“My experience here has been transforming.”

Academic Program: Associate of Arts in General Studies

Hometown: Mountain View, MO

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

MSU-WP is close to home. It is really nice to have my mom and grandparents within a driving distance.

How would you describe your experience here?

My experience here has been transforming. From meeting plenty of new people to resolving many inner conflicts I have had within myself, my college experience has made me into a new person.

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

Working here! I love working at the writing lab, and I am so lucky to have this opportunity. I love the other tutors and being able to actually help other students.

What has been your favorite course?

I really enjoyed history with Dr. Jason McCollom. I also like Alex Pinnon’s philosophy class.

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

The staff here have really helped me find confidence in myself. Since I came from a small school where everyone knew each other, it made me anxious to be in classrooms full of people I did not know. All of the professors that I have had made me feel so comfortable and welcome in their classes.

How did you choose your major?

I chose to get a general studies degree at MSU-WP to lay a foundation for the rest of my college career. I wanted to have time after high school to think about what I wanted to do for the rest of my life while still getting something accomplished.

What have you learned while at Missouri State-West Plains that will help you succeed in your education, career or life?

I think the most important thing I have learned that will help me throughout my life is time-management. This is not something I learned in a specific class, but having to balance being a full-time student and working 40 hours a week has been a challenge I had to overcome myself.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation from MSU-WP, I plan to transfer to Springfield to pursue a degree in biology. After that, I someday hope to work for the conservation department.