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Table of Contents ACADEMIC LIFE
8 Welcome from MSU President Clif Smart 10 Public Affairs mission 12 “Fifth-year” experiences 14 MSU slang and how to decipher it 16 Choosing a minor 18 Odd gen eds 19 Changing your major — its OK 20 Textbooks 22-23 Study away 24 MSU history STUDENT LIFE
27 Places open 24 hours 28 Should you rush? 30 Cultural events 32 Pros of not going home 33 Pros of going home 36 Bear Line 37 Coming this fall
38 Staying on budget 40 Hidden gems 41 Curing homesickness from overseas 42 Cheap housing 44 Over 21 activities 45 Fun under 21 46 Clubs on campus 48 Getting your first job 50 Campus ministries 51 Completing your service hours 52 Things to do in SGF 54 Free mental health 56 How to de-stress 57 Planning for success 60 Einstein, non-logo boutique open 61 Staying on task 62 Tutoring services 64 Unconventional college timelines 65 Items to check out in your residence hall 66-67 Headlines from last year 68 Welcome Weekend
69 New wellness center 70 Best outdoor hikes and trials around SGF 71 Food pantry 72 Getting involved 73 Transfer tips 74 The truth (and myths) about SGF 75 Staying organized 76 MSU in photos 77 Parking sucks 78 Intramural sports 79 Club sports 80-81 MSU online 82 MSU gals buy, sell 83 Editor fails 84-85 Near campus locations 86 Bad roommates 87 Staying safe on campus 88 Academic calendar 89 Seniors give advice SPORTS & REC
91 Note from the sports editor 92-93 Football
Standard staff Advertising staff
Cortlynn Stark editor-in-chief Emily Cole news editor Hanna Sumpter deputy news editor Nina Todea life editor Amanda Sullivan sports editor Kaitlyn Stratman photo editor Bill Sioholm digital editor Afton Harper copy editor Bradley Balsters copy editor
Batool Alzubi reporter Ben Vickers reporter Conor Wilson reporter Layne Stracener reporter Madison Bryan reporter Meg Alexander reporter Ronkeia Bates reporter Bryce Derrickson sports reporter Carissa Alford sports reporter Cole Sutton sports reporter Claire Niebrugge sports reporter Kennedy Bright sports reporter Kyle Derringer sports reporter Monica Blake sports reporter Sam Grus sports reporter Bailey Vassalli reporter/photographer
Reporters/Photographers
Professional staff
Hanna Flanagan senior reporter Noah Standish senior reporter Blaine Wheeler senior anchor
Jack Dimond faculty adviser Sandy King advertising manager
Tyler Krtek sales Mark Phillips sales Hailey Gilbreath sales James Hunter graphic design
Editorial staff
94-95 Volleyball 96 Beach volleyball 97 Cross country 98 Sports staff twitters 99 Hockey 100-101 Men’s bball 102 Women’s bball 103 Swim and dive 104 Women’s soccer 105 Men’s soccer 106 Men’s golf 107 Women’s golf 108 Tennis 109 Lacrosse 110 Baseball 111 Track 112 Softball 114 Sports schedules
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is published by The Standard, Missouri State University’s student-produced newspaper. The university has not approved and is not responsible for its content, which is produced and edited by The Standard staff.
Cover designs by Tessa Phongsavath
4 Letter from the Editor-in-Chief
The Standard 901 S. National Avenue • Springfield, MO 65897 417-836-5272 • Standard@MissouriState.edu the-standard.org
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A welcome from the editor-in-chief #LocalNewsMatters CORTLYNN STARK Editor-in-Chief @Cortlynn_Stark Five Maryland newspaper employees were killed in June after a gunman opened fire in the newspaper office. That newspaper, the Capital Gazette, put out a paper the next day — the day after their friends and colleagues were murdered. Their names: Rob Hiaasen, Gerald Fischman, John McNamara, Wendi Winters and Rebecca Smith. Smith was a sales associate — the others were journalists. The gunman, Jarrod Ramos, had a long-standing feud with the newspaper. But let’s get to the point of why I’m even mentioning this in what’s essentially our welcome to Missouri State issue: We are not your enemy. One more time: We are not your enemy. We are here to inform you on what’s happening in, at and around Missouri State.
whether it be through local and national elections or making That’s what the Capital Gazette decisions about where to employees were working to do, spend their money. too. The Standard is not out Because we focus to get you. We are not our work on here to cause harm to what’s happenyou or the university. ing at Missouri We are here to find State, we have the stories that mata hyper local ter to you, report the focus. That’s facts and do so with good for accountability and you. There’s transparency. Somealmost times, stories run that nothing you you don’t like. Maycan find on be that story makes our website your friend look not that isn’t about so good. But, we reMissouri State port the facts. Our University or job as journalists is doesn’t have to inform the public. some impact That’s you. on you. File Photo/THE STANDARD That’s how Follow democracy works. Cortlynn Stark, editor-in-chief sports editor The newspaper works to keep the Amanda Sullivan (@mandasullipeople informed and the people use van14) for anything sports-related. that information to their advantage, Want to find out more about the new
basketball coach Dana Ford? Ask her. Want to know if the Bears’ football team is going to get better this year? DM her on Twitter. Follow life editor Nina Todea (@ Todea_NinaM) for all things campus life. She has you covered. Follow news editor Emily Cole (@ EMCole19) and deputy news editor Hanna Sumpter (@hannasumpter) for the latest campus and Springfield news. Follow photo editor (@KaitlynStratman) on Twitter and Instagram for photos from around campus. Follow digital editor Bill Sioholm (@BillS_AFK) for his espresso of the day and sometimes decent puns. When students are informed, they can make informed decisions about what’s on the ballot at Missouri State, too. If you have concerns or want to talk to me about The Standard, DM me on Twitter. Really. Send me an email. We need to have open lines of communication between us and you, our readers. Transparency matters. Local news matters.
My five tips for success 1. Sleep. You won’t get anything done if you’re falling asleep doing it. 2. Mental health. Focus on yourself. Take time for yourself. 3. Don’t be afraid. This is crucial: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and go to an event by yourself. 4. Read a newspaper. It doesn’t have to be this one, though I highly recommend that, but there are literally dozens for you to choose from. Local journalism will give you a look at your community you won’t get anywhere else. 5. Stop paying attention to everyone else. Fun fact: it literally does not matter at all what someone else is doing. Don’t compare yourself to them. You are doing your own thing, and you’re doing great. If you compare yourself to someone who’s a millionaire at 19, you won’t be able to make that happen for yourself.
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‘Don’t be afraid to be a leader’ President Smart welcomes you to campus CLIF SMART MSU President @ClifSmart I’ve sailed on the Titanic. Rapped “Whoomp! (There It Is)” on a beach volleyball court. Played the role of Han Solo. And that’s all in the last couple of years. Life as president of this university is always interesting. Of course, those are a sample of my short films that we’ve produced at Missouri State. If you’re a returning student, you’re probably familiar with my social media video series. They’re fun. I enjoy working with our talented staff members to create them. The videos illustrate a few points I’d like to make as you continue or begin your journeys as Bears this year: • Engage with the people around you • Take some risks • Grow as a person I’ve done all three as president. I never expected to work at a university, much less lead one. But that’s where life took me, and taking the job was the second-best decision of my life. (Marrying Gail tops the list.) Being president is a hard job. You, the students, lift me up. That’s why it’s important to me to find ways to engage with you as much as possible. That desire resulted in our fun video series. You’ve shown us it’s content you like on university social media networks. The video series isn’t without risk, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take because community engagement matters. That means choosing to make somebody’s day a little bit better every time you meet them. I also think I’ve grown as a person during my time as president. The university’s had far more ups than downs. We’ve united as a group and stood up for what we believed in during hard times. For example, we advocated to keep your tuition cost down this spring during budget negotiations with the Missouri legislature. Your representatives came through with funding that allowed us to continue providing you with a cost that’s below state and national averages. I’m thankful to have tremendous leaders
File Photo by MSU OFFICE OF VISUAL MEDIA
on my staff who made that happen, have challenged me to be a better person, and as a result, a better president. I challenge you to find your own way to engage others, take risks, and grow as a person on campus this year. Fittingly, our public affairs theme is “Unity in Community.” Several events, including the Public Affairs Conference in September, will address divisive issues that concern our communities, even here in Springfield. I invite you to engage by attending conference sessions. Jenna Bush Hager of the Today Show (and daughter of U.S. President George W. Bush) is the conference keynote speaker. She’ll speak at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. It’s important for you to be a leader in these discussions, both on campus and off. That might seem scary. Even risky. But you will grow as a person, and your campus and community will be better for it. Use your voice to make somebody’s day a little bit better. I’m off to use my voice to record another video for a job and university that I love. Clif
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Rethinking utopia: Public Affairs Conference calls for unity in community NINA TODEA Life Editor @TodeaNina_M What is community? Is it a geographical area, a like-minded people or a larger, global perspective — and who belongs where? Communities can often overlap and be complex or confusing. This year, the 2018-19 Missouri State Public Affairs Conference, “Unity in Community,” aims to address and seek answers to these questions. This year’s conference also includes a date change. Having been part of the spring semester for the past 14 years, the conference moves to the fall to give incoming freshmen the opportunity to attend with their respective GEP 101 classes. Mary Ann Wood, director of public affairs support, said that by providing this experience early in their MSU experience, the university hopes freshmen will gain a better understanding of how the public affairs mission and the theme relate to one another. The move also intends to clear up any confusion between the Public Affairs Conference and the spring Diversity Conference. “(The university) wanted to allow both events to have a better opportunity to grow their unique identities,” Wood said. This year’s conference focuses on issues that concern and often divide Springfield, according to the Public Affairs theme description. Developed by Kevin Evans, provost fellow for public affairs, the theme of the conference comes at a time when divisiveness seems to be at the forefront of American politics, media and even daily social interactions. These issues of national importance can, and often do, have direct impacts on local communities. “The political, social and cultural divides in America’s communities seem deep and difficult to reconcile,” Evans said in an email interview.
Yet, there is more to the discussion. Evans referenced the nation’s legacies of liberty, freedom and opportunity, among others. “The theme ‘Unity in Community’ seeks to explore the transcendent threads that run through American society, because we share so much more in common with one another than tends to be projected,” Evans said. He hopes the conference inspires students to consider their place in the local community, stating it is “incumbent on citizens to be vigilant” in protecting the rights of their fellow neighbors, minorities and even those with dissenting views. Jenna Bush Hager, this year’s keynote speaker, is a vocal supporter of extending a helping hand. Hager, founding chair of the UNICEF Next Generation initiative, will speak about her experiences in Central America with UNICEF on Tuesday, Sept. 25 at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. Hager is also a NBC news correspondent, best-selling author, editor-at-large for Southern Living magazine and the daughter of former President George W. Bush. Perhaps a unique selling point of this year’s conference is the addition of a film festival including question and answer sessions with the filmmakers. Andrew Cline, professor of media, journalism and film at MSU, Randy Bacon, Michael Streissguth and Mark Horvath will present documentaries about homelessness, addiction and Johnny Cash’s time at Folsom Prison. Other discussions include fringe communities, the “prison pipeline,” grassroots activism and a hopeful look at utopian societies, unlike what the entertainment industry may present. A historical look at utopian societies retells stories of good intentions tarnished by ultimate chaos; even so, the idealistic views of executed philosopher Sir Thomas More in “Utopia” surpass time.
“We share so much more in common with one another than tends to be projected.” — Kevin Evans
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Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin speaks with President Clif Smart at the 2017 Public Affairs Conference. Goodwin, a former White House Fellow to Lyndon B. Johnson, detailed a historical perspective on the “wild 2016 election.”
So, then, if these societies are only stories of failure, what use is it to modern America? Evans explains that America’s Founding Fathers had high hopes and utopian aspirations for the United States, illustrated in the Preamble to the Constitution. More than two centuries later, Evans said it all depends on cultural context. “Unity can be good or bad,” Evans said. “If we don’t have clear goals, ideals or at least a common vision of how we seek to better ourselves and our communities, we are at risk of being at the mercy of rudderless leadership, where there is no clear goal, disenfranchisement of the people, and essentially, decay of our society.” Important to note, Evans stressed, is that the conference does not promote utopian ideals; rather, attendees ought to consider what models the local community can adopt to solve issues. America, Evans said, differs from the rest of the world and even from other western societies. He paraphrases a Star Trek movie in describing what he calls “rugged individualism.” “‘The needs of the one outweighs the needs of the many,’” Evans said. “If you are a Trekkie, you know there is another version of that statement: ‘The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the one.’ “America could benefit from reform. We tend to lack empathy and altruism … I think it takes a large group of individuals to affect File Photo/THE STANDARD such change, but there is hope.” The Public Affairs Conference kicks off The “Citizen-Scholar” statue in Monday, Sept. 24. front of Strong Hall depicts a young A complete schedule of events can be found woman looking up at a globe she online at MSU’s Public Affairs page.
holds above her head.
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The “fifth-year” experience The pros and cons of an unconventional college timeline
MADISON BRYAN Staff Reporter @MadisonBryan14 When discussing college, you typically think of a four-year time frame. Quite often, a four-year degree doesn’t take four years to achieve; it commonly lasts longer. According to a new study done by Complete College America, only 19 percent of students complete their bachelor’s degree within four years. The feeling of not hitting a well-known goal can lead to some self-doubt, which leads to questions such as: “Am I not smart enough?” “Did I do something wrong?” “Why couldn’t I graduate on time?” Then, there are the questions everyone else asks: “Have you graduated yet?” Why not?” “When will you graduate?” These questions can lead any student feeling less than adequate. Sometimes students forget is that it is OK to change your major. Change it a couple times.
It’s OK to change your mind. College is the first step to the career you will have for the rest of your life, so make sure you’re happy with the major you choose. In the end, that’s what matters. Alec Green, a fifth-year biology major, said there are benefits to staying in school longer. “If you’re going to school and working your hardest to be as successful as possible,” Green said. “Then there isn’t a con because you’re already doing something most people would give up on.” Yet, students still worry about seeming unintelligent to others or feel that they’re wasting their life and money away on school instead of being out in the workforce. This can lead to feeling demoralized and unmotivated to continue to the finish line. “I think the biggest worry is fear of judgment from others,” said Emily Daily, a fifth-year speech pathology major. “Also, wanting to stick to the four-year timeline for their family or due to money reasons.”
Sometimes being a fifth-year means you are one of the oldest students in the classroom which can lead to discouragement. “Being a fifth-year isn’t as bad as everyone thinks it is,” said Emily Plummer, a fifth-year psychology major. “Being a transfer student I took my time because it caused less stress than trying to rush through it all.” But there are a few cons that fifth-years deal with. “I worry about having enough money, including financial aid and loans,” Rachel Wagner, a fifth-year FACS major, said. “Another con is worrying, ‘What if I’ve changed majors only to discover that after graduation I won’t use my degree.’” Being a fifth-year student can also lead students to feeling like they’re the one left behind. “Personally being a fifth-year has been really hard,” Alexia Wollard, a fifth-year marketing and sales management major, said. “Most of my friends and people I went to high school
with have already graduated.” Students often feel bombarded with the tasks they have in front of them. This distracts students from seeing what the future could hold. “In the broadcast world, there are huge pros to staying in school longer,” said Leonard Horton, a professor in the Media, Journalism, and Film department. “It helps increase your resume reel and increases likelihood of getting a job in the business.” This shows students that being in school longer can actually give you that extra time to do a little more and perfect your skills before entering the workplace. In the end, the most important thing to remember is the whole point of college is to get a degree. Employers will not judge your expertise off of how long it took you to graduate from college. So, whether you are in school for four years, five years, or even more, there is no rush. Everything will fall together in the end. FreeImages.com/Ahmed Al-Shukaili
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SAC, PSU and other important campus lingo A non-comprehensive guide to MSU slang
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EMILY COLE News Editor @EMCole19 Starting your first semester of college can be stressful. There’s a lot to learn — like how to park on campus, how to manage your time and how to budget (all of which you can find here). But there’s also a lot of phrases or three-letter acronyms you might hear that you’ve never heard before. Abbreviations, nicknames and places on campus that aren’t labeled with signs can take time to learn, but may be essential to thriving at Missouri State. Here are just a few to help you understand what you’re hearing as you speed-walk down the sidewalk to that class you’re late for or eat your third Chick-fil-A meal of the week.
Meyer Library is a popular study spot for students, but it’s also home to a few MSU-related acronyms.
North Mall: This is the grassy space in front of Plaster Student Union and Baker Bookstore. This is a common place for outdoor events, and at least once a semester it will be full of dogs ready to pet.
North / BPN: Shorter versions of Bear Park North parking garage, located near Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts on the north side of campus.
P-Bar: A nickname for Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar, a popular downtown hangout for MSU students who are over 21.
PoHo: Short for “The Potter’s House,” a former-fraternity house across from the DaBear CLAW: This is the campus tutoring vis-Harrington Welcome Center that was rencenter, or the Center for Learning and Writing, ovated into a coffee shop/ministry in 1999 by located in Meyer Library. a local church. Hundreds of students stop by each week for the homey atmosphere and inClub Meyer: This is a nickname for Meyer expensive coffee. Library, MSU’s three-story library named after PSU: Short for the Plaster Student Union. former university president, Duane G. Meyer. You’ll become very familiar with this one if Dead Day: Friday, at the end of the last week you spend any time on campus. of class — also known as Study Day. This is the day after the last day of classes, which gives SAC: The Student Activities Council orgastudents a free day to study for finals. nizes campus events and activities like the annual Spring Concert, films in the PSU TheFRC / Rec / Foster: You may hear any of ater, various after hours events and free bowlthese used interchangeably to mean Foster Rec- ing every Friday in the Level 1 Game Center. reation Center. SGA: The Student Government Association Freddy: A very common and university-ap- is a elected body of students that represents the proved nickname for Freudenberger House. students of MSU and creates initiatives for You’ll rarely hear anyone say the full name programs like the Bear With Me parking tickbecause, let’s face it, it’s too long. et program and the student initiative fund. They also accept student proposals for future initiaFSL: Fraternity and Sorority Life tives. There are also shortened versions of most fraternities’ and sororities’ names, but if you’re South / BPS: Shorter versions of Bear Park involved in FSL, you’ll figure these out for South parking garage, located next to Strong yourself. There’s too many to list here. Hall on the south side of campus.
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Minor Mishaps LAYNE STRACENER Staff Reporter @laynestracener Choosing a minor may seem difficult, but advisers, instructors and the Career Center can help you decide on the minor that’s best for you. Senior history major Amy Brown, a student assistant at the Academic Advisement Center, said students can go to the Academic Advisement Center in University Hall 109 to fill out paperwork to declare or change a minor, and all they need is their M number. Adviser Rebecca Neal said she likes to give students a few tips and opinions on choosing a minor, but she tells students to also talk to their advisers for their majors. “What I think can work and what I’ve heard can work may be completely different than what they’re seeing in that major,” Neal said. Neal said when she helps students
choose minors, she talks to them about what would go well with their majors, what they see themselves doing after college, and what would look good on a resume. She also said if there is a subject students enjoy, but do not want to major in, that could be a good minor. Mike Wood, career resources specialist, also said it is good to choose your minor based on classes you enjoy, sometimes even if you do not know how it will help later. “Personally, I think it’s best to choose a minor where you enjoy the classes and find them interesting and engaging, because you’ll perform better in them,” Wood said. Neal said the Career Center is helpful when choosing a minor. “That’s always a good first step, because they look at things like salary base and resumes, and you can get advising about backgrounds you need for specific jobs,” Neal said. “Then, you can think of
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Don’t know how to choose a minor? Advisers, instructors can help
minors that would pair well (with your major/career), and that you would also want to pursue.” Talking to your instructors is another way to decide on a minor. “I always tell my students I’m their No. 1 resource, but to also talk to people in their major that have actually been out in the workforce,” Neal said. Wood said if a student has taken classes for a major but then decides to change that major, it is practical to minor in that subject, rather than start over with zero hours. Wood also said it is good to choose a minor that will help you gain practical skills, especially if your major does not have an obvious career connection. “I try to think of a minor as something that is skill-oriented,” he said. “For example, it might be beneficial for someone in the College of Humanities and Public Affairs to pick up a business minor to get some type of concrete skill set.”
Pursuing a Personalized Minor Have a minimum of 30 credit hours completed
t Consult your advisor to prepare a petition
t Write a petition including your proposed courses and statement
t Department head accepts or rejects your petition
t If accepted, the personalized program is forwarded to the Office of the Registrar
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Find a way to love your gen eds A guide to some of the most interesting and bizarre classes MADISON BRYAN Staff Reporter @MadisonBryan14 An everyday college student would never put the words “fun” and “general education classes” together. But, what if Missouri State had a way to make that phrase work? Wine tasting, scuba diving, bowling and more are all offered at MSU. The department of Kinesiology offers many “fun gen eds:” beginning/intermediate swimming, lifesaving, alpine skiing, sailing, cycling, badminton, racquetball, canoeing, gymnastics, fencing, different dance classes, weight training, volleyball, judo, self defense, and more. All of which can be found by typing in “kinesiology course” on the Missouri State search tab. There are classes that are designed to help you meditate and help keep a healthy mindset. “I took a beginners yoga class in McDonald Hall & Arena,” said Leah Pautler, senior speech pathology major. “It focused on three different kinds of yoga and a few quizzes for extra points.” There are also classes to help students get active. “I took a handball class with Dr. Burnett and a tennis class with Dan Wilson,” said Paige Taylor, a junior animal science major. “They both focused on basic forms and drills, which was a lot of fun.” There’s also a handful of options that can help students maintain a healthy diet in college. “I took a heart healthy cooking class, and we made a variety of dishes and got to sample them at the end,” Emily Daily, speech pathology major, said. “It was a really useful and insightful class.” Gen eds are what students dread the most when going to college, but it is possible to get out of that continuous rut of the same old subjects and expand your horizon with these fun gen eds.
4 tips to get an A in your gen eds 1. At least pretend like you care: If you go into a general education class with the mindset that you don’t care about the class, (plot twist) you won’t care about the class. And if you don’t care about the class, you won’t perform well. Tell yourself it’s important — that way, maybe you’ll do your homework. 2. Go to class: This may seem obvious, but if you don’t actually show up to class, it’s almost impossible to do well. With many gen eds, and various other classes, attendance is part of your grade, so it’s well worth your time to attend. 3. Do your homework: Again, this should be obvious, but even filling out what you consider “busy work” can keep your grade up. 4. Don’t procrastinate: No, really, don’t. If you know you have a paper due on Friday, don’t wait until Thursday night — when all you really want to do is go downtown — to do it.
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Choosing your own path
Why it’s OK to change your major — even three times NOAH STANDISH Senior Reporter @NoahjStandish
As of the spring 2018 semester, earning a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University requires the completion of at least 120 credits. No matter how long it takes for you to reach that number, it’s always centered around one defining characteristic: your major. It’s a label on your entire college experience, your future and thousands of dollars. That might feel scary, but as you become more experienced with college, you come to learn that it doesn’t have to be with the help of three simple lessons. Lesson one: It’s OK to change your major. Students can declare or change their majors any time, for any reason, at the Academic Advisement Center in University Hall, located next to the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center. Students of the College of Business should contact the Business Advisement Center in Glass Hall instead. The advisors are there to help you — just as long as it’s after 8 a.m. Junior marketing research and hospitality leadership major Alyssa Presley said she’s changed majors at least three times, previously dabbling in finance, English and public relations. It represented an ongoing search for her passion, but it was also a chance for her to learn that it’s OK not to have a definitive answer. “I went to University Hall (to change my major) so many times that, after a while, they started to recognize me,” Presley said. “I wouldn’t put so much emphasis on picking a major right away. More likely than not, it’s going to change.” For Presley, it took indecision to find passion, but her experience is far from uncommon. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 33 percent of students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs between 2012 and 2014 switched their majors at least once. Changing your major is a deliberate decision to challenge doubts related to your future and that label on your college experience. Otherwise, those doubts could potentially lead to you being unhappy in classes close to graduation. Your freshman and sophomore years can be a chance to prevent that from happening. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of that opportunity and try everything to find your own passion. After all, that’s what college is about.
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Each major is a trail toward the 120hour graduation requirement.
Lesson two: Focus on yourself. If finding your passion is what college is about, then focusing on yourself is a close second — especially with the increasing prominence of social media. Resources like LinkedIn and MSU’s Career Center can offer the opportunity for you to learn how to market yourself. “It’s better to know what you want to do and not to worry about what others are doing,” junior speech-language pathology major Emily Daily said. “Your education isn’t anyone else’s. It’s yours.” Comparing your goals to other students’ accomplishments is common, but the perceived competition can be mentally unhealthy. According to a 2016 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, 61 percent of college students who seek counseling report struggling with anxiety — 49 percent of those students report struggling with depression. Common stressors of college students, such as academics, family and relationship problems, can stack on top of one another. If you’re comparing others’ accomplishments to your own on top of all that, the stress can be detrimental to your self-image — and your confidence. The only student you should be competing with is last semester’s version of yourself. Show that version of yourself how you’ve grown. Lesson three: Embrace your indecision. At some point, you’ll wonder about the uncertainty of your future, and you’ll stress about it. It’ll happen, and it’s OK. The trick is to not let it overwhelm you — instead, embrace it. It worked for Presley, and it also worked for political science and history double major Noah Roush. Last spring, Roush was on a pre-pharmacy path with a major in cell and molecular biology. This fall, he’ll be taking classes he says align better with his interests. “I just played around with my degree audit and spoke to some of the advisors in the departments,” Roush said. “When I finally researched the programs, I decided to switch to something I knew I would love. I’m excited for next semester.” All majors lead to, and often beyond, the 120-credit minimum, but changing your path is more common than you think. So, when you stress about your major, know that there are resources available to help you choose your own path.
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ave on textbooks: rent or buy used
HANNA SUMPTER Deputy News Editor @hannasumpter Textbooks can put an unexpected dent in your budget as a new semester begins. Professors often require the latest editions of a textbook or an additional access code. However, a few local shops and some internet services offer many of the books you need at far cheaper prices than what you’ll find on some books at the university bookstore. Springfield offers two textbook shops for students to sell, buy and rent textbooks. Both shops also allow you to check online
what price you can get for selling your textbooks. Now you don’t have to drag all your heavy books to the shops just to discover you aren’t able to get anything for them. Both Text Bucks and Student Book Exchange have MSU and Ozark Technical Community College locations. Buying textbooks online is another option which can save students hundreds of dollars on textbooks each semester. There are multiple safe sites which allow students to sell, buy and rent textbooks. Amazon and Barnes & Noble offer rental and purchasing options for thousands of textbooks. You can also find sites like Chegg specifically for procuring inexpensive textbooks. Although many other sites exist, it is important to verify the validity of each site you consider to make sure you’re buying your books from a reliable source. Acquiring textbooks outside of the university bookstore can save students from what can be a significant financial burden. However, make sure you shop around for a deal that is File Photo/THE STANDARD affordable and safe to use. Losing money to a The MSU bookstore also offers used scam or paying full price for the latest edition books for reduced prices. of a textbook is every student’s nightmare.
Student Book Exchange https://www.studentbookexch.com MSU: 633 S. Kimbrough Ave. Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. OTC: 601 N. National Ave. Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Text Bucks https://www.textbucks.com OTC: 610 N. National Ave. Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MSU: 607 E. Madison St. Monday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Study away: It’s more than just a stamp on your passport RONKEIA BATES Staff Reporter @Lyrie_lyric Have you ever wanted to take your education experience to the next level? If so, the Study Away program at Missouri State University is a great way to get started. The Study Away program gives students a chance to explore other parts of the world while obtaining a degree in the field they are interested in. Payton Mercer, a sophomore cell and molecular biology major, said her experience changed how she thought about Haiti. She stayed in Port-de-Paix, fully immersing herself in the culture and day-to-day life. Mercer worked in the school, spent time with locals and visited an orphanage and hospitals. “Throughout my trip I didn’t have my phone, which was the best decision I could have ever made,” Mercer said. “The disconnect from what was going on back home in the states allowed me to fully connect to the people I was meeting in Haiti, allowing this experience to change me like it did.”
To study abroad, it’s important that you make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements. To study away, you must have a 2.5 cumulative GPA or higher, and you must have 30 or more credit hours of university course work that must be in progress or completed at the time the application is turned in. You also have Photo submitted by Payton Mercer to be a full-time student at MSU and must be in good disciplinary standing with the Office Mercer poses with two Haitian children alongside the main of Student Conduct. road, which doubles as an airstrip in Port-de-Paix. In getting started, the Office of Study Away Programs recommends a series of steps, which are shown You should also define your goals, research the program by the ‘10 Steps to Study Away’ on their website. Students choices and meet with a study away adviser and academic should attend information sessions, informational meetings adviser. Don’t forget to apply for the program. The next two steps are crucial to your study away experience: and ask questions. A study away fair is held in the second month of each building your budget and making financial aid arrangements. semester in the Plaster Student Union and “Nuts and Bolts of Creating your budget early in the process helps you determine Studying Away Sessions,” give students a chance to drop by estimated expenses and how your financial aid might help. Get your courses approved before you go, too. and ask questions about anything pertaining to the program.
THE-STANDARD.ORG In order to prepare for your study abroad experience, you need to be enrolled in a health insurance plan and have a visa or valid passport to travel overseas. Students are required to enroll in MSU’s contracted international health insurance in order for them to study abroad. They are also encouraged to start their visa and passport applications as early as possible because the processes may take a while. The Study Away programs at MSU cannot advise students on visa process but they can recommend students to talk to their program provider or the right consultant to verify information. Studying abroad presents endless opportunities to students while allowing them to benefit from it both professionally and personally. Mercer said students can gain lifelong knowledge from their experiences as well as an understanding for others and different ways of life. “Choosing to study abroad was the best thing I have ever done for myself, and my trip to Haiti was so life changing and continues to shape me each and everyday,” Mercer said. Students can find more information about Study Away programs by visiting https://international.missouristate.edu/ studyaway/ or by calling 417-836-6368.
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Photo submitted by Payton Mercer
Mercer holds a young, neighborhood boy in the city of Port-de-Paix. During the day, children of all ages, who are not enrolled in public or private schools, roam the dirt roads.
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The 113-Year Evolution of Missouri State The university’s main campus is founded in Springfield, Missouri, with the primary purpose to prepare teachers for the public school system.
Academic Hall, now known as Carrington Hall, is completed, making it the first, and now the oldest, building on the Springfield campus.
Resident actor and comedian John Goodman graduates with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Goodman now has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The institution, previously known as Southwest Missouri State University is now known as Missouri State University.
1905
1909
1975
2005
MSU records its highest-ever enrollment statistics, welcoming 24,350 students from every state and 88 different countries to campus.
2017-18
1905 - Present Day 1906
Maroon and white are chosen as the official school colors, and the Bear is chosen as the official mascot of the university.
1926
Roy Ellis becomes president. Ellis, who was president for 35 years, seeing the institution through the Depression, WWII and the Korean War, remains the longest-serving president of MSU.
1995
The university receives its first public affairs mission from the Missouri General Assembly.
2011
Current President Clif Smart takes office as the 11th president of Missouri State University after serving as interim president for 16 months.
Grow up, glow up HANNA FLANAGAN Senior Reporter @hanna_flanagan In 1905, the Missouri Statewide Committee was traveling through Southwest Missouri along a dirt road — which later became National Avenue — when they came across a nice-looking chunk of land. It seemed like the perfect location for the Fourth District Normal School. “They asked to stop the buggy,” Dean of Library Services Peter Thomas said. “They climbed under a single wire fence, looked around and said, ‘Yeah, this will do.’ And that’s how MSU was located where it is.” In the beginning, the institution functioned as a preparatory school for teachers entering Southwest Missouri public school systems. Roy Ellis, who was a Fourth Normal School student in 1908, later returned as a teacher and eventually became president. He held that position for nearly 40 years. Anne Baker, the university’s head of special collections and archives, said Ellis was
one of the most impactful presidents in the history of Missouri State. “He served as president from 1926 to 1961, seeing the institution through the Depression, WWII and Korea and the growth that occurred during that time,” Baker said. By 1972, the campus offered several different undergraduate majors, according to the Missouri State website. To honor its diverse new degree program, the school changed its name from Southwest Missouri State College to Southwest Missouri State University. In the following year, student enrollment exceeded 10,000 for the first time in history. Although the public affairs mission was not actually articulated until years later, Thomas said the university really established its purpose during the 1960s and 70s. “I think the 60s and early 70s were a really turbulent time in our nation’s history,” Thomas said. “It was also a turbulent time on campus, and I think that’s kind of the time that Missouri State matured in some ways.” In 2018, almost 50 years later, the university is called Missouri State (as of 2005) and
has over twice as many students. But Thomas said a few of the university’s ideals and values have remained the same. “Missouri State, throughout history, has been trying to position itself as a good value in higher education,” Thomas said. This is partly achieved through location. Thomas said Missouri State’s geographical position is attractive to prospective students in Kansas City and St. Louis, which are both three hours away. Three hours allows students enough space to breathe, but at the same time, not too much. Students from these cities can come to Missouri State and know that their parents will not invade on their weekend plans, but that they can easily get home if need be. Thomas also said that one reason for the university’s current success is the leadership of President Clif Smart. Smart is the 11th university president and a former Springfield lawyer. Thomas said his ability to connect with both community members and students is great for Missouri State. In its 113 years of existence, the campus has
never looked more beautiful, which Thomas said plays a factor in enrollment and marketing. “Clif and his administration have been very responsible, fiscally,” Thomas said. “They’re very aware of what opportunities are (around) and when they should not over-extend the university. The campus looks the best it (has) looked.” Moving forward, Missouri State will continue to explore online degree options. Thomas said about 18 percent of credit hours are generated through online courses, which is a new realm for the university and a trend that has generated a lot of steam in recent years. Despite the popularity of online classes, Thomas said Missouri State administrators have successfully approached this venture with caution. During this period of growth and expansion, he said Smart and his staff have explored new territory (like online courses), without diving in too quickly.
Illustration by KAITLYN STRATMAN/ THE STANDARD
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Up all night... Just like you BRYCE DERRICKSON Sports Reporter @BruceyD17 In college, many students stay up late at night to have fun, study for finals or just needing to get something. Luckily, some local establishments understand the Springfield college market, and are open 24 hours. One problem college students may find themselves in is getting something to eat in the middle of the night, especially in the sleepy Midwest. Whether you need to get some comfort food after a long day or a snack for studying, Springfield does have some options. If you’re in the mood for snack food, Hurts Donut has your back. The doughnut shop, open 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, is located on Park Central West downtown and on East Republic Road. “We have 75 or more varieties of donuts,” manager Ciara Caudle said. “It’s just a really fun place to get coffee and doughnuts and just hang out.”
They offer doughnuts such as Fruity Pebbles, Cosmic Brownie and maple bacon. “One of the biggest things the college students like are our shakes,” manager Kayla Mason said. “We put a doughnut (in) with the actual milkshake.” You get to pick out any doughnut in the case and they will make it into a milkshake and place the same doughnut on top. IHOP offers a large variety of breakfast options for its customers. IHOP recently rebranded to promote its burgers, too, temporarily changing its name to IHOb. Denny’s, similar to IHOP, is mainly known for their breakfast food but still offers variety. While you can eat pancakes, you can also get burgers, salads and other types of sandwiches. Waffle House allows you the option of good, cheap breakfast food. While these are great places to get breakfast food, keep in mind you will have to drive a few miles off campus. If you would like a cheaper and faster option, McDonald’s and Taco Bell on National Avenue near campus are also open. Don’t forget about trusty Steak ‘n Shake. Here, you can get your favorite shakes with
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burgers and fries, chili, salads and a slew of other options for prices so low you might be able to enroll in another class. Doing laundry while in college can be a pain. The washers and dryers could be broken or all full and you may need to find another option. The Daily Wash Laundry Company is open 24 hours and is close to campus on East Grand Street. In addition to needing a place for laundry, several businesses are open and close to campus for any BRADLEY BALSTERS/THE STANDARD need you may have, from buying that laundry soap to Hurts Donut prides itself on its over 70 different clothes, dorm necessities or flavors of doughnuts and being open “25/8.” school supplies. Four different Walmart locations are open 24 hours in Springfield, with they need to get their snacks, tissue paper, the closest 24-hour location on Campbell Av- cleaning supplies, or whatever they need,” assistant manager-in-training at Walgreens enue near campus. Not only is Walmart open, but so is Hy-Vee. Katina Looney said. Hy-vee is on West Battlefield Road and offers Now when you find yourself staying up all night, as you will in college, you can go a variety of grocery items to select from. Two Walgreens locations are open all day. grab a snack, do some laundry or go buy One is located on East Sunshine Street while anything you may need. the other is on South Campbell Avenue. You can find these places thanks to them “It can kind of be the one-stop shop, if being open all night long.
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To rush or not to rush?
Fraternity and sorority life at Missouri State can be a big step — know the facts before you make your choice KAITLYN STRATMAN Photo Editor @kaitlynstratman Students pile boxes and furniture into small dorm rooms. Families say goodbye and shed a few tears. It’s the first day of college. A faint sound rumbles in the distance. Approaching Cherry Street, the sound turns into to barely-audible chanting with consistent clapping to accompany. Women dance to a 2000s throwback song on the front porch while a group of men toss a football on their lawn across the street. Home to Missouri State’s fraternity and sorority houses, Cherry and Elm street buzz with excited students, eager to welcome new members to their chapters. This is a look at fraternity and sorority life at Missouri State, which is open for any students to pursue. Both negative and positive connotations surround fraternities and sororities, but looking at the facts will help with the decision to either rush or look into other clubs and organizations.
Social Recruitment is one way to make friends starting the first week of school, from the chapter members to the students rushing. “My college experience has been FSL,” Jake West, junior socio political communications major, and president of Sigma Phi Epsilon, said. “There’s nothing in college like being in Greek life. Whether it’s tailgating and cheering on the Bears, or challenging each other to be better, FSL is a one-of-a-kind experience and everyone should at least give it a chance.” Through events with other chapters and
File Photo by MEGAN BURKE/ THE STANDARD
the school — such as dances, dinners and other social opportunities — FSL generates numerous occasions for students to meet the people around them and make connections.
(Above) About 900 participated in Bid Day in August 2017. The event happens on the last day of recruitment and welcomes potential new member to the various FSL chapters.
Cost Costs are an important factor to consider when looking into fraternity or sorority life. Monthly dues, clothing purchases and fines can add up, but each chapter is different, so consider comparing the costs. Alternative options for students looking for less involvement and lower costs are also available, depending on the chapter.
Community Involvement
File Photo by NINA TODEA/THE STANDARD
Members of Delta Zeta celebrate their chapter’s victory at last year’s Yell-Like-Hell, a Missouri State HomecomEach chapter has a partnership with a phil- ing event.
anthropic organization and hosts events to raise funds for this group throughout the year. FSL gives students the chance to work first-hand with a partnership and give back time and money to the community. “Joining (FSL) is a great way to get connected to the campus community,” said Kate Roessler, assistant director of student engagement for FSL. “Not only will students meet each other through the recruitment process, joining an organization provides you with an instant network of support during the transition to college, which can be difficult.” FSL also provides students with leadership roles and experience, Roessler said.
mandatory events and community service requirements, students should consider how much time they have to put in. For some students, this will help them stay involved with the university, and for others, could be too much of a commitment with already busy schedules. Because of the numerous involvement opportunities, FSL is a way for students to immediately immerse themselves in Missouri State and Springfield’s community. The organization provides a social break from classes, studying and work. Consider these factors when looking into recruitment because FSL is not for everyone. “I didn’t end up joining a sorority and there are so many other opportunities to make friends,” sophomore undeclared major Emma A time commitment comes with joining a Price said. “Like with your roommate and peofraternity or sorority. With weekly meetings, ple on your floor, it’s really easy because the
Time
RA will take you all in a group to events and stuff at the beginning of the year.” If going through recruitment sounds like the best decision, it is still beneficial to keep an open mind throughout the process. “Don’t think the first chapter to offer you a bid is an automatic fit for you,” West said. “Take your time in the process, learn as much about the fraternities or sororities as possible and choose the brotherhood or sisterhood that will make you the best person you can become while having the most fun. “Recruitment is the time where you meet the people you’ll surround your life with for the next four years and beyond. It’s an amazing opportunity to join an organization that will better yourself in the process. I have no clue what my life would be like if i didn’t go through recruitment, and I don’t want to know what it’d look like.”
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Cultural competence made easy A guide to upcoming cultural events BEN VICKERS Staff Reporter @benrvickers96 The following is a list of holidays that happen during the first few months of this academic year. Regardless of your religion, you can be aware of the cultures happening around you. All of this information can be found on the Calendar of Events on Missouri State’s website.
Aug. 17: Qixi Festival
Sept. 9: Rosh Hashana
Rosh Hashana is the beginning of the Jewish New Year, and begins at sundown on the evening before the first day of the holiday. Rosh Hashana is also the beginning of the Days of Awe, a period of serious reflection about the past year and the year to come. This period is a time to ask forgiveness from both God and people as well as committing to live a better life through the next year.
Sept. 15 - Oct. 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month
Qixi Festival occurs on August 17, and is also known as Magpie Festival. This Chinese festival falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month on the Chinese calendar, thus the name Qixi, which literally means “The Night of Sevens.” This is sometimes known as “ChiNational Hispanic Heritage Month occurs nese Valentine’s Day.” from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, and celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, is the America. most important feast of the Islamic calendar as Sept. 15 is significant because it is the anit concludes the pilgrimage to Mecca. Eid niversary of independence for several Latin al-Adha lasts for three days and commemorates American countries. Mexico’s independence the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to obey God day also falls on Sept. 16. by sacrificing his son. The family typically eats On Sept. 16, 1810, in the small town of about a third of the meal and donates the rest Dolores, in the Mexican province of Guanajuato, a handful of people were summoned to the poor. by a parish priest to take up arms against the Spanish colonial government. This began the fight for independence that ended 350 years of Spanish rule. To this day, the church bell that was used During this Hindu night festival, worship- to call people to revolt hangs in the Nationpers typically fast and go to temples to see dance al Palace in Mexico City and is rung by the dramas enacting scenes from the life of Lord president on the eve of Sept. 16. Krishna, one of the incarnations of Vishnu and Check the MSU master calendar for campus one of the most popular deities in Hinduism. events celebrating National Hispanic Heritage “God bless you with prosperity and happiness” Month. All of these holidays, and many more, or “I wish you happiness and prosperity” are can be found through the Missouri State calappropriate greetings for Krishna Janmashtami. endar of events.
Aug. 22: Eid al-Adha
Sept. 3: Krishna Janmashtami
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JQH Arena hosts concerts and events year-round. It’s one of the many sights Springfield offers on or off MSU’s campus.
All you have to do is stay ... in Springfield NOAH STANDISH Senior Reporter @NoahjStandish There’s a nemesis thousands of new college students are introduced to each year: the comfort zone. That familiar, but imaginary barrier that follows you around no matter where you go. It always feels an arm’s length away, yet it’s always just out of your reach. As a freshman, you might feel overwhelmed during the first few weeks of the semester, and you might want to stay inside that comfort zone. But one of the most effective ways to branch out is to get involved with your new community as soon as possible. Breaking out of that comfort zone is a lot harder if you go home every weekend. So, stay in Springfield. “Once you get into the swing of it and make those relationships, (Springfield) starts to feel like your second home,” said senior English education major Julia Morrow. “For me, the homesickness only lasted about halfway through my first semester (as a freshman).” Morrow, a native of Rockford, Illinois, moved roughly seven hours away from home to Springfield in fall 2015. She cited rushing for a sorority and joining Hall Council as the most influential experiences early in her time at Missouri State. Now, looking back, Morrow said the largest factor in getting comfortable in Springfield was to embrace being social. “Meeting so many people really helped me get comfortable living (in Springfield),” Morrow said. “It’s important to meet new people and try new things.” Don’t wait for the time to pass you by — take advantage of the social hotbed that is a public college campus. Not only can it help you break out of that comfort zone and become more social, you can also get a head start on learning how to market yourself positively. With events like Homecoming week, Bear
Bash and the Transfer Student Resource Fair, the fall semester is packed with opportunities to get involved with your new home — and they’re conveniently located outside of that comfort zone. “There’s a lot going on during the weekends that you can miss out on,” senior psychology major Chrissy Moe said. “If you’re going home every weekend, you’re not going to be able to put yourself out there.” It’s important to learn how to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t hope the winds of change will change your mind — your homesickness is normal, but it will fade over time. Before you know it, you’ll be calling mom and dad to tell them about a test grade or a fundraiser you organized instead of your homesickness. “The first semester, it’s a given that you’ll be homesick,” Moe said. “But you’ll grow more independent over time, get involved with the community and get to know people. That helps you settle in.” After all, MSU’s campus is easy to love. With landmarks such as the Historic Quadrangle, or “The Quad,” the newly constructed Magers Health and Wellness Center beside the North Mall, the recently renovated Glass Hall and, of course, the famous fountain watching over the Duane G. Meyer Library, MSU is its own little world. Plus, within a few miles of campus, you’ll find local coffee shops, restaurants, bars (if you’re over 21) and museums to keep you busy for when procrastination hits. Think of all the new sights as an added benefit to college’s cost of attendance. Besides, doesn’t that sound more interesting than going to your hometown’s Panera for the hundredth time? If you moved away from home to experience a new city, you should take the time to experience it. As an MSU student, you’ll probably only have a few years to see all that Springfield has to offer. On campus or off, the city offers plenty of opportunities to break out of your comfort zone. The clock is ticking. All you have to do is stay.
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Going home can be great AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 “It’s college. Why would you want to go home?” That’s a question I got from several people during the third week of college. When it came time for fall break, Thanksgiving break and even the month off for winter, those same people didn’t want to come back to college because they enjoyed being home. Me, on the other hand, I was ready and comfortable to head back to college, live in the dorms and spend time with my friends. Going home allows for a transition. Whether its freshman or senior year, seeing a family member you spent the first 18 years of your life with can be exciting. Going home, sleeping in your own bed and showering in your BILL SIOHOLM/THE STANDARD own shower can add comfort and help with creating a healthy The various MSU Bear logos around campus will mental and emotional experience while still allowing growth always be happy to welcome you back to Spring- and independence during college. Staying at college isn’t a bad thing; don’t go home every field when you return.
weekend. Spend time meeting new friends and explore the city around the campus. What’s important, though, is spending time with your family. Don’t leave them in the dust as you conquer new feats; get an A on a midterm paper and text your mom, meet a new friend in the library and call your brother. Involving your family in your life helps them to involve you in theirs. Imagine sharing these stories with your family over a favorite home-cooked meal or at your favorite local restaurant. Family makes the transition to college easier. Going home can be a confidence boost. Going home to see family, friends, former teachers and neighbors leads to questions about classes, roommates and activities. Share your experiences with everyone. When people you grew up with are proud, it creates a sense of pride in yourself. Again, I’m not saying you should go home every weekend. But going home shouldn’t be looked at as a bad thing; it shouldn’t be frowned upon. Go home. See your family. Make the transition easier.
“Staying at college isn’t a bad thing ... what’s important, though, is spending time with your family.”
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Struggling to get to class on time? Ride the Bear Line RONKEIA BATES Staff Reporter @Lyrie_Lyric
sive and safe way for students to get around campus without worrying about travel time or how they are going to get to their destination. Krysten Harden, junior management/administrative management major, said that she has nothing but positive reviews about the Bear Line. “The drivers are a great help,” Harden said. “If you have any questions about which route you need to be on they are excited to help you. Also, if you take the time to speak to them while riding, they are worth getting to know. Many times, when I chose to walk, the drivers would wave and say, ‘Hi’ when passing me by.” Keshawn Murphy, junior health services major, said the Bear Lines is a good transportation system for students. “The days you are running late, sometimes it’s quicker to ride the Bear Line than it is to walk across campus,” Murphy said. “If the weather is not the best, the Bear Line takes you close to your destination which allows you to avoid getting super wet or very sweaty. They also run often enough to where you can still be on time even if you just missed the previous bus.”
Every year, it can be a hassle for students to get to their specific destinations in a timely manner. In most cases, students struggle to figure out what would be the best transportation option for their day-to-day routines. This is where the Bear Line comes into play. The Bear Line, with several different shuttles, travels across campus, as well as into Downtown Springfield, providing students free transportation to specific areas. For the fall and spring semesters, the regular shuttle routes are Gold, Blue, Red, Green, Orange East, Orange West, Purple, Pink and Maroon. During the summer semester, the Maroon route — including Maroon North and Maroon South — is the only operational route. All the Bear Lines, except for the Maroon and Pink routes, operate Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Maroon route operates Sunday through Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. and the Pink route operates Friday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. All of the shuttles run every 5-12 minutes and are usually on time. You can track the location of each shuttle on your phone through the Missouri State app under map. While it’s important to know the different routes, it’s also equally important to know where they go. The Bear Line takes students to the main places around campus like residence halls, parking garages, JQH Arena, Meyer Library, Plaster Student Union, Foster Recreation Center and the dining halls. During the day, the Gold route takes students downtown and includes stops at Bear Park North, the Morris Center, Park Central Office building, Brick City, Jefferson Avenue and lots 47 and 48. You can take Maroon North after 6 p.m. to reach these places. Another shuttle route stops at Walmart and the Battlefield Mall and only operates on Saturdays. In order for students to ride this shuttle, they must purchase a ticket and have their Bear pass ID present when boarding the bus. Tickets for this shuttle are available at Carrington Hall File Photo/THE STANDARD in room 210. The prices on the tickets vary: The MSU mobile app has a map You can get year-long access for $15 but sestudents can use to track all of the mester access costs $10. The Bear Line shuttle system is an inexpen- Bear Line shuttles.
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Coming this fall... Throughout the hustle and bustle of the school year, it’s dually important to sit back and relax by watching movies, reading books or listening to the latest music. Here’s what’s coming this semester: Heretics Anonymous by Katie Henry will be released on Aug. 7
MEG ALEXANDER Staff Reporter @margaretjalex
Movies Aug. 3: “Christopher Robin” Father, husband and regular working man Christopher Robin, who was once a young and imaginative boy, is re-visited by his old friend Winnie the Pooh. Returning to the old forest known as Hundred Acre Wood, Pooh helps Christopher Robin both find his imagination again and rediscover the joys in life. Oct. 5: “Venom” Based on the popular Marvel comic character, “Venom” is an upcoming superhero movie directed by Ruben Fleischer, who is well known for his film “Zombieland.” Venom tells the story of a seemingly good and honest reporter who eventually rises to become one of the Marvel universe’s most notorious villains. By displaying the creation of Venom, a twisted, alien-like anti-hero, Marvel is portraying the struggle between good and evil. Nov. 2: “Bohemian Rhapsody” Directed by Bryan Singer, who previously directed “X-Men,” its sequel “X2,” and “Superman Returns,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a biographical film telling the story of legendary rock singer and talented entertainer Freddie Mercury. Mercury, lead singer of the band Queen, is played by Rami Malek, who is well known for his performances in the “Night at the Museum” trilogy and “The War at Home.” “Bohemian Rhapsody”
Bohemian Rhapsody will be released on Nov. 2.
shows the struggles and triumphs of Mercury leading up to his well-known and musically historical performance at “Live Aid” in 1985.
Music Aug. 10: “Queen” by Nicki Minaj Aug. 24: “Marauder” by Interpol Aug. 31: “Let’s Go Sunshine” by The Kooks Sept. 7: “Raise Vibration” by Lenny Kravitz
Books Aug. 7: “Heretics Anonymous” by Katie Henry Michael, an unapologetic atheist, enters Catholic school not expecting much. However, Michael meets Lucy, who, unlike Michael, wants to be a priest. Together, Lucy and Michael start Heretics Anonymous — a kind of “club” where students can embrace who they are. Aiming to include those who feel separated from others, the diverse club includes homosexual, pagan, atheist, and religious students. Together they, particularly Michael, face the struggles and try to answer the questions that come with growing up. Aug. 7: “Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company that Addicted America” by Beth Macy According to GoodReads, “Dopesick” is the “only book to fully chart the opioid crisis in America” and displays an “unforgettable portrait of the families and first responders on the front lines.” Dopesick tells of the rise of the opioid crisis in America and how individuals of all kinds were and are still affected by these drugs.
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Pinching pennies on a college budget CARISSA ALFORD Staff Reporter @carissabalford
Everyone has seen the “typical college student” memes of ramen noodles and an empty wallet, but it’s not very common students are given advice to properly save money. College is expensive, even with scholarships and grants. These tips might help you keep a little jingle in your pocket. While working at Commerce Bank in the Plaster Student Union, Jarett Fickbohm, sophomore animal science major, found specific ways to save. “I try taking 20 percent of my paycheck and put it back into savings,” Fickbohm said. “I take 10 percent and put it back towards payments.” He uses the money left from his paycheck for everyday spending money. Fickbohm recommends students have both a checking and savings account, as well as a part-time job. “I do recommend saving 10 to 15 percent
of that pay at first and gradually increasing the percentage of how much they save,” Fickbohm said. He said it also helps to put the portion of your paycheck you want to save immediately into a savings account. This way, the money is already safely tucked away and you don’t have the urge to spend it. “(I) also recommend getting a student credit card to start establishing credit in their name,” Fickbohm said. Ashleigh Baker, junior cell and molecular biology major, has found a way to quickly save cash. “I have a $5 box and every time I get a $5 bill I have to put it in the box,” Baker said. Once she saves up a considerable stack, she puts the money from her box into her school savings account. Although Baker does not have a specific budgeting process, she does have multiple accounts. She has accounts for her car payments and school, as well as a regular checking account. “Since I have a couple different jobs, I’m
very particular about how much money goes where and such,” Baker said. Baker pointed out that money spent eating at restaurants or fast-food joints adds up fast and urges new students to try avoid eating out if possible. “There’s so many places to eat on campus anyways that you’ve already paid for,” Baker said. “This way you’ve saved money and don’t feel as bad about going to do things with friends on the weekend if you didn’t spend as much during the week.” If you’re still searching for extra help, the Office of Student Financial Aid at Missouri State offers counseling and advice through the MSU Real L.I.F.E. program. The program is designed to “equip students with basic financial knowledge, encourage, responsible borrowing and assist delinquent borrowers in loan rehabilitation,” according to their webpage. Services offered include a student loan calculator, budgeting tools and exit counseling for students nearing graduation.
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Whether it’s an old-school piggy bank or a checking and savings account at your bank, having a saving system helps you fight the urge to spend too much money on an everyday basis.
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Moxie Cinema This small, independently-owned theater shows first-run and foreign films that would otherwise never be shown in Springfield. It is located downtown at 305 S. Campbell Ave. For more information, go to moxiecinema.com. File Photo/THE STANDARD
Hidden Gems
LAYNE STRACENER | Staff Reporter | @laynestracener
Looking for something a little different? Check out some of these Springfield treasures, from a classic roller skating rink to a new British cafe. Bambinos Cafe A favorite among locals, this small, cozy Italian restaurant hidden in the back of the Phelps Grove neighborhood serves paninis, pizza and heaping portions of pasta. Visit bambinoscafe.com for more information.
Union Club Located on the fourth floor of the Plaster Student Union, the Union Club offers a salad bar, soup and an entrée that changes daily. Boomer Meals are accepted. It is open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The menu is posted daily at dineoncampus.com/missouristate.
Bits of Britain Cafe This cafe next to Brick City serves traditional British recipes such as jam tarts, sausage rolls and sticky toffee pudding. The menu also includes coffee, tea, smoothies, soup, sandwiches and more. It may look small at first, but attached to the cafe is a performance venue called The Grove, which features live music, comedy, art and more. For more information, go to the Bits of Britain Facebook page.
1984 Arcade For a one-time fee of $7.50, you can stay and play all the classic arcade games at this two-story arcade for as long as you want. It is open Wednesday-Thursday, 4-11 p.m. Visit 1984arcade.com for more information. Springfield Skateland This roller skating rink has an old-time feel. It’s popular during Adult Skate, which is held on the first Saturday of every month. Regulars can be seen stunting on everyone with their fly outfits and dance-skating skills. Zumba classes are also offered. More information can be found at springfieldskateland.com.
Bookmarx This used bookstore downtown offers classic literature, contemporary and postmodern fiction, science fiction and more. There is also a section in the back of the store that showcases local art. Search @bookmarxbooks on Facebook for more information. Alchemist Attic Located above the Springfield Improv Theatre and accessible by a door and long staircase, this store is easily missed. Once there, you can have your fortune read and browse oddities, local art, crystals, clothes and other spiritual, metaphysical and hippie-esque items. Visit Alchemist Attic on Facebook for more information.
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Curing homesickness Tips from an international student on finding a home away from home BATOOL ALZUBI Staff Reporter @Albatoolz Families, friends and familiar places make you feel safe and secure. Getting out of your comfort zones and moving away for college to a new culture and country is a big transition for international students. Feeling homesick is normal — you will feel lonely, worried and sad. Making sure you find ways to deal with it and not let it affect your college experience in a negative way is important.
Acknowledge it and give yourself time
Do not give yourself a hard time, and remember it will always pass. Feeling homesick is something you should not feel guilty about. Allow yourself to miss home. Moving to a new place is a big life adjustment; you are learning how to live a new life, so don’t pressure yourself to adjust immediately. You will eventually adapt to the new environment and grow to love it. Senior finance major Ebraheem Bouq said he got over it when he acknowledged it. “Be aware that it is a temporary situation,” Bouq said. “You might feel homesick for a period of time, but it won’t last and it happens to everyone.”
Explore Springfield
Feeling homesick has to do with being in an unfamiliar place. Take this as a chance to explore your surroundings and learn about the local community. Go for walks, volunteer with the community, try to find a new favorite spot and visit it often. This will help create a new familiar environment.
Find people with the same situation
Find international students and talk to them about how you feel. Join the Association of International Students on campus and attend their weekly meetings and events to share and learn about others’ experiences. Senior accounting major Anelisse Torrico Moreno said joining AIS helped her get over her homesickness. AIS became her family away from home. “International students truly understand how hard it is to be thousands of miles away from home,” Moreno said. “A good support system is a great way to deal with homesickness.”
Connect with home, but not too much
Make some time to talk with your family and friends a few times a week. You will feel less distant. “Now technology brings people together,” Moreno said. “It is not the same, but at least it brings you closer to your loved ones.” Balancing your time is important. Do not spend too much time talking with people back home. That can make you distance yourself from your own environment, leaving you feeling lonely and isolated from what’s happening around you.
Keep yourself busy
Always look for events that are happening both on campus and off-campus. There is a weekly schedule of events on the Missouri State University website. Check it often. Go to events. It’s a great way for you to get to know more people and learn about different cultures. Plan your day ahead of time to keep yourself busy. Do not spend too much time in your room doing nothing. Instead, explore your surroundings, keep yourself busy and make the most out of your time as an international student. Your friends and family back home will want to hear about your experience, so give them something worthwhile to listen to. FreeImages.com/Andrew Martin
Rather than remaining secluded, make yourself familiar with Springfield and its people.
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Making cheap cheaper HANNA FLANAGAN Senior Reporter @hanna_flanagan CNBC recently named Springfield the cheapest college town in America. According to the article, a one-bedroom apartment costs $556 a month. Even in comparison to one of its neighboring college towns, Little Rock, Arkansas, the cost of Springfield living is low. In Little Rock, the eighth cheapest college town in America, a one-bedroom apartment is nearly $200 more per month more than it is in Springfield. Essentially, your money stretches a lot further in Springfield than it does in other cities and towns across the country. Springfield’s general cost of living, which includes expenses like housing, groceries, utilities, transportation and healthcare, is about 10 percent lower than the national average, according to the Springfield Regional Economic Partnership. In recent years, Springfield has experienced a lot of growth, as new residents and businesses are attracted to the area for its low cost of living. This is also a factor that many Missouri State students notice and take advantage of. Samuel Senn, senior accounting major,
said he has always been frugal. During the college decision-making process, he said he applied that same mindset and attitude. He considered not only tuition, but the overall cost of attending each school. Ultimately, MSU was the right fit. “The cost of living here is drastically lower than other cities, but it is not because we are a bland town in the middle of nowhere,” Senn said. “We have everything that a major city would have. We have the number one aquarium in the world, a minor league baseball team, a thriving downtown, Andy’s custard and more.” Senn said he knows low tuition only indicates a portion of the overall amount of money students spend during their time in college. He made sure that MSU would allow him to live off-campus, as this is not always the case. According to a Washington Post article, 87 colleges across the country require all first year students to live on-campus. Although new students may be able to adjust to college life quicker by living in residence halls or close to campus, Senn said a short commute can save students a lot of money. “I know that some universities require their students to always live on campus and that would
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not be ideal because the university could then hike the cost of living to help offset the low tuition costs,” Senn said. “Especially in Springfield, I know of several apartments that you can move to that would cut your living expenses in half if you’re willing to have a 5-10 minute drive.” For less than $500 per month, students can live in complexes like Southwind Apartments, Center City or Markwood Apartments, if they are willing to make the drive. There are also cheap options slightly off campus, but still in range of the Bear Line FreeImages.com/stef~ route, which makes commuting even more convenient. According to CNBC, the average monthly cost On the contrary, Courtney of a one-bedroom apartment in Springfield is Monier, junior acting major, said $556. she is able to save a good chunk of money on gas because she lives on-campus are several resources on the MSU website, and and usually walks or rides her bike to class. across campus, that help guide students towards She also said she reaps the benefits of living an affordable lifestyle while in college. Under “Residence Hall Rates,” students can on campus, both academically and in terms of view exact rates, as well as a comparison chart, overall college experience. “I’ve lived in on-campus housing for the of various meal plan options and housing costs past two years, and it’s always been incredible,” (for apartments and residence halls). Monier said. Whether on campus or off, seemingly minor As a SOAR leader, Monier said she and her expenses add up — even in the cheapest college peers are told to recommend on-campus hous- town in America. So, whatever you do, don’t ing to incoming students. She also said there lose your MSU coupon book this year.
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Don’t forget your ID Springfield after your 21st birthday SAM GRUS Sports Reporter @SCGRUS_6 Turning 21 is a big deal when you’re in college. You can finally go out to bars, order margaritas at dinner and purchase alcohol. Springfield has places that are great to visit once you’ve hit that landmark in your life. If you are looking for places to purchase alcohol to take home, go to Brown Derby. Any
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Bair’s Sports Grill is one of several bars popular among students. gas station should carry whatever beer or liquor you want as well. But if you’re looking for some higher-end stuff, try the Brown Derby Wine Center. For all of the party people out there who want to dance and drink, two of the best places in town are Club Rodeo and Club Zan in Downtown Springfield, according to former student Cody Goggin. These places have all the drinks, music
and dancing you can ask for. They even have special events like “Dead Day Eve.” If you are looking to go out, have a conversation and listen to music, places like Finnegan’s Irish Pub, Tropical Liqueurs and Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar are the places to go. Finnegan’s or Tropical Liqueurs are great places to start your night, and there is no cover charge. Ernie Biggs, or “P-Bar,” as it is commonly
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known, is a must visit spot for anyone of age that attends Missouri State. It’s not so much about the bar, but the pianos. You can request songs for them to play. Patrons can hear everything from Blink-182 to Les Miserables. They carry a cover charge of $5, but on Wednesday nights, students get in free. Some of the best places to get dinner and a drink are Bair’s and El Maguey, senior journalism major Austin Schick said. Bair’s is a sports bar where you can get a burger that your mind can dream of, maybe even The Jake Burger, which is named after the former Missouri State third baseman. The burger is covered in mac n’ cheese. If you are going downtown and are looking for the best nights, Thursday and Friday nights are the ones. If you do go downtown, only take what you need: your phone, wallet and driver’s license. The bars won’t let you in without seeing your ID. The most important part of going out is getting a sober driver. Do a rotation with you and your friends, so every night, someone is the designated driver. Although, now in Springfield, there is Uber; utilize this service and save yourself from walking or getting a DUI. Springfield has plenty of options for fun if you’re 21, with all the bars, clubs, restaurants and new breweries that are popping up. So go out, enjoy what the town has to offer and remember to drink responsibly.
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Springfield nightlife:
Something for everyone, regardless of age MEG ALEXANDER Staff Reporter @margaretjalex It’s Friday night, students are rushing into cars at the circle drive in front of the Plaster Student Union and downtown is alive. You can’t wait to experience the nightlife Springfield has to offer, then all of a sudden the realization dawns upon you for what feels like the sixth time today — you’re not 21. Some students wait endlessly, anticipating File Photo by NINA TODEA/THE STANDARD the weekend they can join those who are over A street dancer performs in the 21, but others, like Jordan Seyer, junior dou- downtown square during a First ble majoring in art history and painting, aren’t Friday Art Walk. anxiously waiting for their 21st birthday. “I wouldn’t say I’m anticipating my twen- everyday assumptions of nightlife. ty-first birthday that much,” Seyer said. “I’m “I think if students looked at nightlife in aware it’s coming, and I have a general idea a different manner, there’s a lot more to do of what I’d want to do for my birthday, but downtown than just go out to dance and parI’ve never been much of a person to go out, ty,” Seyer said. “Coffee shops are open late, galleries are free to view and downtown has so I don’t think much will change.” Jordan Jones, junior health services major, a ton of great restaurants to offer.” agreed with Seyer, and said he enjoyed the Seyer mentioned First Friday Art Walk, years at Missouri State prior to turning 21. which is a free event hosted downtown every “On my weekends before I turned 21, I first Friday of the month. would hang with buddies at the movies or The event consists of live music and art just at my place,” Jones said. “I spent a lot of all forms, including photography, painting of time outside playing sports with buddies and sculpting in various shops and stores downtown for people to view or purchase. or hanging at other friends houses.” However, some students under 21 may Restaurants such as Vito’s Kitchen and want to experience the nightlife downtown. Pappo’s Pizza regularly house live music for Some options for students 21 and under individuals to enjoy while dining. include Zan The Club, Vintage Dance Lounge Seyer said the key to enjoying nightlife and Club Rodeo. in Springfield is having an open perspective. “After I turned 21, I started going to the Whether over or under 21, there is somebars and seeing if I liked the atmosphere,” thing for everyone in Springfield. Jones said. “I still went to the places I used to go, but now at night I go to the bars when I’m free.” However, Jones said he noticed some disadvantages to regularly going downtown, as he spends more money paying for drinks downtown than just buying drinks for his house. Students who are over 21 can, however, drink or purchase alcohol at all of these under 21 clubs. Springfield nightlife consists of much more than NINA TODEA/THE STANDARD just clubbing or going to bars. Seyer encourages stu- Art Walk goers watch a live music performance in dents to see beyond the Park Central Square on Friday, July 6.
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Clubs to join on campus BATOOL ALZUBI Staff Reporter @Albatoolz
Clayworks
Clayworks is a club for students who are interested in ceramic art. The club hosts art exhibitions, workshops and lectures open to people who are interested. Members also organize biannual pottery sales, which gives them the chance to sell their pieces to the local community. Members also work directly with local high schools and Boys & Girls Clubs to promote the art they do to the younger generation.
Joining a student organization is a great way to get more involved on campus and meet new people who share the same interests as you. Missouri State University offers plenty of options. There are 511 organizations on campus, according to MSU’s website. They are divided into five categories based on what they offer their members: academic/ professional, arts and music, community service, cultural/international and fraternity and Creative Writing Club The Creative Writing Club is a resource for sorority life. Here is a list of some organizations that students who enjoy creative writing of all kinds. might match your interests: Students of all majors are welcome. During the bi-weekly meetings, members share their writBear Breaks ings if they would like to and participate in some Bear Breaks is an organization for students general writing prompts. The club also organizwho want to serve and engage in the communi- es events like an open mic night and poetry sale. ty. The organization offers several immersion Amanda Hadlock, president of the Creative File Photo by KAITLYN STRATMAN/ THE STANDARD trips during the fall, winter, spring and summer Writing Club and a graduate student, said she breaks. Participants will do direct service, learn started the club as a way to connect with writStudent work is displayed at the about social issues in different communities and ers around campus and to write more. annual Clayworks pottery sale in the reflect on their experiences and what they have “I think people like the Creative Writing Plaster Student Union on Nov. 30, learned. This organization is a great way to burst Club because it is a very welcoming and your bubble and learn about things outside your low-pressure setting to generate writing and 2017. community. share it with others,” Hadlock said.
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Spectrum
Spectrum is a LGBTQ+ social student organization. The organization hosts weekly meetings. Members share their experiences and aim to create a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ and their allies on campus and in the community. Spectrum also hosts events, fundraisers and discussions.
Gaming Club
This club is for students who enjoy gaming and a good way to release stress. Members play all kinds of games from the latest ones to the classics and are welcome to introduce any game they want. The club also has tournaments and local gameplay.
Assoc. of Int. Students
The Association of International Students is a great way to meet students from all around the world and learn about other cultures on campus. AIS hosts weekly events and organizes several events like the International Banquet, during the year. Both international and domestic students are welcomed. Junior psychology major Ross Neba said AIS gave him the chance to learn something new every week. “I got the chance to taste different food from all around the world, and I got the chance to learn about the world from different perspectives,” Neba said.
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Are you ready to land your first job? HANNA SUMPTER Deputy News Editor @hannasumpter So you’re in college, great, but how do you know you’re ready for what comes next? Finding a job or starting a career might seem more daunting than going to college itself. Despite the intimidation of the task, you could still be preparing to begin your career, but that often leads to more questions than answers. Where do you find your first job? What should you do in an interview? How can you practice your skills for securing your job? Here are some answers and how you can answer all the others racing through your mind. Finding your first job during or after attending college can be overwhelming, but if you are working on building a network, creating a strong resume and using the resources available at Missouri State University, the process could be less frightening. Todd Euglow, a career resource specialist at one of the two Career Center locations on campus, said networking can be a powerful tool to land you the job you want. “Understanding that having a strong network and starting to build on that as a student can definitely contribute to your success significantly down the road,” Euglow said. Career Center staff can also help you learn to navigate networking events and situations as well to help you give potential employers your best pitch. Along with learning how to pitch yourself, it is important to understand how to brand yourself on social media. The Career Center can assist you with sharing your best online-self including how to manage a LinkedIn account.
LinkedIn is a social media site that claims to be “the world’s largest professional network.” It can help you keep connections with other professionals you’ve met in real life and even some you may meet virtually. You could consider it an online version of your network. Students are free to walk in or set up appointments at either of the two Career Center locations. There are two Career Center locations on campus where students can receive help. Students can visit Carrington Hall room 309 or Glass Hall room 276. The career specialists will help you wherever you are in your search for a career from needing a job in a few months to preparing for a career as a freshman. The Career Center also hosts multiple events throughout the year to help students practice their networking and interviewing skills as well as resume building with professionals. Resume Madness is held separately for each college during the semester. However, students can work on their resumes with specialists throughout the semester walk-in hours at the Career Center from noon to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mock Interview Day is scheduled at least once during the fall and spring. Students can sign up for 40-minute mock interview sessions with local employers and receive feedback. A speed networking event is also held at least once a semester that helps students practice their interviewing skills and build their network. “Reality is that we’ll do anything that we need to to help the student,” Euglow said. Students can learn more about these events and other resources the Career Center offers at https://careercenter.missouristate.edu/.
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Campus ministries offer sense of belonging for students LAYNE STRACENER Staff Reporter @laynestracener Campus ministries offer communities for students to practice their religions and make friends who hold the same values, beliefs and interests. Missouri State University has 15 campus ministries, listed on Campus Ministers’ Association, a tab on Missouri State’s Office of Student Engagement website. There are also links to each ministry’s website. Michelle Scott-Huffman, campus minister for Ekklesia, a progressive ministry affiliated with several Christian denominations, said that campus ministries provide a place of belonging for new students. “Campus ministries offer a new community when a student has left home where they can continue with their faith development, and at the same time, be surrounded by people who care about them and will have their backs,” Scott-Huffman said. Chris Wilson, the director of Adolos, a campus ministry formerly known as Baptist Student Union, said campus ministries offer a friendly environment that accepts everybody and provide an opportunity for students to travel on mission trips. “I think that campus ministries provide a community of people who can love one another and get to know one another respectively, even in their differences,” Wilson said. Scott-Huffman said if a student is affiliated with a particular denomination and wants to continue that, they should find a campus ministry also affiliated with that denomination. She also said that students should consider other values or interests. For example, Ekklesia is dedicated to offering a space for students to get involved with social justice. “Talk to people who represent the ministry and find out what they’re all about and try to
match up their values with the values of a particular ministry,” Scott-Huffman said. Scott-Huffman said that students who are deciding on whether or not to join campus ministries should try out different ones and have open minds. “A lot of times, people are looking for a faith community to replace the one they left, and they don’t find something that’s just like that so they give up,” Scott-Huffman said. “Have an open mind, and if there’s a group of people that you enjoy being around, spend some time and find out if that ministry is the place for you.” Antwan Eaves, a campus minister for His Legacy Ministries, also said students should try out different campus ministries if they do not know which one to join. He said students should explore all their options, even if they are not familiar with a ministry or if it is a different denomination than what they were raised as. “Don’t jump into anything, but just check it out, and keep an open heart and an open mind,” Eaves said. “Campus ministries offer a safe haven for students to practice their religion comfortably and grow and develop into who they want to be.” Eaves also said to research all the campus ministries and reach out to the pastors, because many of them are willing to meet with students. “I suggest getting to know the leadership and seeing if what they have to offer is beneficial to you and your growth,” Eaves said. Sister Michelle Ha Nguyen, pastoral associate of Catholic Campus Ministry, said students can fill out a religious preference sheet at SOAR to figure out what campus ministry is best for them. “We encourage them to stay connected with their religious affiliation,” Ha Nguyen said. “It’s kind of a home away from home to provide a spiritual need for students and to find support to continue your faith and make friends with the same beliefs.”
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Campus ministries often offer friendly environments for students to share or diversify their religious beliefs.
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You may need service hours. Here is where you can find them. CONNOR WILSON Staff Reporter @Connor4Wilson
Completing service hours is required for a variety of reasons at Missouri State, whether to meet sorority and fraternity requirements or the hours required for GEP courses that most freshmen take. However, getting all the hours necessary for those can be a struggle without a bit of planning. Sophomore graphic design and illustration major Cariann Dureka recommended to volunteer at the same place on a weekly basis to help remember to get those hours done on time and get to know who you’re volunteering with. “I went about looking at some of the service hour opportunities, and took the first one that seemed like it wasn’t something I’ve ever done before and looked like I could get something out of it,” Dureka said. “They held volunteer opportunities on Mondays, so I signed up for every Monday for the semester so I was on a schedule.” There are a large variety of service hour-completing opportunities available to any student at Missouri State. One such opportunity is the MSU Campus Garden. “We’re here to have that sustainability program opportunity for students on campus and the community to come learn more, get their hands dirty, and have a different experience than a lot of things on campus,” organizer Kara Powelson said. “For one, it allows a volunteer opportunity for students and it’s right on campus in walking distance. Two, a huge portion of our produce we donate to the Well of Life food pantry.”
Most clubs at Missouri State are required to complete service hours in order to receive funding, so looking into when clubs organize completing their hours can be a helpful way to get personal hours completed along with helping the club. Sophomore wildlife biology major Stephanie Sanders runs the beekeeping club and struggled to complete all the service hours necessary for her club to receive funding. “I had to hope someone else from the club would help me out in getting them done,” Sanders said. “If you’re put in such a situation, don’t expect everyone else to help you. Instead, plan like you’re planning just for yourself,” Some clubs will offer unique service hour opportunities that aren’t offered to students outside of the club. Sanders said she was able to have hands-on experience at a tiger sanctuary thanks to a club she was a part of. “The tiger sanctuary was through pre-vet club,” Sanders said. “They set that up, and they had a service day and offered, ‘if you’re in the club you’re welcome to join,’ and I was like, ‘heck yeah.’ I built a memorial garden for a little tiger cub that had passed away, that was cute. We also got a free tour, and that was fun.” Dureka emphasized that regardless of what students choose to do to complete service hours, they should choose something out of their comfort zone. “I picked something I haven’t necessarily done before,” Dureka said. “(Pick) something interesting, whether that’s the Big Brothers Big Sisters program in Springfield (or) that kind of thing. Just go do something that you find interesting.”
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Complete service hours at the Missouri State Community Garden.
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Pineapple Whip offers six flavors of frozen treats at three Springfield locations.
Welcome to Springfield There’s plenty to see and do in the town that’s been dubbed ‘Spring-Vegas’ CARISSA ALFORD Staff Reporter @carissabalford One of the hardest things to figure out in an unfamiliar town is what to do. Fortunately, finding things to do in Springfield isn’t that difficult. Marybeth Loganbill, junior accounting major, found there is no shortage of places to eat in Springfield. “I go blow my money on Cheddar’s, some form of ice cream and shopping,” Loganbill said. “Honestly, the first two are my favorite.” After Loganbill gets food, she says she and her friends go shopping or to the movies or sometimes they just sit at home to hang out. “I really enjoy it, especially because we are all so busy so our time together is very precious to me,” Loganbill said. Jordan Taylor, a Springfield native, said his favorite thing to do in Springfield is go to Pineapple Whip and play sand volleyball at Sonic. Pineapple Whip, founded in Springfield, has pineapple as the primary flavor and is a popular summer treat. Pineapple Whip also serves other flavors that pair well with the original, such as strawberry kiwi, grape, and mango. “When I have free time, I like to kayak at Lake Springfield,” Taylor said. When he is not kayaking or getting Pineapple Whip, Taylor says he enjoys going to Hurts
Donut. When Taylor is looking to spend a little more money, he says he goes to Wonders of Wildlife museum at Bass Pro Shops. Springfield is home to the largest, and first, Bass Pro Shops location in America. The Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium costs $39.95 for a combo ticket, but takes over two and a half hours to walk through and features an aquarium that was voted America’s best aquarium for 2018 by USA Today. Taylor describes Springfield as an “upbeat city full of bad drivers and lots of new things to do.” Reghan Pace, sophomore business sales major, said Springfield has more to offer than just food. “I like to go downtown and look around all the cute shops,” Pace said. “There’s a ton of them and they have more than just clothes.” While downtown is her shopping go-to, Pace said she will sometimes go to the Branson Landing as a fun trip. However, when she goes out to eat, her choice is Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes, a well-known, local burger joint, Pace said she chose Black Sheep because she believes they have the best burgers and fries, encouraging new students to try the restaurant. Pace thinks of Springfield as a friendly place that feels like your home away from home.
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Free mental health assistance for students EMILY COLE News Editor @EMCole19 One of many resources available to Missouri State University students is the Counseling Center. It provides students with personal counseling sessions for mental health issues like depression, anxiety and relationship issues, among a wide variety of mental health concerns. Students can access up to eight sessions during each fall and spring semester and four in the summer. During a 16-week semester, students commonly do one session every other week, said director Rhonda Lesley. The center provided over 3,000 counseling sessions in 2016-2017, according to their annual report. Over 1,000 students received counseling, up from just over 700 in 2014-2015. According to the report, student satisfaction based on surveys is almost 98 percent. Lesley said the center has seven full-time counselors and four part-time graduate assistants that also counsel students. New this seFreeImages.com/Glenda Otero mester is a victim services therapist to help Call 417-836-5116 for mental health students deal with sexual assault, harassment, assistance. domestic violence and stalking.
Also new this semester is a relaxation and biofeedback room with massage chairs. The Counseling Center provides several services on their website, including assessments for depression, anxiety and bipolar issues, as well as drug and alcohol issues. “If students are wondering, ‘Do I have a mental health concern? I’ve been feeling sad or blue, or I’ve been really worried and I’m wondering if I have an anxiety concern,’ they can go on our website and access it,” Lesley said. “It’s free, it’s an anonymous online mental health screening and they print that out and bring it to their first session if they want to, or just learn about whether or not the symptoms that they have are concerning enough to seek some help.” Also on the website is the Body U program, an online program for body image or eating concerns, emergency-crisis assistance and suicide prevention resources. The Counseling Center operates the Collegiate Recovery Program for students recovering from addiction. All services provided by the Counseling Center are free to students. To start counseling, students need to make
their first appointment either by phone or in person. The first appointment is called the “intake,” where the counselor takes in the student’s history and reasons for seeking therapy and sets up further appointments. Physicians downstairs in Magers Health and Wellness Center can provide prescriptions should a student require them. Lesley said it’s important to provide counseling services to students because college can be a very hard time in a person’s life. “When we’re in college, we put a lot pressure on ourselves to perform really well and not everybody can cope with that stress well on their own,” Lesley said. “It’s a time of transition for people. Life changes a lot from the time that you’re in high school to your first semester in college.” The counseling center is open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. during fall and spring semesters. Students with mental health concerns who wish to seek counseling should visit https:// counselingcenter.missouristate.edu/, call 417836-5116 or visit the Counseling Center in person on the third floor of the Magers Health and Wellness Center.
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Conquering college stress me into a different world.” Hailey Mallett, sophomore undecided major, said she likes to ride her bike when she feels stressed. College can be stressful, and it can be dif“A lot of the time I would go for a walk or ficult to identify things to do to relieve the stress ride my bike if it was nice outside,” Mallett in our lives. said. “It is just really relaxing to feel the breeze Alaina Sonksen, spring 2018 communica- and not really have to think about anything.” tions graduate, said that she has experienced a lot of stress during her years at Missouri State. Watching TV “I guess throughout my college years there Sonksen said she watches Netflix when she have definitely been projects that were over- is stressed. whelming and there were just a lot of things to “I like to watch a bit of Netflix or take a nap,” do at one time, but I am also a transfer student Sonksen said. “I also like to watch movies that from a community college and it was pretty I have on my list that I haven’t seen yet.” stressful to figure out what I was going to do It is also important to find a balance with next through researching schools,” Sonksen said. this activity, since it can be easy to get engrossed Here are a few college students’ techniques in a show and not get any work done. for relaxing after experiencing stress. Reading for leisure Exercising Ashley Foley, senior political science major, Luke Tunnell, senior computer information said she reads science fiction books to de-stress systems major, said he likes to clean and work from her work. out at the gym to de-stress and get his mind off “I listen to music or read a book – something of his work. to take my mind off of the stress,” Foley said. “My top three things to de-stress would be “I prefer science fiction books because it is like cleaning, playing video games or going to the escaping into a whole different world.” gym,” Tunnell said. “Something physical, Of course, these are not the only activities something to kind of distract myself and take that relieve stress. Some people find comfort AFTON HARPER Staff Reporter @affie888
in their work.
Doing math Jeremiah Hinds, sophomore mass media major, said that he does schoolwork to relieve his stress. “To de-stress, I like to do math,” said Hinds. “Specifically, File Photo/THE STANDARD I like to work on calThe Foster Recreation Center features an indoor track culus and algebra. where students can run at their own pace. Since I live in Freddy, I like to just go concerns: deadlines, relationships, being away downstairs and do math problems on the board.” from family and friends, adjusting to their new environment, trying to manage a busier schedWhat the experts say ule than they’re used to, living with roommates Keeping all this in mind, it is also important for the first time and of course the more rigorto note that there is no perfect way to de-stress. ous demands of university academics versus Rhonda Lesley, director of the MSU Coun- those in high school,” Lesley said. seling Center, said the best way to deal with stress “We also recommend deep diaphragmatic is to find an activity that is active and meaningful breathing, relaxation, mindfulness and just findto do on a regular basis and that exercise has ing some meaningful activity to engage in as proven to build resilience to stress. Lesley also ways to better manage the stress of life,” she said it helps to seek supportive friends and fam- added. “Having solid, supportive relationships with friends, family or a significant other is an ily members when feeling stressed. “Students stress about a wide variety of effective buffer against stress, as well.”
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Planning for success HANNA SUMPTER Deputy News Editor @hannasumpter Today’s agenda: attend classes, go to work, manage extracurricular activities and maybe do some homework. Repeat through the end of the week. Working a job while working on a degree is a challenge, especially if you’re pursuing both full-time. It can help significantly to learn some tips and tricks that will help you to manage all the different roles you fulfill throughout your time pursuing a degree and accomplishing everything else, including a job. Write down your schedule Whether you are using a handwritten planner, your Google calendar or the whiteboard on your dorm room wall, knowing what’s ahead can help you prioritize how you spend your time properly. Being able to see when your next shift is at work can help you visualize when you need to study for the next test and when you can blow off some steam with your friends.
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Streamline your morning routine Simplifying your morning routine can help you get through your day faster and easier than usual. Packing meals and choosing an outfit the night before can solve the tough decisions you normally make as you get ready for the day.
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Get rid of distractions As hard as it can be to stop double-tapping your friends’ new Instagram posts or retweeting your favorite celebrity’s witty tweet, these distractions steal valuable time throughout your day. If you are attempting to accomplish something during your day and you are procrastinating by checking your phone, you will find yourself falling behind.
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Learn to say “no” This is a trick that can be extremely hard to adhere to, but it can help you so much to utilize it. Learn to tell your friends and possibly your family “no” to the countless things you’ll inevitably be invited to. As much as you’ll want to meet your friends at Bair’s or go home to see your family for the weekend, sometimes school or work needs to come first. Remembering that you are working toward personal goals will help lessen the fear of missing out you’ll have the first few times you turn down someone’s invitation.
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Relieve your stress As school and work begin to pile up, it can all seem to blur into one big mess of stress. Allowing that stress to build up as you go about your day, trying to reach your personal goals, can be counterproductive. So, find things that help you relieve the built-up stress you harbor throughout a day or week. Whether it is exercising, a new hobby or even a nap, build some time into your schedule to get rid of all the stress cluttering up your mind.
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Einstein, new non-logo boutique open on campus CARISSA ALFORD Staff Reporter @carissabalford Einstein Bros. Bagels will open its doors to students on the first day of the 2018-2019 school year. The bagel shop will be located inside Glass Hall on campus and will include the full menu. It will be about the same size as Chick-fil-a
and Grill Nation. Unlike the smaller food kiosks on campus, 25-40 people will be needed to staff the new shop. Students can use their Boomer Meals to pay for all their bagel needs. A new boutique has also opened its doors to students to boost their wardrobe. Located in the Plaster Student Union, Madison Avenue is replacing the store 1905. 1905 is moving to where Paw Prints was, and Paw
Prints is merging with Maroon Nation. Madison Avenue will sell clothing inspired by tailgates, but will not have any BearWear. However, you can use Bear Bucks to pay for items in the store. Carson Weber, sophomore nursing major, said she thinks the boutique will be a great addition to the university. “I think it is a great idea,” Weber said. “I would go there in between classes whenever I
have down time.” Weber said she is most excited to shop for cute tops to wear to tailgates and wants the store to have cute outfits that are Missouri State colors. Weber has high hopes for Madison Avenue. “I really want to see a variety of outfits that college kids would wear,” Weber said. “Like different stuff than what’s in the bookstore.” Madison Avenue hopes to work with fashion majors or students in fashion clubs.
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Pencil yourself in
Staying on task and in good mental health — from syllabus week to finals week FreeImages.com/alesia17
CLAIRE NIEBRUGGE Sports Reporter @claireniebrugge It’s no secret that maintaining a good GPA, a healthy body and a social life all while staying sane is near impossible to do. To help set you on the right track this semester, here are seven tips and tricks to keeping a productive lifestyle while maintaining a good mental health status.
people say in college is, “I don’t know how to study.” While they may believe that is true, it’s most likely not. Many students believe that how they are studying is what is affecting their productivity and efficiency. In reality, it’s all about when you study and where you do it. For example, studying at 10 p.m. in your bed is the least productive and motivated you could be. Instead, study at a table in an environment that works for you, whether it’s a café with background noise or a silent library. Then, find your peak productivity time frame. For some, it may be in the morning, fresh from a good night’s sleep, while for others it may be right after dinner. However you do the “when” and “where” just stick to it.
Use a planner. While it may seem trivial to keep a planner, being organized is a proven way to keep on task. You may think you can remember due dates and assignments but writing everything down in a planner makes a world of difference. Check it twice a day, at least once when you Pencil in time for yourself. wake up and once before bed. It’s good to start Always make time for yourself, at least once your day knowing what you need to accomplish a week – away from friends, boyfriends, girland to end your day making sure you didn’t friends and roommates – just you, yourself and forget a single thing. you. Everyone needs a little alone time every now and again to de-stress and relieve the tenStick to the planner – all semester long. sion that life brings. Once you have a planner and schedule ev“Although studying is what you’re here for, erything out, stick to it. Don’t abandon the sched- make time for yourself,” Natalie Starzyk, senior ule a few weeks into the semester. Once you economics major, said. “Whether it’s getting a have an everyday routine of breakfast, class, bite to eat with friends or staying active, it will dinner, and homework, prioritizing will become better your mental health and relieve stress.” a lot easier. If you stick to a routine (just like in high school), you are less likely to fall back in Get your beauty sleep. Yes, it’s true that after kindergarten you schoolwork and feel less stressed out. rarely take mid afternoon naps – until you get Study before class. to college. While napping is okay every now Most classes are every other day. Therefore, and again, try not to make a habit of taking a when you walk into your Thursday class, you two-hour nap everyday at 3 p.m. Go to bed at have most likely temporarily forgotten what a decent time so you wake up feeling rejuvewas done in class on Tuesday. If you look back nated and ready to tackle the day. This way, at your notes from class on Tuesday, it will jog you won’t need that post-class nap. your memory, leaving you feeling refreshed Stay true to you. and ready rather than lacking and stressed. “Reading your notes before class to refresh For most, college is an experience that your memory is something I try to do but some- opens people up to new and exciting people, times fail to remember,” said senior fashion places and things. While it’s wonderful to bemerchandising major Madison Woelfer. “It come more cultured and to step out of your really helps refresh my memory, so I am not comfort zone, don’t let your values and beliefs going in blind from a class I had a day ago.” fall behind in your rearview mirror. When and where are more important than “You will find your place whether it takes how. One of the most common things you hear a day or a semester,” Starzyk said.
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Meyer Library is a popular study spot for MSU students.
Bear CLAW in Meyer Library offers free tutoring services MEG ALEXANDER Staff Reporter @margaretjalex Equations giving you a headache? Pulling all-nighters for English essays? The Bear Center for Learning and Writing might be able to help you out. So, what is the Bear CLAW anyway? Diana Garland, director of learning commons at Missouri State University and co-manager of the Bear CLAW alongside Michael Frizell, said the Bear CLAW’s mission is to “enrich Missouri State University’s academic environment by fostering student, faculty and staff success through interconnected programs and services to advance the Public Affairs Mission.” Located on the first floor of the Meyer Library, the Bear CLAW consists of two units: the learning commons and student learning services. Garland said the learning commons provides subject area tutoring, computer lab and presentation booths, student employment or volunteer hours for students, and peer provided academic assistance and coaching. Student learning services houses MSU’s Writing Center, where tutors edit and help students with writing assignments prior to turning it in in class, and Peer Assisted Study Session Program. The Bear CLAW is a free service where students can receive help on various subjects including math, science, business and writing through in-person appointments, e-mail, online and small group tutoring. “Our space is very student friendly,” Garland said. “Students who use the services may be students wanting to just pass a course or get a better grade on one test or they could be scholarship
students just trying to keep their scholarships.” The Absent Professor Program in the Bear CLAW helps students learn the tasks needed to equip them for a successful college career, such as note-taking, test-taking, basic composition and directions on various formats. “I really enjoy tutoring because it gives me an opportunity to work with students one on one to help them understand science,” said Emily Nischwitz, who is a tutor at the Bear CLAW and is seeking a masters of cell and molecular biology at MSU. “It’s one of the few experiences where you can immediately gage where a student is still struggling and work to help their understanding.” Garland said tutors have to fulfill several requirements in order to assist other students with subjects including a GPA of 3.0 and higher, completion of the course they are tutoring with a B or higher and an academic reference by a faculty member in the department they would be tutoring. “I love tutoring,” Nischwitz said. “I eventually want to be a professor and tutoring is a unique way to help students’ learning processes.” Nischwitz, a tutor since her junior year, said she utilized the Bear CLAW prior to becoming a tutor and it helped her throughout her schooling. When asked what advice she would give to freshmen first coming to the Bear CLAW, Garland said to conquer the fear and come see a tutor. “Our tutors are your peers so they are generally able to understand issues you may be having and are willing to assist with finding the resources you might need for academic success,” Garland said. “Research does show that the more academic support students receive, the more likely they are to pass their courses and stay enrolled.”
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Tailor your college experience to match personal needs, goals HANNA FLANAGAN Senior Reporter @hanna_flanagan Following senior year, most high schoolers who plan on attending college go straight there: four years of high school then four years of college. But the path to a college degree does not have to be a straight shot, and there are various reasons why some decide to pave their own path. For senior global studies major Ashlyn Hancock, health complications altered her journey. A diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) forced her to miss large portions of her freshman and sophomore years of high school. Hancock, who hoped to attend medical school at the time, said her post-graduation plans became foggy as she got behind in school. “I tried to go back my sophomore year … and got sick again in the spring,” Hancock said. “I completed a few classes that semester but not many. It was looking like I was going to graduate in five years instead of four.” Rather than try to catch up, Hancock decided to home-school herself for about a month before enrolling in classes at Ozarks Technical College at age 16. At 17, she was old enough to take Missouri’s equivalent of the GED. At that time, Hancock was recovering; she was healthier and ready to apply to college. Although Missouri State was not the school she previously envisioned herself attending, she said she made the right choice. “I’m really pleased with my education at Missouri State,” Hancock said. “I think I’ve had a lot of opportunities just to explore more. Whereas, if I would’ve stuck with what I had planned on doing as a freshman in high school, I would have probably not been very happy.” She said her roundabout journey to Missouri State allowed her to explore passions and major options at a younger age than most. She realized early on in her post-high school education that medicine was not the right choice. Today, Hancock is pre-law. She said she probably never would have considered law school if she graduated from high school and attended college in the usual time frame. “I’m about as far from that as you can get at this point,” Hancock said of her high school dream of attending medical school. “I think it’s been good for me. I know that it hasn’t really been traditional, but I’ve enjoyed college.” Her journey has been a learning experience in more ways than one — Hancock discovered a fitting career path as well as an important lesson about the social aspect of college. During her first two years at Missouri State, she lived at home with her parents. She was not thrown into the mix of dorm life at the beginning of freshman year, which can jump-start the social
aspect of college for newcomers. She said she felt like she was missing out, so she moved to Hutchens House in her sophomore year. But Hancock said she learned that friendship and social activity are dependent on the person, not the environment. “I realized that I was the one holding myself back,” Hancock said. “Being on campus didn’t have anything to do with living on campus. It was more (that) I wasn’t getting as involved in things as I could have or should have been.” Hancock said the time she spent exploring other avenues for education before choosing Missouri State provided insight into her interests and academic strengths. Looking back, she said the entire experience has been positive. Christopher Davis, a Missouri State graduate assistant and military veteran who earned his Missouri State undergraduate degree in 2017, also found success by taking the nontraditional college route. Davis received his undergraduate degree in education from the University of Missouri in 2003. Eleven years later, he enrolled at Missouri State in pursuit of a second degree — this time, in biology. “Like the memes of veterans feeling like Adam Sandler in ‘Billy Madison,’ there I was — 30 years old and amongst students who were mostly a decade younger than me,” Davis said. Although there was a generational gap between Davis and his peers — and some confusion about pop culture references — he said he felt accepted by other Missouri State students. “They didn’t understand much about the war, and I don’t know anything about Pokemon or Harry Potter, but it was still cool,” Davis said. “I met a lot of cool people. ... Usually people would hesitantly ask me about my past, and I’d just tell them where I was coming from and that was that.” As a 32-year-old student, Davis said his focus level and priorities were different than they were when he went to Mizzou for his first undergraduate degree. Older and more mature, Davis understood the true value of education his second time around. “This time around, I didn’t party; I was way more focused on my academic achievement,” Davis said. “It gave me perspective. I used to complain about schoolwork and how unfair professors were, but this time I just laughed and did what I had to do.” Davis compared going back to school in his 30s to playing sports as a kid: In the moment, the practices are hard and it is so easy to give up. But as an adult, after experiencing the true pain of real life events, you wish you could go back to the days of playing the sport you once complained about. Davis said he got the opportunity to do just that. “I got to come back and whoop college part two,” Davis said. “It was dope.”
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Checking out the front desk BEN VICKERS Staff Reporter @benrvickers96
All right, stop and think for just a second. What was it that you forgot to pack before you moved into the residence halls? Was it an iron? Your favorite board game or movie? Before you rush to Walmart to try and stock up on all the things you rarely use, stop by the front desk of your residence hall and see if they have what you need. Each residence hall has a different set of items behind their front desk that you can check out in an emergency or just for fun. Some have movies, some have sports ball, but here are just a few of the things that you can find in any residence hall.
Party games
Whether your hall wants to play Cards Against Humanity, or you and your suitemates want to play a game of Monopoly, each residence hall has a wide selection of board games that are at your disposal. There are also decks of cards if board games aren’t your style. If you ever need an extra person to fill out a team, you can always ask your RA to join.
Irons
Now that you’re in college, people are going to notice the wrinkles in your dress or suit. Whether it’s for a formal event, an interview or a first date, you have to look your best. Lucky for you, the front desk has irons that you can use to smooth out the wrinkles between you and your next job.
Tools
Car won’t start? Your front desk can probably help with a set of jumper cables, or they
can call campus security to jump your car. Need a screwdriver or wrench? There’s a toolbox behind every residence hall desk that you can use to nail down your problems.
Cleaning Supplies
During your time in the residence hall, you will need to clean your room a couple times, if not for the sake of your roommate, for room checks — and everyone involved there would like your room to be reasonably clean. Down at the front desk there are vacuums, brooms, dustpans, mops and buckets, so don’t hesitate to participate in a trend sweeping dorm rooms everywhere.
Cooking Utensils
You’ll probably get cravings for something other than dining hall food, but most rooms don’t have any way for you to FreeImages.com/Dominic make a hot meal. Morel Turns out, each residence hall has a kitchen that you can use to whip up a taste of home. If you don’t have pots and pans or a spatula, don’t sweat it. You can check out everything you need (other than groceries) from the front desk. No matter what you may need, check with your front desk to see if they can help. Students are often surprised by the array of things they can find behind the front desk. Your RA and the front desk are go-to resources, and can at the very least point you to someone else who can assist you if you ever need any help.
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Last year’s headlines
Here’s a look at what happened last year EMILY COLE News Editor @EMCole19
Budget cuts
Former Gov. Eric Greitens planned on cutting millions of dollars from higher education. But, in June, Gov. Mike Parson signed a bill restoring funding to Missouri institutions of higher education. The Missouri House had passed a budget in April that restored $68 million. Out of that funding, Missouri State received about $6.5 million back.
Phi Delta Theta chapter removed from campus On Jan. 20, the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity National Headquarters told Missouri State University officials they would immediately remove the Missouri Epsilon chapter from campus. They removed the chapter for alleged violations of the risk management policy. Fraternity members were notified on Jan. 28 and received 10 days to move out of their house. In their statement, the national headquarters said Phi Delta Theta will return to MSU in the Fall of 2021.
Men’s basketball head coach Paul Lusk fired, replaced
Men’s basketball head coach Paul Lusk was fired March 3 after seven years in the position. On March 22 the new head coach Dana Ford was officially named.
March For Our Lives
In March, MSU students joined others across the country in a gun reform walkout called “March For Our Lives.” As part of the localized “SGF Walkout for Our Lives,” students gave speeches in front of Strong Hall, and then marched from Strong Hall to Carrington Hall and back, chanting and holding signs reading, “You have watched silently as children die, you have chosen guns over children's lives, you have failed us time and time again — we are waiting” and, “It’s not right or left- its life or death.” Counter protesters also attended, holding signs reading “Gun control = government control” or “The Constitution was written to withstand the test of time, not for the time.” The protest remained peaceful on both sides.
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(Above left) Students watch the solar eclipse at the viewing event at Plaster Stadium. (Above center) Glass Hall was dedicated in October and features a new student success center. (Above right) Men’s basketball head coach Dana Ford speaks to a crowd during his introduction event. (Right) Students and community members marched across campus as part of the “SGF Walkout For Our Lives” event. File Photo by BILL SIOHOLM/THE STANDARD
Tournament for the second time. The Bears finished the season with 34 conThe new Bill and Lucille Magers Family secutive MVC wins. They lost to Michigan State Health and Wellness Center opened in April in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. after months of construction. The project that was first talked about back in 2014. During construction, the health center was housed in Solar eclipse More than 13,000 people attended Misthe first floor of Monroe Apartments. In the new building, there are 34 patient souri State’s solar eclipse viewing event in rooms, mental health counseling, an urgent care August. It was the first continental eclipse facility, a women’s health clinic and a drive-th- since 1918. Springfield saw 96 percent totalru pharmacy. You can schedule an appointment ity. The event was open to the public and in person, over the phone or online. everyone from Missouri State students to kindergartners to community members showed up.
New health center
New Glass Hall
After close to two years of construction that blocked sidewalks and Bear Line routes around Mouse in Garst Glass Hall, the new addition was completed A Missouri State student allegedly found a and opened. The Robert Gourley Student Suc- dead mouse in his salad in the Garst dining hall cess Center was officially dedicated and opened in late April. Images of the mouse quickly on Oct. 26, 2017. spread via Twitter and Snapchat, drawing attention from local news outlets as well as national outlet USA Today. Volleyball MVC champs The university and Chartwells began invesIn November 2017, the MSU volleyball tigations into the incident, determining that team beat the University of Northern Iowa in there appeared to be no evidence of mice in the final round of the Missouri Valley Confer- the dining hall, and likely came in a bag of ence championship, taking them to the NCAA spinach from the supplier.
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MO State, mo’ fun, mo’ events BAILEY VASSALLI Staff Reporter @baileyvassalli It seems that there’s always something happening on the Missouri State campus, and at times that may be true. Just in the first weekend of students being back on campus alone, there are 10 different events that students can attend. Of course, this weekend is deemed “Welcome Weekend.”
Playfair
Playfair is an interactive event that takes place on the Allison Recreation Fields. It’s described as a team-building experience and is one of the very first events for students new to campus to experience on their own.
“See You Later” Brunch
This is for new students and their parents. It’s supposed to be their final goodbye — that is until you miss them and go home for a weekend — before leaving you at school and letting you adjust to your new surroundings.
Transfer Students Ice Cream Social
Transfer students, this is for you. If you’re coming here from a community college or a different university, this event in the Plaster Student Union food court gives you the perfect
campus and college in general. Afterwards, students are led through the “Bear Path.” The Bear Path is surrounded by FSL memopportunity to meet others new to campus just bers chanting, among othlike you. ers. It’s very high energy.
Fan Fest and Bear Bash
This is basically an all-night ordeal, but there’s so much to experience. Fan fest happens before Bear Bash on the North Mall. There’s music, games, food and so much more. It also gives you an opportunity to talk with different organizations from campus, since representatives are often sent to talk about what they do. Bear Bash is when they finally open the doors to the PSU for the night, and students are immersed in more games and foods — plus a free T-shirt. There’s usually a caricature artist, and a hypnotist among others.
New Student Festival
At the end of the Bear Path, students can find themselves at the New Student Festival. Though students may have been introduced to some of the organizations campus has to offer at Fan Fest, this will give them an opportunity to learn more. Many organizations have a sign File Photo by COLLIN O’CONNELL/THE STANDARD up sheet where you can leave your email to learn Each year, hundreds of students gather at the Betty Fraternity and Sorority Life 101 more and stay up-to-date and Bobby Allison Recreation Fields for Playfair. This is an informative event for those who on meetings. office of multicultural programs hosts an anthink they may be interested in joining a fra- Commuter Reception This is another event designed for those who nual cookout that is a perfect wrap up to Welternity or sorority before it’s time for the actual recruitment process. Located in the PSU may not be new to college, but may be new to come Weekend. Students get to see more of the Theater, there’s plenty of seats for anyone who Missouri State. New students who are com- diverse student organizations the campus has wants to know more. muting to campus for classes may also attend to offer. New Student Convocation Times for the Welcome Weekend Events this event. In PSU 400, there is food as well as The New Student Convocation takes place giveaways while commuter students get to can be found on the Missouri State website. at JQH Arena, and is basically one big intro- know one another. There’s always something happening on camduction to the campus community. Individuals Belong-B-Q pus or in the Springfield community to keep speak about what it’s like to be a part of the In the Freudenberger House Courtyard, the students occupied in their free time.
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Doing bear-y well
Inside MSU’s new three-story wellness center NOAH STANDISH Senior Reporter @NoahjStandish Missouri State University’s campus finished a major renovation last semester, as the new Magers Family Health and Wellness Center officially started accepting patients on March 13. It marked the conclusion of a development process that lasted nearly four years. The wellness center and campus pharmacy had been temporarily located in the lobby of Monroe Apartments. Now, its nurses, receptionists and doctors have a new home that spans approximately 36,000 square feet. With three stories, 34 patient rooms, nine counseling spaces and enough glass walls to warrant a joke about throwing stones, it’s the newest building on campus. “The new health and wellness center is a great investment for students, and especially for those who live on campus,” Payton Morris, a sophomore elementary education major, said. “I didn’t have to wait more than 10 minutes to see the doctor (for a checkup).” The new building towers over the Baker
Bookstore in the center of campus, with the Plaster Student Union Bear statue waving to students as they walk inside. The campus pharmacy has never strayed far from the center of campus, but now it has some new tricks: an urgent care facility, mental health counseling, a women’s health clinic and a drive-thru pharmacy — just to name a few. “There’s a wide variety of affordable health services right on campus,” Morris said. “(Its location) is super easy and convenient for students.” During the ribbon cutting ceremony on April 9, Vice President of Student Affairs Dee Siscoe described the new building as an embodiment of MSU’s commitment to its students and their well-being. “The health and wellness team truly lives up to the student affairs motto of being champions for student success,” Siscoe said during the ceremony. “This project started as a student idea, that moved to a dream, and today becomes a reality.” MSU students previously voted to assess themselves a $29 per-semester health fee for future upkeep of the building, which began in
File Photo by BILL SIOHOLM/THE STANDARD
2015-16 MSU Student Body President Ashley Crisafulli helped unveil the Bill and Lucille Magers Health and Wellness Center on April 9. fall 2017. The fall 2018 semester will be the new building’s first full semester in the spotlight for incoming freshmen, but returning students are already impressed. “It does feel like the university is investing in its students when we’re given such a beautiful and convenient new facility to use,” Loren Woods, a senior clinical laboratory sci-
ences major, said. “(The building) is in a very accessible spot for students on or off campus.” Emily Daily, a junior speech-language pathology major, praised the relocation of university counseling services, calling it a reflection of MSU’s focus on students’ mental health. “The new features embody (MSU’s) investment in students, because we live in a generation that really stresses mental health,” Daily said. “College is stressful, and it’s important for everyone to take care of themselves.” Daily also called the new building’s location on the North Mall convenient for new students. Until 2014, MSU’s campus wellness center was attached to the backside of the Baker Bookstore at the center of campus. Now, with the new building’s tall glass walls, students won’t be able to miss it. “Mental health services were moved to the new health center, too,” Daily said. “Now everything is all in one location.” The Magers Health and Wellness Center also offers a full pharmacy, lab and on-site clinic. For students who have paid their semester health fee, basic office visits are free of charge. Services are open to MSU students and faculty 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students can schedule appointments in person, over the phone or online at health. missouristate.edu/scheduleappointment.
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The best outdoor spots in Springfield Take a late summer hike and make it worth it COLE SUTTON Sports Reporter @ColeSutton23 Summer is in the rearview mirror, and students are making their way back to Missouri State’s campus, but there’s still some great weather to take advantage of before diving back into the grind of a school year. With temperatures cooling down a bit across Springfield, doing some of your favorite activities like biking or taking a hike could be a little more enjoyable. Springfield has an incredible number of options for people who love the outdoors and don’t want to give up their summer quite yet.
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Busiek State Forest, located near Branson, Missouri, has camping sites, a family-friendly creek and Trails Fassnight Creek Greenway is a 1.2-mile trail located in the multiple trails that span roughly four miles. depths of Springfield. It is great location-wise, passing Fassnight Park and extending through Campbell and Jefferson avenues along with Bennett Street eventually connecting with Phelps Grove Park. It is open during daylight hours and is free to the public, and parking can be found at Fassnight Park. The advantage of having a great trail centrally located within Springfield was a key with Max Burch, a junior business major. “The (Fassnight Creek) trail is my ideal running trail,” Burch said. “It gives you (a) good glimpse of the city, and having something to look at while running helps a lot.” The Frisco Highline Trail is the second-longest rail-trail in Missouri, according to Ozark Greenways. The trailhead is at 3845 W. Kearney St. in Springfield and stretches 35 miles, connecting Springfield and Bolivar. It has plenty of amenities along the way, offering rest stops, food and drink, and free camping areas at Walnut Grove City Park. The trail costs nothing and is open during daylight hours. The James River Water Trail is for anyone who enjoys being out on the water. It is a six-mile route where you can rent a canoe or kayak, go fishing or bring your own boat starting at the Springfield Lake boathouse. You can float down the James River via Joe Crighton Access all the way down to the Lake Springfield marina any time during daylight hours, and there is only a $38 fee per canoe available to rent. This is one of the more unique trail experiences in Springfield. Andrew Lorenz, a junior physical therapy major, talked about what this trail does for him. “I love being out on the water,” Lorenz said. “I really didn’t expect to find a place like this in Springfield. It’s actually my favorite place to just get my mind off of things. It’s just relaxing.” Parks Bennett Spring State Park is just over an hour from Spring-
field but well worth the drive, located off Highway 64A in Lebanon. The park offers various options for outdoor fun such as campsites, float trips, dining, walking and hiking trails, and the main draw: fishing from the Bennett Spring. Entry to the park is free to the public, but there is a $13-$26 charge if you plan to set up your tents and camp. Busiek State Forest/Wildlife Area is another option closer to Springfield located in Highlandville, Missouri. The area is mainly forest and woods but features picnic areas, streams and even a firearms range. The park also offers an 18-mile trail available to hike, cycle and ride horses. There is no charge for admission, and its hours are 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., but they do vary. The park suggests calling ahead for hours. You can do so at 417-895-6880. NINA TODEA/THE STANDARD Little Sac Woods Conservation Area is approximately 9 miles In the late afternoon, when the Busiek State Forest trails cool down, northwest of Springfield in Wil- the lush greenery glows at sunset. lard. This large area stretches over 770 acres and is mostly woods area where wildlife can roam and parks in the Ozarks, you can also visit the Springfield free, but non-forested areas offer plenty of activities such as Conservation Nature Center at 4601 S. Nature Center Way in bird watching, hunting, hiking trails and camping in certain Springfield. The Nature Center provides plenty of insight areas. Its hours are 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and there is no regarding conservation and outdoor activities in the Ozarks and has a three-mile hiking trail available to the public from charge to enter the park. If you are looking to get more information on the best trails 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Happy hiking!
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The Well of Life relies on volunteers like Aki Fong, senior communications science and disorders major, to keep things running.
Secure your next meal with a visit to this food pantry HANNA FLANAGAN Senior Reporter @hanna_flanagan If you’ve ever ventured to the Qdoba on Kimbrough during your time at Missouri State, you’ve seen the red brick house next to Kum & Go. If you’re new to campus, you’ll be familiar with Qdoba and the surrounding area very soon. What you might not know is that the red brick house is actually a community food pantry called Well of Life. Community pantries provide supplies based on geographical location. Alex Johnson, director of community involvement and service for Missouri State, said Well of Life is a great resource for Missouri State students due to its close proximity to campus. The partnership between Well of Life and MSU began in 2011. Since then, this food pantry has opened its doors to any and all students facing food insecurity. “A big population of our students face (food insecurity),” Johnson said. “It’s a nationwide thing as well with college students.” According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food security is defined as “having access, at all times, to enough food for an active, healthy life.” According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of college tuition has risen consistently faster than inflation since 1981. With the
high price tag of higher education, an estimated half of college students experience food insecurity, according to a 2017 study published by Sage Journals. Well of Life provides food, courtesy of Ozarks Food Harvest, and fresh produce from the MSU campus garden. It also offers toiletries and other personal care necessities. Johnson said Well of Life stocks most basic items that someone facing food insecurity might not be able to afford. Johnson said Well of Life is aware of the problem and understanding of various situations students may encounter while in school. So, with the help of volunteers from area churches, Well of Life makes getting your next meal simple and convenient. “The easiest way to get to the pantry is to hop on the Bearline,” Johnson said. “The Blue Route will take them right to the back door of the pantry.” Despite the sometimes negative stigma surrounding food insecurity, Well of Life offers a safe and non-judgmental environment. “The resource is there for them,” Johnson said. “We see students from all walks of life, and we know that there are a lot of different reasons for food insecurity.” Well of Life is open when Missouri State is in session on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students should bring their BearPass ID and be prepared to provide their social security number upon arrival.
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A niche that hits the mark CONNOR WILSON Staff Reporter @Connor4Wilson Getting involved is a big part of college life. Whether it’s joining major specific clubs, charitable organizations or even the campus newspaper, there are many opportunities out there. Rachel Reed, sophomore wildlife biology major, is involved in many organizations on campus, despite getting a late start joining them. “I got involved in almost everything in the spring instead of the fall,” Reed said. “I decided to wait so I could figure out my flow with classes since I was a freshman, which is just the student’s choice if they want to wait or not.” Reed is in the Animal Rights Club and the Kindness Commission, which she first learned about during MSU’s Welcome Weekend. “I emailed the president of Animal Rights Club asking about joining, and she was super nice and let me into the GroupMe and told me about the next meeting time,” Reed said.
Reed said that to join larger organizations like Student Activities Council you have to get in contact with their board of executives and fill out an application to join. “The application for SAC was a lot of short answers, so just have the right motives (for joining),” Reed said. “Just be yourself, honestly. If they like you, they’ll take you. SAC is really fun, for me as well as everyone else involved, it’s a lot more than just something to fill out the resume.” Christina Pecaut, junior accounting major, is a member of SAC and also part of Missouri handball File Photo by COLLIN O’CONNELL/THE STANDARD State’s team, despite havMembers of the MSU Marksman team practice their ing never played shooting skills. The club has more than 60 members. handball before. “Kindness Commission too, they were just “Handball keeps me active, and I’ve made like, ‘Yeah here’s our meeting time.’ It was some of my best friends through that,” Pecaut pretty open and chill with smaller organiza- said. “I didn’t think handball would be my thing, but I’ve felt a lot better and made good tions like that.”
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friends. I would (say) try different things that you wouldn’t think of, and surely there will be one for you.” Some clubs are major-specific, meaning you have to be declared for the major in order to join the club. Pecaut is a member of Accounting Club, in addition to the other orga-
“I’ve made some of my best friends through (handball).”
nizations she’s involved in. “In Accounting Club, I get to make friends who could help me in the future,” Pecaut said. While it’s important to get involved, it’s also important to not get spread too thin. Sophomore hospitality major Helene Houston said that she overloaded herself her first year of college by getting involved in too many clubs at once, but still believes incoming students should try out any clubs or organizations they’re interested in. “I think if it’s something that a student has any remote interest in, they should go to one or two meetings to see if they want to continue or not,” Houston said. “If it’s not something you’re 100 percent wanting to do, then by the time you’re in college I would say don’t spend too much time on that.”
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Transfers matter Being a transfer student doesn’t mean you are any less a part of your university MADISON BRYAN Staff Reporter @MadisonBryan14 Every August, high school graduates start college. The next four years are filled with homework, students graduating with their degree and moving out into the real world. Students don’t often get told what to expect when they decide to transfer schools. Everything they were used to was now about to change. How do they start over? Missouri State has a student transfer center that helps transfers meet other transfer students and get involved in organizations around campus. According to the Transfer Center, 45 percent of Missouri State’s enrollment of new undergraduate students is made up of transfer students. More transfer students are enrolled at Missouri State than any other public college or university in Missouri, according to the university. One of the biggest organizations on campus is Fraternity and Sorority Life. “Through fraternity and sorority life, I was able to make friends right away,” Lauren Nitsch, senior child life major, said. “I also participated in the officer chair board as our philanthropy chair which really helped me get involved.” Residence halls are also a great way to meet new people. “I found my place on campus through Kentwood Hall, and they offered different resources that really helped me as a transfer,” Rachel Wagner, a fifth year family and consumer sciences major, said. “The student fair and the MSU website are also great sources that help me get involved around campus.” As a student, transferring schools is not as easy as it may seem from an outside view. Fortunately, there are many organizations and services provided to help make the process as smooth as possible. The Transfer Student Resource Fair is held in the fall and spring semester. It helps students connect and gather information about
Tips to ease the transfer experience Visit the Transfer Center The Transfer Center is your one-stop shop for anything and everything transfer related. Here you can find information about your program, credit transferring and advising. Get involved in an organization Getting involved in an organization is not only made simple, but also provides a hobby outside of classes. Make friends Don’t be afraid to talk to the person next to you in that massive lecture class, or sit with a new face each week at the dining centers. Try something new Missouri State has a plethora of activities outside of clubs. Attend an event, go to a class at the Foster Recreation Center or go to a sporting event. Find your place Finding your passion will help you find your place. If you’re interested in the environment, politics or just about anything else, getting involved in clubs, events and volunteering activities will help Springfield feel like home.
the offices on campus. The Transfer Center provides resources for students. Transfer Interest Groups (TRIGs) are also provided on Missouri State campus. Finding your place and becoming a part of the campus community is an important part of feeling at home on campus. As part of Welcome Weekend at Missouri State, the Transfer Student Ice Cream Social helps transfer students get to know one another while enjoying a tasty snack. The event is held on Saturday, August 18, in the Plaster Student Union Food Court.
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The truth (and myths) about Springfield NINA TODEA Life Editor @TodeaNina_M Coming from out of state to a new place for college can be intimidating, and it’s at this time that first impressions matter the most. Word spreads fast; it is crucial to know what is true, and which myths have been busted.
Springfield resembles one big farm; cows are everywhere.
This common misconception is often associated with the word “Midwest.” Corn fields dominate Kansas; Oklahoma provides the nation’s wheat; Missouri is known for soybeans and, yes, cattle. Contrary to what some big-city folk may believe, Springfield residents cannot parade cattle down city streets; livestock running at large is prohibited by Section 18-26 of the Springfield Code of Ordinances. In Greene County, cattle farms are mainly located on the outskirts of cities where farm roads run the hills for miles. Section 18-14 details the general keeping of livestock. “No person shall keep a cow, bull, mule, jack, horse, goat or sheep in an outdoor enclosure or pasture, the exterior boundary of which is within 100 feet of the dwelling house of another, a church, a school or a place of business of another,” the code states. 101 feet? Bessie is now your new best friend. Final verdict? Myth.
Springfield is a small town. This is, of course, debatable depending on where you come from. However, in recent years, Springfield’s business and economic centers have shown promising development, according to the 2017 Community Focus Report. Downtown continues to grow. Ten local companies made the cut on Inc. Magazine’s 2017 Inc. 5000 list, an annual ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. In regards to the community, Springfield’s current population sits at just over 167,000, according to the United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 2016. Missouri State University enrolls over 26,000 students, breaking records as numbers have steadily increased over the years. Final verdict? Myth.
THE-STANDARD.ORG winters can uncover double-digit negatives. Final verdict? Truth.
Missouri is homogeneous: If you’re not white, Christian and a Republican, prepare to be on the defensive.
By the numbers, Springfield is predominantly white, coming in at 86.4 percent, according to 2016 census data. Less than 5 percent is black. In the 2016 presidential election, official statistics from the Federal Election Commission show that nearly 57 percent voted Republican, as compared to just over 38 percent Democratic. These numbers, race and political outcomes, may be true for the greater Springfield area, but they do not necessarily represent MSU. The university, stressing cultural competence, makes efforts to welcome as many religions and political backgrounds as possible. Alongside The Vine and Chi Alpha, organizations such as Ekklesia and Bears Better Together further encourage interfaith dialogue and provide space for religions to come together. MO State College Democrats, College Republicans and The You may experience frigid Alaskan winters and equator heat Forum also provide political discussion. all in the same season … or week. Final verdict? It’s complicated. MSU students typically come prepared with a few items: a winter parka, spring rain There’s nothing to do in Springfield. boots and a canoe for good measure. However, Wonders of Wildlife, food truck festivals, an ice rink, Andy you can’t do much about the tornadoes. B’s, car shows, First Friday Art Walks, a dueling piano bar, a lush It could be considered a humble brag. In 2007, nature center, cashew chicken, a giant fork — the list goes on. While Lambert’s Cafe, Cracker Barrel and Steak ‘n Shake Springfield topped Forbes’ rank for cities with “most variety” in weather, describing the unstable air, high embody Midwestern flavors, Springfield is home to Lebanese, winds and landlocked tornado valley as keeping things French, Indian, Thai, Italian, Korean and many more types of “interesting.” cuisine. There is a taste for every taste bud. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures Springfield has a variety of arts, foods and more, and is also reaching an average high of 90 degrees, and home to Bass Pro Shops’ headquarters. The majority of activities are indeed paid, but they are activities nonetheless. Final verdict? Myth. FreeImages.com/Andy Stafiniak
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Planning the night before can prevent that heart-sinking feeling while also establishing a routine that will come in handy later in the semester. After all, wearing your favorite t-shirt two days in a row never hurt anybody, but you won’t retain much from that 9 a.m. lecture if your eyes are half-shut and you don’t have any of the class’ materials.
Organization: The antidote to stress NOAH STANDISH Senior Reporter @NoahjStandish Your first steps onto Missouri State’s campus as a student will be equally exciting and overwhelming. At the end of a balmy, frantic move-in weekend, you’ll feel like a somewhat self-sufficient adult ready to take the next steps toward independence. Then comes syllabus week. What’s syllabus week, you ask? That’s where each of your professors outline their classes for the semester –– sometimes down to the day. But before you find yourself procrastinating at the Plaster Student Union Chickfil-A, here are a few tricks to help you stay focused throughout the semester.
Use a planner. Or three.
Remember those students in high school with the hardback planners and four different colored highlighters? That’s you now. Not only will a planner help you keep track of due dates, it will also help you learn to improve your time management skills — both of which will save you from a world of panic in the final days of the semester when four classes each happen to have papers due on Monday.
And that’s right before their respective final exams on Tuesday. Okay, that’s exaggerating. But only a little bit. “I always write down professors’ office hours and read over (my classes’) big assignments ahead of time,” Alexis Mundell, senior early childhood education major, said. “It helps me distribute my time so nothing ever surprises me.” The Baker Bookstore sells MSU-themed planners full of coupons and university events all packed into a space smaller than a sheet of paper. But if you need something a little bigger, you can also find larger, hardback planners at retailers like Walmart, Target or Amazon. “Last semester, I carried my planner around in my bag and wrote everything down to plan weeks ahead,” Marybeth Loganbill, junior accounting major, said. “I have the attention span of a goldfish, and I know otherwise I’ll forget.” Planners are useful for important due dates and online classes, so make sure you pick one up. Otherwise, you might miss a midnight deadline for another one of those online discussion board posts.
Revisit your notes
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Using a daily planner can help you keep track of long-term assignments.
those mornings where everything feels off. Maybe you’ll sleep through an alarm or two. Maybe you’ll spend 15 minutes fumbling through your closet unable to decide between two t-shirts. Maybe you’ll ignore the growls of your stomach as you rush out the door to class. Let’s be real –– it’ll probably be all three. But they can all be prevented with a little bit of prep the night before, and it can be as simple as laying out your clothes and filling your backpack with what you know you’re going to need the next day. Otherwise, you might get to class and open Night time = Prep time your backpack to find that you grabbed the At some point, you’re going to have one of wrong notebook for that 75-minute lecture.
If you don’t revisit your notes, what’s the point of taking them? Not only does it help reinforce your understanding of the content, it also helps clarify the scribbles hastily made before your professor changed the PowerPoint slide. Take time outside of classes to rewrite them, clarifying main points and key questions while putting those highlighters to good use. It takes less time than you think, and before you know it, you’ll have a refined version of the notes you could barely read. Try utilizing the two-column note-taking technique, focusing on main points and reactionary questions and sharing your notes with classmates shortly after lectures. College can lead to your first sense of independence, but it can also come with more responsibility than you’ve ever had. Establishing these organization and time management habits early on are effective ways to manage seemingly inevitable stress.
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Missouri State’s ever-changing appearance Photos by BAILEY VASSALLI | Staff Reporter | @baileyvassalli Story by NINA TODEA | Life Editor | @Todea_NinaM Students and families will notice construction always seems to be happening somewhere on campus. There’s no doubt about it; the Missouri State campus changes almost every month. Whether it’s in the form of new outdoor study areas, freshly planted trees, internal renovations or a completely new building, the campus is never the same as it was the year prior, putting the university architects to work and keeping students on their toes.
Missouri State has explored long-established, traditional designs as well as modern designs, replacing stone with glass and allowing the sun to fill meeting rooms and classrooms in the early morning hours. Depicted in the photos below, Missouri State continues its ever-changing appearance.
(Right) Freudenberger House’s U-shaped backlot wasn’t always barren. Previously, residents could enjoy an afternoon dip in the pool.
File Photos by MSU OFFICE OF VISUAL MEDIA
(Above left) Students socialize in a smaller, less extravagant student union. (Above right) Hill Hall, built in 1924, is currently undergoing renovations. (Left) Carrington Hall, located behind Plaster Student Union, preserves the traditional design of early MSU buildings. Carrington Hall, previously known as Academic Hall, is the oldest existing building on campus.
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Problematic Parking A student’s guide to parking on campus MEG ALEXANDER Staff Reporter @margaretjalex A student can learn many lessons throughout college: how to properly do laundry; how to create and form new ideas; how to balance social, academic, and emotional worlds; and how to live without the help of guardians; but Missouri State University students often learn one very challenging lesson — how to park on campus. Among most MSU students it is commonly understood Missouri State parking is both a struggle and a frustration. Even a previous Standard reporter, Matt Campanelli, wrote of the frustrations students have in his 2016 “Designed for life, not for parking” article. Could it be students just don’t understand parking, or is the parking available at Missouri State just too complicated and “anti-student?” Either way, like any resource on campus, it’s important for students to have an understanding of what is available to them. Cole Pruitt, transportation manager of the MSU Department
of Safety and Transportation, gives four suggestions to students experiencing parking for the first time. First, Pruitt said students should ask questions. “University parking is unique and in order to understand it, you must ask questions,” Pruitt said. Secondly, Pruitt says students should understand the parking regulations before bringing a vehicle on campus. All of Missouri State’s parking regulations are available online at the Regulations and Permit Information Requirements page on the safety and transportation website. Go to https:// www.missouristate.edu/safetran then click on Parking and Transportation and then Parking Regulations. Next, Pruitt asks students to be understanding. “Understand that Missouri State University is a beautiful campus and part of the beauty is in the fact that there is not a parking lot at every doorstep for each building,” Pruitt said. Lastly, Pruitt said he suggest students head to the North side of campus when they can’t find parking. Maddie Michalski, senior early childhood education major, said she had difficulty parking freshmen year but never really struggles to find parking when commuting. “Freshmen year parking was always complicated … it seemed that the parking lots were always full,” Michalski said. “Moving into the commuter lots did make a difference. Typically, the only trouble that I have with parking is at the beginning of the year. However, during high traffic class times it is sometimes
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During the first week of classes, students in cars line up to leave a campus parking garage.
hard to find parking. I try to get there a little early to make up for parking time.” A Missouri State interactive parking map including filters for the shuttle service and bikeways is located on the parking and transportation website at https://map.missouristate. edu. There are also print editions available at the parking and transportation office which can be reached Monday Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 417-862-4825 or at parking@missouristate.edu. Pruitt said MSU is constantly reviewing parking regulations. “We will be updating them again in August to provide additional information in areas that we have seen cause confusion,” Pruitt said. “We constantly are looking at additional parking resources and better ways to utilize the facilities that we currently have.”
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A taste of intramural sports KYLE DERRINGER Sports Reporter @Kyle_Derringer Many Missouri State Bears battle it out on the pitches, fields and gridirons every day of the week. However, they will never be seen competing at JQH Arena, Hammons Field or Plaster Stadium. These Bears are the same students that sit next to you in class, eat next you in the dining hall and may have awkward conversations with you in the elevator. These are the competitors of intramural sports on campus. Missouri State offers a variety of intramural sports, such as flag football, indoor and outdoor soccer as well as basketball. MSU campus recreation also offers some more interesting sports and competitions as well. A few lesser-known sports include roller hockey, archery tag, table tennis and even esports, competitive video gaming. Most intramural sports are split into different divisions based on skill level. The popular intramural sports — such as flag football and basketball — are split into many different leagues. The lowest level of competition, the “JustFreeImages.com/oshin beveridge For-Fun” league, accepts players of all skill
levels. Players range from people new to the sport to very skilled players who want a laid back game experience. For teams looking for higher competition, “Top Gun” leagues present more challenges. Most players will have high school varsity experience and some even have previous collegiate athletics experience. Some sports also have separate leagues for fraternities and sororities, allowing Fraternity and Sorority Life organizations to compete against each other for bragging rights. Multiple sports feature “Co-Rec” leagues. These leagues feature men and women on the same team and have rules in place to keep an even amount of men and women on the playing surface. Students can sign up to play intramurals through the My.MissouriState.edu page, which links to an outside website called “imleagues.” On imleagues, students can access all the sports and activities sponsored by MSU and sign up for teams. Instructions are also posted on fliers throughout the dorms and on-campus buildings. Many competitors play multiple intramural sports throughout the school year, such as Jake Handley, a senior economics major.
In his spare time, Handley likes to hang out with friends and stay active. Handley plays six intramural sports throughout the school year, which he said takes up a lot of his time outside of class and work. “I played sports in high school and I love competing,” Handley said. “Usually we play people better than me, but it’s fun, people show up to win even in the Just-For-Fun leagues.” Many other students play one sport exclusively. Students that might not be the most athletically talented can also find a sport that caters to them, such as Eric Spratt, a senior graphic design major. “I always like competing, but I’m not very good,” Spratt said. The center for his flag football team said he enjoys his role and the experience of playing intramurals. “I enjoy playing Just-For-Fun flag football,” Spratt said. “It’s competitive during the games, but it is laid back, and everyone gets along after the game.” A complete list of intramural sports, tournaments and policies and procedures can be found online at Campus Recreation.
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Let’s go clubbin’ Campus Recreation offers club sports that are more competitive than intramural sports COLE SUTTON Sports Reporter @ColeSutton23 Missouri State has more than 20 club sports organizations that participate in events locally and across the country representing the Bears. MSU’s mission regarding club sports is to provide opportunities for recreation and wellness that develop healthy and engaged citizens. The plethora of clubs offered to students are operated through the Campus Recreation department. MSU offers plenty of common club sports like baseball, hockey, soccer and tennis along with featuring peculiar clubs like esports, handball, archery and fishing. Whatever hobby you enjoy, the recreation department can lend a helping hand to find what drives you. Club sports also offer plenty of choices for both male and female Bears, with a men’s and women’s Ultimate Frisbee team, basketball, soccer and lacrosse. Club sports is an easy avenue to meet new people especially for first-year students trying to get acquainted to a new town with all new people. If you want the opportunity to bond with some new friends over sports, but might not have the most impressive skill set or don’t want the pressure of club sports, you can also join one of the many laid-back intramural leagues that Missouri State has to offer. Becoming apart of a club sport is as simple as reaching out to club officers, attending the new student festival and events and checking out Missouri State’s recreation center either in person or online according to the president of the men’s golf club team Jacob Weis. “Club sports give students opportunities to meet and hangout with friends and new people while playing sports,” Weis said. Club sports give students at MSU an avenue to continue playing the sport they love after high school, or introduce students to a new hobby they can learn and love throughout their years in Springfield. “Golf is a sport I love and enjoy,” Weis said. “It teaches you so many lessons that can’t be found anywhere else. My roommate and I founded the team two years ago and we have continued to grow each year.” Weis and the golf team look to have a roster of up to 20 people giving them enough members
for an A and B team. The team will compete in two tournaments competing with big time schools like the University of Missouri-Columbia and the University of Kansas, hoping to carry on momentum from their National Invitational Tournament wild card bid last season. Whether it is to take away all the stress college entails, or getting in some physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle, the Foster Rec Center and Campus Recreation at MSU have you covered. You can reach out to them with interest in joining club sports or intramural leagues at campusrecreation@missouristate.edu or give them a call at (417) 836-5334.
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Handball is one of many club sports offered through Campus Recreation. The MSU handball team won the United State Handball Association Championship Tournament in 2018. Students can join the handball team, or any other club team, by contacting Campus Recreation.
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Keeping up with MSU online EMILY COLE News Editor @EMCole19 Whether it’s essential announcements, sports updates or events postings, there’s a place to find information about Missouri State University: Twitter. There are many MSU Twitter accounts for departments, organizations and sports, among many other things. But here’s just a few that you should follow to keep up with your campus.
@MissouriState
Start with the big one. The official MSU account will give you announcements about what’s happening on campus, like winter weather class cancellations (if they actually happen) or internet outages (when they definitely happen). They often retweet sports or other campus goings-on, making it a great one-stop place to stay up to date.
@MissouriStBears
This is the official account for all MSU Bears athletics. Follow them for updates on all your favorite Bears sports — from football to softball to track. There are also separate accounts for most of the teams.
@MOStateSGA
Follow the MSU Student Government Association on Twitter to keep up with SGA. You can also follow 2018-2019 Student Body President Isaiah Villarreal at @MoStateSBP.
@msu_studentemp
The Office of Student Employment Twitter is a great account to follow if you’re looking for a job. They post and retweet job and internship opportunities for students, including a “Job of the Week.”
@ThePSUBear
The famous bronze statue herself. The photogenic black bear replica is a familiar sight to new and returning students alike, and she’s active on Twitter year-round.
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@ClifSmart
That’s right. MSU President Clif Smart is active year-round on Twitter. Check out his Twitter for academic encouragement, administrative updates and to follow along with Smart’s life on and off campus. Send him a shout-out! You never know, he may even “like” one of your tweets.
@TheStandard_MSU
Time for some shameless self promotion. The Standard account is your go-to place for any Standard content. Here, you can find all of the newspaper’s online articles as well as breaking news updates. Each reporter for The Standard also includes their Twitter on every article, so follow your favorites.
@Standard_Sports
The Standard’s companion Twitter, Standard Sports, brings you all the latest articles from the Standard Sports section, and retweets from sports reporters who are live-tweeting games.
@MSUUnivComm
Similar to the official university account, the Missouri State News Twitter will keep you up to date with what’s happening on campus. They also frequently post helpful tips and tricks to make college life a little bit easier.
@MSUcampushawk
MSU’s unofficial guardian of squirrels is also active on Twitter. You can find her flying high over campus searching for breakfast every morning.
@mostatefsl
This account is your best source to keep up to date with everything Fraternity and Sorority Life at MSU. They post and retweet news about FSL and various fraternities and sororities. They also post about FSL related activities, contests and events. If you’re part of FSL, your chapter may have a Twitter too.
@MOStateSAC
When it comes to campus events, there’s no better place to find out more than the MSU Student Activities Council Twitter. Any SAC event will be posted here, along with occasional giveaways and contests. Turn notifications on for this account to keep up with secret codes for free t-shirts or pop-up snack stands.
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From Bear to Bear: Missouri State gals will buy your stuff MONICA BLAKE Sports Reporter @monicablak3 As an incoming freshman, there are many different social media platforms that will help you stay connected to the campus community. One that some say is essential to specifically females on campus is the Facebook group Missouri State Gals Sell Your Stuff. The initial purpose of the group was to make a little money by selling things you don’t use or clothes you don’t wear. At the same time, other MSU students could find cheap items that fit their taste. Senior Macey Hurst, an agriculture business major and frequent visitor to the group’s page, said that it is now used for much more than just selling things. “I’d rather shop on there than Plato’s Closet,” Hurst said of the group. In addition to selling and buying clothes, Hurst said people ask for recommendations about anything from professors to beauticians. A recent post to the group asked for tattoo shop recommendations in Springfield. The user then commented that she had chosen to use one of the recommendations and loved it. Because of this sense of trust in others, Hannah Miller, a graduate post-baccalaureate non-degree, described the page as a community. “The best thing about that (group) is that everyone has to go to MSU to be in the group,” Miller said. This is made possible because Missouri State Gals Sell Your Stuff is a closed group. This means group admins must give people permission to join the group. In this case, the admins only add MSU students. Miller also said that while it is still possible, she has never had someone back out of a deal through Missouri State Gals Sell Your Stuff. She said that from her experience, it happens frequently on the Facebook Marketplace. “I usually meet up with other girls on campus during the day,” Miller said. “It is easier for both of us, and I have never felt unsafe that
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way.” The prices on the group are cheap, too. Since everyone involved is a college student, the seller usually asks for a price much lower than what they bought the item for, even if it’s in great condition. Formal dresses are often sold or even borrowed through the site. With over 5,000 members in the group, Miller said it is almost impossible to not be able to find
something that fits your needs. Other Facebook groups similar to Missouri State Gals Sell Your Stuff help foster the same sense of community on campus. Hurst said she is involved in a page for her major where members post internships, jobs, resume assistance and other helpful tools. Miller explained a similar page for her major and said that she is also a member of MSU Cattlemen’s Association, an organization on campus that many agriculture majors are a part of. She said it’s helpful to get to know other people in the organization and remember important information about the group. While Facebook may seem lost on our generation, it can be a helpful tool to stay connected to the Missouri State community.
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EditorFAILS Cortlynn Stark | Editor-in-Chief I walked into what I thought was my study session for my psychology class. Usually, graduate assistants, who I’d never seen before, would teach the reviews. But after about five minutes of a stranger not talking about what was going to be on the test, I realized I was in the wrong place, grabbed my stuff and left, tripping over flat ground on my way out.
Emily Cole | News Editor
Freshman year, I lived in a three-person room in Freddy. We had two mini-fridges. Life was good, until one day, when we bought a half gallon of milk. It only fit laying on its side. A few days later, we realized it had leaked out into the fridge. We cleaned it up and didn’t think it was a big deal. Then, our fridge started to smell like rotten milk. It didn’t go away even after a few days. As the weeks went by, it only got worse. We couldn’t open it. We refused to use it. We tried everything to remove the smell, but it never left. It haunts my memories to this day. To whoever lives in Freddy 477, if one of your fridges still smells like rotten milk — I’m sorry. Lesson: If you want milk for cereal, go to the dining hall. It’s free.
Nina Todea | Life Editor
For about a year or so, the sheer amount of people taking the elevator at once in Strong Hall was incredibly intimidating. Something about being in small, confined spaces with strangers doesn’t sit well with me. I refused to take the elevator. Instead, I would stubbornly walk up four flights of stairs and be wheezing by the time I got to class. I also spilled a full venti iced coffee all over my shoes in that same building. At least five people saw. No one offered to help. Strong Hall and I don’t have the best relationship.
Amanda Sullivan | Sports Editor
My first semester I had to take UHC 110 instead of GEP 101. On the first day of class, the professor walked in late wearing bamboo sandals and then spent the next 40 minutes talking about manure. It was horrible.
Bill Sioholm | Digital Editor
Back in freshman year, my roommates and I became really good friends with my RA. One night we decided that we were going to prank her. At about 2 a.m., we got a ton of Dixie cups and filled them all halfway with water and laid them in front of her door all the way across the hallway, preventing her from leaving without picking up each individual cup. Little did we know, she had an 8 a.m. exam the next day. We came home from dinner one night to both sinks, the toilet, water glasses and anything else that would hold water containing a gold fish. Additionally, our rooms had string tied from our doorknob through or around every single item in our rooms. Don’t screw with your RA.
Kaitlyn Stratman | Photo Editor
I spelled “journalism” wrong in a headline in the newspaper. Yes, I understand the irony.
Hanna Sumpter | Deputy News Editor
In one of my first semesters, I was extremely stressed out about my geology final. I read the finals schedule incorrectly. I stood for half an hour outside the classroom where the final was supposed to take place, and, during that time, I discovered I’d missed the final by an entire day. The professor finally arrived and, without saying much of anything, he walked me into the classroom and handed me the exam. So there I sat, scribbling down everything I knew about rocks and dirt while holding back tears. Make sure you know when your finals are folks! Not every professor will be that kind.
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Chestnut Expressway
On the Grid E Walnut St. Downtown Springfield
Kum & Go
Missouri State University
E Grand St. Walmart Pharmacy & Bakery
Phelps Grove Park
Springfield Art Museum
National Ave
Bass Pro Shops
Kimbrough Ave
E Sunshine St. Campbell Ave
Kansas Expressway
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Mercy Hospital
McDaniel Park
E Battlefield Rd.
Battlefield Mall
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Addresses
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Phelps Grove Park 950 E. Bennett St.
McDaniel Park
Bass Pro Shops
2405 S. National Ave.
Battlefield Mall
444 W. Grand St.
1935 S. Campbell Ave. 2825 S. Glenstone Ave.
Mercy Hospital
1235 E. Cherokee St.
Walmart
Springfield Art Museum 1111 E. Brookside Drive
Kum & Go
609 E. Elm St.
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MSU students share their worst roommate stories CARISSA ALFORD Staff Reporter @carissabalford The old saying “your best friend shouldn’t be your roommate” gets tossed around at most family gatherings right before someone’s first year of college and, let’s be honest, no one really listens to that advice. However, multiple women who spoke to The Standard said it is better to room alone. Fourteen women reached out to tell their “roommate from hell” story, sharing stories of bullying, inconsiderate or not clean roommates, their things being stolen, something happening between their roommate and their boyfriend, a lack of communication or being threatened. “There’s so much (to my story), but the moral is live alone,” said Casey Rees, junior recreation major. Rees lived with two other girls; one began stealing early on. “We would randomly start to find stuff missing and since we all met on Facebook, none of us knew each other,” Rees said. “So we had no idea who was stealing what.” Rees became close with her second roommate, Hannah, after the third started to fall behind on her rent. The two suspected the third roommate was stealing small stuff, such as food, makeup and other random things. One day they went downstairs to the third roommate’s room to turn her TV off, and found their stuff strewn across the room. Rees said things they didn’t even notice were missing were in her room.
“The last straw is what finally got her kicked out of the house,” Rees said. “She stole an entire month’s rent from me and Hannah.” Payton Evans, junior marketing and sales major, also had her things stolen when she lived in the dorms for a semester her freshman year. “I didn’t want to accuse anyone of anything, but after a month and a half, I opened up her desk drawer and like half my stuff was sitting right there,” Evans said. “Like my makeup and brushes, which is so gross.” This roommate also stole from the other residents in the room. Evans said her roommate would steal food and open packages of food that weren’t hers in front of them. Putting the stealing aside, her roommate hardly showered, according to Evans. “It started when all her stuff started to smell, and I realized she showered twice a week and never ever washed her sheets,” Evans said. Sophomore music education major RePhoto Illustration by KAITLYN STRATMAN/THE STANDARD becca Winn said that if there is something When searching for a roommate, consider whether your sleep, horrible going on at home, the best thing social or academic schedules will clash, making it difficult to to do is get away. “Go to the library, lie if you have to so live together. that you can get some space from that craziness,” Winn said. follow your gut feeling. A majority of the women who spoke With so many roommate horror stories, rooming alone may to The Standard were no longer friends with girls who they had seem like the safer option. However, most said it is best to known for years, proving those pesky family members right.
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Playing it safe on campus AFTON HARPER Staff Reporter @affie888 For some college students, it’s hard to realize that not everyone around campus is looking out for you. That’s why it’s important to know what safety precautions and tools are at your disposal at Missouri State University. Andrew Englert, associate director of Safety and Transportation at MSU, said there are many steps that Missouri State takes to ensure student safety. Englert said that MSU partners with the Springfield Police Department to give students access to a daily crime log of crime on or around campus. Englert also said there are 16 blue light poles around campus that students can utilize to directly contact the Department of Safety and Transportation if they don’t feel safe. Eight police officers, including a sergeant and a corporal, are always present on campus to assist students. “We have about 25 officers, who are patrolling campus 24/7 looking for irregularities,” Englert said. Students can call Missouri State’s Department of Safety and Transportation at 417-836-5509
to safely be escorted by an available officer to or from any academic building, parking lot or residence hall. But, crime is inevitably going to occur. Colleen Noland, sophomore Spanish and creative writing major, said her bike went missing after leaving it on campus during Christmas break last year. Noland recommends investing in a good bike lock and checking up on your bike regularly. “I think it was the bike lock that made my bike so easy to steal,” Noland said. “I’m probably going to get a more expensive bike lock next time and make sure to check on my bike more often because there would be days where I wouldn’t ride the bike and obviously leaving the bike over Christmas break wasn’t a very good idea since people probably knew kids weren’t on campus for a while.” Lisa Cox, public affairs officer for the Springfield Police Department, said that the most common crime that occurs around campus is property crime. Cox encourages stuPhoto Illustration by THE STANDARD dents to report any suspicious activity that Be on the lookout for suspicious activity on campus. they may see. “We just want to encourage students to re- occurring on the campus or in the campus area.” Cox also said there is an “obvious” property crime issue on campus due to people port all of it,” Cox said. “If things go unreportCox urges students to lock their doors and being too trusting of others. ed, it gets difficult to spot any trends that are be aware of their surroundings.
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2018-2019 Academic Calendar Fall 2018 • • • • • • • • • • • •
Aug. 20 — Classes begin Sept. 3 — Labor Day holiday (no classes) Oct. 9 — First Block classes end Oct. 10 — First Bock final exams Oct. 11-12 — Fall Holiday (no classes) Oct. 15 — Second Block classes begin Nov. 20 — Thursday evening classes (4 p.m. or later) meet; Tuesday evening classes do not meet Nov. 21-25 — Thanksgiving Holiday (no classes) Dec. 6 — Last day of classes Dec. 7 — Study Day (no classes) Dec. 8-13 — Final exams period for full semester and second Block classes Dec. 14 — Commencement
Spring 2019 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Jan. 7 — Winter Intersession classes begin Jan. 11 — Winter Intersession classes end Jan. 14 — Classes begin Jan. 21 — Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday (no classes) Feb. 18 — Presidents’ Day Holiday (no classes) Feb. 20 — Monday evening classes (4 p.m. or later) meet; Wednesday evening classes do not meet March 7 — First block classes end March 8 — First block final exams March 9-17 — Spring Break (no classes) March 18 — Second block classes begin April 18-21 — Spring Holiday (no classes) May 9 — Last day of classes May 10 — Study Day (no classes) May 11-16 — Final exams period for full semester and second bock classes May 17 — Commencement
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Seniors give life, school advice What to accomplish and how to accomplish it within your four years at Missouri State University BLAINE WHEELER Senior Anchor @blainewheeler21 Missouri State used to market itself to young students with the phrase, “follow your passion, find your place.” The university gives you the opportunity to both feel at home and amplify your passion, but how? Three successful Missouri State seniors shared with The Standard what to accomplish at Missouri State, giving tips on what makes your studies easier, confidence higher and the years more enjoyable. In college, people help people. College is not an easy process, and according to the students, trying to do it on your own makes it much harder. Missouri State offers many clubs, fraternity and sorority life and other organizations to find your place. Unanimously, the seniors advised to get out there, join something and meet as many people as possible. “It’s so important to hit the ground running freshman year,” senior public relations major Hannah Bogue said. “I think it is important to get involved in anything that makes your head turn during Bear Bash or any of the extracurricular booths at events.” Bradley Wright, Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. intern and senior finance major, said to put in the effort to meet people. “No matter what you study, or what you want to do, there is someone at Missouri State who knows someone else that can change your life,” Wright said. Jessica Worster, senior international business major, advises students to get involved with as much as possible. “I shied away from this idea for a little while, because I didn’t know what to expect academically from college,” Worster said. “The academics are completely doable as long as you set aside the time to do your homework, focus and attend class. The sooner you get involved the sooner you make good friends and make Missouri State feel like home.” When meeting others, including your pro-
fessors, you can broaden your horizons — that can give you a better idea of what you want your future to be. Academics, as Worster said, are the main reason you are here, and there are multiple ways for you to advance professionally and academically. All three students said they use the Bear Center for Learning and Writing, a tutoring resource offered in Meyer Library. Wright said it is a great resource. “If you have problems with school, use the Bear CLAW,” Wright said. “I have no problem saying I have had to reach out to them for tutoring help.” Bogue, who lost her mother to cancer her sophomore year, said her relationship with the university helped ease troubles she had balancing being at home and continuing school. “They were more supportive and understanding than I could have imagined,” Bogue said. “The faculty and staff at MSU are, in my opinion, the best. Their entire job is to help you succeed in higher education, and I did not realize that until I went through this, and they were so understanding, flexible and supportive.” While building yourself academically and socially, internships and opportunities will arise. All three students, who worked internships this summer across the nation, applied and received them with help of their advisors, deans and professors. “Reach out for help from those people (that you meet),” Wright said. “Though you may think that you are a burden, people naturally feel good when they help others, and people will be happy to help you.” The best way to advance and get better throughout the four years is simple. Meet, do and apply. Chances are, someone you ran into along the way can help you get better, so always be open to the ideas and help of people at MSU. Wright advises students to research the people that you want to be like and start acting like them in scenarios where that would help. “Once you find your passion, the university is your tool to make your passion become reality,” Wright said.
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It’s the same paper with a new team AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 My favorite thing about sports is that a team can have the same name, colors and fans, but it will never be the exact team it was in the past. The starters might be the same and the coaches might be the same, but the atmosphere changes with new players. That’s what it’s like at The Standard. We have the same name, set up and logo, but now we have new editors and fresh reporters. We have a new atmosphere. And just like with a new season, our team must find a way to work together, play to each other’s strengths and build on what we already know. Our team is composed of some of the most fantastic people I’ve worked with. Our team captain, Editor-in-Chief Cortlynn Stark, dappled in all areas of journalism: news, sports, life, photography. She’s more than ready to produce a paper worth reading. Just in the year I’ve known her, I’ve watched a girl struggling with conflict and organization make executive decisions and start using a planner. Photo editor Kaitlyn Stratman is our confidence booster and hardest worker. She’ll spend extra hours in the newsroom perfecting photos, editing videos and experimenting with page design. Her positive attitude can make even the worst day better. I’ve never met someone so eager to learn and share her knowledge. Our most vocal team member comes in a new face: news editor Emily Cole. During summer production and an internship, she is always contacting reporters, reminding them of deadlines and editing stories while still writing her
own. Communication is key to any team. Life editor Nina Todea is our utility player. She’s written and edited stories, taken and edited photos, shot and edited video, learned InDesign and managed social media accounts. Nina can take just about anything and perfect it. She’s the one you rely on to make the team better. Bill Sioholm is our specialist. Bill is our first digital editor. He’ll specialize in making online content enjoyable for our readers. From Twitter to Instagram to YouTube, he’ll keep you up-to-date on social media when it comes to any Standard content. Now, this column was supposed to be about me, but that just adds to what I believe my role is: the team player. I may not be the best or the fastest, but I will be the person you see at as many things as possible. I want to help others get better and improve, even if that means that they become better than me. I always grew up with the concept, “The best player will play.” And I still believe this should be the ideal even outside of sports. Selfish players take away from the team’s potential. If my job is to sit on the bench and cheer, that’s what I would do. If my job is to train new writers, that’s what I would do. That’s what I will contribute to The Standard this year and every year I am welcomed back to the staff. I will do what best benefits not only the readers but the writers. Each sports reporter has sports to cover and specialize in this year. They will get to know the staff and players of the team, build the trust, get to know the fans. Look for our reporters, talk to them, give them feedback. My job as the sports editor is to make this sports section the best it can be. I look forward to seeing you across campus and at games. See you all soon.
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Unranked: Football Bears look to improve from previous year’s 3-8 record AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 The Missouri State football team ended the 2017 season 3-8, going 2-6 in conference. The Bears played five ranked opponents: North Dakota, Illinois State, North Dakota State, Western Illinois and South Dakota State. All but North Dakota plays in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. “People keep saying that we’re going in the right direction, but I’m not good with directions,” head coach Dave Steckel said in an interview with The Standard before the 2017 season began. “I’m good with destinations. So, we need to get to a destination.” Steckel was unavailable for comment at the time of publication. In the end, the goal is to get to the championship, but, as Steckel said, there is work to be done. Overall, Missouri State opponents outscored the Bears by 155 points. The Bears earned 16 points off turnovers compared to their opponents’ 62. With Deion Holliman and Malik Earl’s
File Photos by KAITLYN STRATMAN /THE STANDARD
(Right) Senior Peyton Huslig throws a pass to senior wide receiver Aaron Denson. (Far right) A Missouri State running back escapes his defenders. The Bears are 8-25 under head coach Dave Steckel since his hiring.
graduation, the offense will need some rebuilding. Peyton Huslig comes into his senior year with great stats from his first year as a Bear. He averaged 180.1 passing yards and 56.5 rushing yards per game. Jared Beshore, who has one season of eligibility left, will lead the defensive side for the Bears. In his first three seasons as a Bear, he had 171 tackles and four interceptions. Sophomore Zack Sanders will also be a defensive asset with 27 tackles in his first season. Missouri State will start the season Aug. 30 at Oklahoma State. The Cowboys ended their 2017 season 10-3, outscoring their opponents by 203 points. The Bears will play at home against NCAA Division II member Lincoln on Sept. 6 and Northern Arizona on Sept. 15 before starting MVFC play Sept. 29 against Illinois State at home. As of Jan. 8, five Missouri State opponents were ranked FCS schools. North Dakota State and South Dakota State are in the top five, sit- File Photo by JESSICA HODGE/THE STANDARD ting at No. 1 and 3, respectively. Western Illi- The Missouri State Bears fell 30-62 against the South Dakota State nois, South Dakota and Northern Iowa are also Jackrabbits on Oct. 21, 2017. ranked at No. 13, 15 and 17, respectively.
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Senior Jason Randall celebrates after catching a pass during the Maroon and White football game on April 19.
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After looking for an open teammate to pass to, sophomore J.T. Granato decides to make a run. The Bears lost 62-30 to the South Dakota State Jackrabbits on Oct. 21, 2017.
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Emily Butters and Brianne Dixon celebrate after Lily Johnson's kill. The volleyball team lost to Michigan State 3-0 in the 2017 NCAA Tournament.
Bumping up the stakes
Missouri State volleyball team aims for fourth-straight NCAA Tournament
consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament. The goal this year? To do it again — only better. Lily Johnson’s graduation, along with three other senior In 2017, the Missouri State volleyball team won the reg- starters, leaves four positions on the court open and a bright ular season title, going 18-0 in the Missouri Valley Confer- leadership position to be filled as well. ence, won the MVC Tournament title and added a third “We’re going to be a very, very different team,” head Story by AMANDA SULLIVAN | Sports Editor Photos by KAITLYN STRATMAN | Photo Editor
coach Melissa Stokes said. The fall senior class is focused on making it to the NCAAs for the fourth-straight year. Under the leadership of senior Emily Butters, the team has spent the summer working in the gym preparing for four tournaments, including games against 2017 NCAA Champion
THE-STANDARD.ORG Nebraska, Texas A&M and Alabama, who could be a national title contender. In between the Dr. Mary Jo Wynn Invitational and the Texas A&M Invitational, the Bears will also travel to Kansas State for a match Sept. 4. Kansas State struggled in the 2017 season, ending with a 10-19 record. However, the Wildcats made it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2016. “(The Wildcats) had a little bit of a down year this last year which was kind of an anomaly for them,” Stokes said. “I really think they’re going to be good again.” The Bears play the University of Omaha in an exhibition match on Aug. 15. This is the first exhibition match the volleyball team has had. “I think it’s going to be a really good test for us early on to play against somebody different,” Stokes said. “Getting to play in that competition, and then the
Libero Emily Butters gets under the ball. In her first three years, Butters recorded 1,883 digs and 55 points.
THE STANDARD Maroon and White (Scrimmage) and the Alumni (Match), is going to be really good for this group to get as much competition in uniform under the lights as we can.” The Bears start the season at home with the Dr. Mary Jo Wynn Invitational Aug. 31. The end of the season will also be in Springfield as Missouri State will host the MVC Tournament. “This is a team that’s going to get better throughout the year,” Stokes said. “Having the conference tournament at home at the end of the year could be a real advantage for us.” MVC regular season for the Bears will start Sept. 21 at home against Illinois State.
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(Right) Former star Lily Johnson hits the ball over the net. With Johnson’s absence, Emily Butters has taken on a leadership role with the team. (Below) Emelile Orlando jumps up to set. The team lost to Michigan State 3-0 in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament.
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Steadfast in the sand Missouri State beach volleyball looks to build off 17-game inaugural season BRYCE DERRICKSON Sports Reporter @BruceyD17 Missouri State’s beach volleyball completed its first ever season with a 7-10 record at Missouri State. While the Bears had a losing record, they managed to gain experience facing five nationally ranked teams and others with solid programs. “(The experience) helped tremendously because the girls got to see what the beach style is like,” head coach Terri Del Conte said. “It was really cool to see how fast they would grow when they got to play against more experienced teams because they would see what it looks like to play together at the high level.” The team went to places such as California and South Carolina to face schools who’ve been playing beach volleyball longer. Del Conte said facing other schools have showed her what beach volleyball is like at the Division I level.
“It’s still a newer sport, so it’s really kind of cool to see how other schools host, how things are run, what the environment is like,”Del Conte said. “So, there were a lot of things that we were able to open our eyes to this year as an entirety of our program.” With competing against other top schools and competing across the country, junior Julia Hanson hopes to create a name for MSU. “I think when we came out there was a lot of respect for our program and head coach Terri and I think we continue to own up to that and continue to show everyone what we got,” Hanson said. “ I want to make a name for Missouri State and that’s the bottom line.” Last season Del Conte said she wanted to compete and have fun. Now, with a foundation and returning most of her roster, Del Conte hopes to introduce harder training to the team. “I’m going to push them even more. We’re going to start implementing a little more complex drills and technique work coming in,” Del Conte said. “I’m excited to have a full offseason with a full roster. That’s going to be
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Sam Brinkmann and Mikaela Mosquera celebrate after scoring a point in a match against the Ottawa Braves. exciting because we didn’t have that last year.” Missouri State only played one home match last season sweeping Ottawa University in all 10 sets. Next year the team expects to play more at home.
“We already have March 22-23 secured for our hosting tournament,” Del Conte said. “So, we’re going to host three other teams along with us, and we’re going to see if we can get one other home match somewhere along the way as well.”
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After years of improvement, cross country team is hungry for more success MONICA BLAKE Sports Reporter @monicablak3 After a fifth place finish in the Missouri Valley Conference championships last year, the Missouri State cross country team is hungry for further improvement. The Bears placed last in head coach Jordan Fife’s first year. Four years later, they placed fifth — their highest finish since 2011 when they placed fourth. “Fifth was a little bit of a surprise to be honest,” Fife said. The team’s goal before the conference meet, according to Fife, was to move out of eighth place — a spot they sat in for two years. During the last kilometer of the MVC race, the Bears were in sixth by a large margin. Multiple runners moved up tremendously in that last portion of the race. Fife said it was a testament to the ladies on the team and their work ethic. The cross country team needs the same determination and grit seen in the last kilometer of the MVC championships race, to accomplish their goals this year. This includes being in the top three teams at the end of the season. “On paper we can be better,” Fife said. “I don’t see why there’s any reason why we can’t be one of those top three teams.” The team will be losing an influential senior, Jessica Allen. She led the team on the course and in the classroom for years. Sophomore Grace Breiten is prepared to take over Allen’s leadership role. Breiten trained with Allen for two years, redshirting her freshman year due to injury. “Although (Allen) won’t be at MSU with us anymore, the things she taught us, the advice she gave us and her legacy in general will live on in this program forever,” Breiten said. Last season, Breiten contributed to the team at the MVC meet and the NCAA regional meet. She believes that furthered success at the MVC championships is possible with hard work and positivity. “I think we left each meet feeling encouraged — but never satisfied — as we were hungry for more success,” Breiten said. “We are still looking to build our young team developmentally and make a name for ourselves.” A new face to most outsiders, redshirt
freshman Jasmine Crawford, will likely help the Bears continue in their success. Crawford suffered a season-ending injury after the J.K. Gold Classic hosted by Wichita State, the Bears’ first competition last year. She placed 19th overall and second among her teammates, behind only Allen. Fife was excited about being able to add her into the mix this season. Fife said Crawford and the team know what she’s capable of. He was spot on. Crawford is excited to contribute. “While last year was tough mentally and physically, I really think I came out of it stronger and more prepared to contribute to the success of our team,” Crawford said. The team is young with the talent and drive to make some big moves. Using Allen’s impressive career to guide them, the cross country Bears hope to be even better than last year.
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The cross country team placed fifth in the Missouri Valley Conference championship in 2017, their highest finish since 2011 when they placed fourth.
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What’s next for the Ice Bears? CLAIRE NIEBRUGGE Sports Reporter @claireniebrugge The Ice Bears — Missouri State’s club hockey team founded in 2001 by Stan Melton — sat at 17th in the nation at the end of last season. Missouri State’s team originally began as a Division III team, but in 2003 they moved up to Division II. The Ice Bears made their mark during the 2013-14 season by winning a regional series for the first time in club history. That same season, they went on to nationals and finished sixth out of 200 teams in the country in Division II competition. “That kind of really put the team on the map so to speak at that point.” Steve Casson, director of broadcasting and media for the Ice Bears, said. “They followed that up the following year, 2014-15, and ending up going to the nationals again.” After back-to-back trips to nationals, the question became, “When do we make the move to Division I?” The Ice Bears looked into the Western Collegiate Hockey League. The WCHL is one of the most successful and competitive leagues in the game, making it desirable to be a part of. As of this year, three out of the last five national title winners
came from the WCHL. “We were able to move into the WCHL because we had a travel partner, which was Arkansas,” Casson said. “But at the same time, we also have the reputation of being a club that is worthy of admittance into the WCHL.” During the 2015-16 and 2016-17 seasons, the Ice Bears dipped their skates into the water, feeling out the Division I competition. The Ice Bears showed a lot of promise in those first years, finishing the seasons with great accomplishments. The attitude of the entire program changed in the most recent season for the team. The Ice Bears knew one thing: becoming a national contender had to become the norm. The top 20 teams will go to nationals. However, due to auto bids, teams must really be in the top 17 to move on to postseason action. “We made it this past season as number 17,” Casson said. “The next discussion is, we’re not going to squeak in at 17th. We will be top 10 for next season.” “We have high promise and high hopes as we have a really good group of returning players and the addition of some new recruits,” head coach Jeremy Law said. Law has coached for 14 years, bringing each team to the postseason. Law doesn’t see that trend ending anytime soon. “Our goal is to be a top 10 team in the country, and I think
“Our goal is to be a top 10 team in the country.” -Jeremy Law
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Forward Alex Turin, now graduated, carries the puck up the ice in a game against the University of Arkansas.
all the ingredients are there to make that happen,” Law said. “It’s just a matter of going out and taking care of business on the ice.” However, returning players are not guaranteed a spot on next year’s team. Tryouts will be held in late August to determine who will make the Division I team. Their home opener will be held the following weekend on Sept. 14-15 for a series against the University of Alabama.
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BUILT (DANA) FORD TOUGH. Missouri State’s men’s basketball starts new era with a fresh coaching staff and five transfers BLAINE WHEELER Senior Anchor @blainewheeler21 Headlines are big. Expectations are high. But, the program is under construction. The Bears started the season’s excitement by hiring former Tennessee State head coach Dana Ford in hopes of bringing in new fans and new life to the Missouri State basketball program. Ford rebuilt the Tennessee State program, leading the Tigers to three consecutive seasons above .500 for the first time since 1992-96 as
well as a two-week trip in the AP Top 25 Rankings and the programs third 20-win season ever. In his new home Ford is trying to reconstruct the culture in the same way but said it’s not an immediate process. “I’m excited about some of the recruiting news we have gotten and as well as building up a quality program, a place that we feel like could be one of the best, especially in the Missouri Valley,” Ford said. Ford, in mixing roster spots with Paul Lusk products and recruits of his own, finally has a set roster. Sophomore point guard Mustafa Lawrence — who started nine games last season — and Reggie Scurry — who was involved in the mid-season cryotherapy incident — are no longer at MSU. Recent incoming transfer Darnell Butler Jr. also announced his leave to join Scurry at Middle Tennessee State. Abdul Fofana who was also injured in the crisis is redshirting to open up a scholarship
spot and get back to 100 percent health. Returning senior starters center Obediah Church, guard Jarred Dixon and guard Ryan Kreklow have performed well in summer workouts, according to Ford. Redshirt freshman center Darian Scott, junior guard Ross Owens and highly anticipated local redshirt freshman guard Jared Ridder will get the opportunity to make and play through mistakes, Ford said. The opportunity will be the same for many newcomers Ford is bringing in with open scholarship spots. Early in the summer, Ford signed two athletic 6-foot-10-inch Polish freshmen forwards Syzmon and Jan Wojcik. “There was a scout who saw them play in their professional league as amateurs and relayed that message back to people here in the states, and, through relationships, we got wind of the people who have evaluated, and we put the full court press on,” Ford said. Associate head coach Corey Gipson made
a trip to Europe to visit with the Wojcik family before they made an official visit. Ford said their mother liked the atmosphere and the fact that they were going to be together. Five transfers complete the other open roster spots in addition to the six returning players from Lusk’s squad. Only three of the five new transfers are eligible to play next season due to NCAA transfer rules. Former Nevada point guard Josh Hall — who averaged 13.0 points per game in the Wolfpack’s Sweet 16 run last year in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament — joins alongside South Florida forward Tulio Da Silva, who set the school’s freshman-rebounding record two seasons ago with 203. The two will sit out until next season. Junior college transfers forward Kabir Mohammed, guard Keandre Cook and former Texas Tech guard Josh Webster will all be eligible to play next season. The new additions are pieces the Bears are
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Senior Obediah Church shoots the ball. Church earned a spot on the Missouri Valley Conference All-Defensive Team with 60 blocked shots and 104 defensive rebounds.
The Missouri State basketball team defeated Western Kentucky in opening game of the 2017-18 season 85-80. The Bears will play Western Kentucky again in the 2018-19 season under new head coach Dana Ford.
THE-STANDARD.ORG putting together to compete with some of the best and will in the early stages of this year’s season. The Bears, in an attempt to ramp up quality non-conference scheduling, will play in the Hall of Fame Classic Nov. 19-20 against Southern California, Nebraska and Texas Tech at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, Missouri. In a carryover from last year’s scheduling, Western Kentucky will come to JQH Arena in the first month of the season. Once scheduling spots are filled, the Bears expect an uptick in season ticket holders and will look to entertain them throughout the winter season.
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Junior Ross Owens jumps to block the shot of his Wright State opponent in the 2017-18 season. In his sophomore season, Owens played in 13 games as a sophomore after walking on his freshman year.
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Senior Ryan Kreklow shields the ball from his Western Kentucky opponent. In his junior season, Kreklow started 10 of his 33 appearances.
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The Missouri State basketball team lost to Southern Illinois at Arch Madness. Paul Lusk was fired recently after, and Dana Ford was hired on as the new head coach.
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Harp-ing on success Young Lady Bears prepare for tough home schedule with summer workouts AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 The Lady Bears took a season of injuries, fresh players and high standards and turned it into a winning year with an appearance in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament semifinals and a trip to the Women’s National Invitation Tournament. “I think there are a lot of things to be excited about,” head coach Kellie Harper said. “Our standards are really high for our program. … I think there was a lot (from last year) that we can be excited about.” The Lady Bears 14-player roster will include five freshmen, six sophomores, two juniors and just one senior this season. While no freshman started a game in the 2017-18 season, many of them gained experience on the court last year. Abby Hipp and Elle Ruffridge played in all 33 games during their freshman season, com-
bining for just over 900 minutes. Last year’s redshirt freshmen Brice Calip and Emily Gartner played in 33 and 32 games, respectively. Harper said she saw growth and excitement from the players during summer workouts. “We’re really trying to find ways to push them,” Harper said. “They’re very willing. They want to do what we ask them to do; they want to be good.” The 2018-19 schedule for the Lady Bears is not yet finalized, but Harper said a tough home schedule is in the works before MVC play picks up. The Lady Bears will play Mizzou for the sixth-consecutive year. “We have a lot of really good teams coming in to play here at JQH Arena,” Harper said. “It’s going to be a huge challenge for our team, and it’s something that I’m looking forward to and (the players) are too. When they come to school here, they know they’re going to play a tough schedule — they know that’s part of the deal — and I think they’re really excited about it.” With so few upperclassmen, Harper said the
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Brice Calip dribbles toward the basket. Calip averaged 7.2 points and File Photo by BRADLEY BALSTERS/ THE STANDARD 4.2 rebounds per game as a redshirt Freshman Elle Ruffridge goes for a freshman. layup last season against Southern team will look to all players to step up and lead. Illinois. Ruffridge ended the season “I think we have quite a bit of talent on our shooting .262 and averaged 13.5 roster, and a big challenge for us is going to minutes and 3.2 points per game. be meshing that talent together,” Harper said. “I’m looking forward to some leaders stepping up and helping with the team chemistry.”
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Chlorine: the breakfast, lunch and dinner of champions MSU swim dives head-first into a new year after successful 2017-18 conference season AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 In 2018, the Missouri State men’s and women’s swim teams won their conferences. Out of the five sports with men’s and women’s teams at MSU, they were the only ones to have both earned championship titles. The men’s championship came in the Mid-American Conference. Ten gold-medal finishes, including three relays, boosted the men to the top of the Mid-American Conference. Antonio Thomas and Artur Osvath walked away with two individual medals each, while Lucas Paloschi, Christopher Heye and Blair Bish walked away with individual medals. Osvath and Bish will return for their senior seasons. Thomas and Paloschi will return for their junior seasons. The women’s victory came in the Missouri Valley Conference, where the team walked away with nine individual champions and a sweep of the five relay events. Libby Howell finished her freshman season with three gold medals and the MVC Freshman of the Year accolade. Anna Miller also walked away with two gold medals her freshman year. Combined, the two Bears swept the freestyle events, a feat head coach Dave Collins hopes to see again.
While 24 gold medals boosted both teams to the top, Collins believes the team’s true success came from the depth of talent. “Depth is just as important as the top end,” Collins said. “Something that we take a lot of pride in is really developing an entire balanced team. That’s how you win championships: You’ve got to be balanced, and you’ve got to have key depth. You’ve got to have contributions from all types of athletes.” File Photo by KAITLYN STRATMAN/THE STANDARD Talent played a part in the team’s sucMSU swimming and diving defeated Drury University on Oct. 27. cess, but so did a strong team dynamic. In an interview during the spring 2018 semester, Bish mentioned the team hangs out almost all season for the first time in the women’s team history; however, of the time between practices, study hall and living together. the meet will be at the Mizzou Aquatic Center. In recent years, “The team dynamic is something we talk about all year,” Northern Iowa hosted at the University of Iowa’s swimming Collins said. “It’s one thing to say it and say it’s a goal, and it’s complex. “Even though we’re not hosting on our own campus, we another to actually see it come together and watch that.” The Bears’ schedule is still being finalized, but Collins have the opportunity to be the host site, and we’re looking notes that road trips will be more frequent than they were last forward to that,” Collins said. season, including trips to Kansas, Iowa and Mizzou. The Bears will face their annual Homecoming competitor The Bears will host the MVC Championships in the 2017-18 Drury on the Friday of Homecoming weekend, Oct. 19.
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The MSU women’s soccer team bow their heads together after winning the second MVC championship in the program’s history.
One step at a time BRYCE DERRICKSON Sports Reporter @BruceyD17 The Missouri State women’s soccer team won the Missouri Valley Conference Championship for the first time since 2000, making it to the NCAA tournament. Now, they hope they can make it further in the postseason. Missouri State managed to tie Oklahoma State at one, sending the game into overtime. But the Bears would fall in a penalty shootout 3-2, ending their tournament appearance in round one. Since the Bears have now tasted a bit of the tournament, head coach Rob Brewer hopes they can make it even further this year. “(We want) to have a little more success at the NCAA level,” Brewer said. “We’ve only been there twice, and basically, we played to a draw and lost on penalty kicks. You tell me, what’s better than a draw? A win. “Maybe it’s as small of increment as finishing a penalty kick, getting a draw and advancing. Maybe that’s the next or maybe it’s a win. But you know if we can keep our mantra of moment to moment, then once you achieve that, you can start attacking.” The team is losing valuable seniors MVC tournament MVP Brooke Zimmerman, two-
time All-MVC First Team midfielder Mary Disidore and Rachel Catrell who played all four years. Brewer said he was nervous about the team going into the spring games, but he was happy to see how the talent spread out. Brewer also said they have seven freshmen coming in. While he doesn’t know if they will play next year, he does think there will be a lot of reasons for excitement. The schedule is out for Missouri State for the 2018 season. All MVC games will be played at the end of the regular season, making the final stretch of the season even more important for the Bears. Brewer said they have a couple of things going against them. One is having a target on their back after winning the MVC, where Drake was the No. 1 seed and clinched the MVC title. The second is having an unbalanced conference schedule. “We have four games on the road and only three games at home in the league, which will determine the seeding,” Brewer said. “We’ve got a lot more work to do, and we don’t expect things to just fall in place. We know there are going to be challenges and I think we’re going to be aggressively looking forward to that.”
“You tell me, what’s better than a draw? A win.” -Rob Brewer
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The MSU men’s soccer team celebrates after forward Conor Ingram scored a goal against Oral Roberts last fall.
Turning the page
Missouri State men’s soccer looks to rebound after losing in MVC Tournament championship COLE SUTTON Sports Reporter @ColeSutton23 Last season proved to be an impressive one for the Missouri State men’s soccer squad. The Bears went 9-5-3 on the year and captured the Missouri Valley Conference regular season conference championship. A major staple of MSU’s regular season success last season was their record on the road within their conference. The Bears went 3-0-1 against MVC teams, and that was an momentum booster, according to one of Missouri State’s assistant coaches, Colt Reichl. “Being able to take three points on the road is huge,” Reichl said. “Those big road wins can be a great boost of energy going into another game because the season is so short.” While the regular season showed plenty of promise, their postseason dreams were cut short after a heartbreaking 1-0 loss in overtime to Central Arkansas in the MVC Tournament. “It was a tough way to end (the season) because I think all the boys and the staff felt that this was a team that could’ve kept playing,” head coach Jon Leamy said. “It was hard to see it end. It was a good growth process, but every year is a new year.” The focus moving forward to this upcoming season will be the Bears looking to carry on their great tactical play into another run at the MVC title, along with a shot at qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. The Missouri State roster will look a bit different this season as four seniors graduated, including
starting goalie Liam Priestley. “We did have a couple key guys graduate, but we have a good group of young guys who I think are hungry to get back and go further,” Reichl said. The coaching staff is looking toward their younger talent to step up and develop into bigger roles this season. “Leaders seek their own opportunities on and off the field; we’ve already had chances for leaders to emerge,” assistant coach Jack Roberts said. Leamy is looking forward to the first practice of the year and shifting focus on getting back out on the field and improving his squad each day in preparation for exhibition and regular season matchups. Leamy discussed the importance of getting supporters to show in force for their home fixtures. “We play for our students,” Leamy said. “That’s why we have a team, that’s why we’re at this university, for the kids that make our university — the student body.” The Bears kick off their regular season on Aug. 24 on the road against University of Missouri-Kansas City in Kansas City. Their first home match is Aug. 27 against California State, Fullerton, followed by University of Nebraska on Sept. 3, Santa Clara on Sept. 10 and University of Missouri–Kansas City on Sept. 15. Their home MVC play begins against Valparaiso Sept. 22 in Springfield, and will conclude MVC play with a home match against Central Arkansas — the team who ended their 2017 season — Nov. 3.
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A senior-stacked drive Men’s golf eyeing return to MVC championship KENNEDY BRIGHT Sports Reporter @KennedyBright24 The Missouri State men’s golf team ended its 2017-18 season tied for fourth place at the Missouri Valley Conference Championship in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. “It was a disappointing finish to a great season,” head coach Neal Stafford said. “We felt good and were ready going into the Valley championship, but we weren’t able to get the job done. We all learned a great deal from the week that should fuel us this summer and coming into the 2018-19 season.” A strong group of upperclassmen should play a great deal in the team’s success this coming season. With seniors Brad Carpenter, Adam Fisher, Kory Franks and Jack Knoesel at the forefront leading the team, their collegiate experience and IQ of the game physically and mentally will boost their performance and knowledge for the underclassmen. Newcomers Austin Enzbrenner from Owasso, Oklahoma, and Carter Lee from Tillamook, Oregon, mean the Bears have built a roster ready to compete in 2018-19. With each season being a learning experience, Stafford feels the team understands more and more that each shot is very precious. With its league and schedule being so competitive from top to bottom, the Bears have to be locked in on every decision on the golf course. As the Bears spend their summer compet-
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Men’s golf looks to build off of a fourth-place finish last year at the Missouri Valley Conference Championship in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
ing on their own, Knoesel got off to a great start, winning the Richard Poe Invitational in Columbia, Missouri, finishing ahead of several other collegiate players, including a sudden-death playoff victory over a current Mizzou Tiger. “I think our comfort level will be very high this next season,” Stafford said. “Our schedule is the best it’s been since I’ve been here, and I am very excited for the opportunities that await.”
“We all learned a great deal from (the Missouri Valley Conference Championship) that should fuel us.” — Neal Stafford
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Former MSU golfer Stine Pettersen hits a shot at the MSU/Payne Stewart Memorial in Sept. 2017.
Women’s golf’s season ends with second-straight conference championship KYLE DERRINGER Sports Reporter @Kyle_Derringer The Missouri State Women’s Golf team made their second straight NCAA Regionals appearance after winning the Missouri Valley Conference tournament for a second season in a row. The Bears were spearheaded by now-departed seniors Virina Gimmy, the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year, and Stine Pettersen. Last year’s team also featured rising senior Rachel Johnson, the conference tournament individual champion. The Bears’ season was marred with inconsistency, head coach Kevin Kane said. The Bears averaged an eighth place tournament placing throughout the regular season, but pulled out two key tournament wins. “We played best when it counted the most,” Kane said. Coach Kane said the plan for the season was simple; to repeat as conference champions. After a long, up-and-down season, they completed that goal. The Bears’ roller-coaster season started in September with a fifth place finish out of 15 teams at the Payne Stewart Memorial, hosted by MSU. They went on to place 11th out of 17 teams at the Oral Roberts Shootout, and 13th out of 14 teams at an invitational hosted by the University of Missouri. The Bears then placed third out of 11 teams at the Missouri Valley Conference Preview tournament in October. Then-junior Rachel Johnson tied for second place among individual scores. The team then headed to the Little Rock Classic to finish out the fall portion of the season. The Bears won the 15-team tournament after jumping three spots in the standings on the last day of the tournament. Gim-
my placed first in the individual standings after starting off the final day in sixth place. Senior Stine Pettersen tied for fifth, and juniors Rachel Johnson and Ashley Childers tied for 34th. Bridget Schulte finished the final round of the tournament shooting a 76, sealing the Bears’ win. “We didn’t start out (the season) the greatest, but we got better,” Kane said. The Bears started the second half of the season in February at the Rio Verde Invitational in Arizona. They pulled a ninth place finish out of 17 teams. The Bears were led by Gimmy, who placed 11th individually. The team then placed eighth of 16 squads in a tournament hosted by MVC foe Bradley. The squad then had another setback, with a 14th place finish out of 15 teams at a late season tournament in Tucson, Arizona. The Bears’ highest individual placing was Stine Pettersen, who tied for 19th. They continued at the Dale McNamara Invitational in Tulsa, where they placed last out of 13 teams. However, the team’s fortunes would take a drastic turn at the Missouri Valley Conference championship tournament in mid-April. The Bears would shoot one below par on the last day of the tournament to solidify a firstplace finish, winning the conference championship title. The Bears then finished their season with an NCAA regionals appearance in Austin, Texas, placing 17th of 18 teams. Kane said it is important for the team to carry its success and the feeling of knowing how to win from the last two seasons into the coming season. The team, Kane said, will need to make adjustments for next season. “We are going to have a lot of new faces, but a conference championship is definitely at the top of the list,” Kane said.
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Making a racket Women’s tennis looks to build off championship season AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 The Missouri State women’s tennis team shocked everyone with their postseason championship win over Northern Iowa. Since the program’s reinstatement in 2014, head coach Mallory Weber worked toward making it to that moment. In her first three years, the Bears placed seventh twice and sixth once in the Missouri Valley Conference. Going into the spring of 2018, the MVC preseason poll predicted the Bears to place fifth overall. “In the beginning it was very much a building process and trying to just build that foundation to get some traction and to help grow the program,” Weber said. “Especially in that first year, there were so many growing pains. … Coming into this year, it all just clicked together.” Weber told the team at the beginning of the season she believed they could be a championship team. While the Bears stayed optimistic, Weber believed they thought, “Oh, that’s a cool goal, but I’m not so sure.” As the season wound down and MVC regular
season began, the goal became attainable. The Bears won three of their five matches, only losing to 4-3 to Illinois State and 5-2 to Drake. Missouri State defeated Bradley 4-0 to start the championship. In the Bears’ second match, they earned the doubles point — something they failed to do during the regular season — and eventually won 4-2. In the championship match, they won 4-2 over Northern Iowa. “Beating the first seed (Drake) was unbelievable,” senior Phoebe Boeschen said. “Coming out and winning that, and then winning it all was incredible.” During the fall Individual Championships, Boeschen placed second in Flight 3. For her, her rank on the team didn’t affect her play as long as she gave her best for the team. Junior Alye Darter felt the pressure of being No. 1 in both singles and doubles for her first two years on the team. In order for a successful season Darter believes the Bears need to keep doing what they did all through the spring season: supporting their teammates. “We really came together as a team this year,” Darter said. “A lot of the time, when someone loses their match they just kind of get
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The women’s tennis MVC championship win was the program’s first since its reinstatement in 2014. really down and don’t care anymore. I think, even if you lost your match, we were right there next to each other and ready to cheer for each other. We moved on from our own matches to help support the team.” The Bears are scheduled to host the 2018 MVC Individual Championships, and they hope to earn more titles in the coming year.
“Going into year two after winning a conference championship, there’s no reason that we can’t repeat,” Weber said. “We have so many talented players coming back. ... That’s going to be our mindset that we want to be a championship team — or at least put ourselves into that position — year after year because we can do that.”
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Re-lax-ed under pressure Winning culture leads to success for Missouri State’s club lacrosse team MONICA BLAKE Sports Reporter @monicablak3 The club lacrosse team at Missouri State continues to make a name for itself through success on the field. The team was established in 2003, and since then, they have slowly become a more recognized team on campus. The lacrosse team is a non-varsity sport at Missouri State. This means they are not funded by the school, but rather, by the players. In recent years, this hard work and dedication has shown at the end of the season. For years, the lacrosse Bears were members of the Great Rivers Lacrosse Conference. In 2017, they won their conference championship, allowing them to make an NCAA appearance. Last year, the lacrosse team switched to the Lone Star Alliance conference. “We ended up switching conferences after winning the GRLC last season to a more competitive conference based out of Texas,” senior Justice Greenberger said. “(We) ended up winning that one as well.”
Prior to the win in 2017, the lacrosse team had not won a conference championship since 2010. Their recent success can be attributed to a newfound culture. “Coming out on top of our conference is good, but one of the things that got me most excited is we really set the culture of our program the way it needed to be set,” coach Dustin Rich said. This culture can mostly be attributed to two things: senior leadership and family atmosphere. Last season, the coaches made a decision to include captain-run practices once a week. Both the coaches and the players thought these practices were instrumental in developing the new culture. “We all thought those practices were extremely beneficial in building a relationship with each other on the field,” Greenberger said. Rich and the rest of the coaching staff plan to implement these practices again this season. They believe a lot of the improved culture can be attributed to those practices. “We experimented with that a little bit,” Rich said. “One of the things we felt really strongly about was trying to develop the culture
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MSU’s lacrosse team has won two conference championships since 2010. and the leadership and I think adding those practices in really helped do that.” Another interesting aspect of this team is the family dynamic. This is present not just between the athletes, but with the coaching staff, too. Senior David Beermann has a special experience with the family dynamic of this team. After his mother passed away and he was debating if he still wanted to play lacrosse, the team and coach Rich were influential in his decision to keep playing.
“Coach Rich and multiple guys would call me daily and just ask how I’m doing,” Beermann said. “I had guys from Kansas City driving to St. Louis just to see me and hang out. To me, friends who go the extra mile for you aren’t just friends anymore, they become family.” The new culture of the lacrosse team has led them to success. They plan to use this culture to continue to excel this season and do something they’ve never done before: make the NCAA tournament three times in a row.
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Getting back into the swing of it Missouri State’s baseball team looks to advance without key players AMANDA SULLIVAN Sports Editor @mandasullivan14 The Missouri State baseball team will enter the fall offseason without a set shortstop, right fielder, third baseman and three pitchers. Dylan Coleman, Jeremy Eierman and Hunter Steinmetz all continued their baseball careers over the summer in the San Diego Padres, Oakland Athletics and Toronto Blue Jays organizations, respectively. The Bears also lost Ryan Skalnik, Matt Brown, Jake Fromson, Austin Knight and Landan Ruff. Brown started 54 of the 57 games the Bears played during the spring. Brown — who played third base — ended the season with a .537 slugging percentage and 14 home runs. Skalnik and Ruff com-
bined for 47 games started and 18 RBIs. Fromson entered the 2018 season recovering from an elbow injury and pitched a career-low 18 games. However, by the end of the season, Fromson had a 3.34 ERA through 29 2/3 innings. Knight started eight of his nine appearances. The incoming freshman class has seven pitchers, and, according to head coach Keith Guttin, all have the possibility to start. Guttin also said Alex Moore will be back for the 2019 season after missing the 2018 season due to an arm injury. “We’re encouraged by our potential on the mound,” Guttin said. “Because all of these guys were starters in high school, you begin with thinking they may be able to start. But, you also have to mold the pitching staff that includes middle relievers, long relievers and guys
that can finish a game.” With empty spots in the starting lineup, Guttin will look at returners and newcomers to decide who will fill the roles. Steinmetz primarily played center field for the Bears, but junior Jack Duffy looks like a promising fit. Duffy played all 57 games for the Bears, recording 120 outs. Guttin will also look for someone to fill the shortstop position left open by Eierman. Guttin mentioned several names including sophomore Sam Faith, newcomers Mason Hull, Collin Clayton and Javier Ramos, who pitches and plays in the infield. “That’s what the fall is all about,” Guttin said of the search to fill open positions. Last year, the Bears reached their yearly goals: winning the regular season title and the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament. Winning the tournament automatically qualifies the Bears for a spot in an NCAA Regional, a place the Bears have reached in three of the last four years. “The guys gave us all they had,” Guttin said. “There were a lot of positives; I felt like some of the young guys really came along and improved. There was a lot to be proud of.”
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Ben Whetstone saw a jump in playing time from his freshman to sophomore years. In 2017, he played in 15 games, starting two. In 2018, Whetstone started in all 57 games.
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Ty Buckner throws a pitch. After his freshman season, Buckner’s ERA was 4.81 through 76 2/3 innings.
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Jack Duffy slides safely into home. In 2018, Duffy recorded 30 RBIs with a .271 average.
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Running toward a season of success Track Bears look to build on recent success CLAIRE NIEBRUGGE Sports Reporter @claireniebrugge
The women’s track and field team achieved many accomplishments this past outdoor season, and it left them hungry and wanting more. At the MVC Outdoor Track & Field Championship, they scored the highest team point total for Missouri State in about a decade. The team produced all-conference performers, as well as three first-round NCAA qualifiers. Senior Sidne’ Williamson qualified in the long jump. “I knew once indoor season ended that I wanted to qualify for NCAA,” Williamson said. “With that mindset, I made sure I worked extremely hard at practice and communicated to my coach what my goals were. Once I knew I made it, it was an incredible feeling.”
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Hurdlers compete at a Missouri State home meet. In 2014, the Missouri Valley Conference Championships were moved due to the track not meeting NCAA regulations.
Williamson seeded 27th in the long jump going into the first round. She finished 19th in the region — a feat Williamson felt proud of. The top 12 performers get to advance to the final round of the NCAA championship meet. While no one of the three athletes qualified for finals, interim head coach Jordan Fife felt optimistic after the performances during the first round. “They were close enough that they felt like if they had maybe performed a little better or were another year stronger, they maybe could’ve been up there,” Fife said. “I’m looking forward to the upcoming year to see if we can get a little bit closer.” The women’s track and field team send approximately two to eight athletes to the first round every season. “As far as finals go, I would say every two or three years or so we get someone through,” Fife said. “But it’s probably been about two or three years since we’ve had anybody advance.” That means that the women’s track and field team is due to send athletes to represent Missouri State in the final round of the NCAA championship meet. Last season’s qualifiers set the bar even higher for next season. “Generally speaking, we just want to see progress,” Fife said. “I think we kind of know where our place is, and we’re hoping to do the best, but we don’t ever really go into it thinking we can win. I’d just like to get to that point where we know we’re competing well and tough, so when we get to those meets we think we’ve got a chance.” The team strives towards the MVC championships, but now they will strive for the NCAA championships, too. “For next season, I plan on breaking some school records and qualifying for the NCAA again, but this time leave with some hardware,” Williamson said. The women’s track and field team will be back in action come December, right before Christmas break, to kick off their indoor season.
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Cleats facing forward BRYCE DERRICKSON Sports Reporter @BruceyD17 Missouri State’s 2018 softball season ended with an 9-8 loss to Southern Illinois. During the regular season, the Bears finished with a 32-20 record, winning 30 games for the first time since 2015. The Bears also ended with a 17-8 record in the Missouri Valley Conference, only behind Drake, which went 24-1. In the 2017 campaign, the Bears went 23-26 and 10-16 in the conference. “All the major things, performance-wise, were the same,” head coach Holly Hesse said. “What made this year different were the intangible things: the leadership of our seven seniors, the teamwork, the desire, hard work that this group put into the season. When all the stats are basically the same and you go from seventh to second, it was all those intangible things that make a team great.” One of the things they worked on is called “habitudes,” which uses images, stories and experiences for leadership development. Growing Leaders is the non-profit organization who created the habitudes. According to their website, Growing Leaders partners with schools, colleges, athletic departments and organizations to create future leaders.
“I tried to be a lot more of what’s called ‘epic’ with this generation,” Hesse said. “Which means that the way to connect with them is to create experiences for them. To have them participate in those experiences and create those experiences to be image driven instead of words. And then connection. Doing things that formed strong connections.” The Bears might have learned new leadership skills, but they’ve also become better at scoring runs. “One thing that we will continue to improve on will be run production,” Hesse said. “That was our main focus this year. We went from scoring 64 runs in our conference games to 103. ... The biggest (improvement) was … slugging percentage and just being able to hit more home runs, because the game has revolved so much around the home run.” Losing outfielder Erika Velasquez Zimmer, who was first in runs scored with 35 in the regular season, and first baseman Kaitlin Beason with seven home runs will definitely make it harder to score runs. Catcher Darian Frost returns after leading the team with 34 RBIs. They will also have pitcher and first baseman Madison Hunsaker who had the third most home runs with three and a .403 slugging percentage.
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The MSU softball team wore orange jerseys in their game against Oklahoma State on April 11 in support of acute myeloid leukemia survivor and teammate Allie Alvstad. While the offense will look different, the pitching will be relatively the same. The team will only be losing one main starter in Holly Kelley. She was first in innings pitched and strikeouts with 57.2 innings and 57 strikeouts in the MVC. Hesse said next year freshman Bailey Greenlee, sister of Morgan Greenlee, will be joining to help the pitching staff. During Bailey’s senior season at Snohomish High School in Snohomish,
Washington, she won 22 games out of 27 pitching appearances. With next year’s squad, Hesse said their goals will include winning the Missouri Valley Conference. “It’s always a goal to win the tournament, because that’s how you advance to the NCAA,” Hesse said. “It will just be to continue to put the pieces in place to make those things happen.”
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Fall sports schedules Home events in maroon and bold; tournaments in italics. FOOTBALL
Aug. 30 at Oklahoma State, 7 p.m. Sept. 6 Lincoln University, 6 p.m. Sept. 15 Northern Arizona, 2 p.m. Sept. 29 Illinois State, 2 p.m. Oct. 6 at South Dakota, 2 p.m. Oct. 13 at Indiana State, 1 p.m. Oct. 20 Western Illinois, 2 p.m. Oct. 27 Southern Illinois, 2 p.m. Nov. 3 at South Dakota State, 2 p.m. Nov. 10 North Dakota State, 2 p.m. Nov. 17 at Northern Iowa, 4 p.m.
MEN’S SOCCER
Aug. 11 Missouri Valley College, 7 p.m. Aug. 14 Missouri S&T, 7 p.m. Aug. 17 at Rockhurst, 7 p.m. Aug. 24 at University of Missouri-Kansas City, 7 p.m. Aug. 27 Cal State Fullerton, 7 p.m. Aug. 31 at Omaha, 7 p.m. Sept. 3 Omaha, 6 p.m. Sept. 7 vs Mercer in Peoria, Illinois, 4 p.m. Sept. 10 Santa Clara, 7 p.m. Sept. 15 University of Missouri-Kansas City, 7 p.m. Sept. 22 Valparaiso, 7 p.m. Sept. 29 at Evansville, 5 p.m. Oct. 2 Western Illinois, 7 p.m. Oct. 6 Bradley 7 p.m. Oct. 9 at Tulsa, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Loyola Chicago, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20 Gonzaga, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at Drake, 7 p.m. Nov. 3 Central Arkansas, 6 p.m. Nov. 7-11 MVC Tournament - Evansville, Indiana
WOMEN’S SOCCER
Oct. 13 at Valparaiso, 7 p.m. Oct. 17 Evansville, 6 p.m. Oct. 21 Loyola Chicago, 1 p.m. Oct. 25 at Drake, 4 p.m. Oct. 28 First Round of MVC Tournament Nov. 2-4 MVC Tournament- Chicago, Illinois
VOLLEYBALL
Aug. 15 Omaha, 3:30 p.m. Aug. 17 Maroon and White Scrimmage, 7 p.m. Aug. 18 Alumni Match, 7 p.m. Hampton Inn Charleston/West Ashley COFC Classic - Charleston, South Carolina Aug. 24 at College of Charleston, 6 p.m. Aug. 25 vs. Alabama, 10 a.m. Aug. 25 vs. Western Kentucky, 3:30 p.m. Dr. Mary Jo Wynn Invitational - Springfield, Missouri Aug. 31 vs. Oral Roberts, 7 p.m. Sept. 1 vs. Grambling State, 12:30 p.m. Sept. 1 vs. Ball State, 7 p.m. Sept. 4 at Kansas State, 6 p.m. Texas A&M Invitational - College Station, Texas Sept. 6 vs. Nicholls State, 4:30 p.m. Sept. 7 vs. Pepperdine, 1 p.m. Sept. 7 at Texas A&M, 7 p.m. Nebraska Invitational - Lincoln, Nebraska Sept. 14 vs. New Mexico, 10 a.m. Sept. 14 vs. Central Michigan, 5 p.m. Sept. 15 at Nebraska, 7 p.m. Sept. 21 Illinois State, 7 p.m. Sept. 22 Bradley, 7 p.m. Sept. 24 at Loyola Chicago, 5 p.m. Sept. 28 Southern Illinois, 7 p.m. Oct. 5 at Indiana State, 6 p.m. Oct. 6 at Evansville, 7 p.m. Oct. 12 Drake, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 Northern Iowa, 7 p.m. Oct. 19 at Bradley, 7 p.m. Oct. 20 at Illinois State, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at Southern Illinois, 7 p.m. Oct. 29 at Valparaiso, 6 p.m. Nov. 2 Evansville, 7 p.m. Nov. 3 Indiana State, 7 p.m. Nov. 9 at Northern Iowa, 6 p.m. Nov. 10 at Drake, 7 p.m. Nov. 16 Valparaiso, 7 p.m, Nov. 17 Loyola Chicago, 7 p.m. Nov. 22-24 MVC Tournament - Springfield, Missouri
Aug. 7 at Missouri, 12 p.m. Aug. 16 Western Illinois, 6 p.m. Aug. 19 at Tulsa, 2 p.m. Aug. 21 at Southeast Missouri State, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24 Little Rock, 7 p.m. Aug. 26 Central Arkansas, 1 p.m. Aug. 29 Louisiana Tech, 7 p.m. Aug. 31 Omaha, 7 p.m. Sept. 2 at University of Missouri-Kansas City, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 7 SIU Edwardsville, 7 p.m. Sept. 9 at Saint Louis, 1 p.m. Sept. 14 at Kansas, 7 p.m. Sept. 16 at Oral Roberts, 1 p.m. Sept. 22 at Illinois State, 2 p.m. *At the time of publication, cross country, golf Sept. 29 at Northern Iowa, 1 p.m. and swim schedules were unavailable. Oct. 6 Indiana State, 2 p.m.
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