Name: Christian Hirsch
Hometown: Thayer, Missouri
Currently Resides: Thayer, Missouri
All Degrees Received: AS in Agriculture Missouri State-West Plains (2020)
“I chose Missouri State University-West Plains simply because of the affordability and how close it was to home.”
Christian Hirsch chose to attend Missouri State-West Plains for the most practical reasons. It would allow him to be near his family while saving money for his next two years of college.
“My experience at Missouri State-West Plains has been so much more then I ever thought it would be. I thought going in it would just be a boring community college,” Christian said. “However, after getting connected and involved on campus I met so many new people. My experience has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and grow so much as an individual during my time here.”
Christian credits much of his experience with his willingness to get involved on campus. “Don’t allow yourself to go to class and then go back home or to your dorm. Connect with people and get involved with events on campus. This will make your college experience so much better, and you will make memories that will last you a lifetime,” he said. “I will greatly miss the atmosphere of the campus; you truly feel like family here.”
During his time as a student and as a Student Ambassador, Christian worked with several members of the faculty and staff. He says these relationships have given him unexpected and unique experiences and opportunities. “Making these connections has allowed me to grow my network,” he said. “This has allowed me to be more prepared for my future career.”
“Missouri State-West Plains has allowed me to broaden my horizons and come out of my shell.”
Christian describes himself as a quiet and shy student when he first started his classes. Between his studies and the connections he made, this changed over the course of his studies. “This college has allowed me to develop into a more confident and educated person,” he said. “Missouri State-West Plains has truly helped to shape me and prepare me in many aspects for my future career.”
One of his greatest achievements that he thinks will help his career was competing at the Professional Agriculture Students state competition. “I was able to qualify for the national competition in several events, along with other students,” said. “Although we never got to compete at nationals due to COVID-19, it was awesome to see so many students qualify.”
“The West Plains campus helped me accomplish my goals in so many ways. Everywhere you are on campus, every department and every staff member wants to see you succeed,” he said. “This campus is great about working together to help every student succeed.”
His next step is finishing his bachelor’s degree in agriculture business at Missouri State University in Springfield.