Adult Student Services Blog

Welcome Back, Bears!

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Sharpen your pencils and charge your laptop, it’s time to kick off a new semester of learning and growth, and we are so happy that you have joined us!

We understand the unique needs of adult learners and this monthly newsletter full of resources, tips, and important dates is just one way Adult Student Services can support you in achieving your academic goals.

In this month’s newsletter you will find important dates regarding the beginning of the semester, change of schedule, and refund/drop deadlines; an introduction to campus and learning resources; and tips for overcoming challenges and setting yourself up for a successful semester.

Important Dates

  • August 18 – First day of full semester and first block classes
  • August 18-22- Change of schedule period
  • August 22- Last day to drop for 100% refund * Be sure to check your Personalized Refund and Drop Deadlines from your portal August 29- Return to Learn Scholarship application deadline
  • September 1- Labor Day (no classes)
  • September 10- My Payment Plan installment due

Back-to-School Checklist

Student Resources

There are many resources available for Missouri State students, whether attending classes on campus or online.

Adult Student Services is your resource for resources! We understand that being a student is just one aspect of your life, and we are here to help you find a way to manage it all.

The Veteran Student Center serves veteran and military students and their dependents.

Bear CLAW Center for Learning and Writing offers tutoring, peer mentors and coaches, the Writing Center and Presentation Center.

The Disability Resource Center provides support, accommodations, and resources to help individuals with disabilities.

MSU Libraries offer access to all types of media, research assistance, and more.

The Computer Services Help Desk offers online and in-person support for account access, computer troubleshooting, and many how-to guides for processes such as registering for classes and using Brightspace.

The Career Center offers guidance about where different degrees can lead you, career fairs, mock interviews, and much more.

Student Wellness, Student Engagement, and the Foster Recreation Center create opportunities to connect, learn, engage, and take care of yourself through programs like the Fall Walking Challenge, online counseling, and student organizations.

This is nowhere close to a complete list of all the resources available to you as a student at Missouri State University, if you can’t find what you are looking for, please ask!

Tips for a successful semester:

1) Get organized- Whether you want to call it a plan, a schedule, a routine, or something else, time management is a big part of your life. You know what all you are responsible for, knowing how you are going to put the puzzle pieces together ahead of time will help you fulfill your responsibilities.

2) Plan on studying- The time commitment outside of class varies from course to course, but in general, doing well in your classes will require some study time. Maybe you will study in the evening after the kids are asleep or get up early to study before you go to work. Maybe you need to leave the house entirely to be able to focus and study at a library or coffee shop. Find what works best for you and protect it.

3) Communicate- Strong communication skills are important for every person in every aspect of life. Talking with your support network, instructors, and advisors can make a huge difference in your life as a student. Ask questions, ask for help, share your ideas and experiences.

4) Set realistic goals- An important factor in your success is being realistic about how much you can add to your already busy schedule. As tempting as it may be to dive in head-first, you are a full-time adult and easing back into school as a part-time student may benefit you in the long run. This allows you to acclimate to the changes in your schedule, routine, and get used to schoolwork again.

5) Keep an open mind- If it has been a while since you were in a classroom, school may be different than you remember. Technology has changed, the demographics of students have changed, academic expectations have changed, and most of all, you have changed. Whether you were previously a “good” student or a “bad” student does not define the type of student you will be now. You are not just here because you are “supposed” to be. You are actively choosing to be here, and that is powerful.

 

Here to Help!

Whether it is your first time attending college or you are picking up where you left off, we are excited to help and support you as you work towards your goals. Check out the Adult Student Services Blog and the Adult Student Services Community on Brightspace for more detailed information about resources and tips for success. 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.

MSU 62 Course Highlight

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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. We’re pleased to share that for the Spring 2025 semester, MSU 62 registration will be held virtually on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Of the many courses available to MSU 62 participants, two programs are asking you to consider their courses.

Religious Studies – REL 330, Judaism

The Languages, Cultures, and Religions Department is offering a course on Judaism (REL 330). What is Judaism? Is it a religion defined by beliefs and practices? Is it a culture based on values and traditions? Are Jews a national entity with a common history? Or are they an ethnic group?

This course introduces students to key aspects of Judaism, from ancient times to the early modern period and beyond. Judaism has appeared in many different forms throughout history and around the world. It has evolved by adapting both to past traditions and to changing present conditions, often influenced by local non-Jewish cultures. This course will explore Judaism through three main areas: history, religious practice, and texts. Students will learn about Jewish ideas on important topics like creation, law, chosenness, prophecy, exile, and redemption, as well as the  ongoing debates on these subjects.

The texts read will represent different ways Judaism has expressed its creativity, including religious law (halakhah), Biblical interpretation, philosophy, mysticism, and prayer and ritual. Studying Jewish rituals and practices will help students better understand Jewish history, theology, and texts, as rituals themselves combine these elements in Jewish life.

With a PhD in Jewish Thought, associate professor, Dr. Vadim Putzu leads this course in Judaism.  He mentions, “This is a course that might be of interest not just to people curious about different religions and cultures, but also to students who may want to learn more about alternative perspectives on the Bible and its interpretation as well as to those who want to dive into a lesser known aspect of local history.” In this course, students will have the opportunity to tour downtown Springfield to discover its early Jewish residents and businesses, visit the local Jewish cemetery , and attend services at Temple Israel in Rogersville. 

For the spring 2025 semester (1/13/25-5/8/25), the course will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:15am-12:05pm in Strong Hall, room 450.

Students with questions may reach out to Dr. Putzu via email: VPutzu@MissouriState.edu.

 

Gerontology and Art and Design – GER 397, Intergenerational Artistic Expression

This course, first offered in Spring 2023, is an interdisciplinary offering between the Geronotology program and the Art and Design Department. Students can expect an inviting environment that welcomes the sharing of personal stories and connection through the assignments. The class allows for connection among traditional aged college students, nontraditional students, and senior community members through the creation of art. Watercolor and acrylics are ussed, although no prior artistic experience is needed. If you’re an artist, this class will help one look at the intuitive process through curiousity and wonder.  

With varied experience levels and artisitc mediums, peers will have the opportunity to learn from one another while engaging in both individual and collaborative projects. Students who have completed the course found it to be encouraging and an overall very positive experience.

This class is taught on Fridays (January 13-May 8, 2025) by Diane Denton in Brick City 3, room 117. Read more on the course from the Art + Design blog, debuted December 16, 2022.

Prior teaching experience from her program developed with Senior Age, “Young at Art–Diversity and Inclusion,” and a teaching certification from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has prepared Denton to lead this course. “We will create pieces based on what you love, what brings one joy and also look at the challenges that life can bring and how we can create from that space.   The class is limited to 15 students.  Both MSU62 and undergraduate students find the class empowering, a safe place to create and an opportunity to get to know their classmates.  It is thought-provoking.  We look at real life stories and create from those prompts,” Denton shares.

If you have any questions relating to the course, reach out to Ms. Diane Denton via email: dld72e@missouristate.edu.

 

Can I Take Other Classes?

While MSU 62 participants are not limited to these two options, we hope that you consider these two wonderful offerings 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.

Read our blog for more helpful preparation information.

Registration for MSU 62 begins Thursday, January 9th at 9:00am on the MSU 62 website. The last day to submit registration forms is 2:00pm on Friday, January 17th.

Review MSU 62 Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions.

MSU 62 Coming Soon!

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Each fall and spring semester, the Adult Student Services Office holds a registration event for eligible Missourians to register for a single class free of tuition. We’re pleased to share that for the Spring 2025 semester, MSU 62 registration will be held virtually on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Weather in the Ozarks can hard to predict in the spring. In efforts to keep participants, volunteers, and staff safe we have decided to conduct registration 100% online.

Who can take a class?

Those eligible to participate in MSU 62 are:

  • A Missouri resident (living in the state of Missouri for 12 or more months)
  • Aged 62 or older
  • Nondegree-seeking student
  • Enrolling in either undergraduate or graduate courses (if postbaccalaureate)
  • Not able to apply this waiver to intersession, special courses, noncredit, or off-campus courses

Do I have to pay anything?

The MSU 62 fee waiver covers the cost of tuition and student service fees. However, students are still required to pay special course fees, required textbooks and course materials (including digital materials). Students are able to take classes online or in-person. If your class is taught in person, you will also be responsible for purchasing a parking permit.

How will I register?

At 9:00am on January 11th, a form will be posted to the MSU 62 website for you to submit. Shortly after you submit your form you will receive an email confirming that your form has been received and submitted. Forms are not processed automatically. These forms are manually reviewed and processed by our staff in the order that they are received; typically, you can expect an email confirming your admission and registration within 1-2 business days.

The online registration form will be available until 2:00pm on Friday, January 17th.

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.

If you wish to receive academic credit for the course, leave the text boxes blank and only sign the signature box at the bottom of the page.

What class can I take?

Registration is subject to seats available and completion of prerequisites. You can explore the course offerings through the online Class Schedule Search. You may filter by a variety of fields, although it is not necessary to enter any filtering criteria. We recommended including the following fields:

  • Subject: enter if known
    • Leaving blank will show all available subjects
  • Modality: Traditional for seated sections,  Internet-Other for online
  • Campus: Springfield, MO
  • Check the “Open Sections Only” box

The Religious Studies and Gerontology programs are asking you to consider two of their offerings this spring. Read more on our blog: MSU 62 Course Highlight.

We hope that you’ll take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!

Review Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any additional questions, please contact our office at AdultStudentServices@MissouriState.edu. 

A Reminder to Bears: Prepare for Hibernation

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Everybody knows that bears hibernate, but they don’t simply tuck themselves into their dens and sleep until spring. No! Real bears prepare for hibernation and so do the Bears at Missouri State. Before you head off for winter break (see dates below), be sure that you’ve taken the necessary steps to stay on track.

Checklist

  1. Are you registered? If not follow the steps below.
    • Check your student registration status to ensure that you do not have any holds listed. Login at https://my.missouristate.edu/
    • Navigate to the Registration card Click “Registration Status” in the My Registration card
    • If there are any red “X’s” then those are holds that you will need to clear up prior to registration- click the corresponding hyperlink on the left for more information (includes what office to contact).
    • If you have an advisor hold, contact the primary advisor listed on your registration status screen at the top of the Basic Information box.
    • Registration resources available through the Office of the Registrar.
  2. Do you have your course materials yet? Visit the University Bookstore in-person or order online to get the materials you need to succeed.  
  3. Do you know where your classes are? Check the Campus Map or go on a campus tour to get a lay of the land. Online classes – be sure you’re comfortable navigating our learning management system: Brightspace.  
  4. If you’re new to Missouri State or looking for a refresher on campus resources and information, join us for a virtual orientation for adult and nontraditional students on January 11th: Adult Student Welcome Orientation.  

 

Tips for a Successful Spring Semester

  • Find a good study spot. Whether it’s a quiet corner in your home, a cozy cafe, or station at the library, having a designated environment for studying can help signal your mind that it’s time to focus.  
  • Keep in contact. Take advantage of office hours and advisor appointments to maintain strong relationships and create plans for success.  
  • Maintain a schedule. Work, school, family, and a social life can all feel like a full-time job; finding the balance between them even more so. Use a planner (paper or digital) to carve out designated times for all your engagements to keep you accountable and prevent missed deadlines or surprise essays. Don’t forget to add in breaks and rest periods. (Check out our tips for time management!)
  • Know your resources. Missouri State offers many resources across campus to help students with whatever issues may arise during the semester. Explore Student Support. 
  • Go to class. As obvious as it sounds, going to class is one of the best ways to be successful. In early spring, it’s easy to want to stay indoors and not trek across campus; later in the semester we’re all eager to enjoy the sunshine after months of dreary winter days. Make your best effort to prioritize attendance, including signing into your online classes. 

 

Important Dates

We mentioned some important dates in our fall wrap-up blogpost, but a reminder never hurts.

  • November 23-December 1: Thanksgiving Break, no classes
    • Offices closed November 27-November 29
  • December 1: FAFSA Available for 2025-2026 academic year
  • December 6: Study Day (No classes, offices open)
  • December 7-12: Final Exam Period (don’t forget to check for your exam times!)
  • December 13: Fall 2024 Commencement
  • Decmber 23-January 3: University closed for Winter Break
  • January 13: Full semester and first block sections begin for Spring 2025
Check out the Academic Calendar for more important dates and get them added to your schedule. 

 

Stay warm, Bears!

Reach out to Adult Student Services with any questions 

MSU Foundation Annual Scholarship Available Now!

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The MSU Foundation Annual Scholarship Application for the 2025-2026 academic year is now open. The application will be available through March 1, 2025.

MSU Foundation Scholarships are donor-funded. These funds are privately donated by individuals, groups, or companies. Students are awarded based on a variety of criteria including:

  • Major
  • High school attended
  • Outstanding academic achievement
  • Leadership
  • Financial need

Completing this online application is worth your time. For 2024-2025, 1/3 of applicants were selected to receive a scholarship with an average value of over $1700!

Search for Donor Scholarships. 

Remember, you cannot apply for scholarships through the Search Tool. 

 

Access the Application

  1. Access the My.MissouriState.edu Portal using your BearPass Login.
  2. Locate your Financial & Scholarship card.
  3. Select the MSU Foundation Scholarships link.
The scholarship application requires that you be admitted to Missouri State University. 
Deadline: March 1, 2025
 

If you have any questions regarding the application of Foundation scholarships, please contact FNDScholarships@MissouriState.edu.

 

Additional Financial Aid

Office of Financial Aid

Adult and Nontraditional Scholarships

 

 

Nontraditional Week Spotlight: Graduate Assistant

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Adult Student Services is lucky to have a nontraditional student serving as our administrative graduate assistant. Jesica Boone took a few moments to share her experiences with us. 

Jesica is originally from Springfield, Missouri, but graduated from Paris High School. While it was initially a culture shock to live somewhere so rural, she ultimately made good friends and enjoyed her time there. She spent time with her family, particularly her sister and grandmother, who she shared strong relationships with. It was until much later in her life that Jesica realized what a strong impact her grandmother had made on her. Her grandmother was a gardener and very artistic. Jesica added, “She was eccentric, but she was content and lived by her own rules. She encouraged me to be curious and she let me explore and experiment and make mistakes. She was also kind. To everyone, all the time, without being judgmental or placing her expectations on them…”  

Jesica finds herself trying to do the same by caring for others, spending time outdoors with her husband, and working with stained-glass art. With her busy schedule, she wishes she had a bit more time for the latter. 

Jesica graduated with her undergraduate degree from Missouri State University this past spring. Currently, she’s in her first year of the Audiology doctorate program. She plans to graduate with her doctorate in 2027. 

Why Missouri State?

Prior to attending Missouri State, Jesica had taken classes at both Drury and Ozarks Technical College, where she ultimately earned her Associate’s degree. She struggled to commit to a degree path as she was interested in so many career options: architect, librarian, dietician. During COVID, it became clear that a change was necessary. Even though her job paid well, she was unable to take the time needed to care for family when facing significant health scares. MSU was a convenient option, affordable, and with the program Jesica decided she wanted to pursue – Communication Sciences and Disorders.  

This program helps to prepare students for graduate studies in either speech pathology or audiology. Jesica believes that communication is the most underused tool in helping people to live happier, more fulfilling lives. “Intervention for children who need it can change the course of their lives. Poor communication skills affect a person’s socioeconomic status, health, relationships, social status; every aspect of their life, in one way or another. ”  

This degree can lead to a broad range of career fields: education and literacy, healthcare, gender affirming care, entertainment, and more. And clients will range from young children to aging adults. “With so many career options, it’s important to keep an open mind,” she says, but is very interested in the medical aspects of the profession. Specifically, she’s drawn to working with ear/nose/throat teams or with cochlear implants. But at the moment, Jesica is taking advantage of the clinical trainings and externships and gaining hands-on experience within her doctoral program in the various emphasis areas. 

Highlights and Challenges

Jesica has particularly enjoyed being back in Springfield, where she feels anchored with her family and support base. She’s been able to dive into her studies and enjoy her time at Missouri State. When asked about some of her favorite aspects, she shared that her instructors and professors have made positive impressions. “I’ve had some amazing professors who have wonderful field experience to draw from while teaching, and who are so passionate about the field and making sure their students succeed,” she added.  

  

Final Thoughts

Jesica shares one last thought with us as she considered her full experiences at Missouri State, 

“Something I have learned since working as a GA in Adult Student Services is that there are so many resources available that a lot of people don’t know about or don’t know can be beneficial to them. I missed out on a lot of things that could have been beneficial because I didn’t utilize the resources, including funding, that are available. Even if you aren’t sure if something is applicable for you, it never hurts to ask. “ 

If you’d like help exploring resources, schedule a meeting with Jesica. 

Meet in person. 

Meet virtually. 

 

 

Jesica, thank you for being a Bear and for all the work you do in Adult Student Services! 

Nontraditional Student Week Spotlight: Sonja Blackburn

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While Sonja Blackburn currently resides in Lebanon, Missouri, she’s originally from Arkansas. Growing up in Fouke, Arkansas, she enjoyed a small-town, rural lifestyle. She learned to garden with her mother and learned to sew from her grandmother, a master seamstress. This time spent learning from her grandmother stayed with her into her adult life as she now enjoys quilting as a hobby.

Sonja, part of a graduating class of 28 students, began attending Texarkana Community College, but had to put her education on hold while she dealt with health issues. After moving to Missouri in the late 1990s, Sonja joined began attending the police academy in 1997. By 1998, Sonja embarked on her career in law enforcement.

Why Missouri State?

Missouri State University made sense for Sonja after transferring from Ozarks Technical Community College. She needed a University that was close to home and allowed for flexibility while working. Missouri State’s online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice fit the profile perfectly. And studying Criminology and Criminal Justice was the logical choice for Sonja, who had been a police officer for over a decade. She was able to pursue her passion – in both profession and education.

Even with her years of experience in the field, she says that learning different aspects of her criminology has been her favorite part about earning degree. “I always looked at crime through the lenses of a police officer instead of a normal person. This year in particular has been a real eye-opener for me.” Sonja is excited to further her career when she earns her diploma in the spring.

Looking back on her MSU journey, Sonja says her favorite aspect has been the encounters with her amazing professors. She states that they have been helpful and wonderful to learn from. Besides her criminology classes, Sonja found learning about the Dead Sea Scrolls in her religions elective class enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

When asked if she had any advice to pas on to future adult learners at MSU, Sonja shared,

“Keep your mind open. Be impressionable to learning new things and study hard.”

Overall, Sonja feels that attending Missouri State University has been a phenomenal experience. She’s thankful for the help and encouragement from her instructors and advisors making her dream of obtaining her bachelor’s degree a reality.

 

Thank you for choosing to be a Bear, Sonja! 

Nontraditional Student Week Spotlight: Alexis McCaslin

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Alexis McCaslin grew up not far from Springfield in Aurora, Missouri, where she enjoyed familiarity with her neighbors and tight-knit community. She recommends that anyone looking to experience a “Hallmark holiday experience” visit Aurora during Christmas time to enjoy a downtown stroll with hot coffee.  

Why Missouri State?

Alexis was able to keep the feeling of community and connectedness at Missouri State University. Even as an online student, Alexis found ways to get involved. She is a member of Alpha Phi Sigma- Sigma Mu Sigma, MSU’s honor society for Criminology majors. 

Being able to customize her schedule was an important aspect in choosing where to pursue her degree. As a wife and mother, Alexis needed flexibility. She was able to meet this need while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a psychology minor. Alexis takes advantage of both online and in-person classes, so she can take classes on her own schedule. When asked why she studies criminology, she answered, “I have always had a huge heart for people and the desire to understand what lies underneath human suffering and crime.” 

Alexis draws inspiration from her mother. Her mother had only completed the 8th grade but was still very accomplished. She spent 20 years serving in the military, obtaining her bachelor’s degree, and starting her own business as a blueberry farmer- all while raising four children. Alexis calls her mother a shining example of endurance, faith, and strength. These three attributes are important to Alexis, as she also spends time doing devotionals to develop her own faith.  

Highlights

The 3 Public Affairs Pillars have also been highly influential for Alexis.  

“Ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement. These are not just fluffy words but a real lining around everything that you do and learn here. I know I will go into my future job knowing how to lead a group, treat the people around me and be involved.” 

When reflecting on some of her favorite courses, Alexis noted two specifically: LLT 121, Classical Mythology, and CFD 562, Prevention of Childhood Abuse and Neglect. Classical Mythology had interesting content, and her instructor had high expectations. She was able to rise to the challenge and allowed it to set the tone for her freshman year. While LLT 121 was fun and engaging, she found that Prevention of Childhood and Abuse was the most impactful class she has taken. She feels this class changed the course of her career. This feeling came after reading Damaged: The Heartbreaking True Story of a Forgotten Child by Cathy Glass. 

Alexis spends a lot of time with her family and finds great joy in doing so. She hopes to use her degree to aid families in the foster care system with reunification. “The idea would be to also bolster the support for foster families to create a healthier, more sustainable quality of life for all the parties involved.”  

She also wanted to give special thanks to faculty that made a positive impact during her time at MSU. “I want to give a shout out to both Katie Stinnett and Aida Hass for being professors that really give their time to be personal and dedicated to their students. I did not feel like just another face in a room – but a pupil worth teaching. Those are the educators that make the greatest difference!” 

Parting Advice 

When asked what advice she would share with other adult learners, Alexis said, 

“Even if you must take one or two classes at a time, don’t be afraid to jump into this. There are so many people who are going to help you navigate getting your degree and so much more!” 

After graduating, Alexis plans to take the summer to celebrate her accomplishment while enjoying time with her husband and children. Afterwards, she plans on securing employment and embarking on the journey to earn her master’s degree.  

Alexis, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. We wish you the best of luck in all your endeavors! 

 

Nontraditional Student Week: Alumni Spotlight

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Jaime Ross, Director of Adult Student Services, recently spoke with Missouri State University alumna Melvi Cifuentes Paul about her experiences at the University and what she’s doing post-graduation. Melvi graduated in 2018 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a minor in Spanish.

Early Days

Melvi grew up in Noel, Missouri, and was heavily involved in sports and extracurriculars. She was part of the basketball and softball teams, and participated in both track and cheer. She also helped to form the Missouri Conservation Club chapter at her school. In high school, Melvi continued to cheer under the coaching of Tracy Allman. Under Allman, Melvi and her fellow cheerleaders participated in many cheer championships. In 2011, her team placed fifth at the UCA National Championship. These awards provided the potential for partial scholarships to cheer in college, which Melvi states, “is something I did not think possible before joining the team.” She began the recruitment process in her junior year of high school and decided to attend an out-of-state college, but life had other plans for Melvi.

Why Missouri State?

At 23 years of age, Melvi was a “nontraditional student” and was looking for a college or university that would help her through the admissions and enrollment processes. Admissions departments were also treating her as an international student, despite being a Missouri resident for tuition purposes. That’s when she came across MSU’s Adult Student Services. She scheduled an in-person meeting with a counselor who took the time to discuss enrollment, tuition, financial aid, and helped Melvi through the admissions process step-by-step. In the fall of 2015, Melvi attended her first semester at Missouri State.

Working three (sometimes four) jobs to get through college was no easy feat. Melvi says that the first year was the hardest, but found people and resources available to help.

“I am forever grateful for everyone involved in the Adult Student Services department. I am grateful for a university that fostered so much personal and professional growth.”

Melvi chose political science to learn more about the US and international political systems. “I thought that perhaps a political science degree would lend itself to a future law degree. I found the program fascinating and challenging.” In taking advantage of elective hours, Melvi enjoyed courses in religion, anthropology, and African American studies. “There were a few times when the content was so intriguing that I wondered what it would take to change my major,” she adds.

What was Your Favorite Part?

Melvi fondly remembers her time as an administrative student worker for Adult Student Services. She worked directly alongside the department she credits for helping her to begin her pursuit of higher education, but also assisted her in achieving her goal of graduating in three years. This work-study arrangement created an environment that allowed Melvi to focus on academics and establish transferable work skills at the same time. “Missouri State gave me the tools to thrive – beginning with having a department specifically dedicated to students who did not enroll right after graduating from high school.”

All Missouri State undergraduates are required to complete a public affairs capstone experience. Melvi’s favorite aspect of her degree was satisfying this capstone requirement with the volunteer work she did at the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAISES) in San Antonio, Texas. Melvi says, “I witnessed firsthand how politics and policies in place drastically affected local communities and people migrating into the U.S. I was able to put into practice both the knowledge from my major and minor to assist this NGO (nongovernmental agency) in achieving its mission.”

What’s Happened Since Graduation?

A common question for students is how they will use their degrees after graduation. After graduating from MSU in 2018, she pursued a law degree at the University of Lousiville Brandeis School of Law. She completed her degree in May 2021. Melvi found that embracing MSU’s Public Affairs Mission benefitted her as a student and a professional. By learning about the political atmosphere in the US and other countries, she’s able to understand the laws that impact us daily.

“Working in immigration law, cultural competence comes into play with every conversation you have with a client or prospective client. The world we live in and the experiences we have are vastly different so one has to be cognizant that their lived experiences carry equal value and truth. Ethical leadership involves a host of characteristics, but integrity and accountability to those you serve are some of the most important. You must be honest with people, even if it’s not the result they hoped for. Lastly, community engagement: whether that’s speaking to youth about their goals, or being involved and attending community events – showing up for your community matters.”

Final Thoughts

Melvi shared parting advice for future adult learners at Missouri State and those who feel that pursuing college after a break is daunting:

“No matter the amount of time that’s passed between your high school graduation and your enrollment in higher education, KEEP GOING. It may be tough and a bit discouraging, but you must believe in yourself. Time will continue to pass by so why not take action today towards accomplishing your goals.”

 

A special thank you to Melvi Cifuentes Paul for taking the time to talk about her experiences. We’re so proud of her and the work she’s done, and wish her the best! 

Wrapping Up the Fall Semester

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November and December are an exciting time: spring semester preparations, commencement, holiday breaks, and so much more.

Important Dates

  • 10/30-11/20 Sequenced Registration: find your earliest registration date through the Registration Eligibility link in the Registration tile of your My Missouri State.
  • 11/1 MSU Foundation Scholarship application becomes available for the 2025-2026 academic year, deadline to submit is March 1, 2025
  • 11/2 Fall Showcase 2024: an opportunity for transfer students to get information about Missouri State, tour the campus, meet faculty, and get information about scholarships and financial aid and much more!
  • 11/6 Celebrate Nontraditional Student Week with sweets in the Plaster Student Union
  • 11/8 Last day to drop, declare pass/not pass, or audit for full semester classes 
  • 11/7 Foundation Scholarship Workshop 
  • 11/18 Last day to drop, declare pass/not pass, or audit for 2nd block classes 
  • 11/23-12/1 Thanksgiving Break (offices will be closed 11/27-11/29) 
  • 12/1 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) available for 2025-2026 academic year 
  • 12/5 Full semester and block classes end 
  • 12/6 Study Day 
  • 12/7-12/12 Final Exam Period: final exams are not always on the same schedule as classes. Please remember to check the Final Exam Schedule for exam times.  
  • 12/13 Fall 2024 Commencement 
  • 12/23-1/3 University Closed for Winter Break  
  • 1/6-1/10 Winter Intersession: Intersession classes are a great way to reduce the time it takes to earn your degree. Ask your advisor to see if this option can benefit you! 
  • 1/9-1/17 MSU 62 Spring Registration 
  • 1/13 Spring 2025 semester begins 

Resource Spotlight: Office of Financial Aid 

With MSU Foundation Scholarships and the 2025-2026 FAFSA applications to be released soon, we want to remind you that the Office of Student Financial Aid is ready to assist you with any questions you may have. You can schedule a meeting with one of several Financial Aid Counselors that specialize in different areas such as Federal Eligibility, Scholarships, Loan Questions, and more. 

5 Tips to Prepare for Next Semester

  1. Check your registration eligibility status – Common holds include needing to declare a major at a certain number of hours, and/or get an advisor release.  
  2. Run a Degree Audit – see what courses you still need to complete, then use the course catalog to find your courses and plan out a schedule.  
  3. Schedule an appointment with your academic advisor – review how things are going and get guidance on your path to completion.  
  4. Register for classes – don’t put off registration until the last minute. Classes can fill up quickly, by registering sooner you’re more likely to get the classes you need and the sections you want.
  5. Get your booklist – have the materials you need to be successful when classes begin.  

BONUS TIP: Even though time off from classes does not mean time off from other responsibilities, enjoy the break and try to take a moment for yourself. You have been working hard!  

 

Enjoy these last weeks of the fall semester and enjoy your well-earned break. 
Stay warm, Bears! 

 

One more thing!

You may have seen our announcement or previous blogpost, but our office has a new home! We can be found at Clay Hall (744 E Cherry St, Springfield, MO 65807). 

Make an in-person appointment with an advisor.   Make a telephone/Zoom appointment with an advisor.