As an out-of-state gal here in Springy, I found myself often comparing my atmosphere here to what I was well accustomed to at home (mind you that I am from a rather small town surrounded by cornfields in central Illinois where all kids do is hangout in various parking lots). So I was in for a run for my money here at Missouri State because it was a whole new ballgame. At Missouri State I not only found unlimited opportunity but also a new lifestyle unlike I have ever experienced. Springfield Missouri grows much like weeds do; quickly, constantly, and everywhere possible.

I came open-minded and ready for a change; I got exactly that. Missouri State is the change. Missouri State is everything all at once. It is the spirit, driving force of academics, and a home to so many. As I watch the year run short and the academics coming to and end I watch many seniors getting ready to close this chapter of their life. I hear numerous if not all of them talk about how much of a home MoState has become to them and how heart-breaking it is to leave. As I pack up my things from my dorm room, I feel that all too much. In just a short year I have gained so much. I have lived in Springfield, Missouri for a short period of time that has come to feel like several years. I have made forever friends that I could not imagine my life without. I have joined a sorority that makes me feel more empowered and supported each and every single day as well as finding myself in ways I never knew I could. I came to Missouri State a young eighteen year old girl looking for so much and leave more satisfied than I thought was possible.

Missouri State gives you all you needed and more. I can't imagine turning up at Club Meyer til 2am(my favorite club of all time), secretly getting in the fountain because YOLO, stalking Cliff Smart, gaining a whole closet of maroon, living off Boomer Meals and Dining Hall swipes, running to Late night on chicken tender nights, enduring crossing the "Missouri State River" a billion times because it rains too much and the drainage is no the greatest, and waking up everyday to a different season. Welcome to Missouri State; a place of great people and so many great opportunities. I couldn't be more excited to come back next year and do it all over again. For the first time in history, I hate summer approaching and wish school would never end.