Name: Hal Ryan

Hometown: Fair Grove, MO

Currently Resides: Birch Tree, MO

Occupation: Youth Behavioral Health Liaison (Ozarks Healthcare/Behavioral Health Center)

All Degrees and Certificates Received: Associate of Applied Science in Community Behavioral Support

Just keep swimming.

That was the message Hal Ryan shares with prospective students. It’s the phrase that kept him moving forward as he changed careers and returned to school at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP).

After a lifetime working in agriculture, Ryan was ready for a new challenge. He enrolled in the Community Behavioral Support program at MSU-WP to prepare for a career helping people in his community facing mental health challenges. The program gave him the skills and confidence he needed to succeed.

“Every aspect of the MSU-WP experience gave me the confidence I needed to move forward with my goals,” Ryan said.

Today, Ryan serves as a youth behavioral health liaison with the Ozarks Healthcare Behavioral Healthcare Center in West Plains, where he works to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. He also partners with local agencies and schools to support individuals facing behavioral health challenges. Although he is early in his new career, Ryan was recognized as employee of the month within his first three months on the job.

“Although I am still learning in my new role, I feel the knowledge I gained from the Community Behavioral Support program built the foundation for future achievements,” Ryan said.

While students gain valuable skills and confidence in the classroom, MSU-WP also emphasizes a well-rounded college experience. Ryan credits his instructors and classmates with helping him achieve his goals, as well as the hands-on learning opportunities he received through practicums.

Ryan also served as president of the Community Behavioral Support student organization, where he presented case studies based on his practicum experiences and developed leadership and communication skills he now uses in his career.

“One reason I chose to attend Missouri State University-West Plains is the personal attention students receive,” Ryan said. “The smaller class sizes provided that personal attention and allowed me to build relationships with classmates and instructors whom I now consider friends and allies. I am grateful for that.”

Returning to school as an adult learner was intimidating at first. Balancing school with other responsibilities presented additional challenges, but Ryan persevered. He graduated magna cum laude and now serves his community every day. He is grateful for the education he received and the opportunity it provided to begin a rewarding new career.

“Don’t be afraid to start at ground level,” Ryan said. “Taking that first step will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.”

For more information about enrolling at Missouri State University-West Plains, visit WP.MissouriState.edu/Admissions.