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”

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

To participate or learn more

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!

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. 

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! 

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! 

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!

Growing up in small town Nebraska, Geneva Laverty and her family found ways to make their own fun: road trips to the Badlands, Devil’s Tower, and all over Colorado. When they weren’t on the road, they enjoyed biking around town and staying involved with extracurriculars. Geneva was always artistic. She spent time in dance (as a performer and a teacher), band, art club, speech team, choir, and the local theatre (“On stage and crew – why do just one side?”) With her family, she was always encouraged to be herself and to create by painting, drawing, photography, and singing.

Why Missouri State?

Many relatives and friends attended Missouri State, so it seemed the logical choice. After 12 years in the Navy and 11 years as a correctional officer, Geneva felt it was time to try something new and knew Missouri State could help her. She explored her options and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Theatre, with a minor in Linguistics. The transition from military and criminal justice to theatre seemed drastic but she shared, “I’ve always felt like even being in the Navy and as a Corrections Officer, those were roles I was playing, and while I played them well, it would be a lot more fun to be able to be around the theatre and be able to embrace my creative side on a more regular basis.”

She would love to use her linguistic skills from the Navy to the bring scripts from different cultures and languages to the American stage. Being able to broaden someone’s view of the world and their understanding of another culture would be incredibly meaningful. After graduating, she dreams of running her own theatre and advocating for the shows she loves, new shows that need a chance in the spotlight, and give back to people and the arts.

Highlights

Geneva admits it’s hard to pick a favorite within her first semester at MO State, but describes Art in Context (ART 200) and Classical Mythology (LLT 121) as peak points. They capture two of her biggest loves and when they intersect it gives her a deeper insight into not only art and mythology but people of different times.

Outside of the interest in her studies, she enjoys the community feel of the campus. “Everyone has been so helpful and kind. I have yet to meet a person who is not wonderful!”

She is also enjoying the many opportunities to get involved within her program area. Geneva recently began as an Assistant House Manager at the Juanita K. Hammon Performing Arts Hall and she knows this is an incredible opportunity to gain theatre experience.

Any advice?

While it’s early days in Geneva’s MO State career, she is excited to continue on with her studies and pursue this goal. She shares some parting advice for readers, “Never be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try new things!”

We couldn’t agree more. Transitioning to a new institution or returning to higher education after an absence (or simply coming for the first time) is out of many students’ comfort zone. Adult Student Services is here to walk you through the process and ease the transition. Let us help!

Contact Adult Student Services

Growing up in the busy city of San Jose, California, Lidia Santos was able to enjoy the diversity and experience language, foods, and cultures. With year-round beautiful and sunny weather, the weekends were filled with afternoons at the park, trips to the mountain or the beach. Despite these pleasures, life wasn’t always so simple and blissful: the cost of living was high, and that weighed differently on families. Lidia saw how some families seemed to have every advantage and others were working tirelessly, just to be scrapping by.

Lidia’s inspiration and motivation comes from her parents. Growing up in a family of eight, Lidia saw how hard her parents worked to provide for the family. Lidia shared, “Even though they never had the chance to pursue higher education, they never stopped reminding us how important it was to go to college and earn a degree. Their determination and sacrifices are the foundation of my drive and accomplishments.”

Why Missouri State?

Lidia finished her associate’s degree in California, and moved to Missouri in February of 2022. She decided it was time to chase a goal she’d be holding onto: earning a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Coming from a diverse city and raising a family, Lidia saw how education, community, and opportunity affected people differently. Through Sociology, she’s able to explore inequality, cultures, and social changes. There was a desire to study those patterns and relationships more deeply – allowing her to connect her personal experiences with an academic field, and an opportunity to make a difference in her community.

Highlights at MO State

Missouri State also offered Lidia scheduling flexibility she needed to make progress on her degree while balancing a full-time work schedule and home responsibilities. Through online classes, Lidia has been able to stay committed to her education goals without sacrificing her job or family life.

Beyond flexible scheduling, Lidia has enjoyed her psychology and history classes, and has been able to apply them to her studies in sociology. “Psychology really stood out to me because it helped me understand the individual side of human behavior, which ties in so well with sociology’s focus on society as a whole. I also enjoyed my history courses, especially world history, because they gave me a more profound perspective on how cultures and societies have developed over time. Both areas kept me engaged and gave me new ways of looking at people and the world around me.”

Above all, Lidia has gained confidence and resilience. It’s no easy feat to balance school, work, and home life, but by learning organization and time management skills, it’s allowed Lidia to move forward confidently.

Post-Graduation Plans

Lidia’s post-baccalaureate plans aren’t limited to a career focus. Using her degree to guide the way she connects with people and to understand their experiences. “For me, it’s not only about work opportunities; it’s about growing as a person and using what I’ve learned to be more aware, compassionate, and productive in my community and within my family. This degree represents more than just education; it’s a way for me to honor my parents’ sacrifices and to show my children and grandchildren the value of perseverance and learning,” she shares.

Parting Thoughts

Prior to returning to school to pursue her bachelor’s degree, Lidia questioned whether she could manage, and there were days that felt impossible. But she persevered, she kept going for herself, her children, and her grandchildren. Completing her Sociology degree isn’t just her accomplishment, but one she shares with her family. She’s thankful to Missouri State’s flexible scheduling and support of her professors. Furthermore, it was important to Lidia set an example:

It is never too late to learn, to grow, or to chase a dream.

One thing Lidia wants to share with future adult learners?

Lidia shares that it can be daunting to consider returning to school as an adult. Do you have the time, the energy, the ability? Every step you take, even the small ones through looming challenges, brings you closer to your goal.

“Don’t ever doubt yourself.”

She recommends leaning on your faith, your family, your professors, and the support around you. “Most of all, remember that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you refuse to give up.”

You have been hard at work in class and now, we are halfway through the semester and Spring Break is nearly here (March 15th-March 23rd)!  

Registration for Summer and Fall begins March 31. You can find your earliest registration time and your advisor on the Registration Status link in your My Missouri State Portal.  

You do not have to wait until your registration date to schedule an appointment with your advisor. Their schedules fill up quickly during registration, so schedule early and have a plan ready to go when it is time for you to register. Find your academic advising center or contact your advisor directly to get scheduled!  

Reminder

Beginning on March 25, 2025, a financial hold will be placed on accounts with a balance that is $1,000 or more. If the balance is $999 or lower the hold will not be placed on the account. This hold will prevent the student from registering for classes for future semesters.  

Review the update from Financial Services.

Important Dates

• 3/15-3/23- Spring Break  
• 3/26- Paws to the Polls- Springfield Public Schools School Board Candidate Panel  
• 3/31- Deadline to have name listed in the Spring 2025 Commencement program  
• 3/31- Summer and Fall registration sequence begins  

Keep up with MSU’s Academic Calendar for important semester dates and the Calendar of Events for more happenings on campus. 

As always, your Adult Student Services team is here to assist you in any way we can, so do not hesitate to reach out. Our booking links are always available online so you can schedule an appointment whenever you need us.   

Book your appintment with Jesica (Phone or Zoom)