When you want great advice, you go to a professional. So, when we wanted to know campus’s top views, vibes and traditions, we reached out to people with tons of experience in giving advice: MO State’s academic advising team. They shared their campus life hacks, favorite walks and other pro tips for living the Maroon life.

Maroon Musts: Academic Advisors Edition

Campus Life Hacks

“Knowing the Bear Line routes can really make parking easier,” says Alyssa DeBolt, who advises students in the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. “And it’s a big bonus in rain or snow.”

Sharon Harter, who advises students in the McQueary College of Health and Human Services, has her own way of overcoming suboptimal weather. “On hot days, I like to walk in Bear Park North,” she says. “I can still get my walk in — out of the sun. I do this when it’s raining, too.”

And Katy Seery, who advises students in the Darr College of Agriculture, says, “When you need a scenery change, walk around buildings where you don’t usually go. You’ll find great, new spots for relaxation — and you can also recommend them to students.”

Wowing With BearWear

Thanks to the office of residence life, housing and dining services, Ross Hawkins, director of the Academic Advising and Transfer Center, is always ready for BearWear Friday. He’s made a habit of volunteering for House Calls — when faculty, staff, and administrators visit residence halls to welcome students. And, he says, “ResLife’s willingness to provide BearWear for volunteers means I’ve built up a decent collection.”

If you’re seeking accessories with MO State mojo, the advising team’s got great ideas. Robert Brown, who advises students in the College of Business (COB), keeps two MO State lanyards on his keychain. Amanda Simpson, another COB academic advisor, is known for her maroon Vans sneakers. Heidi Culbertson, director of COB’s Business Advisement Center, is in the process of crocheting a MO State Bear-themed cardigan — just in time for snowy season. And, says Alyssa DeBolt, “I rock maroon every day with my hair color!”

Beloved Experiences

Sharon Harter says that campus is so beautiful, you don’t have to pick a favorite perspective. She recommends “any upper floor for a great view.”

Katy Seery agrees. “I love any spot with greenery or flowers,” she says. “Our amazing grounds crew makes it so there’s always a spot that feels new.”

One season, in particular, earned rave reviews. Sophia Raithel, who advises students in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences, says, “I love the walkway on the south side of the PSU, specifically in fall when all the leaves are changing.”

Ross Hawkins loves “sitting in the football stadium in a triple-letter section, specifically in late October or early November. The views of campus and Springfield are stunning,” he says. “And you get to cheer on the Bears!”

You’ll find Amanda Simpson there, too. Her season-ticket seat in Plaster Stadium is one of her most Maroon-ificent spots.

Speaking of game day, Heidi Culbertson loves listening in as the Pride Band rehearses in the field next to Meyer Library. “It’s a fun way to end my day with background music that I can hear and see from my office,” she says.

And Robert Brown says, “My favorite time of year is October through December — when the holiday spirit takes over the offices.” [Editor’s note: So true! If you’re craving holiday vibes, breeze through Glass Hall. Be sure to check out the cozy projections on the wall of O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand Atrium while you’re there.]

Top Traditions

There’s Bear-ly a tradition our advising team doesn’t love, but one came up most often. “Fountain Day!” says Sophia Raithel. “I love the energy on campus when the fountain gets turned back on. With spring on the way, everyone’s in a good mood.”

Ross Hawkins shouted out the Staff Appreciation Luncheon, “where we recognize longevity and outstanding service. I also like the seasonal luncheons Teri Trickey [director of catering] and her team provide,” he says.

What It’s All About

Most of all, our advisors love helping students navigate degree requirements to reach their goals — and knowing they’re part of a team that shares this mission.

“Every day, I get to work with incredible people — students, faculty, staff and prospective students,” says Alyssa DeBolt. “The relationships and culture in my department and the university as a whole are part of what brought me here as a student and have kept me here. It’s so special to have mentors become friends and coworkers and to now get to mentor new groups of students.”