“I knew instantly that MSU-West Plains was where I belonged.”
Name: Ashley Stephens
Academic Program: Associate of Science Business
What is your hometown? Niangua, Mo.
Why did you choose to attend Missouri State-West Plains?
I’m a first-generation student and graduated from a small rural high school. When I started researching colleges, they all seemed really intimidating. A family member recommended that I tour MSU-West Plains. I came into the tour with low expectations. I thought it was going to be like all the other tours I went on that year, but I was blown away. The campus was easy to navigate, the class sizes were small, and the faculty were kind and helpful. I felt completely comfortable there and I knew instantly that MSU-West Plains was where I belonged.
How would you describe your experience here?
My experience at MSU-West Plains has been all about growth and finding a community. Attending the MSU-West Plains campus gave me the opportunity and resources to grow academically and personally. Then through living on campus, attending classes, and going to campus events I’ve been able to find a community of people who bring out the best in me.
What has been your favorite thing about Missouri State-West Plains?
My favorite thing about MSU-West Plains is the small campus. I love the small class sizes, easy parking and walkable campus.
What has been your favorite course? And why?
My favorite course was Principles of Macroeconomics. Dr. Ed Birdyshaw did an amazing job teaching this course. There hasn’t been a single boring class, and I’ve learned so much.
How have faculty and staff helped you during your time at Missouri State-West Plains?
The faculty and staff have helped me so much throughout my time at MSU-West Plains. I’ve been to the advising office, financial aid office, business office, records and registration office, residence life office, and the tutoring lab multiple times throughout my time at MSU-West Plains. They have always helped me solve my issue or find someone else who could. I’ve also had the pleasure of getting to know the faculty more personally through being a student worker at the financial aid office. I’ve seen how the faculty truly wants the best for every student.
How did you choose your major?
Business has been a big part of my life for a long time. In 2016 my mom opened a boutique and gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. She gifted me $15 dollars of seed money; with that I bought a pack of kid leggings, and my business was born. She had a basket in the store where I continued to stock leggings, and it slowly expanded into much more. I have poured my heart into my business. I now carry sizes from zero months up to a women’s triple extra-large. I currently have my own store front in Marshfield, stock another storefront in Lebanon, and built a website with over 300 different styles of items (Small-Town-Apparel.com). By creating a strong online presence, I have been able to ship to over 30 different states and Canada. Having a business has taught and provided me with so much. I’m now pursuing a business degree to expand on the knowledge I have already gained and to explore where else business can take me.
What have you learned from the business department that will help you succeed in your education, career or life?
The business department at MSU-West Plains has provided me with a wide range of knowledge about basic business skills and the different career paths within business. I feel that I have a quality foundation to continue my education.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m graduating from MSU-West Plains this December and I’ve been admitted to Truman State University this spring with a full academic scholarship. I will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in finance.