Adult Student Services Blog

Mid-Semester Check-In

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The semester is flying by and we are so eager to see campus bloom in the coming weeks. And if you can believe it, we are already at mid-semester and first block final exams (March 6th)!

Study Tips

  • Make time to study. As simple as it sounds, designating time specifically for study and review can make a huge impact in helping you feel prepared and easing pre-test anxieties.
  • Anotate your notes. Take notes and review them carefully. When you’re reviewing, write overarching ideas, important details, and definitions in your own words to help you retain the information. Don’t be afraid to revisit your source materials and textbooks.
  • Take advantage of your instructor’s office hours. Your instructors want to see you succeed. If you feel like you’re falling behind or need extra guidance on a topic covered in class, reach out and meet during their office hours.
  • Rest and refuel! Getting enough sleep and having proper nutrition will help you immensely.

Quick Tip

On campus and need a spot to relax or study? Check out the Commuter Corner on the second floor of the Plaster Student Union (PSU) next to Bear Necessities. The Commuter Corner is equipped with study pods, a microwave, a printer, and multi-seat tables. There’s comfortable seating throughout PSU with a variety of vendors for quick bites and drinks, making it a great spot to tuck into for a quick study session over lunch or between classes.

COMMUTER_CORNER 3

Commuter Corner, PSU. Image by Madison Reece, 2024.

Take a break

Shortly after exams, students will have spring break. March 14th-22nd, there are no classes and you are encouraged to celebrate your hard work and take a deep breath. For our students in the Ozarks region, there are so many events and activities happening this time of year. Visit Springfield has put together some great guides on spring activities: check them out! For our non-Ozarks students, check out your local activities boards and make time to enjoy your break from studies!

Note that offices remain open during spring break – we’re here if you need anything!

 

Do you need support?

We understand that the first weeks of the semester are full of transition; you have a new schedule and you’re learning all new information. Hopefully, as you settle into your routine you’re feeling more comfortable and confident on campus and in your online classes. Or, maybe you’re enrolled in second block classes and a brand new round of courses awaits you. Regardless of where your schedule takes you, Missouri State is here to help support you.

 

Stay Informed on Campus Happenings

 

You got this, Bears!

2026-2027 Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarship

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We are happy to share information about a scholarship opportunity for undergraduate adult students attending Missouri State University offered by Alpha Sigma Lambda. Alpha Sigma Lambda is a nationally recognized honor society for adult learners. The Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarship award will be made to adult students in continuing higher education based on scholarship, leadership, the clarity and content of their personal statement, strength of recommendation and need. 

Funds will be disbursed to the student and made payable to the student and the university/college. Maximum award per individual will be determined each year. 

For the 2026-2027 Academic year, Alpha Sigma Lambda will award: 

  • Six (6) named scholarships of $3000
  • Fourteen (14) scholarships of $2500
  • Four (4) scholarships of $2000

Qualification Criteria 

Adult students who are attending an institution that currently has an active Alpha Sigma Lambda chapter and who have achieved the following criteria:

  • Student does not have to be a member of the local Alpha Sigma Lambda chapter to apply

Undergraduate Criteria

  • Enrollment: Enrolled in an associate or baccalaureate degree program.
  • Residency Requirement for baccalaureate degree students: Completed 24 semester hours (36 quarter hours) of graded coursework at the member institution.
    • Transfer hours, CLEP credit, assessment hours, and current coursework do not count.
  • Academic Performance: Minimum GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale

Students must submit their applications to the institutional chapter counselor, as only chapter counselors are authorized to send application packets after validating application materials.  Missouri State’s chapter counselor is Tara Bresee in Adult Student Services. 

Documents and Instructions for 2026-2027 Scholarship Applications 

Please read through the instructions on the application packet carefully and fully.

Submit completed application packet to AdultStudentServices@MissouriState.edu. Faculty recommendation forms should be submitted to AdultStudentServices@MissouriState.edu, as well. All application materials must be received no later than 5:00pm (central standard time) on Friday, April 10, 2026. Applications received after this time will not be submitted to the ASL Central Office for review. 

Adult Student Services will review applications and the top 2 submissions will be sent to the Central Office for final consideration. Scholarship review guidelines are available within the application packet.

 

 

Good luck, Bears!

 

If you’re interested in joining Alpha Sigma Lambda at Missouri State University, please visit our website for more information. 

Unlearning Ageism Project – Now Seeking Volunteers!

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The Gerontology and Early Childhood Education programs have joined together to create the “Unlearning Ageism” Project. This project is supported Missouri State University’s Experiential Learning Grant. 

Growing up you read books or watch movies about fantasy and adventure, full of wonder and excitement! You hold onto the good memories and share the stories with your children or grandchildren. Often beside the mystical adventures are harmful stereotypes of aging. In many instances, books have limited aging adult roles negatively.  Old people are often depicted as sad, sick, or mean. Think of the wicked old witch, or the mean old man shouting to get off of his yard! These characters are often exaggerated for storytelling purposes, but how do these tropes impact developing minds and overall perceptions on what it means to get older?

Introducing “Unlearning Ageism”

Missouri State University students studying to become teachers and aging professionals are working together to create new early childhood curriculum materials that challenge stereotypes and present aging in a positive, realistic light. In this project, students will work with MSU 62 participants/volunteers to provide feedabck on curriculum materials or have open discussions with students on their lived experiences.
Volunteers’ participation will help students recognize and challenge misconceptions about aging, reshape how they talk to children about aging, with the aim to create a society where people of all ages are valued and respected. Your efforts help to make their work authentic and meaningful!

Volunteer Roles: Curriculum Creator or Storyteller

  • Curriculum Creators will collaborate with Mo State students to create and provide feedback on curriculum materials
    • Scheduled meetings on Missouri State campus for 5 Thursdays (February-April) at 11:00am-12:15pm
  • Storytellers will participate in video recorded storytelling and discussion with Mo State students
    • Meetings scheduled individually with student partners; some meetings may be virtual
No specific experience is required in order to participate. The first fifteen (15) participants will receive a $200 stipend. All participants will be invited and honored at final showcase.

To participate or learn more

If you have any questions or would like to reserve your spot on the project, please contact Dr. Maureen Templeman: MaureenTempleman@MissouriState.edu.

MSU 62 Spring Course Option: Jewish Philosophy

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Each fall and spring semester, Adult Student Services holds a registration event for eligible Missourians to register for a single class free of tuition in a program called MSU 62. We’re pleased to share that for the Spring 2025 semester, MSU 62 registration will be held open on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Registration will be conducted fully online. Registration forms go live at 9:00am on Thursday the 8th, and will close 2:00pm on Friday, January 16th. 

Of the many courses available to MSU 62 participants, Dr. Vadim Putzu invites you to consider his Jewish Philosophy course.

Religious Studies 397: Jewish Philosophy

“What is God? Why bad things happen to good people? What is the use of religion? What is the purpose of life? If you are interested in these and other fundamental questions, enroll in REL 397-001 (Jewish Philosophy) to explore 2000 years of Jewish attempts to answer them!

This course is designed as a critical exploration of a variety of the fundamental problems of theology and philosophy as they have been discussed by Jewish thinkers from Philo of Alexandria to post-holocaust authors in the 20th century. Together, we will choose which authors to read for each topic. Class will focus on close reading and discussion of classic texts of Jewish thought in English translation. Topics treated will range from the relationship between reason and faith to the existence and nature of God, from the status and purpose of Torah and the commandments to free will, and from the nature of revelation and prophecy to the problem of evil and the ultimate goal(s) of human existence.”

This course is taught Mondays and Wednesdays, from 2:00pm-3:15pm in Strong Hall 204.

Can I Take Other Classes?

While MSU 62 participants are not limited to this option, we hope that you consider this option among the many courses available at Missouri State University. To explore additional offerings, visit the Class Schedule Search.

You may filter by a variety of fields, although it is not necessary to enter any filtering criteria. We recommend the following fields:

  • Subject: if known
  • Campus: Springfield, MO
  • Modality: Traditional for seated courses, Internet-Other for online
  • Check the “Open Sections Only” box before clicking submit.

How Do I Register?

You will complete the online programs within the registration period. The form has three pages:

Page 1: MSU 62 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF GUIDELINES  Page 2: MSU 62 NONDEGREE-SEEKING COURSE ENROLLMENT FORM  Page 3: MSU 62 AUDIT REQUEST 
Strongly encouraged to review so that you understand the program guidelines and limitations. This is where you’ll provide general information about yourself and the specific course you’re looking to take. If you do not wish to receive academic credit (i.e., a grade) for your course and wish to take it leisurely, then you may complete this page to have for course audited.

Visit our website for answers to frequently asked questions, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

  • AdultStudentServices@MissouriState.edu
  • 417-836-6929

We hope you join us!

December Student Spotlight: Mariah Embry

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Growing up in the small town of Fair Grove, Mariah Embry enjoyed the strong sense of community and belonging. Mariah finds herself to be very family oriented, finding much of her motivation stemming from her family and upbringing. She shares, “My family set the foundation of love and support. They have celebrated every stage of success and have been through every hard part of life, too.”

 

Why Missouri State?

An institution which allowed her to stay close to home was important. When Mariah first began her studies in 2011, she was planning to be a teacher. She became a mother early in life, and prioritized spending time with her children. Several years later, Mariah reconnected with an advisor and realized she was very close to completing a degree in General Studies. The Bachelor of General Studies degree (BGS) is an interdisciplinary degree that requires completion of coursework in two or three departments in place of one major or a major with a minor. By finding a program that allowed Mariah to best utilize her earned credits, she was able to find a quick path to degree completion. Her two daughters will celebrate with her in December for graduation.

After graduating, Mariah will take the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) to become certified to teach kindergarten through 6th grade.

Highlights

One of her favorite classes was Childhood Illnesses, Injuries, Diseases and Disorders. The content was interesting and Mariah found the assignments creative and allowed her to apply and understand the content. Mariah also found that at Missouri State, she felt supported and encouraged.

“You can tell that the people who work at the school truly care about your successes.”

Any advice?

Mariah kept her advice short and sweet.

  • Use your resources. (Find resources on campus)
  • People are there to help you and want to see you succeed.
  • Allow room for growth and ask for help when you need it.

“If it weren’t for some of the people who have helped and believed in me, I am not sure I would be graduating this fall,” she reflects. There are many resources at Missouri State available to support you, no matter where you are in your academic journey.

 

 

Thank you for sharing, Mariah! You are part of what makes Missouri State great. 

A Time for Thanks, A Time for Advising

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Before you sign off for Thanksgiving break, give your future self something to be thankful for: get prepared for the spring 2026 semester! Find a registration checklist and extra tips and resources to help you start the spring semester on a high note below.

Thanksgiving break: November 22, 2025-November 30, 2025. No classes, offices closed November 26-28, 2025. (See academic calendar)

Your Registration Checklist

1. Meet with your academic advisor

    • Find your advisor’s name and contact information in My Missouri State > My Student Records > Advising Notes
    • With your advisor, you can discuss your degree requirements, course options, and resources for support if you need extra assistance in the upcoming term.
    • If you do not have an assigned advisor, contact the appropriate advising center or connect with your department directly.
    • Check out our tips for making the most of your advising appointments

2. Remove registration holds

      • You won’t be able to register if you have any holds on your account, so it’s important to get those cleared up as soon as possible.
      • Clicking on the hold often provides more information or a way to resolve the hold, but a breakdown of hold codes can also be found online.
      • To find holds: Log in to My Missouri State > Registration > Registration Status Eligibility

3. Check your registration time

    • Your registration time is the earliest you’re able to register and is based on earned credit hours. You can register any time after your assigned time. It’s recommended to register as soon as possible to increase the likelihood of getting a seat in your preferred section(s).
    • This information is located on your Registration Status Eligibility page.

4. Register for classes

    • Review your Degree Audit to confirm the courses fit your program and requirements.
    • Use Trial Schedule Builder or the Class Schedule Search to review possible schedules. It’s a good idea to consider back up courses or alternative sections if you’re first option is full.

5. Check on your financial aid

 

Be Thankful You Thought Ahead!

If you are planning on taking classes in fall 2026 and spring 2027, set yourself up for success. The 2026-2027 FAFSA is open and applications are being accepted now. Complete by December 1, 2025 for priority consideration and to maximize your eligibility for grants and scholarships.

Furthermore, the MSU Annual Scholarship is also open! The deadline to submit is March 1, 2026; awards are dispersed in Fall 2026. This one application will apply you toward nearly 1,000 different scholarships. Please note that you must be admitted to MSU in order to access and complete this scholarship application.

  1. Log into your My Missouri State account.
  2. Locate your “Financial Aid & Scholarships” card.
  3. Complete your Financial Aid e-Agree (if you have not already done so).
  4. Select the MSU Foundation Scholarships link to complete and submit your application.

 

Additional Resources

  • Registration Resources: find guides on using the Trail Schedule Builder and adding/dropping classes
  • Academic Calendar: see important dates for spring 2026
    • Winter break: December 22-January 2 (no classes, offices closed)
    • Spring 2026 full semester and first block classes begin January 12, 2026
  • Student Support: there are many offices at Missouri State available to help you be successful. Take advantage of them!

 

Thankful to be a Bear!

Bears Can-Do Food Drive – Fall 2025

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The Bear Pantry, created in 2019, exists to support students’ basic needs and combat food insecurity on campus. Last year, the pantry consistently served an estimated 1,200 households and distributed more than 50,000 pounds of food.  

Missouri State University’s Enrollment Management (EM) team is sponsoring a donation drive to provide support to Bear Pantry’s initiative and the campus community that may be facing food insecurity. EM is challenging fellow campus offices, departments, and organizations to donate food and/or funding to the Bear Pantry between November 7th through December 12th. All members of campus are welcomed and encouraged to participate: Every Bear from Every Where.

How to Participate

  1. Donate funds directly to the Bear Pantry through our crowd funding page. Be sure to include what organization you are affiliated with or are donating on behalf of to ensure that credit is awarded. See below for more information.
    • $1 = 5 pounds of food
  2. Donate foods directly to the Bear Pantry.
    • Donations accepted at Bear Pantry (PSU 140) during business hours (see hours here) Be sure to let a team member know which department you work for to receive credit!

How does my team win?

To win, your organization must donate the most food per person. For example, if two teams both donate 100 pounds of food (or the equivelant with consideration to financial donations) and Team A has 10 team members and Team B has 20, Team A will win.

  • Team A: 100 pounds = 10 pounds per person x 10 people
  • Team B: 100 pounds = 5 pounds per person x 20 people

The winning organization will be announced prior to winter break, with an award presented during the Staff Award Luncheon on January 7, 2026.  

What can I donate?

The Bear Pantry accepts many items for donation. Shelf stable items like canned and dried goods, or herbs and spices; even perishable items like fresh produce, eggs, and dairy products. You can also donate general household items like cleaning supplies, paper goods, hygiene items, etc. See the donation guide below for more ideas!

 

Donation guide: anned meats like salmon, chicken, and tuna. Canned vegetables and soups that are low in sodium. Pasta sauce, peanut butter, and canned fruits in juice. Dried good like beans, lentils, pastas, and grains. Oatmeal and cereal, granola bars, and macaroni and cheese. Cottage cheese, greek yogurt, fresh produce. Snacks such as chips and trail mixes. Cooking oils and spices, seasonings, and herbs. Nonfood items are also accepted: hand sanitizer, band aids, triple antibiotic ointment, paper towels, toilet paper, trash bags. General cleaning supplies such as all purpose cleaner, dish soap, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, etc. Hygiene items like mouth rinse and toothpaste, deodorant, body wash and lotion, shampoo and conditioner, feminine hygiene products, etc.

Spice and Seasoning Ideas

  • Onion powder 
  • Cloves 
  • Curry powder 
  • Garam Masala 
  • Ground allspice 
  • Ground nutmeg 
  • Ground turmeric 
  • Ground ginger 
  • Yellow mustard seed 
  • Ground coriander 
  • Ground cumin 
  • Chili powder

Let’s show everyone that Bears Can-Do Food Drives!

Donate Now

 

Special Considerations for Monetary Donations

In order for an organization, office, or department to receive credit, the donor will need to indicate which area they are donating on behalf of. Be sure to write the full name of the organization without any abbreviations to prevent miscrediting.

Students Faculty and Staff For Alumni, Parents, or Friends of the University
For students donating on behalf of a student organization. Answer the “How are you affiliated questions” with Student and Current Student. A textbox will appear for you to include what organization(s) you are donating on behalf of. To donate on behalf of your office or department, respond that you are a staff or faculty member to both “affiliation” questions. When you select that you are either a faculty or staff member on the second question, a textbox will appear for you to include the name of your office or department. Answer the affiliation questions as appropriate, and then indicate that you are donating in honor of an organization. Here you may enter in your desired organizations title.

If you are not donating on behalf of a specific organization or office, simply write “N/A” in the description.

Contact donation drive coordinator, Hannah Smith, with any questions: HannahSmith@MissouriState.edu.

Want to help the Bear Pantry in other ways?

Shop their Amazon Wishlist

Set up recurring donations through payroll deduction

Volunteer your time

Nontraditional Student Week Spotlight: Chance Curtis

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Chance Curtis grew up in Willard, Missouri and spent his time outdoors. Biking the Frisco Highline Trail, hiking, hunting, or fishing, Chance was always surrounded by nature and appreciated the quiet beauty of rural Missouri. He was often inspired by his high school teachers, who created an environment that sparked curiosity and encouraged hard work. These ideals also showed up in how they coached sports, sponsored clubs, and supported students in their everyday lives. There was an emphasis on the importance of community and being kind to your neighbor. These tenets are not far removed from the Public Affairs Mission at Missouri State University. 

Why Missouri State? 

Coming from a small town of 5,000 people, Chance recognized that he may have limited experiences and perspectives. He seeked opportunities to learn from people with different backgrounds and worldviews. Enter Missouri State. Chance is currently studying Information Technology  at MO State and is excited to continue his passion for creating, maintaining, and securing information technologies. 

Through his studies, Chance is confident he has gained invaluable skills, both technical and professional. The Information Technology program has taught him the concepts of networking, cybersecurity, and programming. After graduation, he plans to work in IT and cybersecurity for government institutions and travel around the country. 

Highlights

Chance finds the experiential learning opportunities to be one of his favorite aspects of studying at Missouri State. “I’ve had the privilege of being able to connect to virtual machines with various operating systems and programs to gain real-world experience.” While the IT program offers critical information to support his professional development and career goals, he was challenged to think differently in Introduction to Philosophy (PHI 110). He learned to think critically about complex issues and question his internal biases. Ultimately, he left the course as a sympathetic listener and with the ability to understand differing opinions.

Outside the classroom, Chance finds campus to be a beautiful backdrop to studying. “The architecture is fascinating and inspires curiosity. Whether you’re walking through campus on a crisp fall evening as the trees turn vibrant shades of gold and red, or relaxing in a hammock on a sunny morning, the atmosphere is peaceful.” Finally, Chance shares that Missouri State reignited his passion for learning. 

“Missouri State University has reignited my passion for learning, something invaluable in a constantly evolving field.” 

  

Any advice? 

We asked Chance if he had any advice for future adult learners, and he recommended that they fall in love with their studies. “Learn for the love of learning and not for the purpose of obtaining a good grade.” He finds that good grades naturally follow genuine engagement. By focusing on the materials, you’ll gain deeper connections to the material. This far more rewarding than just getting the grade. This comes from being present in the course and in discussions. Throughout his studies, Chance has thought about the following quote from Michael Singer: 

“Who are you, who is lost and trying to build a concept of yourself in order to be found. You’ll never find yourself in what you have built to define yourself. You can find and learn and build the most beautiful collections of thoughts, emotions, and actions, but ultimately, it’s still not you. You are the one who built it.” 

  

Chance, thank you so much for sharing your story and experience with us. We’re glad you’re a MO State Bear! 

Nontraditional Student Week Spotlight: Michelle Malone

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Michelle Malone, from Fenton, MO, is a senior at Missouri State University pursuing the Bachelor of Social Work. While Fenton provided a sense of community and familiarity, it was difficult to settle in as Michelle’s family moved around during her adolescence. Despite the frequent transitions, she found joy through dancing and reading. Life takes everyone on unique journeys and pathways, and prior to 2021, she hadn’t completed high school. That’s when she joined the MERS Goodwill Excel Center and earned her high school diploma and began her educational journey. 

 Studies and Missouri State

Michelle felt a deep calling to social work long before beginning her studies at Missouri State. She has a desire to help those in need locate resources to support their growth and better their lives.  

She’s currently considering her post-graduation options: jump right into the career field or pursue her Masters in Social Work. With either option, she knows she’ll dive in, head first, and work to ensure that she’s serving her community.  

Highlights 

While there have been positive aspects at Missouri State, Michelle fondly remembers her Spanish course at a previous institution. Michelle’s favorite aspect of the BSW program has been advisor, Natalie Curry – who has fought for her, encouraged her success, and helped to keep her on track to graduate.  

In her course of studies, Michelle has learned many skills that will aid in her career successes, but cites learning to work in groups as a critical skill. “Working with people or groups, sometimes you must take the lead and run with it. Even if you don’t know for sure if it is good enough or what everyone wants.” Ethical leadership is a pillar of MSU’s public affairs mission, and learning to lead with courage and accept feedback to promote group success is certainly in alignment.  

Any advice 

Michelle is happy that she embarked on her higher education journey and has no regrets. She’s proud of herself for staying committed to her future. Michelle shared, “My one piece of advice is do not wait to move forward but if you do wait know that it is not to late to do what you want to with your life.”

“It’s not too late to do what you want with your life.”

 

Everyone’s journey through higher education looks different. Here at Missouri State, Adult Student Services is available to guide and support you.

Contact Adult Student Services

 

Thank you, Michelle, for taking the time to tell your story. We’re so proud of your accomplishments and can’t wait to see what comes next! 

Nontraditional Student Week Spotlight: Elisabeth Portillo

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Elisabeth Portillo, a Bachelor of Special Education student at Missouri State, shared her experience transitioning to Missouri State with us.

Having moved from California to Missouri, Elisabeth felt a bit of initial culture shock.  After 15 years, Elisabeth has settled in and enjoys the City of All Seasons. Growing up, in both California and Missouri, despite their difference, she was always connected with her family and her faith. She spent most of her free time reading, exploring the outdoors, and learning a multitude of instruments including the recording, violin, and guitar.

Why Missouri State?

Elisabeth has spent the last decade as a paraprofessional educator and has loved working with her students. Her school district partners with Missouri State in the Pathways for Paraprofessionals program, meaning she can continue doing the work she loves while advancing her skills and careers with a four-year degree! After some encouragement from her teacher colleagues, she applied to Missouri State and is now a senior in the Pathways for Paras program.

After graduation, Elisabeth will continue her passion as an educator as an elementary special education teacher.

Highlights

Outside of the professional development and core classes of the program, Elisabeth greatly enjoyed Introduction to World Music (MUS 239). This class explores what it means to be human through a comparison of various world music and the associated recurring patterns of human behavior. Having grown up playing instruments and listening to music, being able to learn more about the background of music was enlightening. It gave the classical music and movie scores she listens to while studying a deeper meaning.

The flexible scheduling has also been a great benefit of Missouri State. While it has been challenging to both work and study full time, Elisabeth shares that it has been fulfilling. Being able to apply her every day experiences directly to her assignments – and vice versa – has also been fulfilling and confirmed that she’s pursuing the right career. She’s able to see how and why the resources and tools she learns about function in a real-life classroom setting.  “I personally think that every SPED teacher should be a para(professional) first, because it definitely goes hand in hand, and this program has helped affirm that for me.”

 

Any advice?

“It doesn’t matter when you start as long as you start and keep going. It doesn’t matter how long it takes you if you need to take a break – it’s you’re schooling and your health. No one else. You do what’s best for you so you can be the best you can be. Apply yourself and ask questions, because that’s how you actually learn!”

 

 

Thank you, Elisabeth, for sharing your story and being a MO State Bear!