I began my college career in August 2012 as an emergency medical service student. I was determined that was what I wanted to get my degree in. I started at Rogers State University knowing very few people and even fewer professors. I attended an orientation "camp" called "Hillcamp," and I was introduced to a few faculty and other students as well. I was also introduced to RSU's motto: "It's personal." At first I doubted just how personal this college environment would be. Obviously it's smaller than OU or OSU, but what would make these professors take their time to actually make it a more personal experience? Why would they?

As I mentioned, I was an EMS major and I had the pleasure of spending eight credit hours with Professor Clem Ohman my very first semester at RSU. I say pleasure, and I sure mean it. This man is incredible, and I knew from the very first class I had with him he'd impact my stay at RSU. Professor Ohman worked with me in class and did everything in his power to help me with any assignments or questions my classmates or I had. Spending four hours twice a week in the basic EMT class would have seemed as if it was the most boring thing in the world had it not been for good ol' Ohman.

In the fall of 2013, I took the Intro to Criminal Justice course, and this was the catalyst that made me decide to switch my major. I would no longer be under the advisement of Mr. Ohman, but he encouraged me to pursue my dream career in the criminal justice field. I have spent time in Professor Ohman's office talking about school, my aspirations, and how I was doing in other aspects as well. He's talked to me about his life, his grandkids, and we've spoken about how proud of each other we are for growing in our achievements. He has written marvelous letters of recommendation for me, and he is one person that I truly hope I do not disappoint. I don't only consider Clem my professor, but I consider him my friend.

Since moving over to the criminal justice department, I have had the wonderful opportunity to be under the advisement of Dr. Diana Clayton. Before I actually met Dr. Clayton, I was absolutely terrified. I had heard how strict she is and how difficult her classes were, and I feared I'd actually have to study for her tests. Well, most of that was correct. Dr. Clayton cares more for her student's than anyone could imagine. She is always looking for ways to make things easier to understand and tries to make things more cost effective for her students in any way that is possible. She is one of the most kind-hearted women that I believe has ever walked the face of the earth, and through her I have the necessary confidence to excel in my endeavors.

Dr. Clayton has spent so much time making sure her students are taken care of and making sure that we understand that the work we receive and the objectives we learn aren't just for us: They are for the people we are meant to help once we accomplish our educational goals and proceed into our careers. She not only has the heart for her students, but for humanity as well. She is a woman I admire and will strive to make proud.

Last but not least, Dr. Mary Mackie. This wonderful woman scared the living daylights out of me the very first time I was in the room with her. She was the keynote speaker at Hillcamp when I attended, and I sat in the seat right in front of her in the front row. My thoughts were something along the lines of, "Man, this woman means business. I think I'll do whatever I can to stay out of her way!" Of course, it wasn't too long before I crossed paths with her.

I was involved in theater at RSU for a while, and she had attended plays, had been at auditions, and I even took a creative writing course she taught. But I don't believe it was until she had cast me in the play she was directing I realized just how personable she was. During "Decision Height," a very emotional event in my life happened and as I attempted to dry my eyes, I entered the auditorium for play rehearsal. Dr. Mackie knew there was something wrong immediately. She took me outside to talk, and I broke down. She hugged me as I sobbed about what was going on, and she just comforted me and told me that I shouldn't be at rehearsal and that I should go where ever I thought I needed to be.

So if anyone were to ask me about RSU's motto, I would without a doubt say it's one of the most accurate statements I have ever heard. At RSU, it is a personable environment, and I am proud to say I have been a part of this campus.