Hi, everyone! My name is Eternity, and I’m a Peer Mentor here at the CAST office. I’m currently a junior majoring in Agricultural Communications with a minor in Equine Science (horses). Part of my job is having the pleasure of writing this blog, and this week I wanted to share a few of my favorite things about being a Missouri State Bear. 

The People 

One of the biggest things I love about MSU is the community. There are so many genuinely kind people on campus, and I love the energy of meeting someone new. Being here has taught me how to connect with people from all different backgrounds and opinions, an invaluable life lesson I’ll take with me long after graduation. 

Most importantly, I’ve made amazing friends. Making friends can be tricky when you’re moving to a new city and starting a new chapter, but I’ve been so lucky. Between my classes, student organizations, and work, I’ve found a support system that makes Springfield feel more like home. 

Peer Mentor Tip: A great way to connect with peers is by joining a student organization. “Bear Link” on the MSU website has information about over 300 organizations that may be a good fit for you.  

The Classes  

I love that my academics aren’t just about textbooks; they have “real-world” components. For example, this semester I’m taking a class about the use of horses in therapy. I don’t just sit in a lecture hall; I get to work with the horses at MSU and volunteer at a local facility to see hippotherapy (horse-assisted therapy) in action firsthand. 

Even in my larger classes, my instructors are reachable and genuinely willing to help. It gives me that “small school” community feel even though we are a large university. Plus, since I see many of the same students in my major from semester to semester, I’ve been able to build really strong relationships with my peers. 

The Darr Ag Center: Have you been to the Darr Agricultural Center yet? It’s a 90-to-125-acre space just 10 minutes from the main campus. It houses academic buildings, livestock, and my personal favorite: Pinegar Arena. It feels surreal that right in the middle of Springfield, MSU students have a place to interact with nature and get that hands-on experience. 

Peer Mentor Tip: A great way to learn more about opportunities within your major is to go to an instructor’s office hours. Sometimes just building a relationship with an instructor in your area of study can lead you to new opportunities you never thought possible.  

The Location 

Coming from a rural area in central Missouri, I wasn’t used to having so many options! I love how close campus is to downtown. One of my favorite parts of living in Springfield is exploring the food scene and finding new activities. Whether it’s grabbing a bite at a new restaurant or catching a movie, downtown is just minutes away and is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends. 

Peer Mentor Tip: Want a cheap night out? Multiple movie theaters in the area have “College Nights” with discounted tickets on Tuesdays. Just bring your BearPass! 

Takeaways 

What’s Your Missouri Statement? I’ve shared my “Big Three” the people, the unique classes, and the Springfield location, but everyone’s MSU experience looks a little different. Whether you’re here for your specific major or you love a Tuesday movie night downtown, there is so much to appreciate about this campus. 

Need help finding your place here at MSU? Peer Mentors and Success Coaches can work with you on finding ways to get involved on campus. Visit our Student Academic Assistance page to learn more and to request to meet with a mentor or coach 

I’d love to hear from you: What’s one thing that has made your time as a Bear special so far? Let me know in the comments. 

~Eternity Lawson  

(Bio: I am a second year Agriculture Communications Student here at MSU. Fun Fact about me is that I love watching movies, especially musicals.)