A Bear's Life: Student Stories

Student stories from our peer counselors

The Effects of Sleep (Fall 2025, Week 16)

by

A common problem for college students is not prioritizing sleep. Turning in an assignment on time or studying for a test is more likely to take priority. In the spring of 2025, I was only getting six hours of sleep every night, and it reflected on my transcript. My grades began to plummet, despite my increased studying. After some research, I decided to make a change. This semester, I set up a schedule to focus on myself and worked on getting my assignments done before they were due. Now, I consistently sleep at least eight hours every night, which has helped my grade point average rise again. 

“After two weeks of sleeping six hours or less a night, students feel as bad and perform as poorly as someone who has gone without sleep for 48 hours”- Dr. Lawrence Epstein (AASM, 2017).

What is poor sleep? 

Poor sleep is separated into two categories: quality and quantity. The quality of sleep comes from the ability to fall asleep quickly, waking up one time or less through the night, and feeling rested when awake. Quantity is the amount of sleep you are getting. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that adults aged 18-60 need seven or more hours of sleep every night (CDC, 2024). 

Benefits Of Sleep  

Health 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that sleep can help limit sickness, lower your risk for chronic conditions and reduce stress.  They also mention that adequate sleep can promote a healthy heart, and aid in preventing heart disease. 

Mood 

Getting the correct amount and quality of sleep is so beneficial to your mood. Grouchiness and short-temperedness are symptoms of poor sleep! Better Health Channel explains that mood disorders such as anxiety and depression and lack of sleep are connected! 

“Studies show people who are sleep deprived report increases in negative moods (anger, frustration, irritability, sadness) and decreases in positive moods”. (Better Health Channel, 2017)

Improve memory and attention span 

Dr. Clete Kushida MD PhD explains in an interview with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine that sleeplessness can cause poor academic performance due to brain functional disturbances. He further explains that data has shown lack of sleep has consequences such as memory impairment, attention, and vigilance.  

Lowers the chances of automobile accidents 

Sleeplessness can cause a lack of focus which can lead to automobile accidents. By getting adequate sleep, you will be safer behind the wheel. 

How to Fix Your Sleep

Learn to prioritize sleep 

Although it may be difficult, sometimes prioritizing sleep the night of a test will be more beneficial than cramming. In my experience, it is better for your brain to sleep well the night before than staying up all night, risking missing the test from sleeping in or not completing the test to the best of ability. 

“College students who pull ‘all-nighters’ are more likely to have a lower GPA” (American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2017)

Limit caffeine  

Swap out your latte for half-caf or decaffeinated options. You can also limit your caffeine intake by changing your hours of consumption. For example, not drinking caffeine beverages after 2:00pm. 

Adjust lighting before bed  

Light throws the circadian rhythm out of regulation (Harvard, 2024). Using blue-light blocking glasses, changing your phone’s lighting and dimming the lights in your bedroom will help with the wind-down process before bed. 

Avoid electronics 

As I mentioned above, engaging in activities that do not involve electronic devices before bed can help reduce light exposure. I recommend reading a book, writing a to-do list or journaling. 

Establish a regulated sleep schedule  

I highly recommend that you reflect on your schedule and make adjustments. Consider how much time you will need to get ready in the morning and at night and how much time for studying and homework, and plan accordingly. This way, when a busy day comes up, you can plan ahead, complete those assignments early and get to sleep on time. 

Takeaways  

  • Good sleep helps promote focus, energy, and mood (CDC, 2024).
  • Lack of sleep can have negative effects on your test scores, mood, and college experience.
  • Prioritize sleep quality as well as quantity.

If you believe you may have a sleep disorder or have concerns with sleeping, contact your healthcare provider or book an appointment at Magers Health and Wellness. 

If you would like to talk through your weekly schedule and get some ideas for how you might better manage your time so you can get more sleep, book a time to meet with one of our helpful peer mentors or coaches at The Center Of Academic Success and Transition.

~ Samantha Horsch

(Bio: I am an animal science pre-veterinary major with a minor in equine studies. I am also completing an undergraduate certificate in basic Spanish communication. A fun fact about me is that I have eleven ear piercings.)

References  

“About Sleep.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 15 May 2024, www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html. 

“Blue Light Has a Dark Side.” Harvard Health, 24 July 2024, www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side.   

Hershner, Shelley D, and Ronald D Chervin. “Causes and consequences of sleepiness among college students.” Nature and science of sleep vol. 6 73-84. 23 Jun. 2014, doi:10.2147/NSS.S62907   

Kingshott, Ruth. “Importance of Sleep & Effects of Sleep Deprivation on College Students.” American Academy of Sleep Medicine – Association for Sleep Clinicians and Researchers, 9 Nov. 2017, aasm.org/college-students-getting-enough-sleep-is-vital-to-academic-success/ . 

“Mood and Sleep.” Better Health Channel, Department of Health & Human Services, 5 Apr. 2017, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Mood-and-sleep. 

“What Is Sleep Quality?” National Sleep Foundation, 24 Apr. 2024, www.thensf.org/what-is-sleep-quality/. 

 

Conquering Finals: Essential Study Tips for College Success (Fall 2025, Week 13)

by

Finals are quickly approaching, so let’s leave the procrastination behind and find effective study methods that actually work. Many of us, including me, cruised through high school without really studying, but that doesn’t work as well in college. Learning how to study isn’t just about memorizing; it’s a key piece of doing well and keeping your stress levels down. 

Scheduling and Sticking to Your Schedule   

One of the best things you can do to set yourself up for success is to block out your study time in advance. College is super busy and intentionally putting that time on a calendar is a great way to make sure studying doesn’t get pushed aside. 

It might sound kind of boring, but seriously, grab a calendar or a planner (whatever you like: physical or digital) and write everything down. Your student Outlook email has an awesome calendar, but if you love writing things out, a physical planner can be super helpful. I honestly use both! 

Peer Mentor Tip: If you need a planner, stop by the CAST office in Meyer Library 116 for a free 2025-2026 academic planner! 

A great way to structure your day looks like this: 

  • 9:00 am – 10:15 am: Class 
  • 10:30 am – 11:45 am: Class 
  • 11:45 am – 12:30 pm: Lunch 
  • 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm: Focused Study (insert class Exam Review) 

This schedule is only helpful if you stick to it. One of the biggest challenges when trying to stick to a schedule: motivation. 

Motivation  

Motivation is one of the toughest things about studying. There are a couple of good ways I have found that work well when I am low on motivation. 

Change Your Location: Our bedrooms are amazing comfort zones, and that’s exactly why it’s so easy to lose our motivation to work there. Sometimes, just leaving your personal space is enough. I often struggle even in my apartment’s common areas, so I exit the building completely. I like to go to the library, an academic building, or a quiet spot outside when the weather is nice. Everyone is different, so it may take some trial and error to find your perfect spot. 

Implement a Reward System: Another way to stay motivated is to treat yourself after a productive study session. This doesn’t have to be anything huge or pricey; it just needs to be something you’re genuinely excited about. It could be your favorite snack or drink, finally watching that movie, or just spending time relaxing with friends. Think of it as a positive reward cycle that makes studying feel less like a chore. 

Limit Distractions  

In order to have a good, focused study session, you have to cut down on interruptions. My biggest distractions? My phone and my friends. If I grab my phone or someone starts chatting with me, I lose my focus quickly and struggle to get it back. 

Because I know this about myself, I take proactive steps: I try to separate myself from my friends when studying and I toss my phone in my backpack. 

My laptop and phone are linked, so notifications sometimes pop up on my computer which temps me to check texts and emails. My solution? I put both my laptop and my phone on “Do Not Disturb” when starting a study session. Finding out what your biggest distractions are and doing your best to limit or remove them is key to successful, productive study time. 

Finding a Method that Works for You 

There are literally hundreds of study methods out there. The trickiest part is finding one that fits your brain and the course material. It took me a while to find a way that ‘clicked’ and gave me the results I wanted. 

Here are a few proven methods. If none of these resonate with you, a quick search will offer many more tailored options! 

  • The Feynman Technique (Teaching Others): This method seems simple, but it significantly boosts memory. If you know the knowledge well enough that you can verbally and clearly express it to someone else, that’s a powerful sign that you truly understand the topic—you haven’t just memorized the words. 
  • Flashcards: These are fantastic for information that has one correct answer, like definitions, vocabulary, or formulas. While there are lots of great online flashcard apps, I like to physically write them out. That motor act of writing information can help solidify it in your memory in a way that typing sometimes can’t. 
  • Mind Mapping: This is all about organizing information visually around a central concept. Start with the main topic in the center of the page, then branch out with key sub-topics, and finally, add supporting facts and details to those branches. This method is great for seeing how complex ideas connect. 
  • Spaced Repetition: This technique takes advantage of how your brain naturally forgets things. Instead of cramming, you review the material at increasing intervals (like 1 day later, 3 days later, 7 days later). This forces your memory to work harder right before you forget, which leads to much stronger long-term retention. 

Takeaways 

Studying can be daunting, and it does take some trial and error, but there are ways to help make it easier : 

  • Limit Distractions
  • Create a schedule
  • Find a method that works best for you

– 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.) 

 

Registration at Missouri State (Fall 2025, Week 11)

by

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.)

Graduate School Tips (Fall 2025, Week 5)

by

Note from CAST: Last spring, we asked our two graduating peer mentors, Melyssa and Daniel, to write this post about applying for grad school since they had recently gone through that process. Enjoy!

Hello Bears! As you begin thinking about life after your undergraduate journey, a lot of possibilities might come to mind. Whether it’s starting a job, moving back home, or continuing your education.

Pursuing graduate school can be an excellent way to deepen your knowledge and grow academically and professionally. For some career paths, earning a master’s degree may be essential; for others, it might simply be a valuable way to stand out and expand your skills.

Here in the CAST office, we peer mentors want to support you in this exciting next step. That’s why we’ve put together some helpful tips and tricks to guide you as you prepare for graduate school.

Tips of Success:

  • Start thinking about your letters of recommendation early!

    Whether it’s a professor you’ve had in class or a colleague you’ve worked closely with, choose someone who can genuinely speak to your work ethic and character. If you’re not sure who to ask yet, that’s okay, start reaching out to professors or mentors to build those connections. The earlier you begin, the better prepared you’ll be!

  • When requesting a letter of recommendation, try to ask in person whenever possible.

    It’s a meaningful way to strengthen your connection and show genuine appreciation for their support. If meeting in person isn’t an option or you feel uncomfortable, that’s perfectly okay. Just be sure to send a thoughtful email instead. Aim to make your request at least a month before the deadline to give them plenty of time to write a strong letter.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

    When I started thinking about grad school, I had no idea where to begin—especially as the first in my family to pursue a master’s degree. I felt overwhelmed and anxious, but reaching out made all the difference. I asked professors I trusted for their advice, and I also leaned on peers and friends who were either in graduate school or considering it themselves. If you’re feeling lost or unsure, I highly recommend visiting the Career Center. They were incredibly helpful with reviewing my CV, crafting my personal statement, preparing for interviews, and more. Best of all, it’s a free resource available to all Missouri State students! Please don’t hesitate to take advantage of it!

  • Give yourself plenty of time to complete your applications.

    One of my biggest tips is to create a schedule or list of important deadlines. I used an Excel sheet to keep track of when each application was due, which helped me manage my time and avoid last-minute stress. Spacing out the work gave me the chance to put my best effort into each part of the process. I highly recommend you find a system that works for you in order to keep yourself organized. 

  • Take some time to look into each school and get a feel for what their program offers.

    As you go through them, make a list of pros and cons for each one. This can really help when it comes time for interviews: you’ll be able to talk about the program in a more informed and positive way. It also makes it easier to figure out which school is the right fit for you in the long run. Having those notes on hand is a great way to refresh your memory when you’re making your final decision, and they might even be the thing that helps you choose between two great options.

Takeaways: 

The graduate school process can definitely feel overwhelming and even a little scary at first, but remember to give yourself grace. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and it’s okay to feel uncertain. At the same time, take steps to prepare yourself to be the strongest candidate you can be, and don’t hesitate to ask for support along the way. The CAST office is a great resource, offering Success Coaches who can help with a variety of topics. Since they’re also graduate assistants, they’ve been through the application process themselves and truly understand what you’re going through. Whether you need advice, someone to talk to, or just a bit of encouragement, they’re here to help guide you through the journey.

 

(Bios: Melyssa Hernandez and David Kim are CAST Peer Mentor alums who are both now graduate students. Melyssa is in a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and Daniel is in a Cancer Biology PhD program.)

Meet Success Coach Abby (Fall 2025, Week 3)

by

Happy September, Missouri State Bears! Last week, we met one of our newest Success Coaches. This week, we are meeting Abby who has been a Success Coach for a year. Abby would love to help set you up for success and be your biggest cheerleader!! Come visit the Center for Academic Success and Transition (CAST) office, located in the Meyer Library, room 116.

Abby Horn

Abby Horn
Photo by Kevin White/Missouri State University
  • Academic area of interest:

I am currently getting my Master’s in speech-language pathology.

  • Beginning of semester advice:

A piece of advice is to stay on top of assignments and tasks from the beginning of the semester. Planners are also very important and they can help you stay on top of your course work. The syllabus is also important to look at because it has all the information you need. It can be overwhelming but I promise that it will be okay.

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

  • What is your favorite thing about being a Success Coach?

My favorite thing about being a Success Coach is connecting with students and being able to watch them thrive here at MSU. I also want to make sure that students have a good experience while they are here and that they know they have a support system with us.

  • What is your favorite year in college and why?

My favorite year in school was my senior year of undergraduate. I felt like I had something to look forward to especially because this is the year that I got accepted into grad school. I loved hanging out with my friends this year and just knowing that I have a support system behind me.

  • Post-graduate advice:

You are not expected to have it all figured out when you graduate but, at least have an idea of what you would like to do in your last semester. I would also make sure to secure those professional relationships because those could be helpful in the future, especially with recommendations. Lastly, be proud of what you have accomplished!!

  • How do you practice self-care?

I make sure to do activities that I find enjoyment in like workout classes. It helps me get my mind off of things and it helps me feel accomplished. I also really enjoy hanging out with my friends because they always make me feel better. Definitely make sure to not neglect your hobbies.

 

~Brooklyn
(Bio: My name is Brooklyn Crawford and I am currently getting my Master’s of Social Work at MSU. Fun fact: I have over 600 physical book at home.)