Campus Resources Archives - A Bear's Life: Student Stories

A Tour Through The Bear CLAW (Spring 2026, Week 13)

April 8, 2026 by Sophia Clinton

Struggling with course load in your English class? Not understanding the topics in your biology course?

You are not alone; you don’t need to figure it out by yourself either! I’ll admit I’ve felt this way too. Luckily, the Bear Center for Learning and Writing, also known as the Bear CLAW, is here to help.

Located on the 1st floor southeast corner of the Meyer Library, the Bear CLAW offers a variety of services with student success as their primary goal. Their mission is clear: “to empower students to reach their academic, personal and professional goals by providing high-impact learning experiences” (Bear CLAW, Missouri State University).

Tutoring

The Bear CLAW offers tutoring for a wide variety of subjects including math, science and business/economics, along with additional sessions offered outside the main office (check the website for more information).

To receive these services is simple; drop-in sessions are available five days a week! All you have to do is stop by during tutoring hours and head over to the designated tables.

If this doesn’t work for you, the program offers online resources for tutoring as well. You can book an appointment through MyMissouriState by navigating to the Student Success Resources Card and using the Bear CLAW TracCloud link.

Writing Center and Presentation Center

Furthermore, the Bear CLAW is home to both the Writing Center and Presentation Center on campus. Whether you’re working on a paper, needing assistance with citation styles, or preparing a speech, they’ve got you covered.

At the Writing Center, the Writing Consultants will support you through every stage of the writing process. From developing ideas and organizing your thoughts to revising drafts and refining final details. It’s not just about correcting grammar; it’s about helping you grow into a more confident, effective writer.

The Presentation Center offers similar support for public speaking. You can practice your presentation, receive feedback on delivery and build confidence before stepping in front of a class. Whether you’re nervous about presenting or wanting to improve your skills, it’s a great resource to take advantage of.

Bear CLAW worker explaining a math problem on a white board to a student — Kevin White/Missouri State University

My Favorite Part

My favorite part of this program is its accessibility. If I have an hour between classes, I can easily stop in and ask a few questions about my science test or get some feedback on my essay and job applications.

It is the perfect combination of both approachable and effective. The tutors are fellow students who have recently taken and succeeded in the course they offer support in. This makes their assistance relevant and useful because they are up to date with both professors and class content.

A Missouri State student adds that “the Bear CLAW environment is supportive and not as scary as some students may think,” illustrating that while it can feel intimidating to ask for help, the staff are welcoming and eager to offer their support.

Takeaways

If you ever need help with a class or want to strengthen your academic skills, the Bear CLAW makes it easy to get support. Whether you drop in, book an appointment or attend a workshop, there’s something for everyone. I’ve seen firsthand how helpful this program can be and would recommend trying it out to every student.

Be sure to check out the Bear CLAW website for additional information and resources. At Missouri State, the Bear CLAW is truly a gem that can make a big difference in your college experience!

Looking for help with general academic skills? Right next door to the Bear CLAW, you can find the CAST office, or the Center for Academic Success and Transition. Here you can meet with a success coach or peer mentor who can offer guidance, advice and connections to campus resources.

~Sophia Clinton

(Bio: I am a sophomore majoring in exercise science with a minor in nutrition. Fun Fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois!)

Registration at Missouri State (Fall 2025, Week 11)

October 29, 2025 by Eternity Lawson

It’s that time of the semester when the word “registration” starts floating around campus. For many students, it can feel overwhelming, but the good news is it doesn’t have to be. By following a few simple tips and tricks, you can make your registration experience run smoothly.

Know Your Registration Date and Time

Your first step towards stress-free registration is to know when your window opens. Registration is based on the number of credit hours you have completed (not including the hours you’re currently taking).

The easiest way to find this information is through the My Missouri State portal. Just find the card titled “Registration” and then click the “Registration Status Eligibility” link. This page is packed with vital information, including:

Your exact date and time for registration
Your assigned advisor
Any holds that would prevent you from registering

Meet with Your Advisor Early

One of the most common reasons students have a registration hold is because they did not meet with their advisor. Your advisor is a university staff member assigned to help you select the right classes each semester, so you can meet your academic goals and graduate on time.

Don’t wait! Try to schedule your appointment well before your registration date. If you wait until the week of, you risk not being able to get an appointment in time, which will delay your registration.

You can reach out to your advisor in a couple of ways:

Email them directly to set up a meeting.
Look up your college’s advisement center to find your advisor’s online appointment link.

Peer Mentor Tip: Don’t know who your advisor is? How to Find Your Advisor has a great step by step guide.

Come to Your Advisor Meeting Prepared

To get the most out of your advising session, go in with a plan. I highly recommend using the Degree Audit and Trial Schedule Builder tools to create a couple of draft schedules before your meeting.

While your advisor is there to guide you, having an idea of which classes you would like to take gives you both a place to start. Your plan might need to be adjusted to best fit your degree path and academic goals. Also, be sure to write down any questions you have for your advisor—this keeps you from forgetting and ensures you get all the information you need.

More tips for Preparing for Advising Appointments

Register as Soon as Your Window Opens

That 7:00 AM opening time might feel early, and it can be tempting to wait until the afternoon, but I strongly advise against it! Some classes have a limited number of seats and can fill up very quickly. Waiting even a few hours could affect your ability to register for your first choice in sections or even classes.

To avoid this, be logged in and ready to hit “send to cart” on your schedule right at 7:00 AM on your registration date.

Always Have Backup Schedules Ready

Even if you register right on time, a popular class section may still fill up. You’ll thank yourself later for having at least one, if not more, backup plans ready to go. This will save you from scrambling and stressing the morning of registration.

Focus on backups for classes with the lowest number of available seats. I always check the Trial Schedule Builder the day before to see how many seats are still available. If a class I want has five or fewer seats open, I immediately plan a backup option—whether that’s a different section or a completely different course. If you have any questions about what your backup classes should be, talk to your advisor.

Be Prepared for Technical Difficulties

With so many students trying to register at the same time, there is a chance the website may slow down or even crash for a moment. Do not panic!

If this happens, simply close the browser and try again. Technical difficulties are common and do not automatically mean you will miss out on your desired classes. Stay calm and keep refreshing.

Takeaways

Registration doesn’t have to be a stressful hurdle. By taking the time to prepare ahead, meet with your advisor early, come up with a plan (and backups!), and being ready for a few technical hiccups, you can ensure the process is as smooth as possible. Happy registering!

~ 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.)

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

April 8, 2025 by Melyssa Hernandez

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)

Meet the Success Coaches (Spring 2025, Week 12)

April 4, 2025 by CAST

Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! We have some more success coaches in our office 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

Abby Horn:

Academic Area of Interest: Speech Language Pathology
What is Your Personal Philosophy as a Success Coach? My personal philosophy is to support the student the best way I can. Every student is different, so that is why I strive to listen to their unique experiences and specific concerns. Rather than telling a student what to do, I want to collaborate with the student on goal setting and the steps to take to get there. I will always be checking in and supporting them along the way.
One Thing You Wish All Students Knew: It is okay to ask for help! Being a new student in college can be exciting and nerve wracking all in one. You are not expected to have everything figured out right when you start, and that is okay. There are so many people across campus that want to support you, so don’t be afraid to seek out assistance when needed!
End of Semester Advice: Remind yourself of why you started in the first place! You are almost one semester closer to where you want to end up. College is a lot of work, and your plate is likely very full. It is important to try to keep the motivation up and finish strong. But it is just as important to take care of yourself and to give yourself credit for all the hard work you have put in.
Why Should Students Meet with a Success Coach? Students should meet with a Success Coach, because we are here to support them on their college journey! We want to help you set goals and serve as an accountability partner in achieving those. We can spend our meeting in a variety ways, whether that be discussing study strategies, time management, or getting involved. We also serve to connect students to valuable resources across campus.

Brooklyn Crawford

Academic Area of Interest: Master of Social Work
What is Your Personal Philosophy as a Success Coach? My philosophy as a Success Coach is to help students discover their strengths, how to stay focused, and just overall succeed in what they would like to do for their future.
One Thing You Wish All Students Knew: I wish that students knew that everybody struggles with motivation and that is okay. It is normal to have bad days and that sometimes a little support can go a long way.
End of Semester Advice: Take time for yourself and partake in self-care. I know that the stigma is to push through it and focus on your education, but it is okay to take time for yourself.
Why Should Students Meet with a Success Coach? Students should meet with a success coach to have a little extra support. I always tell my students that I am here to help, provide resources, or even just be somebody that they can decompress to.

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!)

Meet the Success Coaches (Spring 2025, Week 9)

March 13, 2025 by CAST

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:

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:

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!)