Campus activities: Resident assistant in Woods House; member of Maroon Madness (student spirit organization of Missouri State athletics); Peer Leader
Career goal: Work with deaf people in a hospital or elder-care clinic
How is Missouri State helping you succeed academically?
I started school with a different major but just did not feel connected to that field. I was going through an “I don’t know what to do” stage. I went to my advisor, who walked me through every possible major and helped me figure out what I like and don’t like. Then I took an Intro to Communication Disorders class and just loved it. My teachers all love what they do. They are excited and that makes me excited to learn from them. They want you to succeed!
What are your favorite classes?
Definitely my sign-language classes. I can sign well enough now to have a conversation with a deaf person. I have a deaf professor, which has helped me learn the language.
What is your favorite place to study?
The library — it is amazing how much I get accomplished in a quiet place with no Facebook or TV!
What would you tell potential students about Missouri State’s public affairs mission?
As a resident assistant, I try to educate people in Woods House about the mission. I tell them about volunteer opportunities and campus programs on different cultures and leadership. The mission makes a student a complete package — it helps you put your values into words. As far as I am concerned, no other school can compare to Missouri State when it comes to offering interactions with other people. There is acceptance of all cultures, ethnicities, backgrounds, values and beliefs. People are not judgmental — you can hang out with each other even if you don’t agree on everything.
How would you describe Springfield?
Nonjudgmental — you can go to the grocery store in your pajamas! It is not too small and not too big. There is plenty to do, from fun downtown shops to the mall.
What would you most like to tell incoming freshmen?
College is the best time of your life because you learn about yourself and others and decide what to do with your life. You will make lifelong friends and grow up a lot. MSU shaped me into the person I am today. It’s a good school and you’ll have a good time!
