Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! As a senior at Missouri State University, I feel like I know the campus quite well. This took me time as I had classes, meetings, or events in new buildings each year. The sooner you familiarize yourself with your environment, the quicker you become comfortable. When you are comfortable, studying becomes more natural, and the desire to stay connected on campus increases. I was inspired to write this post after celebrating 100 years of the Hill Hall academic building. Missouri State University is a beautiful campus – it’s time to explore!

Introducing Yourself to New Spaces

I challenge you to take a walk on campus and enter any building that you haven’t gotten the chance to visit. Without disrupting classes, locate the offices and resources found on each level of the building. You may discover something new that you wouldn’t have if you hadn’t adventured. It is not uncommon that you’ll find front desk staff in various buildings who may be able to inform you about what all their space has to offer. I took on this challenge myself and discovered the plant sale that takes place in the spring in Karls Hall and the study locations offered in Ellis. After completing my walk, I felt like I had a new understanding of what the university had to offer and I was excited to share what I learned with others.

Favorite Hidden Spaces of CAST Staff

I asked a few of the Success Coaches/TA’s in the office to list the spaces on campus that they’ve discovered and enjoyed for studying:

• Sally – Basement of the library in the quiet zone 
• Brooklyn – Balcony of Glass Hall with the overview of the soccer field 
• Kuper – Second floor of the library behind the bookshelves 
• Shahriyar – Behind the Plaster Student Union especially in the spring
• Claire – Second floor of the library 

Why a Campus Feeling Like Home is Special 

As a student you spend a lot of your time on the campus utilizing resources offered and attending events, some students spend more time on campus than they do in their bedroom. To increase your academic success and enjoy your time at the university a key factor is feeling comfortable in the environment you spend so much time in. When you feel as if you know and love your campus your feelings will be contagious for those around you who may be looking for the same feeling. This campus is yours to explore and call home.

Takeaways

We are entering week 10 of the academic semester and you may be starting to feel homesick or the excitement of a new year may be wearing off or you just want to learn more about your campus. Whatever the reason, I think all students should introduce themselves to their campus the same way the campus did to the students. If you find that after this exercise you’re still longing to feel connected or to find ways to increase your academic drive or social life then stop by the Center for Academic Success and Transition office to meet with a Success Coach or a Peer Mentor. Our office staff would be happy to meet with you to identify possible opportunities. 

~Aubrey

(Bio: My name is Aubrey Hardy, and I am a senior studying special needs education. Fun fact: I’ve read over 15 books this year!)