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)

Meet the Success Coaches (Spring 2025, Week 9)

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Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! We have some more success coaches in our office staff that we’d love to introduce. 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. As part of the Center for Academic Success and Transition, Success Coaches and Peer Mentors are here to support all Missouri State Bears! 

Success Coaches

Claire Russell:

Claire Russell
Photo by Kevin White/Missouri State University
  • Academic Area of Interest: Speech-Language Pathology 
  • What is Your Personal Philosophy as a Success Coach? My personal philosophy as a success coach is centered on building strong, trusting relationships with students. I believe that building a good rapport is essential to create a comfortable and supportive environment for each student. This dynamic allows me to better understand each student’s individual needs and help them develop the skills necessary to navigate college successfully.  
  • One Thing You Wish All Students Knew: I wish all students knew that we are here to support them, and our meetings are designed to be completely individualized to fit their unique needs, concerns, and challenges. There is no one-size-fits all approach to success, and my role as a Success Coach is to provide personalized guidance that aligns with each student’s goals.  
  • End of Semester Advice: Stay strong and keep pushing through! The end of the semester is just around the corner, so hang in there, you’ve got this! 
  • Why Should Students Meet with a Success Coach? Students should meet with a success coach to help them navigate the challenges of college. No matter where they are in their academic journey, a dedicated support system can make a big difference in reaching their goals.  

 

Yomna Awad
Photo by Kevin White/Missouri State University

Yomna Awad:  

  • Academic Area of Interest: Project Management, Conflict Resolution
  • What is Your Personal Philosophy as a Success Coach? I believe in the power of empowerment! When we lift each other up, we all grow. As a Success Coach, I find joy in encouraging students and giving them the push they need to reach their goals. Sometimes, all it takes is a little support and reassurance for students to unlock their potential. Seeing them succeed is incredibly rewarding, and knowing I played a small part in their journey brings me so much fulfillment. 
  • One Thing You Wish All Students Knew: You should be proud of how far you’ve come. Every step forward big or small is an achievement worth recognizing! Success isn’t about being perfect; it’s about making progress. Keep working toward your goals, one step at a time, and don’t forget to celebrate your growth along the way. 
  • End of Semester Advice: Prioritize your mental and physical well-being while staying focused on your goals. Use the resources available on campus to help you finish strong. Remember, the break is just around the corner! Push through these final weeks, and soon you’ll have time to rest and recharge. Keep going; you’ve got this! 
  • Why Should Students Meet with a Success Coach? Navigating university life can feel a bit overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Success Coaches are here to guide you, answer your questions, and connect you with the right campus resources. We also serve as a support system motivating, encouraging, and empowering you to reach your full potential. Whether you need help with time management, staying motivated, or balancing responsibilities, a Success Coach provides the accountability and guidance you need to take charge of your education and succeed.

Takeaways: 

As students, having access to resources like Success Coaches is incredibly helpful due to their relatable nature and the knowledge that comes with being a graduate student. Getting to know them and meeting with them can provide a lot of insight into building your academic success. Request to meet with a Success Coach by filling out the form found on our Student Academic Assistance page.There are many other Success Coaches and two Peer Mentors in the office this Spring semester, so I hope you take advantage of the services available to you!  

~Daniel 

 (Bio: My name is Daniel Kim! I am a senior majoring in Biology: Microbiology/Biotechnology and minoring in Chemistry. Fun fact: I play more than 3 instruments!) 

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)



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)

Upholding Tradition (Fall 2024, Week 11)

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Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! This blog is in collaboration with the Traditions Council (TC), a student-led organization that manages athletic and university life events. I had the opportunity to meet with Zach Class, the President of TC, and I learned how important the organization is on our campus. According to the TC website, “Traditions Council’s goal is to promote and preserve the tradition of Missouri State University that supports student engagement in athletics and university life, enhancing the BEAR experience.” Tradition at a university is essential for many reasons so I wanted to connect with the President of TC to see why he thought students should get involved in maintaining traditions. 

 

How do Traditions Make an Impact on College Students?

Zach shared that he feels without tradition students have a harder time attaching themselves to their universities and taking pride. Traditions instill a great sense of community and gives students something to look forward to. When alumni share how they participated in the same tradition during their college years, it connects the student body to the university. Because the Traditions Council believes in the importance of their mission, they’ve created an app that allows students to earn rewards for completion of participation in differing traditions. Downloading the app Traditions Bearer allows students to log the events they attend and earn “achievements”. On the app, students can also find a list of events TC is hosting. 

 

What Does Creating a New Tradition Look Like?

If a student wishes to propose a new tradition, they must present the idea to the Traditions Council Executive board. TC has funding to implement new traditions such as the Homecoming King and Queen’s new ideas and students can access the same funds if their tradition is adopted. Look first at the long list of traditions that TC offers and engage with the app to see what ideas may be sparked and what traditions already exist. Participating in these new activities will allow you to meet new students and grow a love for our university.  

 

How can Students get Involved with the Traditions Council?

Zach shared that there will be information sessions held on January 15th and encouraged students to keep an eye out for more information and attend to hear more about the commitment. Applications can be found in Bearlink alongside a list of upcoming events for the organization. Traditions Council is made up of seven position titles but there are also General Assembly members who can attend meetings to have their voice heard and serve alongside the council members to put on great events. Traditions Council can be found on social media platforms and their events are continually being updated on Bearlink for students to access. 

 

Takeaways

Allow yourself to dive deep into the campus experience and make memories that will make you proud to be a Missouri State student and future alumni. Partaking in traditions with the community and getting plugged in is a great way to grow your engagement on campus which will flow into academic success. Meet with a Success Coach or a Peer Mentor to discover other avenues for getting plugged into the university and creating a sense of belonging. 

 

~Aubrey

(Bio: My name is Aubrey Hardy, and I am a senior studying special needs education. Fun fact: My favorite MSU tradition is Fountain Day!)