A Bear's Life: Student Stories

Student stories from our peer counselors

A Week in the Life with Peer Mentor Eternity (Spring 2026, Week 16)

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Everyone’s college experience looks a little different, but I thought I’d share what a typical week looks like for me. Between being a full-time Agricultural Communications student, a member of the Missouri State Equestrian team, and an employee at both the Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST) office and a local restaurant here in Springfield, things stay pretty busy! 

Monday 

My Monday kicks off at the CAST office at 8:00 am. I work until 10:30 am, focusing on writing blogs, meeting with students, and handling administrative tasks. 

After work, I head back to my apartment for a quick breakfast before my first class. Since it’s held at the Darr Agriculture Center on Kansas Expressway, I always leave early to beat the traffic. We often get hands-on experience with Missouri State’s horses; recently, we evaluated them to see if they would be a good fit for therapy work which was super fun. 

Once class ends, I find a quiet spot in the barn to catch up on work before getting ready for equestrian team practice. After practice, I wrap up the day at home with my roommates, where we cook dinner and tackle our homework together in the living room. 

Tuesday 

Tuesday starts with another trip to Darr for class at 9:30 am. This class is very in-depth, covering the nutritional needs of various farm animals, so I make sure to take detailed notes. After class, I head home to eat and review those notes while the information is still fresh. 

My afternoon includes: 

  • Another class: This is on the main campus and is a blast. The lectures are short, so I use the extra time for the class workload, which includes taking and editing photos for our weekly assignments. 
  • Tabling at the PSU: I represent the CAST office at the Plaster Student Union. I love connecting with students and sharing how our office can help them succeed. 

To finish the day, I head to my evening job at a local pasta restaurant. Tuesday nights are my favorite because I get to see my “regulars.” 

Wednesday 

I intentionally keep Wednesdays a bit slower to leave room for appointments, volunteering, or any other out of the ordinary task I may need to complete that week. If my schedule is clear, I enjoy a slow morning, sleeping in a little and catching up with my roommates over breakfast. 

At noon, I head to work at the CAST office, starting with an hour of tabling before finishing daily tasks. Every day at CAST is a little different, which keeps it interesting!  

My evening involves: 

  • Equestrian Practice: Wednesday practices are usually the highlight of my week. 
  • Roommate Dinner: I usually take the lead on cooking for the house on Wednesdays. 
  • Online Classes: I dedicate Wednesday nights specifically to my online coursework at the library. Carving out this specific block helps me stay on top of the workload without feeling overwhelmed. 

Thursday 

My Thursdays mirror my Tuesdays, with one major exception: I don’t work at the CAST office in the afternoon. Instead, I use that time to rest. As college students, our schedules fill up fast, and I’ve learned that scheduled downtime is the best way to avoid burnout. 

Friday 

Friday starts at 8:00 am at the CAST office. It’s usually a quieter morning, which is perfect for editing blog posts and covering the front desk. After work, it’s back to my equine class at Darr. It’s my favorite class, so it’s the perfect way to end the academic week. I spend the afternoon with my roommates before heading into a shift at the restaurant. 

The Weekend 

No two weekends look the same! I use this time for: 

  • Socializing: Making plans with friends and getting out into Springfield. 
  • Prep: Finishing up any remaining homework and grocery shopping for the week ahead. 
  • Reset: Going to church on Sunday is my favorite way to clear my head and prepare for the coming week. 

The Takeaway 

Your college experience is exactly what you make of it. From classes and activities to hobbies and jobs, Missouri State is a place where you can truly tailor your schedule to fit your goals and your needs. Whether you’re at the barn or in the library, there’s a rhythm that works for everyone!
 

Wondering how to fit studying into your current schedule? Want help figuring out how to add opportunities for campus involvement into your time at Missouri State? CAST’s Success Coaches and Peer Mentors can help! Learn more and request to meet with a coach or mentor on our Student Academic Assistance page.

 

~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.)

Peer Mentor Q&A (Spring 2026, Week 11)

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At the Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST), we currently have three undergraduate students employed as peer mentors. Their role is to meet with students to discuss campus resources, how to get involved at MSU, and so much more. 

Meet Sophia, Carsyn and me, Eternity! 

Sophia 

A little bit about yourself? 

My name is Sophia Clinton and I am a sophomore at MSU majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in nutrition. My goal down the road is to become a pediatric occupational therapist! I enjoy spending time with friends and am on the executive board of my sorority, Alpha Delta Pi. I love running, especially in the nice weather. I also am a part of Pre-Occupational therapy club and work at the Foster Recreation Center as a Fitness Attendant! 

Favorite study spot on campus?  

Sophia Clinton

My favorite study spot on campus is using the walking desks on the second floor of the Meyer Library! The desk sits right in front of a window with a beautiful view of the fountain and campus!

One way to get involved at MSU? 

Attend events! Especially, not limited to, the welcome week events at the beginning of the year. Furthermore, be intentional! I am still friends with people I met at my SOAR session because I attended all the activities with an open and welcoming mindset. Keep this mentality throughout the year with classes, clubs, and more so you can feel more connected!  

Favorite part about being a peer mentor? 

 My favorite part about being a peer mentor is getting to show students the amazing opportunities Missouri State has to offer! College can be such a fun experience if you use your resources and find ways to get involved! 

What is one way you practice self-care? 

 One way I practice self-care is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I have two jobs and am involved in multiple extracurriculars while trying to balance schoolwork. One way to minimize stress is to work diligently during the day and then turn off my computer after 6pm. This way I have time for my friends and am able to relax for a bit each day.  

Favorite thing to do in Springfield? 

 One of my favorite things to do in Springfield is try new coffee shops! 

What is one thing you wish you knew your freshman year of college? 

 One thing I wish I knew about the freshman year of college was to trust the process! Everything is so new and unfamiliar, but before you know it, the people you meet at college become your closest friends. Even though you may face struggles and obstacles when adjusting to college, take a deep breath and relax! College can feel overwhelming but can also be wonderful.  

Carsyn 

A little bit about yourself? 

 Hi! My name is Carsyn Vincent. I am a Management and Leadership major with a minor in Marketing in the College of Business. I also work as a Peer Mentor in the CAST department, where I help support students and make their transition to college a little easier. When I am not at work, you will find me in the gym, on walks around campus, or cooking and watching movies with my friends! 

Favorite study spot on campus? 

My favorite study spot on campus is the Roy Blunt Hall balcony. I love that it overlooks the fountain and has a great view of Glass Hall, which is my favorite building on campus.  

One way to get involved at MSU? 

Carsyn Vincent

A great way to get involved at MSU is by joining clubs! I always recommend joining one club related to your major, one that connects with your interests, and one that is just for fun. It’s a great way to meet people and feel more connected to campus.  

Favorite part about being a peer mentor?  

My favorite part about being a peer mentor is helping make students’ lives on campus a little easier. Whether that means answering questions, sharing advice, or helping them find resources, I love supporting students as they adjust to college.  

What is one way you practice self-care?

One way I practice self-care is by going to the gym and prioritizing my health. Staying active helps me manage stress and keep a good balance between school and personal life.  

Favorite thing to do in Springfield? 

Some of my favorite things to do in Springfield are going to my favorite mexican restaurant with friends, attending MSU Baseball or Hockey games, and exploring hiking trails around the area.  

What is one thing you wish you knew your freshman year of college 

One thing I wish I knew during my freshman year is to use the resources available to you! College can be challenging in many ways, but there are so many people and services here to help you succeed. Taking advantage of those resources can make your college experience much easier. 

Eternity  

A little bit about yourself? 

Hi! My name is Eternity and I am a junior here at Missouri State. I am majoring in Agricultural Communications with a minor in Equine Science. I love spending time with friends and riding horses; I’m actually a member of the Missouri State Equestrian team, where I both ride and manage our social media! When I’m not at work or at the barn, you can usually find me cooking and watching movies with my roommates. 

Favorite study spot on campus? 

My favorite study spot is on the 4th floor of the PSU, especially in the evening. It’s much quieter than the lower floors, and the chairs are incredibly comfortable.

Eternity Lawson

One way to get involved at MSU? 

One way to get involved is by talking to peers in your classes! I know it can be a little intimidating, but forming study groups and collaborating with those around you is a fantastic way to build lasting connections and open the door for more opportunities to attend events, join groups, and more. 

Favorite part about being a peer mentor? 

I can’t pick just one, so I’ll give you two! I love meeting with students for one-on-one conversations, and I also really enjoy writing this blog. Both allow me to connect with others in ways that tie directly back to my academic and professional goals. 

What is one way you practice self-care? 

I practice self-care by intentionally scheduling “me time.” College gets busy, and it’s easy to let your hobbies slide. By putting personal time on my calendar, I can take a break from school and work guilt-free. During these breaks, I love to read, watch TV, scroll through social media, or call my family. 

Favorite thing to do in Springfield? 

I love exploring local restaurants and going to the movies. There are so many great spots downtown just minutes from campus. I’m also a big fan of discounted tickets on Tuesdays at the local theaters—it’s the best night to catch a movie with friends! 

What is one thing you wish you knew about your freshman year? 

I wish I had known that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. College is a season for learning and personal growth. If your path changes along the way, don’t worry, that’s often a sign of progress, not a mistake. 

Takeaways  

After hearing from Sophia, Carsyn and Eternity, a few “pro-tips” for a successful semester stand out: 

  • Find Your Study Space: Whether it’s the walking desks at Meyer Library, the balcony at Roy Blunt Hall or the quiet 4th floor of the PSU, finding a study spot you actually enjoy makes a world of difference. 
  • Get Involved: From attending Welcome Week events and joining major-specific clubs to simply starting a conversation with the person sitting next to you in class connection is the key to feeling at home at MSU. 
  • Prioritize “Me Time”: Success isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about balance. Set some “me time”, hit the gym  or schedule your hobbies into your calendar just like you would a class. 
  • Trust the Process: It is completely normal to not have everything figured out on day one. Use the resources available to you, ask questions and remember that changing your path is a sign of growth. 

Ready to Connect? 

You don’t have to navigate college alone. Whether you need help finding a specific campus resource, want to talk through your involvement options or just want to hear more about our favorite local coffee shops, we are here for you. Meet with a Peer Mentor today and start building your campus connection. 

Q & A with Our Coordinator of Student Success Coaches (Spring 2026, Week 7)

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Who is the person behind the Student Success Coaches in the Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST) office? Meet Christina Bowles, a double-master’s grad, creativity enthusiast, and a fierce advocate for student growth. From her experience as an advisor to her current role as Coordinator of Student Success Coaches, Christina knows exactly what it takes to thrive at MSU. We asked her for her best advice on asking for help, practicing self-care, and why meeting with a coach is a total win-win for every student.
 

Christina Bowles 

Tell us a little bit about yourself:    

I grew up in Raytown, MO, before moving to Springfield to attend Missouri State University (at the time Southwest Missouri State University). I majored in Communication with minors in French and Religious Studies, and I went on to complete my Master of Arts in Religious Studies and Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education. As a first-generation college student, I am very proud of, and thankful for, my education. To pay it forward, I was an Academic Advisor to Undeclared students at Missouri State University for over a decade before becoming a Success Coach.  

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter. We love to travel and often go to Oklahoma City for Thunder games. I am passionate about creativity – in my actions, dress, and hobbies, which include sewing and drawing.  

Tell us a little bit about your position here in the CAST office:   

As the Coordinator of Student Success Coaches, I help organize student outreach, process Success Coach referrals and requests, and support our graduate assistant Success Coaches. However, the most “fun” part of my position is when I am coaching my students. I truly appreciate seeing them grow, helping them achieve their goals, and simply getting to know them better.  

I also teach GEP 101: First-Year Foundations, so I get to work very closely with first-year students as they navigate university life.

Christina Bowles talking to students at tabling event
Kevin White/Missouri State University

Mid semester advice:  

It’s never too late to ask for help! If you are struggling, reach out to your support system. Also, when it gets tough, remember why you’re here and what you want to accomplish.  

Why do you think students should meet with a success coach:  

You have nothing to lose! As a student, you drive the agenda – you can meet with a Success Coach as often as you like, and it is completely free. Even if you are doing well, we can help you stay motivated and on track. There is simply no reason not to meet with a Success Coach.  

What is one way you practice self-care:   

I love to be outside and moving. I will often go for walks around campus, or you may find me at the Foster Recreation Center over lunch time. I always recharge from a little exercise! Self-care is going to look different for everyone, and I often coach my students on what self-care looks like for them and how to include it in their schedule. 

 

Request a Success Coach today and learn how our office can help you. Also consider joining MSU I’m First, the student organization dedicated to first generation students like Christina. Have any questions or want more information? Stop by our office (Library 116) and we’d be happy to help.  

 

~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.) 

My Favorite Things About Being A Bear (Spring 2026, Week 5)

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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.) 

Meet Success Coach Aly (Spring 2026, Week 4)

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Welcome back to campus, Bears! This spring the Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST) is excited to welcome a new success coach! Success coaches are graduate students who have been in your shoes as undergraduates and are here to provide academic and professional guidance to MSU students.

Aly Massardo

  • Area of Academic Interest:

My current degree path is for the Communication MA program. My undergrad degrees are in Psychology and Communication Studies with a certificate in Organizational Communication.

Aly Massardo

  • Beginning of Semester Advice:

My beginning of the semester advice is to set yourself up for success! Look over your syllabi and write down the due dates. Talk to your professors. Use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, plan study times, and stay on track.

  • Why do you think students should meet with a success coach:

 It’s a good idea to meet with a success coach because we are here to help students succeed. So, whether you need help now or are trying to be proactive in problem-solving, we meet students where they are at and help them get to where they want to be.

  • What is one way you practice self care:
One of my favorite ways to practice self-care is cozying up in my living room with snacks and re-watching comfort movies and shows.

 

Request a success coach today to be connected with one of our amazing success coaches! If you want some more information about some of our other success coaches Jack Baumgart and Erica Batson they have fun introductions as well. We hope to see you soon at the CAST office (Library 116).

 

~Eternity Lawson  

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