Meet Cooper Sago, a transfer student from Desloge, MO!

Cooper transferred to Missouri State University from Mineral Area College. Cooper is pursuing the Design/Graphic Design program at Missouri State University.

When asked why Cooper chose to transfer to Missouri State University, Cooper said, “My brother went to MSU and had an enjoyable experience. He now lives in Springfield, so I was able to have a family connection while living 3 hours away from home.”

Cooper says that moving away from home was the most challenging part of the transfer experience. “I lived at home while going to MAC, so going from living at home to an environment where I didn’t know many people was challenging. These feelings come back occasionally, but I’m able to push through and keep going.” Cooper says that the, “MSU faculty and staff were all very friendly and open to help with the process”, which made it easier to get acclimated to Missouri State University and Springfield. Cooper says, “Springfield is a fun place with lots of things to do and ways to get involved.”

Cooper’s advice for a new transfer student would be to know that “things will get better. The stress will go away, and you’ll get into a routine that will feel like a new normal. Open yourself up, talk with people, and try to make friends.” Cooper cautions that students should “know their limits and take breaks when needed.”

Cooper would like to take this opportunity to give a shout-out to the people who have supported Cooper the most during Cooper’s transfer process at Missouri State. Cooper would like to give a shout-out to, “my family, including my parents, aunts, cousins, and grandparents. Sarah Wood (my RA) and floormates, as well as Erin Sandra, a Design professor, were extremely helpful when I arrived at Missouri State and helped with the anxiety and stress I felt.”