Tell us about yourself. My name is Jenn Hassler and I am from Jefferson City, Missouri. I am a senior double majoring in exercise and movement science and psychology. After graduation, I plan to continue my education here at Missouri State to receive my Masters of Athletic Training. 

You transferred to Missouri State. What drew you to Missouri State? What was the transfer experience like? I transferred to Missouri State in the spring of my freshman year. I was drawn to Missouri State because of the campus atmosphere and the academic reputation.

When I stepped on campus for a visit, it felt like a real campus. One that was big enough to offer me opportunity but small enough to allow me the opportunity to form relationships with classmates and professors without fading into the background.

I was nervous transferring in the spring instead of waiting for a new year to start but everyone was welcoming and willing to show me around and take me in like I had been here the whole year.

Tell us about your involvement on campus. Why is it important to be involved? I am the President of the Ice Girls as well as the Philanthropy Co-Coordinator for the Homecoming committee. I also work on campus in the Dean of Students’ office.

Your college experience is going to be what you make it so get involved! Getting involved on campus has introduced me to so many new friends and given me so many fun opportunities while strengthening my school spirit.

What is your favorite tradition at MSU? Why? My favorite tradition has to be a tie between BearWear Friday and Fountain Day! I’m in my BearWear every Friday (and every other day) to show off my pride for my school.

Fountain Day is something I look forward too every year. There are so many celebrations, and you can feel the buzz and excitement all around campus about the fountain turning back on.

What advice do you have for transfer students that are coming to Missouri State? If you are transferring to Missouri State, ask questions! It can be confusing, especially if things are totally different from your last school, but everyone is willing to help answer your questions or find you someone who can! If you get lost, don’t call your mom to look at Google Maps (guilty!) because I promise any person you stop on the sidewalk is willing to point you in the right direction.

Also, make sure you get involved! It may be scary, especially if it’s mid-year because those clubs have already formed but use CampusLink to reach out. Try out a few groups to find the right fit and go to events put on by the Student Activities Council! If you find an event you want to try, don’t be afraid to go alone! There will always be students there for you to sit with and you may walk away with your best friend!

Since you are a senior, what advice do you have for the family members of students transitioning to college? When your student transitions to college, know that at some point, they will probably want to come home, but you can’t let them quit. Encourage your student to check out an opportunity you saw advertised or a support network that may help with the homesickness. Sending care packages or encouraging notes can help ease them into the college transition.

It is also important to realize that you can no longer do everything for your student. Point them in the right direction but then make them make that phone call or send that email themselves, I promise they’ll thank you later.

My last piece of advice for anyone with a student transitioning to college is to try something new. We always stress that students need to get involved and make new friends, but this is likely a big adjustment for you too. Instead of sitting at home missing your student, try a new hobby or going to dinner with friends you haven’t caught up with in a while!

You work on campus. How did you find the job and what advice would you give to other students considering getting a job on campus? I found my job on campus by looking through the job listings posted by Student Employment Services. https://www.missouristate.edu/StudentEmp/

The listings are constantly updated and there are so many great opportunities. If you want to work on campus, start here! Also, don’t be nervous! It can sound intimidating when I say I work for the Dean of Students, but I’ve formed so many close relationships and everyone wants to see you succeed.

What is your favorite thing about Missouri State? Why? My favorite thing about Missouri State is the fountain! Just look at it! Whether I’m studying or I just want to sit, I can always find a spot by the fountain.

Adding to that, the atmosphere at Missouri State is something I love. The fountain definitely adds to the atmosphere here but there is also the close proximity to downtown, the community that is just as willing to help you out as those on campus, and so many different activities that are always going on. There is always an exciting energy on campus, and you can always find an activity to try out!