Graduation 2017

2 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

THE-STANDARD.ORG

THE STANDARD

Table of Contents

4 Advice from professors, 12 Jessie Ferguson Grad caps 13 Taylor Smith 5 Alumni resources 14 Sam Miller, 6 Transitions to grads Gretchen Entzenberger 7 Healthcare 15 Alexis Jemes 8 Moving forward, 16 Meghan Sims,

international students 9 Investing money, Favorite things 10 Kourtney Mudd 11 Daniel Guerrini

Student loans 17 Summer commencement 18 Job hunting 19 Sports recap

Standard staff Lindsay Daggett sales Tyler Krtek sales Mark Phillips sales Tessa Phongsavath graphic design Melanie Kohrs bookkeeping

Editorial staff Nicole Roberts editor-in-chief Emily Joshu news editor Sarah Teague life editor Wyatt Wheeler sports editor Ryan Welch photo editor Taylor Balleau copy editor Sarah Hollstrom copy editor Sarah Shepard copy editor/reporter

Reporters/Photographers Alia Aaron reporter Zak Baldwin reporter Megan Burke photographer Matt Campanelli reporter Terry Chapman reporter Jenna deJong reporter Shelby Dowler reporter Hanna Flanagan reporter

Collin Hadley photographer Katie Haynes reporter Danisha Hogue reporter Asia Key reporter Trevor Martin reporter Alec McChesney reporter Maria Meluso reporter Brenner Moore reporter Trinh Nguyen reporter Collin O’Connell photographer Parker Padgett reporter Miranda Roller photographer Chloe Skaar reporter Noah Standish reporter Cortlynn Stark reporter Layne Stracener reporter Casey Struble reporter Hanna Sumpter reporter Nina Todea reporter/photographer Bailey Vassalli reporter/photographer Mike Volding reporter Blaine Wheeler reporter Aly Weitkamp reporter

Professional staff Jack Dimond faculty adviser Sandy King advertising manager

GRADUATION 2017

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 design by Tessa Phongsavath

Advertising staff

The Standard 901 S. National Avenue • Springfield, MO 65809 417-836-5272 • Standard@MissouriState.edu the-standard.org

GRADUATION 2017 • 3

4 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

It's okay to not have everything figured out yet Professors offer advice to stressed graduates Maria Meluso Staff Reporter @MariaMeluso With so much pressure on young people, especially millennials, to have everything in life together and to know exactly where they are going, those who do not yet have things figured out often face anxiety for the future or feel they are falling behind. Friends go off and start great careers, get married, start families or move away, and the inundation of updates on social media can sometimes make it seem that anyone without major life updates or a sense of direction are lost.

However, several MSU faculty members and graduate students stepped forward to offer words of wisdom for those students feeling the stress of trying to have things figured out already.

Dr. Stephen Berkwitz, head of the Religious Studies Department, said when he was ready

to graduate college, he thought he had a general idea of what he wanted to do, but he wasn’t quite ready to follow that path right away.

“I mistakenly thought that I had to have the next few decades of my life figured out, but I didn’t know how unpredictable the events of life can be,” he said. “I think that very few of us ever have their life together, at least for very long.”

His advice to graduates is to have some idea of what they are doing in the coming year to start out but to also be flexible to opportunities that arise.

Dr. Gloria Galanes, dean of the College of Arts and Letters, said she had no idea of what she was going to do after graduation. She said she was advised by a counselor to find entry-level positions that sounded interesting, and that, through those experiences, she would eventually figure out what she liked and disliked in a job and build a network that would lead to other opportunities.

“I tried a couple of different things before finding my natural home in higher education,” Galanes said. “I sold encyclopedias door-todoor, waited tables and was a house mother for a women’s residence hall.”

She said the latter position is what guided her to work in higher education, first as an adviser and later in more administrative positions.

“And here I am — this position as dean was never on my radar as a possibility,” she said.

Dr. Lyn Gattis, an associate professor in the English department, said she, by contrast, thought she had her life together at graduation.

“As time went by, I began to notice that the the world was messier and more complicated, and yet, way more interesting than I had thought,” she said.

Her advice to graduates, however, is very similar to that of her colleagues.

“Give yourself permission to be a bit scattered for a while. Let go of some of your preconceptions about life,” she said. “Stay curious,

and be open to possibilities that take you outside your comfort zone. Every day, do something that scares you a little, just for the practice.”

Kimberleigh Eng, a graduate student in business administration, advised new graduates who feel pressure to have everything figured out to be flexible.

“You can plan ahead as much as you want, but when the time comes, your plans will change,” Eng said. “Every little path you have to go through will end up leading you someplace you were meant to be.”

She said her own plans changed when, despite her goal to move back home with her parents in Virginia, she was offered a job in St. Louis, a place she never once considered going.

It is as Galanes said: “So here’s to the value of not overplanning your career. There’s a certain amount of go-with-the-flow that is of great value.”

Grad caps: Self-fulfillment & individuality Noah Standish Staff Reporter @NoahjStandish Graduation caps are comprised of polyester, acetate and a symbolic representation of hard work and personal growth. At the conclusion of a commencement ceremony, they’re thrown into the air in unison — but some of them fly by with a streak of color.

Decorating graduation caps with memories and social media posts in mind have become a tradition for hundreds of university classes. Some students use their caps to thank their family, while others quote meaningful lines of dialogue from their favorite movies. Some recite lyrics from their favorite songs, and some display their creativity with artistic designs.

Whether it features an inspirational quote or a witty pop-culture reference, graduation caps have become a popular form of expression. Bear grads are eager

to begin the next chapter of their lives, and on May 19 at JQH Arena, they’ll get their chance to show it.

Faculty Senate Chair and Associate professor of Theatre and Dance Micheal Foster cited Middle Age and Catholic traditions as the roots of academic apparel, while voicing support for decorations on graduation caps.

Foster also said that he views modern commencement ceremonies as more of a celebration than a tradition.

“I support the embellishments,” Foster said. “I’ve seen a lot of creatively decorated caps — I’m all for it, so long as the decorations are positive.”

Taylor Juenger, a graduate student studying student affairs in higher education learning, chose to keep her graduation cap from her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. She placed it beside her diploma on a bookshelf with plans of adding a second cap soon.

“Graduation from college is a

great accomplishment, and this is my way of commemorating it,” Juenger said. “Who knows, I may add to my collection of hats later on with a doctorate.”

Juenger also voiced support for students who choose to decorate their graduation caps, calling it an opportunity to express individuality and creativity.

“I love to see caps that reference students’ majors or their first-generation status,” Juenger said. “I’m jealous of their artistic abilities. One of my favorites that I’ve seen is ‘because Hogwarts didn’t take FAFSA.’” Associate professor of Reading, Foundations and Technology Steve Hinch said he views the decorations as a new spin on traditional commencement ceremonies, despite initially feeling skeptical.

“When I first saw it, it bothered me a bit as a traditionalist,” Hinch said, “but giving it some thought, I appreciate the creativity. (Graduation) is a big accom-

plishment for students, and I see it as a way to celebrate that.”

Assistant Professor of English Erin Kappeler said the decorations are a joyful way to celebrate a milestone, while appreciating graduation caps’ symbolic meanings. “(The decorations) can show how graduation is significant to you by putting your spin on it,” Kappeler said. “I appreciate the earnest ones — the ones that tell a story about overcoming obstacles and the ones that show how important (graduation) is to you.”

Graduation caps symbolize self-fulfillment and unwavering commitment. Their decorations can be humorous, inspirational or simply a way for a student’s family to find them amidst a sea of maroon and black. Commencement may mark the end of a chapter, but bear grads know that adventure is out there.

NINA TODEA/THE STANDARD Graduating senior, psychology major Kayley Koch poses with her decorated graduation cap.

THE-STANDARD.ORG

THE STANDARD

GRADUATION 2017 • 5

A complete guide to alumni resources Hanna Sumpter Staff Reporter @hannasumpter After walking across the stage and picking up that degree, graduates can feel disconnected from their university, but being active alumni members can help graduates stay connected to their alma mater.

All graduates are considered alumni members, but graduates can become more involved as “active alumni members.”

“We are not a membership organization; every graduate of the institution is automatically a ‘member,’” Lori Fan, the executive director of Alumni Relations, said. “We do have what we’re currently calling an ‘active alumni’ status. If you make an annual donation to the (Missouri State Annual Fund) of a minimum of $25, you’re considered an active alum.”

Benefits Fan said becoming an active alumni member gives a few perks that become unavailable after graduation: • Access to the Meyer Library • Use of the Foster Recreation Center • Discounts at the University Bookstore If becoming an active alumni member isn’t

for you, there are still many other benefits alumni can take advantage of, according to the association’s program summary.

Bank of America credit card: Alumni can apply for an MSU-themed card, “to keep a bit of MSU in their back pocket” as Fan said. Using this card would increase the amount of royalties Bank of America gives to the Missouri State Annual Fund.

Collegiate License Plate: This is a program that allows alumni to purchase an MSU branded license plate when alumni donate $25 to the foundation.

Alumni Insurance discount: Beginning in July, alumni can also participate in this program which allows MSU alumni to receive a discount when purchasing an insurance policy through Nationwide. Like the credit card program, Nationwide will also give royalties to the foundation when alumni purchase insurance.

Travel program: The Alumni Association hosts trips across the world that alumni members can learn from and experience together.

through the Alumni Association, they will begin receiving the Missouri State magazine, distributed three times a year, and The Bear Bulletin, a monthly electronic newsletter with updates about what’s happening on campus.

There are many events alumni can attend to reconnect with other bears as well.

“Reaching out and keeping connected to Missouri State alums can help new grads for the rest of their lives,” Fan said.

MarooNation: These events are held all over the country and even internationally. These events can include holiday parties, sporting events and much more.

Class reunions: The Homecoming football game attracts many alumni each year and is the biggest reunion event each year. Class reunions not occurring at Homecoming can be arranged through the Alumni Association.

Taylor Juenger, a graduate assistant and soon-to-be alum, works on student engagement with the Office of Alumni Relations.

“It is important to stay connected to the place you spent four plus years,” Juenger said. “I value what MSU has taught me, and I want to Staying Engaged If an alumnus wants to invest his or her time pay that forward.” in staying connected, there are many opportuGiving Back nities offered by the Alumni Association.

For graduates looking to be more involved If alumni update their contact information

with MSU, there are options available that will keep you directly involved with the university and the students.

Board of Directors: The Alumni Association program summary said that the association has a Board of Directors, a 24-member group of alumni that “provides guidance and direction for Alumni Association programming.” Members of the group are nominated by their peers and serve three-year terms.

Alumni Council: This body serves the Alumni Association is the Alumni Council, which allows its members to volunteer to support the “growth and success of the Alumni Association.” This group is less structured, and there are no specific term lengths.

Danny Perches, a 2012 MSU graduate and now a business assistant coordinator for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, is also a member of the Alumni Council. He was quick to stress the many opportunities available to alumni that go deeper than a donation.

“There’s a lot of ways that you can support your university as an alumni (member), aside from the traditional donations,” Perches said.

“Certainly, that’s an easy way to contribute back to the university, but there’s a lot of things that you can do.”

6 • GRADUATION 2017

So you graduated ... now what?

Megan Burke Staff Reporter @Megs96

With graduation just weeks away, seniors are preparing to transition from being a student to being out in the “real” world tackling adulting head-on.

Getting advice from former graduates is one way seniors are preparing for this huge step in their life. Here is a list of the top tips for graduates:

THE STANDARD

life to go to bed early and wake up early.”

Tip: Don’t settle for a job that doesn’t align with your long-term goals.

ing and applying for jobs,” Ajo Khan, who graduated from MSU in 2016 and now works as a business analyst for a shipping liner company, said. “Always be ready to move to a new place. I wasn’t ready or planned for that. It’s twice as hard to land a job as an international student, because it requires your job to agree to a sponsorship for you. Don’t rely too much on local jobs.”

Tip: Take internships to get your foot in the door with companies you want Speaking from experience, graduates like to work for.

JR Garland say to not sell yourself short when it comes to accepting a job. Garland graduated from MSU in 2013 and now works for Chase as a credit card specialist.

“A lot of people when they graduate just take something that seems good and doesn’t necessarily fit their goals or what they want to do with their life,” said Garland. “Some also Tip: Take a few weeks off after get intimidated by jobs outside of minimum graduation. wage or entry level. They hesitate and miss This is the first time you’ve had a summer great opportunities.” ahead of you without the start of your next school year looming in the upcoming August. Tip: Start looking for jobs as soon as Former graduates say to take advantage of this possible and be prepared to move opportunity by doing what you enjoy and reanywhere. charging from all those years of studying.

“If you can afford it … take a step back and Many graduates say they wish they would travel or just relax,” Alec Inman, who gradu- have started looking for jobs further in advance ated from MSU in 2016 and now works for because it’s competitive out there.

Well Fargo, said. “You’ve got the rest of your “You should spend at least six months look-

THE-STANDARD.ORG

finances in order is crucial “Don’t think of a budget like a diet, which has a negative connotation. Budgeting is simply telling your money where to go,” Vicki Jacobson, loans coordinator at MSU, said.

“Think of it this way: you’re holding a glass to pour water in, opposed to your hands and it’s going to run all over and you might catch a little bit of it. A budget is simply you controlling where that money goes, how fast and to who.”

Tip: Work with your loan servicer to help you get a repayment plan that According to Garland, taking retail jobs you can afford.

after graduation didn’t help much. It’s much harder in the long-run to get to where you ultimately want to be if you don’t work for it and at least get some experience in the field you are interested in.

“There are seven different loan repayment options. There’s something for everybody’s budget, even those that haven’t secured their next career and won’t know what they will be making,” Jacobson said. “If you do nothing and stick your head in the sand, your loan servicer Tip: Review employers using sites like will sign you up for the standard repayment plan, which is 10 years of equal monthly paywww.Glassdoor.com. ments. For a lot of students, that’s an overInman suggests doing this to find out if whelming amount.” you’d actually want to work for the company or employer you are considering.

Tip: Be patient.

“Phone interviews and company websites “Don’t freak out if you don’t get hired right can be misleading,” Inman said. away,” Inman said.

“There will be a lot of struggles, but if you’re Tip: Make a budget. steadfast and patient, you will eventually get a Once you do land a job, professionals in the job,” Kahn said.

MSU Finance Department say keeping your

THE-STANDARD.ORG

THE STANDARD

Graduating is not a pre-existing condition Graduating doesn’t mean you have to lose your healthcare benefits.

Matt Campanelli Staff Reporter @THE_MattyCamp Graduating from college means a lot of things. You survived the last four or five years of your life and got that degree you worked hard for. Your next steps could be graduate school, looking for a job or starting that job you received just before graduation.

But what can get lost in all the graduation hoopla is exactly what life after graduation holds, such as healthcare. For Missouri State students, graduating means no more quick visits to the Taylor Health and Wellness Center.

A lot of people will get healthcare from their employers when they graduate, but not everyone will have a job right after they graduate. So, what are some options for healthcare post-graduation?

The Affordable Care Act allows you to be covered under your parents’ insurance plans until you turn 26. This gives you some time to find that job or find a more affordable option that works for you.

You can also buy a plan that is offered in the market place. Coverage is broken up into four different categories. Which category you buy depends on how you split healthcare costs with insurance.

Prices of premiums and deductibles differ

between plans. A premium is the monthly amount you pay for health insurance. A deductible is the amount you have to pay before insurance starts to pay. Both of these differ between the four different categories.

A Bronze plan has lower premiums but a higher deductible. With a Silver Plan, the premium is a little higher while the deductible is a little lower. Gold Plans have higher premiums and lower deductibles, while Platinum Plans have the highest premiums and the lowest deductibles. This means with a Platinum Plan, you won’t have to pay as much before insurance starts to help cover medical costs.

How much you pay in premiums and deductibles depends on your yearly income.

Another option includes buying what is known as a Catastrophic Plan. Catastrophic Plans are for people who are younger than 30.

Premiums for a catastrophic plan are low but deductibles are high.

Under the ACA, if you don’t have health insurance, you must pay a fine. According to www.healthcare.gov, the fine is determined in one of two ways and you have to pay whichever one is higher.

The first is 2.5 percent of your yearly income. The maximum amount you can be charged this way is the total yearly premium for Bronze Plans sold through the marketplace.

The other number you might have to pay for not having coverage is $695 per adult.

GRADUATION 2017 • 7

8 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Seniors look forward to futures after graduation

Katie Haynes Staff Reporter @journalistkatie

Big changes in life can be a little intimidating, especially when it comes to starting a career and being officially independent. As many people focus on the past when moving forward, being excited to move on can be a great way to feel motivated about the future. Graduating seniors at MSU are going to begin a new chapter in their lives and are looking forward to the new opportunities that lie before them.

New jobs and relocation away from Springfield can be one of the most challenging points in a person’s life, but there are a lot of perks to seeing a new region. Cole Lawrence, a graduating senior studying computer science, has high hopes for the city of Kansas City and his new career.

“I’m looking forward to (the) diversity of the city and by ethnicities and religion,” Lawrence said. “I’m excited to be in a more art-driven city, a city that has the ability to invest in their art scene. Springfield has a few things, but KC is much larger and sort of a hub with their location.”

Leaving the university can feel like a very large accomplishment in one’s life, but learning doesn’t have to stop there. There are many ways that pursuing education in one’s field of interest can be very beneficial to one’s career.

“I’ve enjoyed that classes are fairly low pressure compared to high school, a lot more free time in college, and a lot more opportunity to learn outside of academia,” Lawrence said.

“I have a goal to continue education while employed because it’s important to my career. My education doesn’t stop at graduation or it doesn’t slow down. I will be learning about the work environment and the different concepts of my work. I will be planning ahead with the different trends of technology. I am willing and motivated to improve constantly.”

Some seniors have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of graduation day. Jaliyah S. Ackerson, senior studying animal science, is one of these seniors. She is anxious to move on to pursue her career.

“My favorite part about graduating is being able to start a new chapter in my life and being able to start a career I know I will love,” Ackerson said. “I've been waiting for this day to come since—since forever. I don't know exactly what will happen next and that is what excites me because I'm looking forward to whatever it is; I'm sure it will be something great.”

Graduating seniors at MSU have the option to find jobs in cities other than Springfield, Missouri, but some stay in town and even stay at MSU to teach. Brendon Brower, senior socio-political communication major, took what he learned at MSU and applied it to real life situations.

“For me, the most exciting part of moving on is the opportunity to apply what I have learned in a real life setting.

All the theories and case-studies you work on in school don't mean a thing if you never put them to use,” Brower said. “After graduating, I plan to take a minute to just soak in the fact that I don't have to deal with anymore homework. Then I’m going to get ready for grad school and dealing with more homework. Aside from that, I will work as a debate coach here at MSU.” Aside from moving on and being fully completed with college, some seniors are attending programs to pursue a more in depth education on their field. Julie Baumann, senior psychology major, is taking her career into more schooling here at MSU. “Now that I’m done with the B.S. (literally) I’m one step closer to my ideal career, so it feels great,” Baumann said.

“I’ll be in the M.S. Clinical Psychology program at MSU actually, so technically, I’m not done with college yet. I’m continuing my education so that I can work as a counselor for awhile and then eventually get my Ph.D to become an actual BAILEY VASSALLI/THE STANDARD psychologist.”

Graduation day is May 19 in the JQH Jaliyah S. Ackerson, animal science major.

Arena.

To stay or to go?

International students struggle between staying in the United States or returning home Trinh Nguyen Staff Reporter

Like many other American students, hundreds of international graduate students will end their school year this May, and their decisions to continue or not continue to stay in the U.S. are taken into consideration.

Kristina Quinn, immigration support coordinator of the MSU International Services, said that there are three main reasons why international grad students would stay in the U.S: employment, PhD programs and personal reasons.

International students come to the states under F1 visas, which are nonimmigrant visas for those who wish to study in the U.S. If they receive a degree in the U.S. or they have been in the States for nine or more months, they can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) that offers a year of working authorization in the states.

Quinn said that to apply for OPT, students

had to work with the International Office, state their intentions to work and do paperwork.

Then, their documents would be sent to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, who reviews the documents and decides whether the student is eligible for OPT. The OPT gives students a chance to look for companies to work for during one year.

“Most students are eligible for (OPT),” Quinn said.

If students want to transfer to another university, they need to be admitted to the new university and provide the office with proof that they are already admitted. The office will transfer the students’ documents and records to the new university. Then, they can continue to study in the U.S. For personal reasons, if the student has a relationship with an American and gets married, the student can stay in the States as well.

“Obviously if you marry an American, you are qualified for permanent residency faster than in the other methods of staying,” Quinn

said.

Not all students decide to stay after they graduate; some decide to go back home.

Hoang Quy N. Dang, a project management graduate student from Vietnam, said that he wanted to go home because he has more advantages back home.

“I studied abroad, so I have higher chance to get a well-paid job than other Vietnamese students do,” Dang said, continuing to say companies in Vietnam also favor applicants who study abroad.

Another reason why international graduate students go back to their countries is that their family wants them to.

Quinn said that she thinks a lot of parents send their kids away for four to seven years to study in the U.S if the students go to both grad and undergrad schools. Their parents want them to go back home.

“It might be over half of our students appear to just go home,” Quinn said.

Althia S. Maximilien, a professional studies

graduate student from Barbados, said that she would like to stay and work in the States because opportunities, advancements and compensations are greater in the U.S. than at home.

“I would be able to help my family if I’m successful,” Maximilien said.

However, the process to be eligible to work here is extremely challenging.

“There is quite a bit of paperwork which needs to be done just to be allowed to work in the U.S,” she said, “and it can take up to three months to get a response.”

Many international graduate students are fearful of the new president’s administration that restricts their chance to stay in the U.S., but they should not be.

“I think what we have seen with Trump’s administration is a lot of talk about what could happen, and nothing has happened so far,” Quinn said.

THE-STANDARD.ORG

THE STANDARD

Missouri State University favorites Seniors, freshmen share their favorite parts about MSU Erin Snider, senior media production major: “My favorite part of Missouri State is the sense of community that comes with being a Bear.”

Jessica Gray, senior speech language pathology major: “My favorite part of Missouri State is how friendly everyone is. Almost every time I step onto campus I run into someone I know.

It makes our big university feel smaller and more connected.”

Brice Griffin, senior marketing, advertising and promotion major: “My favorite part is the welcoming atmosphere. As a student who transferred to three colleges, no school made me feel at home like MSU did. There is a familiar face, but more importantly, a familiar friend.”

Aly Weitkamp , Staff Reporter, @AlyWeitkamp Julianna McKee, freshman child and family development major: “My favorite part is how it’s such a big school, but it is a small-school feeling.”

Jamie Ratley, freshman undeclared: “My favorite part of MSU is my French class. I’ve made some of my best friends and now sisters through French class.”

Tom Overmann, freshman electronic arts audio studies major: “My favorite part is definitely our arts programs. I’ve been to and played in many concerts and theater productions, and they never cease to amaze me. (There’s) so much talent from the students and awesome facilities and instructors.”

Personal finances after graduation

Chloe Skaar Staff Reporter @chloeskaar

It’s hard to know what every college graduate is thinking when they are walking across JQH Arena toward their diplomas, but one theory is: How much money is this moment costing me?

Not every diploma collected during graduation will be a degree in personal finance, but that does not mean some will face a disadvantage when student loans are ready to be paid.

According to James Philpot, director of the Financial Planning Program at Missouri State, choosing the right investments and cutting back on expenses with monthly payments are two valuable habits for college graduates.

“Resist the urge to buy a car immediately upon graduation,” Philpot said. “You will have enough new expenses associated with moving, setting up a new home and starting to pay off student loans that you will not want to throw on another monthly payment.”

Philpot said, once students have decided on a reasonably steady location, to consider purchasing a home rather than renting one, and that proactive measures like participating in an employer’s retirement plan as soon as possible will help graduates build up a type of savings that can sometimes outlast their career.

“Many employer retirement plans work like savings and investment accounts where you put in a percentage of your salary and your

employer matches your contribution,” Philpot said. “Passing this up is like passing up free money.”

Roger Wallenburg, professor of finance and general business at MSU, also spoke about employee retirement plans.

“Start investing early, even in little bits,” Wallenburg said. “Compounding will do amazing things.”

Wallenburg said he would recommend graduates pay attention to savings accounts.

“Two safe funds I sometimes suggest are a mutual fund index or a growth type fund,” Wallenburg said. “A growth fund will increase over time and an index fund gives you the benefits of the stock market trend. It will rise and fall like the stock market, but it will always end up rising at some point.”

Wallenburg said that for students who did not take finance classes during school, meeting with a financial advisor can help determine when to start saving, how much to save and which type of savings account is useful.

“The biggest thing is to get a savings started early on,” Wallenburg said. “So many of the bigger things can still seem like a long way away, like starting a family, paying for healthcare or a home. But once you graduate, those expenses are closer than they feel.”

Philpot also said to keep a level head with finances.

“Try a modest lifestyle,” Philpot said. “Remember that you are defined by what you think, say and do—not by what you own.”

GRADUATION 2017 • 9

10 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Senior Bears Spotlight

Kourtney Mudd Bachelor of Science, Management & Administrative Management Why did you choose Missouri State?

I chose to come to Missouri State because I was familiar with the campus, the tuition is affordable, and it has the top business program in the state.

Did it take time to figure out what program you wanted to be in or did you know coming into college?

I knew coming into college that I had a passion for business. I didn’t know exactly what part of business I wanted to do because I couldn’t imagine myself doing one thing for the rest of my life. I chose Administrative Management because it gave me the potential to take on a leadership position as well as the diversity of job placement that I was looking for. It wasn’t until I started taking classes in the College of Business that I found my passion in human resources.

Compiled by Sarah Teague, Life Editor, @sarah_k_teague What is your favorite spot on camWhat are your plans after gradu- pus? ation?

My favorite spot on campus is the After I graduate, I plan to continue Management Department office. I my education as a graduate student can always count on a cup of coffee, at MSU. I’m currently in the Accel- snack and a good laugh. Over the erated Master’s Program and am past semester, it is because of the taking senior permission classes people in that office that I am where towards my MBA. I am also a grad- I am today. uate assistant in the Management If you had one piece of advice for Department. the student body, what is it?

Who is someone that inspired you My one piece of advice is to never during your time at MSU? quit looking until you find what Dr. Melody LaPreze. Not only has you're passionate about and surround she inspired me academically, she yourself with people who support encourages me in every aspect of that passion. life. She is the true definition of a wonderful professor and even better You recently won an award in the person. I don’t know where I would COB. What was the award, and be without her, and she will never do you have any words for the colunderstand just how much I appre- lege? ciate her and everything she has done Virgil Cheek Memorial Award - this for me. award is given to a graduate senior

MEGAN BURKE/THE STANDARD

majoring in business in recognition of exceptional academic achievement and leadership; it is the top award in the COB. It was such an honor to accept the Virgil Cheek Memorial Award. In a short 16 days, everything that I have worked so hard for the past three years will pay

off as I walk across the stage at graduation. I would like to thank Dr. LaPreze, Dr. Jones, Dean Bryant, and the rest of the selection committee for selecting me as the recipient of the award. It was an honor to stand up there alongside many intelligent, driven individuals.

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Senior Bears Spotlight

THE STANDARD

Daniel Guerrini Bachelor of Science, Political science

Compiled by Cortlynn Stark, Staff Reporter, @Cortlynn_Stark

MEGAN BURKE/THE STANDARD

You have 16 days left. Are you excited?

Is there anything you’re I like Missouri State too much. looking forward to about I don’t want to leave. being close to Amsterdam?

I’m really hyped about just Where are you going after being near the Heig. It’s basiyou graduate? cally the political capital of the I’m going to Utrecht Univer- world. I’m a political science sity. It’s about 30 miles south undergrad, so that’s basically of Amsterdam. Don’t ask me my home. It’s like DC for inhow I got accepted or why I ternational politics, and I love chose there, it just kind of hap- it. pened.

What’s the highlight of your Nervous about moving to four years here? another country?

I got involved at my fraternity; The only thing I’m nervous I was one of the founding faabout is getting all the paper- thers of Sigma Phi. I restarted work ready. But other than the College Democrats chapter that, no. I’ve been there before on campus. That was a really with the Study Away program. great thing. I got to meet a lot I know a little bit of Dutch, not of individuals who are doing enough to where it’s perfect great things, especially on the but 95 percent of the country state level. So, just like meetspeaks English so I’m not that ing individuals with the conscared. nections I made at Missouri State such as Adam Coffman What are you going to grad or Brianna Duda or people from farther out like a seminar school there for?

Masters of Development Stud- or something like that. ies. It’s through the GO Sciences School, which is techni- What’s the highlight of your cally the 13th best time in SGA? geosciences school in the My greatest accomplishment world. as a senator I would have to

say is co-writing the resolution to re-do the Parliamentary Room just because that is so everlasting, and it looks fantastic. The technology in there basically doubled. It’s such a pretty room. Now as senior class president, I’ve got to interact more with the transition from being an undergraduate into an alumni of Missouri State or graduate programs.

What are you most excited about with graduation coming up? Are you stressed out, or are you excited?

A little bit of both. I’m a little bit stressed out because my time is coming to an end, but I’m excited because it’s going to be the next step and a new journey. I feel like a lot of seniors have the same ideology with finals coming up, but at the same time we’re about to take on a new journey, and we don’t know where it’s going to take us.

Advice to freshmen?

The funny advice is to go to Carrie’s Cafe as much as you can. The real advice is just to meet as many people as you

GRADUATION 2017 • 11

12 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Senior Bears Spotlight

Jessie Ferguson Bachelor of Science, Sociology and Communication Studies Compiled by Nicole Roberts, Editor-in-Chief, @NReneeRoberts

COLLIN O’CONNELL/THE STANDARD

Q: Why did you major in that?

A: I originally went to school in Wichita, Kansas, and I changed my major a month into school. I switched it to sociology because I became hooked on this love for nonprofit and learning about how society works and how these groups of people interact with each other—what comes from that and the issues that come from that. I picked communication studies because I was going to finish up my first major early, but if I had to do it all over again, I probably would have picked public relations.

offer, an influencer marketing associate position in St. Louis, so I intend to be with that company for at least a few years.

Q: Where is your favorite place on campus?

A: I love when it’s a beautiful, sunny day and being able to walk past the fountain and seeing the people being so happy and doing homework by the fountain. I would never do that, but it’s cool to see people doing that.

Q: What is the one thing you can’t wait for?

A: I can’t wait until I can become someone Q: What advice do you have for freshmen else’s mentor. Throughout my college career, I’ve really been lucky to find mentors who truor students transferring colleges?

A: Find your network and people you can cling ly want to be someone you can look up to and to as fast as you can. It’s OK if you don’t find someone who wants to help you and teach you. them very quickly. From going to a new school twice, it’s going to be tough, and you’re going Q: If you could hang out with Clif Smart for to have to put yourself in uncomfortable posi- one day, what would you do?

A: This is going to sound super lame, but spendtions just to meet people and make friends. ing the morning drinking coffee with Clif Smart.

Q: What has been your favorite memory at Q: What is one talent you wished you had?

MSU? A: Last year, the Sociology Department head A: I wish I could sing. I’m a God-awful singer. nominated me for the Woman of Distinction Award here at Missouri State, and I was so Q: One country you hope to visit some day? honored to be among those who were chosen A: Australia and New Zealand. to win, even though I didn’t win. That was important to me because it was sort of a remind- Q: What are you most proud of? er that my hard work was paying off, and peo- A: I’m most proud of myself for going away ple were able to see the things you can to school. When I left for college, my parents accomplish. wanted me to stay home and do the A+ program and save my money. So, I’m really proud of Q: What are your plans after graduation? myself that I proved my parents wrong, did go A: I’m actually thinking about getting my Mas- away to school, graduated in four years after ter’s of communications with an emphasis on transferring in and am getting two degrees, promotions and marketing this fall at Linden- technically. wood University, but I’ve also accepted a job

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Senior Bears Spotlight Master’s of

THE STANDARD

Q: Did it take some time to figure out that experimental psychology was the right Taylor Smith path?

A: When I came in as an undergrad I was Science, Experimental Psychology a creative writing major. I loved psychology Compiled by Sarah Teague, Life Editor, @sarah_k_teague in high school, but I didn’t know if it was because I loved my teacher in high school because he was fantastic. He also made me like history, and I’m not a history fan. So I thought, ‘you know, I’ll come in with what I know I’ll really love, and I’ll take a psychology class as a (general education credit) … and I just fell in love with (psychology).

Q: What do you want to do with your degree in experimental psychology?

A: Eventually I’d like to go on and get my Ph.D in social psychology and then teach at a university—I love to teach. I also got a teaching award this year, so I feel like I’m on the right track.

Q: Who is someone that inspired you during your time here at Missouri State?

A: There’s so many people. Mostly I would say my advisor, Dr. Adena Young Jones in the Psychology Department. I didn’t meet her until my last year as an undergraduate. She was the one that prompted me to come into the experimental program. She’s been very influential … I’ve worked with her for four years now. She’s really pushed me to go after what MIRANDA ROLLER/THE STANDARD I want. She is always helping me find new

GRADUATION 2017 • 13 opportunities to go after … (and) to go outside my comfort zone. Another big influence has been Dr. Christie Cathey … she’s (also) always pushing me to go a little bit further, too.

Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus?

A: Honestly, Hill Hall. I spend all of my time (there).

Q: What are you planning on doing after graduation?

A: I’m taking a year off, and I’m going to move to St. Louis because my sister-in-law is pregnant, so I want to be closer (to family.)

I’m going to be working on some manuscripts to get published while I’m taking this year off and … I’m working with Dr. Young Jones and a couple of other individuals from the community and on campus to create a diversity training for teachers in the Springfield community.

Q: Do you have any advice for MSU students still attending?

A: First, I would say go after what you love, don’t go for something that is just going to make you money, because you’re going to hate it in the long run. And (secondly,) definitely getting a mentor early on is going to help. I wish I had found Dr. Young Jones ages ago, but I’m very fortunate that I have been able to know her and work with her for four years.

14 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

Senior Bears Spotlight

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Gretchen Entzenberger Bachelor of Science, Hospitality Leadership

Compiled by Sarah Teague, Life Editor, @sarah_k_teague Q: What do you find interesting about the hospitality leadership program?

A: Hospitality is super exciting because you can do anything, anywhere (with hospitality training.)

A big component to (this) is travel. It’s exciting to be able to work with companies where you (can) go overseas and go really anywhere. (With) hospitality, everyday is a new day. There is something new everyday.

ership role within the hospitality industry someday?

A: Upon graduation (I will) already have a job (in Houston, TX.) I’ll be working with Marriott International, and I’ll be doing their Voyage Program (The Voyage Global Leadership Development Program) which is their management training, so I definitely see myself going into leadership positions. Marriott is a really great company to grow with.

ri State that inspired you during your time here?

A: The faculty in … hospitality leadership have had hands on experience in hospitality so they bring so much passion and such knowledge to our industry. (They) help us be realistic with where we want to be after graduation. Our job placement rate is really high, and that’s why I find myself blessed to have a job after graduation.

(The faculty) all do a really great job of helping our students grow Q: Do you see yourself in a lead- Q: Is there someone at Missou- and be ready to go out into the

world after college.

Q: Is hospitality something you knew you wanted to do coming into college, or did it take some time to find?

A: I knew I wanted to do something (with) hospitality. I knew I loved to plan parties, and I knew I liked to help others. For me, (Missouri State was) such a nice fit. Missouri State is so beautiful, and it's so open, and I love that it’s tobacco-free. It just fell into place.

BAILEY VASSALLI/THE STANDARD

make all new friends, and I’m just happy through my fraternity and major that I’ve met so many cool people and made so many friends, so it’ll be sad to leave.

COLLIN O’CONNELL/THE STANDARD

Sam Miller Bachelor of Science, Economics Compiled by Nicole Roberts, Editor-in-Chief, @NReneeRoberts Q: Why did you decide to major in economics?

A: I came in undecided, and I decided to major in econ because I took a couple of courses through the Honor’s College. The professors were super nice, and it seemed like something relatable to life that I was interested in and was practical. It was a major I could really get into that I

didn’t know that much about and have the opportunity to learn.

Q: What has been your favorite memory at MSU? A: Just all the friends I’ve made over the last four years. I came from a pretty small high school. Only one or two people from my high school came here, so I had to go out and

it and you’re going to spend a long time doing it, or B, put yourself in a position where you can be better in the future, so opportunity for advancement, promotions, raises. Just put yourself in a place where you Q: What advice do you have for know you’ll be happy. incoming freshmen?

A: If you want to enjoy your time at Q: How have you made your MisMissouri State, invest yourself in the souri Statement? school. Don’t just go to classes ev- A: I’ve invested myself into Phi eryday and go back to your dorm. If Gamma Delta over the last four years. you want to enjoy your time here, I’ve had a bunch of positions, and you have to join organizations, meet that’s given me the opportunity to with professors, make friends, make engage with the campus and help the yourself connected to Missouri State community through service and so that you don’t have a choice to be philanthropy and opening up diainvolved in the school. logue through educational events.

I’ve also helped strengthen bonds in Q: What are your plans after grad- the fraternity, so turning that high uation? school boy into the man you’re going A: I’m going to move to Atlanta and to be later on in life. attend law school. I’ve always been interested in why things are the way Q: Where is your favorite place they are, and I think being a lawyer on campus? would give me the opportunity to A: The Economics Department has maybe change why things are the its own little computer lab, and it’s way they are. I think if I were a law- 10 times better than the library beyer, I would have the power to go in cause you can always have a comand change things that I don’t think puter and quiet place to study. are right in society or I don’t think are right in whatever aspect you can Q: What is the one thing you can’t think of. I want to get in there and wait for?

A: I can’t wait until 2020 so I can make a difference. graduate from law school and actuQ: What advice would you give to ally get to start on my career. seniors who are moving away from Springfield?

Q: If you could hang out with Clif A: The most important thing is to Smart for one day, what would you make sure you’re doing something do? where either A, you’re going to enjoy A: You always see Clif Smart as the

university president, but it would be cool to get to know him as the person because you always see him tweeting about hanging out with his friends and family, and it would be cool to just go do what his hobbies and interests are.

Q: If you could invite three people, dead or alive, to dinner, who would they be?

A: Barack Obama, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Elon Musk.

Q: What is one talent you wished you had?

A: I wish I could dance. I have a sense of rhythm because I used to play trombone in high school, so I know rhythm and music, but I just can’t dance.

Q: One place you hope to visit some day?

A: I want to go to Spain and Italy one day.

Q: What are you most proud of?

A: I’m most proud of my friends, honestly. I have such a great group of friends who are all going on to accomplish our degrees or going and getting a job we want in our fields.

It’s just so cool to see all my friends thriving in different ways, and I’m just happy for me and everyone for going and accomplishing their goals.

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Senior Bears Spotlight

THE STANDARD

GRADUATION 2017 • 15

Alexis Jemes Bachelor of Arts, Religious Studies

Q: How excited are you?

A: I’m very excited.

I’ve been waiting for this day for four years.

Q: What are you most excited about?

A: I’d have to pick two things. One, I am actually headed to Europe the day after graduation. The first thing I’m doing in Europe is an eight day study abroad trip with a professor in my department; it’s like a dream of mine so I’m really excited. Then I’m going to stay for eight more days and see more of Europe after that. I’m also moving to New Hampshire to pursue a hopefully full-time job and I will be excited to

Compiled by Sarah Teague, Life Editor, @sarah_k_teague not be doing school for that’s very distinct for Q: What’s your favormy department, that I ite show on Netflix? once.

have actual relation- A: “Gilmore Girls.”

Q: Are there any fun- ships with professors I Rory is my spirit aniny moments that stand haven’t even had in mal. out to you? class.

A: My backpack is so Q: What advice would heavy and one time I Q: What are your hob- you give to freshmen? was by the fountain, and bies and interests?

A: I would say to get I fell onto my back be- A: I am a photographer. involved but with realcause my backpack was I’ve been doing it since istic expectations of so heavy. When some- my senior year of high yourself. Another way body went to help me school, but I’ve really of putting it is learning up they almost fell moved it from hobby to good time management. down, too. It was so hopefully a part-time I think it’s easy to say funny. job in the last year or “yes” to a lot of things so. I love capturing peo- and then all of a sudden Q: What are your fa- ple. Obviously Netflix. be burnt out. I think I vorite experiences as One thing that I proba- have seen in myself that a religious studies ma- bly wouldn’t have said if I dedicate myself to a jor? when I came to college few things instead of A: I love Missouri is hiking. I was not out- many, then I enjoy my State. I love my depart- doorsy when I came to life more. ment. It’s hard to pick. college at all. I enjoy It’s a very welcoming hiking now. department. I think

RYAN WELCH/THE STANDARD

16 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Senior Bears Spotlight

Meghan Sims Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering & Physics

Compiled by Sarah Teague, Life Editor, @sarah_k_teague

Q: Why did you choose Missouri State?

A: I’m from Nixa, so it was local. I actually started out as physics, and I found (that) physics just wasn’t enough for me, and I found that Missouri S&T had a satellite program down here, so I started electrical engineering and I was able to stay local.

Q: What are some highlights from your college career?

A: I would highlight the program I had because I have a degree from both (Missouri State and Missouri S&T.) That has helped me. I was (also) able to stay local … and save a lot of money.

Q: Who is someone at the university that inspired you?

A: “Dr. Odun-Ayo was definitely an inspiration. She was one of my professors in the electrical engineering department. She was a great friend; she mentored me, and she was one of my first professors for my … program. She was one of my first female professors, too, so we got along really well—there’s very few feBAILEY VASSALLI/THE STANDARD males in our program.

$ Student loans are upon us $

Layne Stracener Reporter @LayneAlison1

Graduation is nearing, meaning it’s almost time for a new monthly bill—student loans.

Student loan counselors Vicki Jacobson and senior public relations major Tai Thrasher said that the most important tip for paying off loans after graduation is to know who your loan servicer is and to stay in contact with the servicer.

You can contact your loan servicer by phone or set up an online account on the National Student Loan Data System, www.NSLDS. ed.gov. This website displays information on loan amounts, outstanding balances, loan statuses and disbursements so you can keep track of your payments. It also provides information on terms relating to student loans and a frequently asked questions page.

If you can’t make a payment, don’t panic.

Thrasher said your loan servicer can help to temporarily postpone payments or switch your repayment plan. Thrasher also said it is important to plan ahead and maintain financial discipline. Sign up for automatic debit so you will not forget to make a payment.

“You don’t ever want to be delinquent (and not make payments),” she said. “It affects your

credit rating, your ability to receive a tax refund, and your ability to receive or renew a license.”

Students receive a six-month grace period after they graduate before they begin paying off student loans. During this time, a loan servicer will contact you to tell you how much your payments will be and how to make those payments. The grace period can be used to get a head start on paying off loans and get ahead of your debt right away.

You can always pay more than the required monthly payment, so it is recommended that you pay more if possible to pay off the loans faster and lower the amount of interest. Paying off the most expensive loans first is recommended, because they have the highest interest rates and will save you money in the long run.

Lastly, it is suggested that you deduct your student loan interest from your taxes.

There are seven loan repayment options: standard repayment plan, graduated repayment plan, extended repayment plan, income-based repayment, pay as you earn repayment, income contingent repayment plan and income-sensitive repayment plan.

“Students should know that there really is a loan repayment plan for everybody’s budget, even if you don’t have that final job yet,” Thrasher said.

THE-STANDARD.ORG

GRADUATION 2017 • 17

THE STANDARD

Summer commencement ceremony eliminated Jenna deJong Staff Reporter @ima_JEN The summer commencement for the upcoming season will now be the last. As part of recent budget cuts, Missouri State plans to eliminate summer commencement for years to come to save an estimated $16,058 each year.

Each year, summer commencement has roughly 300 students that walk through the ceremony, according to Commencement Chair Debbie Letterman. Compared to spring and fall commencements, the number of graduates that walk are significantly less.

“Summer commencement is our smallest commencement that we do,” Letterman said.

“We do one ceremony that day.

Spring will have three ceremonies in that one day, and we will have around 600 to 700 (students) per ceremony.”

As for the set-up, the cere-

File photo by RYAN WELCH/THE STANDARD

mony is about the same except for a soloist singer instead of the choir, piped music, and flags instead of the ROTC appearance. Letterman said the majority of those walking are master graduates.

Most of the commencement costs are the labor involved in putting on the ceremony.

“It does cost a lot to put on summer commencement because we don’t have to pay for rental, but we do have to pay for the labor and it takes a lot

of labor to put on a commencement,” Letterman said. “And we’re talking for roughly 300 students versus around 1,200 to 1,400 students in May.” One of these 300 students is biology major Lance Rycraft who decided to go through summer commencement because of timing purposes.

“By going through summer commencement, I am saving myself the time commitment that would be an additional semester of school rather than

finishing up in the summer,” Rycraft said.

Rycraft plans to take summer classes and finish the season by going through commencement where he plans to celebrate his accomplishments.

“Commencement will recognize all the hard work, time and dedication that I have put into the last four years,” Rycraft said.

As of now, students are able to apply to walk early before officially graduating and will

continue to be able to do so in the future. Associate Registrar Rebecca Harbaugh said that this process would allow students to have the option of when to walk in the future.

“If (students) can’t come back in the fall, then perhaps they can be a part of the spring,” Harbaugh said. “There is already a process to walk in the spring to get permission to walk early if you have very little to complete and that number has been increasing. I feel like the majority of students will have an opportunity to participate in either one.”

But for students like Rycraft, the situation is a little more complicated.

“I think it’s a very unfortunate situation,” Rycraft said.

“The ability to take summer classes to finish my degree and go through summer commencement has helped alleviate stress at the end of the semester, as well as avoid an additional semester working on

my undergraduate degree.”

Alumna Nicolette Martin went through summer commencement in 2014 after finishing her journalism internship. She said had there not been a summer commencement, she probably wouldn’t have walked at all.

“I don’t believe that commencement ceremonies are something that should ever be cut from a place of higher education,” Martin said. “It makes me disappointed to hear that there won’t be an opportunity for students who would otherwise choose to go through summer commencement ceremony to not have the opportunity to participate in a celebration for such an important milestone.”

As of now, Letterman said there has been no talk of putting a maximum number on the number of students that are allowed to walk early at spring Commencement, but that it could change in the future.

18 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG

Resume, set, go

Career Center specialists discuss the right time to start applying for jobs after graduation Mike Volding Staff Reporter @MiketheKid65 It’s graduation season; this is the time of the year many seniors may dread: it is time to start hunting for jobs.

This is the moment seniors have spent countless hours, sleepless nights and thousands of dollars in preparation for, looking to start their career.

But the biggest question that comes up around this time is, when is the right time to start applying to these jobs? This is a question that many seniors may have.

The right time to start applying really depends on the type of job that the graduating senior is looking for.

Gary Stafford, career center career resources specialist, said that the sooner the application is started the better.

The reason being is, there are positions out there that have competitive training programs, so the recruitment process will start early. The most well-known industries that have an early recruiting programs include investment banking, consulting and accounting.

“I would have to say, if a student wants a job right after graduation, they should start applying at the beginning of their last semester.” Stafford said.

“If their last semester is the spring, start applying in the beginning of the semester,” Stafford said. “If their last semester is during the fall, I would actually start applying during the summer.”

In doing this, Stafford said that he believes it will put the seniors in a much better position to implement themselves as a candidate.

For those not graduating that may want

to start this process, Stafford gave some tips about what to do to get started.

“The earlier you start the better. It will be advantageous to start while you are still in school,” Stafford said. “I would say to students, if you want a job right after graduation, you should start with internships as early as the summer after freshman year.

“I believe that will it provide a lot more experience in the field that they prefer.”

Seniors who have yet to start applying for jobs should not lose hope. There are a number of action available to put yourself into a good place.

“I would say to the seniors who have not started applying, is that you have not lost out,” Stafford said. “I would start immediately. There are a lot of tools and resources out there to help you. I would advise seniors to utilize LinkedIn.” Emily Pedroli, a graduating socio-political communications major, believes that the right time to start applying is in the middle of your last semester.

“I started applying in the beginning of April,” Pedroli said. “I was going to start early, but I learned that if you start too early then that employer might want you to start then and there, and if I started later, there was a possibility of losing the job.

“So, I was able to find that fine line of when to start applying.”

Pedroli said that she was able to use her LinkedIn accounts and countless other websites to aid her with the task of finding job opportunities.

Additional resources include Career Resource Centers, www.Monster.com, www.

ZipRecruiter, www.itsmycareer.com.

Armed with the right resources, graduating seniors should look forward to their job hunting experience.

THE-STANDARD.ORG

THE STANDARD

GRADUATION 2017 • 19

Four-year sports recap the first-round 29th overall of the 2015 MLB Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. Harris was the fifth Missouri State player to be selected in the first round of the MLB Draft.

Joining him in the draft were juniors Tate Matheny and Matt Hall. Matheny was drafted in the 6th round by the Boston Red Sox, while Hall was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 6th round.

Mike Volding Staff Reporter @MiketheKid65

With graduation nearing, there have been many great moments over the past four years for the Missouri State athletics program.

Baseball

The past four seasons of baseball have been a staple of Missouri State. Over these four years the Bears have a combined record of 144-83.

In the 2014 season, the Bears went 26-31 on the season. The Bears had two players selected by teams in the MLB Draft after the 2014 season. Second basemen Eric Cheray was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the 17th round, while right-handed pitcher Cody Schumacher was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 36th round

Football File Photo by ELI WOHLENHAUS

Dave Steckel of the 2014 MLB Draft.

In the 2015 season, Missouri State Baseball went 4912, and the Bears made it to one win away from making it to the College World Series.

Jon Harris was selected in

Over the past four seasons the Bears have a combined record of 10-32.

Missouri State football has been reeling for the past couple of years. Looking to start anew, in the offseason of the 2014 season, Missouri State named Dave Steckel as the new head coach of the Bears.

Steckel had spent the last 14 seasons with the Mizzou Tigers, where he served as the

defensive coordinator and associate head coach.

The first season the Bears had under the leadership of Steckel was not ideal, winning only one game, finishing the season at 1-10.

In the offseason of the 2015 season, Steckel had a chance to get settled in and get a feel for the team. The Bears were able to finish the 2016 season with an improved record of 4-8.

In the offseason of the File Photo by MEGAN BURKE/THE STANDARD 2016 season Bears senior Dequon Miller won the Missouri Valley Newcomer of linebacker Dylan Cole signed an undrafted, free agent con- the Year for the 2015-16 season tract with the Houston Texans. of 20-13, one of the big For the past two years the games during the season be- Bears has had a player reMen’s Basketball ing when the Bears faced the ceive MVC Newcomer of the The Missouri State men’s No. 6 unbeaten Wichita State. Year. Junior guard Dequon basketball team has a com- Missouri State was clinging Miller won it in the 2016 seabined record of 61-68 over to a four-point lead with a son, and junior forward Alize the past four seasons. minute left in regulation, but Johnson won it in the 2017 The Bears finished the the Shockers were able to tie season.

2013-14 season with a record it up and win in overtime.

20 • GRADUATION 2017

THE STANDARD

THE-STANDARD.ORG