A Bear's Life: Student Stories

Student stories from our peer counselors

My MSU Story (Spring 2025, Week 15)

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Welcome back Bears! I hope everyone’s been enjoying the warmer weather and making the most of these final weeks of the semester. With the end of the year coming up fast, I’ve been thinking about how far we’ve all come. In early May, I’ll be walking the stage at commencement. As that day gets closer, I’ve been reflecting on my time here at MSU—why I chose Missouri State, and more importantly, why I decided to stay.

Why did I choose MSU: 

During my senior year of high school, I was hearing back from the colleges I’d applied to and facing a big decision. At the time, COVID was still a major factor, influencing the choices of students across the country. I remember seeing an email from Missouri State that read, “Apply today for free,” which caught my attention.

When it came down to making my decision, financial factors played a huge role. I took a leap of faith and applied to Missouri State, and was not only accepted but also offered financial aid. As a triplet, with both of my siblings also heading to college, making the most financially sound decision was crucial.

I was fortunate enough to make the drive to Springfield for a campus tour, which became a memorable day trip for my family and me. We explored MSU’s campus and the surrounding area, and we quickly fell in love with what both the university and Springfield had to offer. It became clear that Missouri State was the right choice for me.

Why do I choose to stay: 

When I first stepped onto campus, I’ll admit I was nervous—especially since I didn’t know anyone. Facing the fear of the unknown, I challenged myself to step out of my comfort zone and build new friendships. Thanks to my scholarship, I was able to get involved in various campus events, connecting with students from all kinds of backgrounds.

One of the things I cherish most about Missouri State is the sense of community. Joining different organizations has helped me find my home away from home. Even during moments when I felt isolated or anxious, I was able to lean on my friends and professors for support and guidance.

My biggest tip: Get involved in at least one organization! It’s a great way to build connections, find your community, and create lasting memories.

Another reason I chose to stay at MSU is the amazing staff across every department. As a Psychology major, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with professors and staff from various disciplines, learning new things outside of my field. Despite being part of a large university, MSU has a tight-knit feel—there’s always someone looking out for you.

I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here—whether it’s research projects, conferences, or the lifelong friendships I’ve made along the way.

No matter what you’re going through, remember that you’re never alone here. There are always people supporting you. Missouri State is a place where you can try new things and grow.

Takeaways 

College is an amazing time to step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and create lasting memories. One quote I live by is, “Growth doesn’t happen when you’re comfortable.” Challenge yourself every day to become the best version of yourself. Whether you’re graduating this semester or finishing your first year, take a moment to be proud of everything you’ve accomplished, and make sure to enjoy these final weeks.

The Center for Academic Success and Transition is a fantastic resource to support your success throughout your college journey. I highly encourage you to meet with a peer mentor or success coach—they can help connect you to valuable resources and provide guidance as you navigate your next steps.

~Melyssa  

(Bio: My name is Melyssa Hernandez, and I am a senior studying psychology. Fun fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois)

Navigating the End of the Semester Stress (Spring 2025, Week 13)

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Can you believe the end of the year is just around the corner? It’s crazy how quickly time flies! As we approach the finish line, it’s normal to feel the pressure of juggling various responsibilities, whether it’s academics or your social life. Remember, it’s okay to feel stressed—just take a deep breath and tackle one day at a time. This blog is here to help ease your stress and offer practical tips for finishing the semester strong.

Personal Experience: 

With the end of the semester approaching, I am preparing myself for graduation! This semester feels bittersweet as I balance finishing my current academic work while also gearing up for the next chapter. I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be continuing my academic journey by pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. However, with all these changes on the horizon, my mind has been racing, and my planner is working overtime.

I’m someone who thrives on structure, so I make it a point to schedule time for everything—from workouts to homework. Having a clear plan for the week helps me stay organized and focused. I also make sure to prioritize my involvement in campus organizations, keeping track of their events in my calendar as well.

I tend to have a ‘what’s next?’ mentality, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why I also take time to appreciate the present moment and enjoy time with my friends. While staying on top of my studies is a priority, I make sure to cherish the relationships I’ve built along the way.

Resources: 

At Missouri State University, there are a variety of resources available to support your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. From Magers Health and Wellness Center to the Bear CLAW and Bear Pantry, there are many services designed to assist students in different aspects of life. These are just a few of the many resources available to help you thrive during your time here.

Your professors are another valuable resource. If you’re struggling with a course, don’t hesitate to reach out to them. You can schedule a meeting or attend their office hours for additional support. They are committed to helping you succeed academically and are here to guide you every step of the way.

Takeaways 

No matter what, be sure to reach out if you are struggling or feeling the stress of the end of the semester. The Center for Academic Success and Transition is a great place to help support students and their overall success. Please consider meeting with a success coach or peer mentor to help alleviate or lessen your stress. Although this can be a stressful time, it’s also an opportunity to create lasting memories. Let the end of the semester be a time to celebrate your accomplishments and appreciate the people around you. Remember, you’re one step closer to reaching your academic goals!

~Melyssa  

(Bio: My name is Melyssa Hernandez, and I am a senior studying psychology. Fun fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois)



Actively Engaging in the Pillar of Community Engagement (Spring 2025, Week 7)  

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Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! I hope you’re having a fantastic semester so far. With the semester already flying by, now is the perfect time to think about getting more involved. At Missouri State, student engagement is one of our core pillars, and you can really embrace it by connecting with the campus community. Now that you’ve got your routine down, why not try something new? Missouri State has over 325 student organizations, ranging from academic-focused organizations to social ones, so there’s something for everyone. When you’re considering where to get involved, I’d recommend picking one organization related to your major or academic interests and another just for fun. That way, you’ll have a great balance of academic growth and a chance to unwind with friends outside of your studies.

Bear Link

Bear Link is an excellent resource for students looking to explore organizations, events, and more! It’s a great way to discover the variety of organizations MSU offers, stay up to date on upcoming events, and find important forms for your student groups. You can also access all this information on the go by downloading the Involve app.

With so many organizations to choose from, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. If you don’t see a club that fits your passion, don’t worry—you can create your own! All you need is an advisor and five other students, and you’ll be well on your way to starting a new organization. The Office of Student Engagement is here to guide you through the process.

Involvement Incentives

Joining an organization on campus comes with countless rewards! Getting involved helps you build a deeper sense of belonging and connects you with both faculty and peers. Beyond meeting amazing people, you’ll have the opportunity to develop valuable skills, like interpersonal communication and leadership, which can enhance your resume.

When I joined organizations during my freshman year, I felt more connected to campus and had an inside track on what was happening around me. The friendships I’ve made through these groups have been incredibly meaningful, and I know they’ll stay with me long after graduation.

Takeaways

As students, we’re all here to focus on our academics and pursue our education, but it’s also important to remember the value of building connections that make our experience more meaningful and enjoyable. Joining an organization is a fantastic way to actively engage with Missouri State’s public affairs mission while forming those important connections. If you’re unsure where to start or need help finding an organization, consider meeting with a success coach or peer mentor. They can provide great guidance in navigating your options and aligning your interests with the right opportunities. Wishing you all a successful rest of the semester—Go Bears!

~Melyssa  

(Bio: My name is Melyssa Hernandez, and I am a senior studying psychology. Fun fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois)



Exam Results- Identifying Areas of Improvement and Celebration (Spring 2025, Week 5)

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Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! I hope you’ve had a great start to the semester. Now that you’ve got a few weeks under your belt, you might be facing your first exam or quiz. It can feel a little intimidating, but don’t worry—I’ve got some advice to help you study effectively and improve for the next one! When preparing for an exam or quiz, remember to approach it with a growth mindset. Every step forward, even if it’s small, means you’re improving. The knowledge you gain now will help you become an even better student in the long run! 

Studying Preparation

Be sure to set aside enough time to prepare for your next exam! This looks different for everyone, but it’s important to avoid cramming. Breaking up your study time into manageable chunks will help you retain more information and reduce stress. The Center for Learning and Writing (Bear CLAW) is a fantastic resource to support your studying! It’s a free tutoring service available to students by appointment or during drop-in hours. Tutors are available on a wide range of subjects, including Science, Math, and English. They’re students helping students, which creates a more relaxed and informal environment. In addition to 1:1 tutoring sessions, they offer a Presentation Center and Writing Center to assist with specific needs.

If you prefer studying in a group, consider forming a study group to help reinforce your understanding of the material. Study groups can be a great way to tackle difficult topics, as your peers might explain things in ways that make more sense to you. Plus, they’re great for building confidence and support as you prepare for your exam!

After the Exam 

After you take your exam, take a moment to be proud of yourself for completing it! Now you have valuable insight into how your professor administers exams and the types of content they focus on. This information will help you better prepare for future exams. If you’re still unclear about any of the material, don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors and attend their office hours. They can offer advice for your next exam and may even be willing to go over your exam with you. Missouri State is lucky to have professors who genuinely care about helping students succeed.

Takeaways

When you receive your exam results, don’t be discouraged if the outcome isn’t what you were hoping for. There’s always room for improvement, and you can continue working toward your goals. As you do, consider meeting with a success coach or peer mentor. They can offer academic tips, support, and guidance on other topics as well. Also, remember to tailor your studying habits to what works best for you. There are plenty of people and resources here to help you succeed.

For more tips and information, take a look at our other posts that talk about exams. 

I hope you all have a great academic semester, and Go Bears!

~Melyssa  

(Bio: My name is Melyssa Hernandez, and I am a senior studying psychology. Fun fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois) 



New Year, Improved You! (Spring 2025, Week 4)

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Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! I hope you enjoyed your first weeks back at school and are adjusting to your new routine. With the winter semester upon us, we can also celebrate the new year! While the “New Year, New Me” mentality may be cheesy we can apply this sentiment to ourselves this academic semester. With the new semester, we are in different classes, around different faces, and adapting to new schedules which may be intimidating at first. Don’t you worry, while change may be scary, change allows us to grow and be better versions of ourselves.

Tips on how to succeed in the new semester

1. Plan to attend classes regularly!

The cooler season can sometimes make staying cozy at home seem like the better option, but consistency is key when it comes to success in your studies. Attending class regularly helps you stay engaged, absorb new information in real-time, and allows you to participate in discussions and activities. Plus, missing class can lead to gaps in understanding and additional stress later when trying to catch up. The momentum of attending class regularly will help you stay on track for the entire semester.

2. Plan out your week in advance.

Organizing your time effectively is one of the best ways to keep stress in check throughout the semester. By using a paper planner or digital tools like Google Calendar, you can create a visual layout of your week, helping you identify deadlines, exams, study times, and breaks. Breaking down each task into manageable steps will help you keep procrastination down and make your tasks feel more achievable.

Peer Mentor tip: Don’t have a planner? Stop by the CAST office (Meyer Library 116) to pick up a free planner!

3. Reach out to your instructors early.

Don’t wait until you’re struggling to reach out to your professors. Getting to know them early in the semester can be incredibly beneficial. Introduce yourself, express interest in the course, and ask any questions after reviewing the first week’s material. By reaching out early, you show initiative and commitment to succeeding in their class.

4. Make a Friend in Class!

With the new semester, everyone is getting in the groove of their new classes. A familiar face in class will help you feel more comfortable and connected to the course. Having a study buddy or someone to share ideas with can significantly increase your understanding of the content. Making friends in class can lead to better engagement and create a more enjoyable classroom atmosphere. Plus, friends can help you when you miss a class or need clarification on something.

Reach out for help

Be sure to request to meet with a success coach or peer mentor if you have any questions. They are wonderful resources to use, whether to learn about Missouri State, and academics, or just have someone to talk to. The Center for Academic Success and Transition is always here to support the students in their overall success and well-being.

Takeaways

Take this new semester, new year opportunity and make it the best academic year yet! While I have only provided a couple of tips, be sure to find out what works for you! Being in the unknown this semester may be scary, take the strides to help improve yourself! Know that there are resources and people always there to support you. I hope everyone has a great rest of their semester and Go Bears!

~Melyssa

(Bio: My name is Melyssa Hernandez, and I am a senior studying psychology. Fun fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois)