State-West Plains is the staff. I consistently see staff caring for the student body, no matter if an instructor is working with a student or someone in Cass Hall is going the extra mile to help a student smile and succeed. I believe there is a staff member to help every student in their journey, be it academically or personal.

What has been your favorite course?

My favorite course I have taken would be biomedical science. Even though it was very challenging for me, what you learn and the things you get to do in that class are unbelievable.

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

I often feel as if the support of the faculty and staff is what helps further my education beyond the classroom. There have been times the ladies in financial aid have sat down with me one-on-one to help me make sure my FAFSA is correct, or someone in the tutoring lab has retaught a complete lesson to me. And it is these very things that keep me attached to Missouri State-West Plains, not as a “school” or university, but as a community.

How did you choose your major?

When I first enrolled, I was not sure what I wanted to do in the future, so I enrolled into the general studies program, and this is still currently what I am registered as.

What have you learned from an academic department that will help you succeed in your education, career or life?

Even though I am a general studies major, I took multiple classes that fell under the Allied Health Department. Those classes have taught me so much practical knowledge pertaining to one’s health and well-being and the HIPAA rights of an individual.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduating from MSU-WP, I plan on staying in the West Plains community and receiving additional degrees through the Missouri State University Outreach Program. This will allow me to achieve my Bachelor’s in communications and master’s in counseling while staying close to home and on the campus that I have grown to love. I hope to one day become an academic counselor at the high school level.