1. Important information about Craig 339 lab
We are lucky to have a dedicated classroom lab to meet the demands of our various programs including public relations. However, since we pay for this lab ourselves and it is dedicated for mostly COM classes, we’re beginning a new process this week allowing limited access to the computers outside of class time.
Starting immediately, the Craig 339 classroom lab will be available only to students enrolled in specific courses. For the spring semester, students in the following classes may use the lab during open hours. COM 210, 309, 336, 379, 439, 449, 509, 566 and MED 381. Our friendly lab monitor will confirm your attendance in one of those classes. The lab is to be used for work required in these classes.
The lab hours for Craig 339 are as follows:
Monday 10:30-12:00, Tuesday 9:30-11 and 1-2:30, NO Wednesday hours, Thursday 9:30-11 and 1:00-2:30 and Friday 10:30-12:00
Hours are posted on the door. This is a trial run this semester, so look for updates as we go along. If you have class at the time the lab is open, please visit with Karen in Craig 375 so we can make arrangements with you. Thanks for understanding.
2. New Course options you should know about….need flexibility in your schedule? Want to learn new skills? Consider these…
• 2nd block, COM 397 (2 credits), APA Style in Academic Writing. This course is blended, a mixture of seated and online course activity. The class meets on Tuesdays, 6:30 pm – 9:20 pm in Craig Hall 0336. The course will consist of four class meetings on April 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th, with the time before and after occurring via Blackboard.
The course is designed to help you improve writing skills by offering guidance in the use of APA style. Topics discussed will include the academic importance and relevance of APA style, what is new with the 6th edition of APA style, and proper use of the techniques/conventions of APA style. Assignments and coursework will be completed online via a Blackboard course site. Contact Heather Walters for details.
• An exciting course offered this Summer! COM 597/698 – 900 (3 credits): Topic: Difficult Dialogue: Facilitating Constructive Talk in Groups, Organizations, and Communities.
This course is also blended and a great elective for those interested in org com, interpersonal, and conflict. You will gain valuable skills in this course. It will consist of eight face-to-face meeting times (June 8-9, June 15-16, July 6-7, and final meeting times on July 16 6:00pm-10:00pm and July 17 9:00am-1:00pm) combined with independent work and online interaction. Information will be provided on the first day of class or you can contact Dr. Carey Adams for details.
3. Looking to gain some leadership experience?
• Looking for ways to apply your awesome communication skills with first year students?
• Consider applying to be a Peer Leader for GEP 101 (replacing IDS 110)
What is a Peer Leader?
A Peer Leader is a student who uses their positive attitude, exemplary academic work, interpersonal skills, and personal experience to assist first-year students in their transition to university life. Peer Leaders pair up with a GEP 101 instructor and help educate students on topics including campus involvement, time management, critical thinking, campus resources, the public affairs mission, and more.
What does a Peer Leader do?
• Acquaint themselves and work with a lead instructor
• Help students by answering questions, acting as a resource, and problem-solving
• Assist with class activities and teaching
• Develop positive relationships with students
• Make a difference in the lives of first-year students
What are the requirements of becoming a Peer Leader?
• A 3.0 cumulative GPA
• Enrollment in IDS 310, a 1 credit hour course for leadership instruction
• Completion of Peer Leader training
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong work ethic
• High standards for ethics and integrity
• Respect for the University and its students, faculty, and staff
• Desire to serve others
What are the benefits of becoming a Peer Leader?
• Become a leader on campus
• Earn 1 credit hour for IDS 310 each semester of service to a maximum of 3 credits at no cost to the student
• Obtain credentials for a resume following graduation
• Make a difference in the lives of first-year students
• Receive textbooks and peer leader apparel
• Meet other leaders on campus, collaborating ideas and sharing resources
How do I become a Peer Leader?
• To find out more information, attend one of our information sessions on Wednesday, February 17th at 8 pm in PSU 314 AB, on Monday, February 22nd at 4 pm in PSU 308 A, or on Tuesday, February 23rd at 7:30 pm in PSU 315 AB.
• Fill out the attached application and find two references to fill out your reference forms. Your application and reference forms must be turned in to University Hall room 205 no later than Wednesday, March 17th at 5 pm. You can also find the application and the reference forms online at the First-year programs website: http://www.missouristate.edu/FirstYearPrograms/2842.htm
• Attend Peer Leader Carousel on Saturday, March 20th from 9-1 pm on the PSU 3rd floor. This is a required interview process; you must attend to be eligible to become a Peer Leader. Dress will be business casual.
• Peer Leader position offers will be made via e-mail by Wednesday, March 31st at 5 pm.
• If you are offered a Peer Leader position, you will be required to attend the Spring Peer Leader Training Session on Saturday, April 10th, 9 am to 1 pm in PSU 315 ABC.
Event Date Location
Information Sessions Wednesday, February 17th, 8 pm PSU 314 AB
Monday, February 22nd, 4 pm PSU 308 A
Tuesday, February 23rd, 7:30 pm PSU 315 AB
Applications and
Reference Forms Due Wednesday, March 17th, 5 pm University Hall 205
Peer Leader Carousel Saturday, March 20th, 9 am-1 pm PSU 3rd Floor
Position Offers made Wednesday, March 31st, 5 pm Via e-mail
Peer Leader Training Saturday, April 10th, 9 am-1 pm PSU 315 ABC
If you have any questions, please contact First-Year Programs Director Mike Wood at (417)836-8343 or e-mail him at MikeWood@missouristate.edu.