Name: Braylin Shelton

Hometown: Salem, MO

Currently Resides: Salem, MO 

All Degrees Received: Associate of Science in Agriculture

“MSU-WP offered many scholarship opportunities that made the school extremely affordable for me and allowed me to use my two years of the A+ program.”

Missouri State University-West Plains’ (MSU-WP) affordability and small-town atmosphere were just what Braylin Shelton was seeking in a college.

A graduate of Salem (Missouri) High School, Braylin was admittedly nervous and scared to get involved when she first arrived on campus. But that quickly changed thanks to encouragement from other students. Braylin became active in the Student Government Association (SGA), Agriculture Club, and the Student Ambassador program.

“I got involved in as many things that I could handle! I stayed busy every night of the week doing things with my SGA team, the Student Ambassador crew, the ag club and just random events that the campus had going on,” Shelton said.

“If you are willing to get involved, MSU-West Plains always has something to keep you busy and make you feel at home.”

As her involvement with these student organizations grew, she became the publicist, then vice president, of SGA and treasurer of the Agriculture Club. She also represented the Agriculture Club as one of MSU-WP’s homecoming queen candidates and competed in Postsecondary Agricultural Students Organization contests.

MSU-WP’s home-like atmosphere made a huge impact on Braylin. She created a second family full of friends, faculty and staff who helped her accomplish her goals.

“The biggest help to me was all of the faculty and staff members who wanted to see me succeed. They truly want you to do well and understand the material that is being taught,” Braylin said.

Braylin took advantage of the numerous resources that the campus offers, including the tutoring lab, computer labs and research materials within the Garnett library. These options helped Braylin complete her Associate of Science in Agriculture.

“My advice to upcoming students is never hesitate to get involved. It will make your college experience much better, and you will make some of the best friendships!”

Braylin said her years at MSU-WP were the “best times of my life,” describing it as a great start to her college career. Her time at MSU-WP, she said, allowed her to make memories and friendships that she will hold on to forever.