A Bear's Life: Student Stories

Student stories from our peer counselors

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)



Senior Year Perspective  (Fall 2024, Week 3)

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Welcome back to campus, Missouri State Bears! School is back in session for the Fall 2024 semester and I am so excited to be writing blogs once again. This year is extra special as I am a senior. I wanted to take the time to reflect on my past years at Missouri State and set the tone for the year ahead. As you read I encourage you to reflect on your own school year ahead. 

 

My Time at Missouri State

I started at Missouri State University in the Fall of 2021 and I have loved every second of it since then. I was quick to get involved in fraternity and sorority life, campus ministries, and an organization that aligned with my academic interests. I chose MSU because of the community and I’ve stayed for the same reason. There is a sense of belonging and a knowing that I am welcome anywhere on campus that provides a sense of home. 

Every year has looked different depending on the classes I’ve taken, those I’ve lived with, the leadership positions that I’ve held, and the people I’ve met along the way. My best memories over the years are with the people I’ve met through my involvement on campus and the experiences I have had are all thanks to the university. It excites me to think about all the ways students are bound to fall in love with MSU in the months ahead. I hope that I can help first-year students on campus feel the same way. 

 

Going into Senior Year

I am so fortunate to be going into my last year with a community stronger than one I’ve ever known before. The support and guidance that I have found have set me up for a great year ahead as I navigate what is next after graduation. The Center for Academic Success and Transition provides this exact avenue of resources and I recommend all students utilize it. Serving as a Peer Mentor has allowed me to connect with students all across campus to help them create their own Missouri Statement just as I did. 

This year I am making the most of every class, campus event, leadership position, and other opportunities that come along. My advice to those who are just starting their college journey is to find people who will celebrate with you, support you, hold you accountable, and adventure with you. Your time in college will be over before you know it but the memories will last a lifetime. Wishing everyone a great school year!

 

~Aubrey

(Bio: My name is Aubrey Hardy, and I am a senior studying special needs education. Fun fact: I’ve read over 15 books this year!)

Reflecting on the School Year (Spring 2024, Week 15)

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Hello again, Bears! I am having such a hard time believing that the end of the semester is so close. With that, I’ve found I’ve spent quite a bit of time reflecting on what this semester and past semesters have brought me, as well as the growth that I feel has taken place for me throughout my college journey. While I don’t graduate until later this year, this semester’s conclusion does bring some big life changes to me, and when things are changing in your life, I think it’s important to find moments to be present and think about—well, all sorts of things. I thought that I would use my post for this week, and my last post for this semester, to prompt you to do the same, especially if you are like me and have some big changes coming in your life with the conclusion of this academic year.  

Thinking About Opportunities

One thing I catch myself thinking about rather frequently is how much (or how little) I take advantage of opportunities presented to me, how often I seek opportunities, and whether or not I regret pursuing an opportunity or choosing not to pursue a specific one. I try not to get too wrapped up in decisions of the past, since, whether I may regret something or not, the past cannot be changed, but I also believe that there is some merit in looking back on those instances. It’s especially important to think about past opportunities just so you can be grateful for them. Gratitude is infinitely valuable, and can be quite the motivator when things are changing or circumstances are tough. Reflecting on different opportunities you may or may not have had can also help you determine what you want to pursue in the future.  

One opportunity that I am grateful I took this year was to review submissions for Moon City Review, the literary journal run by Moon City Press. Being a student reviewer has helped me become a better writer and connect more with Creative Writing faculty. By learning that I enjoy the behind-the-scenes of publishing, I now know that’s something I can pursue later, whether academically or in a career.  

Thinking About Growth

Even when my life isn’t particularly exciting, I find it beneficial to sit back occasionally and reflect on how I have grown throughout college and the past few years of my life in general. There’s a reason why college is considered one of the most revolutionary experiences people can have in their lives—it is very much a time of growth and inner development. 

There are countless ways in which I feel I’ve grown throughout my college journey. College has helped me figure out who I am, as well as learn about my values, moral compass, and strengths and weaknesses. I’ve also learned about my hobbies, and what I will find fulfilling in a future career. Consider spending some time thinking about the ways that you have grown, whether this has been your first or fourth year in college. Doing so helps me retain gratitude for how far I’ve come, as well as a sense of pride in who I am now.  

Thinking About the Future

In the same way that I try not to dwell too much on the past, I try not to think too much about the future, since, very much to my own remorse, I cannot predict it. However, in the same manner that I think reminiscing on the past is beneficial for the sake of gratitude, thinking about the future in some regard can be good solely for the sake of building excitement. Even though change can be intimidating, it helps me to think about all of the good things that the change will bring, as well as all of the things that I’m excited for in the next chapter of my life. It also helps to set goals for myself, even if they are small, so that I always have something to ground me while everything else is changing. It’s the absolute best feeling when you’re able to look back and realize that you completed a goal that you set for yourself.  

One goal that I’ve set for myself this year, for example, is to get at least one creative work that I’ve written published in a literary journal. But even if my work doesn’t get accepted, I can still be proud that I sent my work off and put in the effort to meet my goal. Even if it’s small, and even if it’s just one, I encourage you to set a goal for yourself as this academic year comes to a close. Make it realistic and obtainable, so that you can experience that satisfaction and pride when you complete it in your future.  

Takeaways 

Regardless of how much or how little your life may be changing as this semester approaches its conclusion, I hope that my blog entry prompts you to spend some time reflecting. As you continue to think about all of these things and more, remember to stay present in the current semester too! Keep working hard and finish strong. If you are struggling and need help, remember that the CAST office is here as a resource to you, and our Success Coaches and Peer Mentors want to help you succeed! Being a philosopher at heart, I will leave you with my absolute favorite quote from Socrates: 

“The unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates 

I hope you have a fantastic conclusion to your semester and a fulfilling summer! 

~Hallie 

(Bio: I am a junior out-of-state student studying Creative Writing and Philosophy.) 

A Week in the Life of an English Major (Spring 2024, Week 5)

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Greetings, Bears! As always, I am excited to be back for another blog post, and I am especially excited about my topic for this week. I thought it would be fun to share with you what a week in my life looks like as an English major. Accounts like these can be helpful if you are considering changing or declaring a new major and want to know what the experience of a student in that major looks like. Perhaps studying English is not something that interests you at all, but I hope that you enjoy my perspective nonetheless!  

Mondays 

On Mondays, I start off my day with a short shift in the CAST office. I always enjoy this time because I find that it helps me get mentally prepared for the rest of the week. When I work in the CAST office, I’ll typically work on upcoming blog posts or reaching out to my mentees.  

After I leave CAST for the day, I head to my American literature class, followed by my small press production class. I really enjoy my small press production class because we are learning about how the university press operates. Every year, Moon City Press releases an issue of Moon City Review, a literary journal containing selections of poetry, short stories, flash fiction, creative nonfiction, and graphic narrative. As an English student, I have the opportunity to serve as a reviewer for Moon City Review and work alongside other students and faculty deciding what submissions get published. This has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me! Alongside Moon City Review, the press also publishes multiple books every year. Many departments on campus have experiences specific to the department like these, giving students the opportunity to work with faculty and get more involved with the department.  

After my classes on Mondays, I head back to the CAST office for a meeting with the other Peer Mentors. During our meetings, we discuss how we can continue supporting our students and future projects we can incorporate to make CAST even better. These meetings are a great conclusion to the first day of the week, as I always find it enjoyable to see my coworkers! 

Tuesdays 

Once again, I start my Tuesdays with another shift in the CAST office. Tuesday mornings, however, are when I participate in drop-in hours, which is a service that the CAST office offers for any student wanting to meet with a Peer Mentor without previously scheduling an appointment. At this time, we are offering drop-in hours on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Come by and see us in Meyer Library 116 if you need help or have a question!  

After my shift and a quick lunch break, I head to my poetry class followed by my English studies class. I really enjoy talking to the students and faculty during these classes. I’ve found that your classes are a great way to connect with like-minded students and make friends. I finish with class around 5 p.m. and usually head home to work on my schoolwork.  

Wednesdays 

My Wednesdays are very similar to my Mondays, with the absence of Peer Mentor meetings in the afternoon. This leaves me with a lot of free time on Wednesdays. When I find that I have free time, I like to head over to Foster Recreation Center for some cardio or a dip in the pool (after I’m all caught up on schoolwork, of course). After that, I usually head home to read my current book or continue working on any of my creative works. Because I’m in a poetry class, I try to write poems as much as possible, which is sometimes easier on some days than others. Regardless, Wednesdays are also the days that I try to emphasize any self-care practices. It’s important to make sure that you are finding time to incorporate self-care into your schedule too! 

Thursdays 

After another CAST office shift and my poetry and English studies classes, I’ll sometimes stick around on campus Thursday evenings to attend readings hosted by the MSU Department of English. Throughout the semester, the department brings fiction writers, poets, and other creative writers to campus to read their works to students. These events are free and open to the public. I especially love when the readers are selling copies of their books and stay afterwards for a book signing! As a writer myself, I always leave these events feeling inspired.  

Fridays 

Fridays are what I like to call my “off day” each week, meaning that I don’t have any classes or shifts in the CAST office. This gives me a chance to catch up on all of my schoolwork for the week so that I can enjoy the weekend. If I find that I’m not too busy with that, I’ll sometimes go to Foster Recreation Center again or attend an event on campus. The student organizations I’m involved in also have their meetings on Fridays, which I always try to attend. Fridays are also another opportunity for me to practice self-care and do something I enjoy.  

Takeaways 

I sincerely hope that you enjoyed learning more about what my life looks like as an English major! I feel very fortunate to have all of the opportunities that I do in my area of study. I also hope that my perspective is helpful to you if you are feeling unsure about what you would like to study in college. There are many important things to consider when choosing a major, and what your daily life will look like and if you would enjoy that is a key factor. If you are unsure of what you’d like your major to be, there are many resources available on campus to help you learn more about different academic programs. Consider contacting the Academic Advising and Transfer Center or visiting us in the CAST office if you need help!  

I hope that you continue to have a great semester and keep working hard! 

~Hallie  

(Bio: I am a junior out-of-state student studying Creative Writing and Philosophy.) 

It’s Time to Apply to be a Peer Leader (Spring 2024, Week 4)

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Welcome

Welcome back Missouri State Bears! As the new month begins it is time to start thinking about the months ahead. Scheduling fall classes is just around the corner and what better idea than to search all your options? One option is to consider applying to serve as a Peer Leader. The application for fall 2024 peer leaders opens soon, learn more below. 

What is Peer Leading?

Peer leading provides students at Missouri State University with the opportunity to partner with a GEP 101 professor to lead and educate students on campus involvement, time management, critical thinking, campus resources, the public affairs mission, and more critical knowledge needed to succeed at the university. The exact role of a peer leader can be unique for each individual leader, but there are some general roles that all peer leaders fulfill. These roles include:

  • serving as a positive role model for students, 
  • aiding students in their questions, 
  • providing assistance to the course instructor, 
  • helping students become connected to the university, and 
  • gaining leadership experience. 

The time commitment for peer leaders includes attending the GEP 101 course twice a week, attending the IDS 310 leadership course once a week, and any additional preparation that is needed to appropriately fulfill the roles. This results in approximately only five hours per week to make an impact and enhance student success through leadership. Peer leaders gain other benefits as well such as receiving 16 hours of university service hours, earning one credit hour for the IDS 310 course at no cost, gaining desired skills, receiving peer-leading apparel, and more. Becoming a peer leader will allow students to grow in their own capabilities and impact the lives of first-year students at Missouri State University. 

 

“My Peer Leader in my GEP class helped me through one of my toughest semesters.” – 2022 GEP 101 student

Peer leaders on October 23, 2023. Jesse Scheve/Missouri State University

How Can You Apply to be a Peer Leader?

If you are interested in applying to become a peer leader, we encourage you to attend one of the two peer leader information sessions. These sessions will be on Thursday, February 8th, from 12:30-1:15 p.m. and Monday, February 12th, from 12:30-1:15 p.m. via Zoom. During the information sessions, although the information sessions are optional, they will give you the opportunity to learn about peer leading in more detail and ensure that you meet the needed requirements to apply. Next, fill out the application and ask two people to submit references for you. These application and reference forms can be found on the First Year Programs website the Peer Leadership section. After completing the application and the needed reference forms, Dr. Glaessgen will contact you via email to schedule an interview. 

 

Zoom Information Sessions

Thursday, February 8th, 2024: (zoom link will be available on the Peer Leader recruitment page on February 8th)

Monday, February 12th, 2024: (zoom link will be available on the Peer Leader recruitment page on February 12th)

 

The Impact of Being a Peer Leader.

When we reached out to previous peer leaders we learned that peer leaders make an impact but are also impacted greatly themselves.

 

“I feel that I have helped three generations of freshman students have a positive first experience in a college classroom which hopefully allows for them to become more involved and more successful during their time at MSU.” –Zoe

 

“Peer Leading has helped me learn what aspects of leadership I am good at and what aspects I still need to improve, and I think it has had a positive impact on me in this way.” – Daniel

 

“Peer Leading has helped me grow my leadership skills but also interact with others as well. I learned to adapt to new situations and to be flexible in my leadership abilities. I have altered my perspective on what it means to be a leader.” – Melyssa

 

“I felt like I positively impacted Missouri State through my role as a peer leader by speaking about the variety of resources offered here. Not many students take advantage of resources like the Bear Claw, Clubs, and others like the Bear Pantry. MSU offers these to help students challenge any problems they might have. By speaking about it, it helps more students understand the importance of accessing them.” – Grace

Takeaways

A list of requirements can be found in this post and on the Peer Leadership Recruitment website. Peer leading is a great opportunity for those who are looking to find new effective techniques, helpful resources, and problem-solving skills, as well as for those who want to make new friendships; have a positive support system, a networking opportunity, and develop leadership skills.

 

— Aubrey Hardy and Olyvia Buzzanga