Take a moment to get to know Allison Garrett, 2020-2021 Senior Class President!
Tell us about yourself. I’m from Nixa, Missouri, and I’m studying political science. In my time at Missouri State, I’ve served three years on Student Government Association and two of those years on SGA Cabinet. I had the privilege of serving on the Panhellenic Executive Board as Vice President of Membership Development. I also currently work as a Student Assistant in the Office of Student Affairs and got the opportunity to help facilitate SOAR this summer! In my free time, I frequently volunteer with Girls on the Run of Southwest Missouri and one of my favorite experiences in college was interning for U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill! I’m very close with my parents, Chad and Emily, and I have one brother named Lake, who is my best friend in the world.
You were recently elected Senior Class President. Can you tell us about the position and what your goals are for the position? The Senior Class President is tasked with helping seniors stay connected with the university as they transition from undergraduates to alumni. My specific duties include facilitating crowdfunding for the Senior Class Gift, working with the Student Alumni Association, and helping plan commencement. My plan for the Senior Class Gift is to crowdfund for the future Multicultural Student Center on campus, since that will be a major development our class will see come to fruition. Overall, my goal is to set students up for academic success and ensure they stay connected to campus in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why do you think students should get involved on campus? I came to campus ready to find a community of people who were ready to work towards a greater good. Getting involved on campus has not only given me this, but greatly elevated my college experience. The experiences and opportunities I’ve had through my involvement are beyond what I expected when I came to Missouri State and I’m so grateful!
What is your favorite tradition on campus? Why? My favorite tradition on campus is Fountain Day! It’s hosted by Traditions Council every spring to celebrate the fountain by Meyer Library turning on after winter and there’s food and crafts and prizes. To me, it represents community and new beginnings.
What advice would you give to new students coming to Missouri State? My advice for new students is to trust the timing of college. Sometimes you might get passed up for an opportunity you really wanted or not get the grade you want on a project or an exam. Every obstacle or closed door in my experience has only taught me a lesson and lead me to something better. My second piece of advice is to be proud of yourself. Getting a degree is no easy thing, and you should give yourself grace as you adjust to college life. This is one of the most pivotal times in your life. It’s important to remember that all you can give is your best.
What advice would you give to family members as they send their student to college? My advice would be to stay connected to your student and remind them to give themselves grace during the transition. My family was incredibly supportive during my transition to college, but it was still quite an adjustment. My parents would always remind me “all you can do is your best” and that piece of advice helped me persevere and be successful.