When a university is the right fit, it can become a home away from home.  

For graduating senior Ryan Evans, Missouri State became that second home when he discovered a passion for biology. 

Evans will soon take that love of biology back to his hometown of West Plains.  

He recently accepted a teaching position at West Plains High School.  

About the position 

Evans will teach within West Plains High School’s biology department.  

“The department has multiple master teachers but a small enough team that I can feel like I matter,” Evans said.  

As part of a small community, the high school serves the entire city of West Plains.  

“Teachers there have to be able to serve the community’s entire spectrum of students,” Evans said. 

While serving the city’s entire student body carries great responsibility, it carries greater reward, Evans explains. 

“At West Plains, I can serve a more rural community but still work with a relatively large school and student body,” Evans said. “That’s a rare combination, but it’s exactly what I want.” 

More than just a job 

As his hometown, West Plains means a lot to Evans. 

Evans attended West Plains High School himself. There, he gained even more than a quality education. 

“I met my partner of four years at the high school while she and I were seniors there,” Evans said. 

Evans is eager to transfer the body of knowledge he gained through university classes to a high school classroom of his own.  

“Like every student, I am excited to finally put what I learned to good use,” Evans said. 

Continuing his education 

Following graduation, Evans will not be leaving Missouri State for good.  

He has been admitted to the university’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. 

“Combining my undergraduate degree with the MAT program will allow me to best meet my needs,” Evans said. 

Dr. Georgianna Saunders served as Evans’ advisor in his undergraduate biology program.  

She will continue to be his advisor as he completes the MAT program. 

“I’ve been very happy in the biology department, “Evans said. “I’m glad I decided to take this path to furthering my education.”