Access and Success Programs had an active October full of academic, wellness, and community-building activities. Students engaged in meaningful programs and events that supported their success both inside and outside the classroom. 

Programming

First-Year and Second-Year Monthly Meetings 

Our first-year students gathered for their October meeting focused on academic advising and spring registration. Students learned how to prepare for advising appointments and plan their spring schedules. 

Second-year students took time to focus on their personal well-being during their monthly meeting. We were joined by Tena Reel, Coordinator of Student Wellness, who shared student wellness programming available on campus. Students also completed a wellness wheel self-assessment and started an affirmation journal. 

Bears Lead Intramural Basketball 

We are proud to sponsor another Bears Lead intramural team. This time – basketball! We have had so much fun watching them on the court.  

Fall Showcase

Bears Lead Ambassadors represented Access and Success Programs at the Student Life Expo during the Fall Showcase, connecting with prospective students and sharing their experiences in the program. 

Cooking Talks with Dietetics and Nutrition

In collaboration with the Dietetics and Nutrition Department, we hosted two Cooking Talks this month. Students learned how to prepare simple, healthy meals right from their dorms using ingredients available at the Bear Pantry.  

Study Sessions 

We continued to host study sessions every other Thursday, providing a supportive space for students to focus, collaborate, and stay on track academically.  

FAFSA Support Session 

We partnered with the Office of Financial Aid to host a FAFSA Support Session, helping students navigate the financial aid process and prepare their applications for the upcoming year. 

Pumpkin Painting

To celebrate the fall season, we held a Pumpkin Painting event, giving students a chance to unwind, get creative, and enjoy time together.  

Soccer Tailgate  

We co-hosted a Soccer Tailgate with Global Education and Engagement, cheering on the Bears and enjoying pizza & giveaways.  

Access and Success Programs 

Welcoming New Leadership

Access and Success Programs is pleased to welcome Tara Joyce as the new Associate Director of Access and Success. Tara joins us from the Office of Financial Aid at Iowa State University, bringing with her a strong background in supporting student success. As a Missouri State alumna, Tara is excited to return to her alma mater and contribute to the success of our Bears. Her leadership and experience will be a tremendous asset as our program continues to grow. 

Join the Access and Success Programs Community    

Whether you are a campus or community partner, current or former Bears Lead student, or simply interested in learning more about Access and Success Programs, we invite you to join our community. Together, we are committed to empowering students, celebrating achievements, and creating pathways to success. Sign up for our blog for monthly updates on Access and Success Programs.      

Support Bears Lead   

Want to contribute to the work our department is doing to support students through Bears Lead? You can donate to our MSU Foundation fund! To do so, complete the MSU Foundation gift form and select Bears Lead from the options listed when you select “Click here to search or choose multiple designations.” Thank you for your support!  

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