Rain drizzled on freshman and their families carrying microwaves, bedding, and a regretful number of boxes. Some contents fall into mud in the rush of things, but among the flurry is pure excitement as new students moved onto campus on August 15.
“We are excited to welcome all our students to their new homes on campus,” said Madyson Fox, director of Residence Life and Student Conduct at MSSU. “I've looked forward to meeting new students and families, helping everyone settle in, and seeing the campus come alive as the new academic year begins.”
Many students share that joy as they start their own lives while remaining close to home.
“I’m looking forward to moving out and living on my own,” said Kaylee Welch from Welch, Oklahoma. “MSSU is far enough away that I can still be independent.”
Several students, such as Mason Eyler, expressed their anticipation for their studies.
“I’m ready to start class,” said Eyler, a criminal justice major from Liberal. “A mentor of mine loved the program, so I’m pretty dang excited to experience it myself.”
For others like Jarquan Davis, sports and MSSU’s atmosphere brought him from Memphis, Tennessee.
“There was nothing like MSSU,” said Davis, who will play free safety on MSSU’s football team. “The campus has a great environment, and there’s a lot going on in Joplin. I’m looking forward to meeting people from all over the world here.”
Even RAs are delighted for the students to begin their college careers and grow into themselves.
“This is a big time of change for everyone,” said Jayla Wyant, sophomore MKEAP student and new RA. “I want them to make a new group of friends, because it is sometimes hard coming to college, especially if their hometowns are further away. My hope is that students find themselves and can grow into new people.”
