“Living on campus has helped me slowly adjust to living on my own and has helped me meet lots of great people.”

Academic Program: Associate of Arts in General Studies

Hometown: Salem, Mo.

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

I chose to attend Missouri State University-West Plains because of the opportunity to use my A+ scholarship, it is close to home, and it is small which makes it a lot easier to adjust to college life.

How would you describe your experience here?

It has been great! Living on campus has helped me slowly adjust to living on my own and has also helped me meet lots of great people.

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

The small class sizes is one of my favorite things about this school. It makes it easier to learn and get one-on-one help, if needed.

What has been your favorite course?

Introduction to Biomedical Sciences with Ms. Ana Estrella. It was definitely a challenge, but it was worth it.

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

The faculty and staff are here to help us succeed in whatever we do. If we run into problems, they are always willing to help with whatever or guide us to the person who can help us with the problem.

How did you choose your major?

I have always wanted to do something health related, but I never knew for sure what it was I wanted. I learned how to use a microscope in my Intro to Biomedical Science class, and I thought it would be really cool to work in a lab type setting. After job shadowing in a lab at a hospital I realized what I wanted to do.

What have you learned from your academics that will help you succeed in your education, career or life?

I have taken a lot of science classes so far and I really enjoyed the biomedical science classes as they have helped me discover what path I want to take in my career.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I plan to transfer to the University of Missouri and get a bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory sciences and then work as a medical laboratory technologist.