When it comes to helping students truly understand their chosen career field, Missouri Southern knows there’s no substitute for hands-on experiences. That’s why the university offers immersive learning experiences designed to put theory into practice. Matthew, a sophomore majoring in criminal justice administration knows full well the value of these opportunities as he prepares for a career in law enforcement. Tell us more, Matthew.
– Hey, Alex. My father worked in law enforcement for most of my life and he also inspired me to serve my community. It took me a while to realize this, but when I did, I just knew I had to go to college and coming to Missouri Southern State University was one of the best decisions I ever made. Missouri Southern has given me opportunities to make my college experience better than I could have imagined. Project Stay, a program here on campus designed to help first generation college students, helped me find a path to go to school for free and pursue my degree in criminal justice. Labs in the criminal justice department are designed to teach the practical knowledge and skills we’ll need in our careers. From the CSI lab to the firing range, they provide much needed hands-on immersive learning and keep us on the cutting edge when it comes to the criminal justice field. It is not just the criminal justice department that focuses on immersive experiences. Whether you’re taking and testing samples from the biology pond, suiting up to learn about chemical and biological hazards in our environmental health and safety program, or managing a real financial portfolio in the Edward Jones Investment Center, MSSU works to ensure our students can put their skills into practice. I wanna apply everything I’ve learned in my law enforcement studies to help others hopefully with the US Marshall service, which has been a dream of mine for a while now. Passing it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you for sharing, Matthew. We wish you all the best in your law enforcement career, a field that requires a deep commitment to serving your community. Thank you again.
For more than 25 years, Missouri Southern has been committed to its global mission, providing students with a wealth of opportunities to expand their global and cultural horizons. From annual themed semester activities, to study abroad opportunities, you can experience the history, art, music, cinema, and cuisine from well beyond the US border. You’ll find many international students furthering their education at MSSU. Students like Janna, a senior marketing and PR major from Finland. Janna, you’re up.
– , Alex. Hi, I’m Janna Hautala. I’m an international student from Lahti, Finland, from the land of thousand lakes. I came to Missouri Southern in 2018 on a track scholarship. When I first arrived in Joplin, I didn’t really know anyone or much about the university, the city or the region, but what I found was the school truly committed to the international experience. Not only for students coming here from overseas, but for everyone on campus. While I’m far away from my family, MSSU made me feel like I’m right at home. This is a very close knit campus where the faculty members know you by your name, which makes the university experience even more memorable. Volunteers from the campus and community partner with international students, by taking us to local and regional trips such as hiking, camping, ice skating, or trips to museums. Every fall, Missouri Southern celebrates a different country by 10 activities, including art, food, music, films, and lectures. Fall 2021 was the Japan semester. While I’ve been here, we also celebrated the Caribbean, the Oceania, and my favorite, the Nordic semester. Another major international team event is the World Music and Cuisine Festival held each spring. This community event offers a great variety of international music and a chance to sample food from around the world. No matter what part of the world you’re from, Missouri Southern is home away from home where you will make friendships that will last for a lifetime. Alex, with your travel experience, which country do you think MSSU should celebrate next fall semester?
– Janna, that is incredible. You all have an extensive list over broad opportunities, but I would love to throw out the country of South Africa, amazing people, rich cultures, and some natural beauty that is absolutely breathtaking. Janna, it’s great to hear that in addition to providing an international experience to the student body as a whole, Missouri Southern has embraced the students coming here from abroad, and making you feel right at home. The world music and cuisine festival sounds amazing, and we look forward to learning about which country or region you’ll be celebrating next fall. Take care.
One of the highlights at MSSU is athletics. And the amazing student athletes you’ll find right here. Whether you want to be given it your all on the field or in the stands cheering for the Lions with your friends, the athletics program here has something for everyone. Let’s hear from Jasmine, a graduate student in the Education Department who excelled as a member of the track and field team. Your turnaround with it, Jasmine. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, for the introduction. What’s going on, everybody? I’ve been playing sports ever since I was seven years old. I discovered my talent for running early on and I stuck with it ever since. I ran track throughout elementary, all the way to high school and received a great scholarship offer from the track program at Missouri Southern, making it an easy decision to come here. During my track and field career at MSSU, I’ve earned four All American Honors in indoor and outdoor competitions, as well as 10 All MIAA Honors. I’m currently the school record holder in the 60 meter, 200 meter and 4 by 400 relay indoors, as well as the 100 meter, 200 meter and 4 by 100 relay, outdoors. Missouri Southern has the proud tradition of athletic success with a variety of men’s and women’s sports available, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, cross country, volleyball, golf, and of course, track and field. The university makes our success as a student athlete a priority, putting as much emphasis on our achievement inside the classroom as on the field. I graduated with my undergrad degree of education in December, 2021. What I loved about the education department was the relationships I formed with my professors. I enjoyed the program so much that I decided to continue my education here and get my master’s in curriculum and instruction. I wasn’t quite sure how my college experience was gonna pan out, but everything I’ve learned in the classroom and through my participation in athletics has been extremely valuable, and it will be applied in my career as an educator. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you for being the definition of a true student athlete, Jasmine. Congratulations on all your accomplishments on the field and in the classroom. And we hope the lessons you’ve learned along the way will be invaluable throughout your career as an educator. We’ve heard a lot about the connections you make with faculty at Missouri Southern. And it sounds like that has been an extremely impactful aspect of your education, and we love that, take care.
We’re joined now by Madison, a senior biology major who lives in the most recent addition to campus housing, Lion Village. From residential life and a wide variety of student organizations to explore, to fraternities and sororities and plenty of campus activities to enjoy, she’s here to tell us more about life at MSSU. You’re up, Madison.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, y’all. I always knew I wanted to stay close to home for college. And after discovering that Missouri Southern’s Advanced Medical School Acceptance Program would allow me to follow my dreams of becoming a physician, I knew it would be the perfect fit for me. Living on campus has given me a front row seat to all that MSSU has to offer. Lion Village, our newest residence hall, offers open study areas for students to gather, a movie theater, private rooms, full kitchens, and living areas and so much more. One of the best parts about being a student at MSSU is all of the opportunities to get involved on campus. I serve as the president of Our Chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society where service is heavily valued. Our service projects include the annual One Warm Coat Drive, where we collect clothing for a local shelter, as well as the Boys & Girls Club. I also serve as the vice president of Women in Science, one of the most active clubs on campus. It’s a place where we can lift one another up while we share our passion for the STEM fields with campus and the community. We have several fraternity and sorority chapters if you’re interested in Greek life. We also have a 71,000 square foot recreation center where various fitness classes are offered along with an Esports center for all you gamers out there. There are numerous student organizations to join. You can even help shape what’s offered by being a member of the Campus Activities Board. There is such a close knit feeling at Missouri Southern State University. It’s an environment that truly feels like family and has allowed me to reach my full potential. That’s my story. Thanks for listening, Alex.
– A close knit family, that’s a great way to describe life at Missouri Southern. Madison, thanks for sharing your experience with us. There’s an active campus life awaiting you here at MSSU, which is an integral part of what students are looking for when considering the college experience. I may need to stop by the Esports center to get my game on before we’re through. Take care.
Let’s make our way over to meet Ryan. From his first day on campus, when Ohio’s incoming students walk together as one class, through Alumni Gateway, symbolizing their entrance to life as a Bobcat, he fell in love with OU’s school spirit. Go Ryan.
– Thanks, Alex. Music has always been the center point of my life. So I knew I wanted to pursue a career teaching music in public schools, Ohio University’s School of Music stood out to me as the best place for me to become an excellent music educator. Being here has been the experience of a lifetime. I’ve connected with peers in my major, with countless opportunities to involve myself in campus organizations. The one I’m most involved with is the Marching 110. First nicknamed after the original number of members in the band. Today, 110 symbolizes the 110% of effort always expected of its members. We’re known for our unique marching style and choreography and we’ve performed in over 40 NFL Halftime Shows, Carnegie Hall, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades, and even international venues. With our exciting style and 110 pride, sometimes even the other teams’ fans can’t help stand up and cheer.
– Go Ohio.
– When I became an official member, I knew I had found my new family. Besides packing the Ozone Student Section at home games, Bobcats showed their Ohio love by supporting our 16 NCAA division one athletic teams, participating in club and intermural sports, joint special spirit weekends like homecoming and SIB’s weekend, and performing in or attending creative performances by students and faculty, like The Tantrum Theater, where fine arts students get stage experience with a professional company. I have three more years here at Ohio, but already my college experience has been amazing. I’m set in a solid path through my career, having the time of my life, marching in the most exciting band in the land, and cheering on my fellow Bobcats with my new friends. Whatever path you choose at Ohio, this place and the Bobcat spirit will stay with you forever. Back to you Alex.
– Thanks Ryan. The Marching 110 is truly a highlight of any Ohio game or spirit event. Congratulations on becoming part of the most exciting band in the land.
With so much natural outdoor beauty here in the Appalachian Foothills, it’s no surprise that Ohio University is a leader in population health and sustainability. Andrew is an outdoor enthusiast who found the perfect place to live, learn, and play right here at Ohio. Over to you, Andrew.
– Thanks Alex, and hello everyone. I’ve always loved the outdoors and staying active. What better place to experience it than at Ohio University? Coming from outta state, I fell in love with campus during my first tour. As a wildlife and conservation biology student, I have had the chance to explore my interests, both in classes, such as comparative vertebrae anatomy, as well as in the field, where I study the health of frog and towed habitats. Ohio University is a leader in conservation and sustainable efforts. Locally, with our amazing Climate and Sustainability Ambassador Program, as well as globally, through Collaborative Research Programs. As the learning community leader for first year environmental and plant biology students, I help students explore these opportunities when we visited places like the greenhouse and the campus farm, as well as the Ridges Hiking Trails located right on campus. With places like the Land Lab, Grosvenor Hall, and Irvine Hall, there is no shortage of places to study and work. Since Ohio University is located in beautiful Athens, Ohio students also have the chance to get outdoors at places like Strouds Run State Park and Hocking Hills State Park. Students also have the chance to purchase fresh local produce at our farmer’s market, as well as our own student farm. And to stay active, indoors, at King Recreation Center or outdoors, on our many hiking trails, including the Hockhocking Adena Bike path. When I entered college, I never expected to teach a learning community, to conduct research in a national forest, or to train over 20 volunteers. But Ohio University gave me these experiences and so much more. They gave me lessons and friends to last a lifetime. Thank you for listening. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for sharing your story. Andrew, it’s clear that Ohio’s unique location gives students opportunities to study communities and habitats they can only find in this very region. And what a beautiful region it is, thanks again for sharing.
Now let’s meet Ella. Originally from Portland, Oregon, but with family roots right here in Ohio, Ella was looking for a university experience that emphasized and partnered with the community, while offering plenty of cultural opportunities across the region. What better place to find that than right here in Athens? Right, Ella?
– Thanks Alex. I’ve always been passionate about my education. While my hometown is Portland, Oregon, my parents grew up here, and I wanted to spend the next stage of my life connecting with my Ohio roots. As a recreation management student with the Patton College of education, I’ve been working with the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau in events and marketing, giving me a hands on opportunity to use and expand my skills. The most exciting part has been planning local events like the Taste of Athens County Food Festival, from the ideation to the planning process, something I never thought I’d be doing as a student. Not only do university jobs and placements provide opportunities for leadership roles and growth, I’ve also met so many lifelong friends. Beyond unique internship placements. Ohio University has many other experiential opportunities for students such as the Bobcat Seed Fund. Since 2018, any Bobcat entrepreneur can apply for a grant to begin or grow their own venture, giving Ohio students the opportunity to jumpstart their future career. In my spare time, I enjoy the university’s owned Athena Cinema, a movie theater just a short walk from campus. The cinema is currently in their ninth year of showing The Sustainability Series, in partnership with the Environmental Studies Program and University Libraries, among other groups. This series offers free admission to informative films and provides space for discussion among students and community members. The Athena also hosts the Athens International Film and Video Festival, an association with the university and many other community groups. Thanks. The festival provides a platform for underrepresented filmmakers and unique viewpoints, from short from to documentaries. When I began my education at Ohio University, I’d never imagined myself where I am now. I went from being an undecided freshman to a senior with unique learning experiences and plenty to build up my resume. Thanks to my time here, I feel more deeply connected than ever to my family, my roots and my future career. That’s all from me On with the show, Alex.
– Thanks Ella. It’s so cool to hear how Ohio University gave you the chance to feel more connected to your family, your community, and your future.
Up next, we’ll meet Isabel. While it was important to her to find a university with rigorous academics and a strong honors and scholars program, she didn’t wanna sacrifice the classic college experience or community. At Ohio, she learned she didn’t have to choose. Okay, Isabelle, what’s your story?
– Thanks, Alex. During my college search, I hoped to find a university which placed as much emphasis on personal development as it does on technical skills and academic rigor. With Ohio University’s mini honors and scholars programs, it has been easy to find resources which do exactly that. Coming to Ohio University from Kentucky, I worried that I would struggle to find community. I joined a learning community which allowed me to meet my classmates in a safe and welcoming environment. I enjoyed the experience so much that I have since served as a learning community leader to foster those connections for new Bobcats. I have also had the opportunity to practice professional skills while guiding first year students by serving as a TA for the Ohio honors program’s Engagement Lab, which allowed me to take on a hands on international service learning project. When I’m not mentoring first year students, I often find myself in one of Alden Library’s seven floors. With ample study rooms, a cafe, and tutoring through the Academic Achievement Center, Alden serves as a one stop shop for productive work sessions. As a Margaret Boyd scholar, one of my favorite spots in Alden is the Nevertheless, She Persisted Through Time exhibit, honoring her, our first female graduate. Ohio offers a broad range of honors and scholars programs, from academic programs like the Honors Tutorial College, where students dive deep in their majors and personalized tutorials, to a wide range of multicultural scholars programs. Additionally, the Voinovich Scholars Programs caters to undergraduate students dedicated to research. Ohio is dedicated to recognizing its outstanding students in addition to supporting them personally and academically. Annually, OU honors leadership and community service through The Leadership Awards, I was delighted to receive the Hispanic Heritage Achievement Award. I have loved participating in several honors and scholars programs during my time at Ohio University. And look forward to ushering in the next wave of high achieving Bobcats. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you Isabel. While many colleges offer some form of learning community, it’s amazing that 98% of students at Ohio University participate in one during their first year here. It sounds like that’s just one of the many ways students find the exact programs and people to make their Ohio experience very special. Thanks for sharing your story.
Okay, next, let’s hear from Sydney. Sydney’s plan after graduation is to continue onto law school. At Ohio, Sydney found a multi-layer support system designed to help every student graduate on time, on plan, and prepared for whatever comes next, over to you.
– Thanks Alex. Ever since high school, I knew I had wanted to go to law school. I chose Ohio University because of its amazing programs and options for supporting students, both in and out of the classroom. I’m heavily involved in our Center for Law, Justice and Culture, as well as several student organizations here. The center provides amazing support for students who are interested in both legal and human rights fields. In a study abroad program, I went on as a freshman. I was fully immersed in the social and political discourse of Northern Ireland, and it strengthened my ability to conduct research on another culture. In addition to the CLJC, academic advising is readily available to ensure that you take advantage of opportunities, but can still graduate on time. From my intro to sociology professor, all the way up to our university’s president, faculty have open office hours to provide support. My student organizations here are my lifeline. I’m a sociology and economics major who loves singing and dogs and OU has organizations that allow me to be involved in all of those things, while still building professional skills. The Picardy Thirds or P3 for short, they’re my family. And I absolutely love getting to sing with this acapella group. ♪ Hey, yeah ♪ ♪ Hey, yeah ♪ Shameless plug, we do hold auditions every year. 4 Paws For Ability is a great way to have a dog while in college because the program pays for food, supplies, vet visits, and grooming. All you have to do is provide the foster with the love and support needed to become a service dog. While school is still my plan after graduation, I love that I can have both experiences that aid in my academic success and experiences that allow me to continue to do the things that I love. This school has given me so many memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. All right, what’s next, Alex?
– Thank you%, Sydney. It’s refreshing to hear that Ohio offers the kind of holistic support and well-rounded student experience that help make college and your future career more successful. That was great, take care.
Okay, everyone. I am so excited to introduce you to Sarah. Like many prospective students and their families, Sarah was looking for a university where she could connect to opportunities like scholarships and internships that would help her not only thrive now, but prepare her for a career. She found that right here at Ohio. Tell us all about it, Sarah.
– Thank you for coming to my beautiful campus. In high school, I wanted to study philosophy. I was lucky enough to get into the Cutler Scholars Program, providing a full ride to Ohio University. This is a scholarly program for students wanting to make positive impact in their communities. And I was ready to do just that here at OU. Ohio has given me the opportunity to study abroad and internships. So far, I’ve completed five internships. Currently the two internships I have are with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The other is with DataRobot where I’m an engineering intern, working on how to mitigate bias and discriminatory factors in algorithms and data sets. These amazing opportunities allow me to discover my passion and to refine my skills, making me the person I am today. That’s exactly what OU does, they help you find your path and guide you through it. Ohio University is a university that helps develop and promote the town and gown spirit. They prepare us academically, but also encourage us to become good stewards of our community. For example, I’m one of two student representatives on the Ohio University Board of Trustee Youth. I also work with the Mount Zion Preservation Society, which is fighting to prevent the erasure of black history here in Appalachia. OU has taught me how to carve out my own unique path as a multifaceted person who can excel in their career, but not at the expense of ignoring my humanity. Now back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Sarah, it sounds like Ohio definitely helped you find your path and connect you with your future you certainly have what it takes to excel at any career you pursue. Thanks again for sharing your story, take care.