Category: Students

  • Study Abroad: China 2027

    Study Abroad: China 2027

    Informational Meeting
    Monday, Oct. 19
    2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
    Lybyer Hall, room 205

    Study Abroad in China While Earning Your Degree

    Have you ever wanted to travel internationally, experience a different culture firsthand, or learn about life in another part of the world? The Missouri State University-West Plains China Study Abroad Program offers you the opportunity to do all of that while earning credit toward your associate degree at our Dalian, China campus.
    Participants receive round-trip airfare and housing as part of the program. In addition, eligible financial aid and scholarship funds awarded through Missouri State University-West Plains may be applied to program costs, making this an affordable and accessible international experience.

    Learn More

    Interested in learning more? Attend an informational meeting on October 19 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in Lybyer Hall 205. During the session, Dr. Michael Orf, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, along with other program representatives, will provide an overview of the experience, discuss eligibility requirements, and answer questions about studying abroad in China.

    Criteria

    Students interested in participating in the program must be in good standing at Missouri State University-West Plains, will have completed at least 30 college credit hours before the Spring 2027 semester, and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. To apply, students must submit a completed application, two academic letters of recommendation, and a personal statement describing why they would like to participate in the program. Applicants will also participate in an interview as part of the selection process.

    Deadline

    The application deadline for the China Study Abroad Program is November 8.
    This unique opportunity allows students to gain valuable international experience, develop a broader global perspective, and create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’ve ever considered studying abroad, now is the time to learn more and take the first step toward an unforgettable experience.
    We hope to see you at the informational meeting!
     
    Michael Orf
    Vice Chancellor
    Academic Affairs
    Missouri State University-West Plains
  • Mountain Grove Burger Cook-off & Concert

    Mountain Grove Burger Cook-off & Concert

    This event has been postponed due to high temperatures.

    The Mountain Grove Burger Cook-off & Concert has been rescheduled for November 7.

    You’re invited to attend or participate in Mountain Grove’s Burger Cook-off & Concert

    Officials have requested teams register as soon as possible. 

    Saturday, Sept. 19, at 4 p.m.
    Mountain Grove Square

    Whether you’re a restaurant, local organization, or just a group of friends, you’re invited to take part in the Burger Cook-off & Concert in Mountain Grove, Missouri! Lawn chairs recommended. Bounces houses and vendors available.

    Enjoy a free concert with live music featuring a performance by Eastern Heights at 4:30 p.m.

    Trophies | Prize Bundles | Bragging Rights

    Compete for both the People’s Choice and the Judges’ Choice Awards while serving up your best burgers to event attendees.

    Vendors are welcome to sell additional food items, but each competitor must feature at least one burger option.

    Admission to the event is free for attendees. Guests may purchase burgers directly from vendors or opt to purchase a wristband which allows guests to sample each competitor’s burger and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award.

    All vendors are required to provide a complimentary slider or burger sample to judges and wristband holders for the Judges’ and People’s Choice Awards.

    For additional information, contact Tourism@MountainGroveMo.gov or 417-926-4162.

  • Deadline to register for intramural pickleball and dodgeball approaches

    Deadline to register for intramural pickleball and dodgeball approaches

    The deadline to register for our intramural pickleball and dodgeball leagues is quickly approaching. Teams must be registered by Thursday, Sep. 10 at 11:59 pm. There are a limited number of team slots available, so be sure to sign up soon.

    Each member of the winning team will receive their own individual trophy and hold the ultimate bragging rights. Teams may consist of any combination of current MSU-WP students, staff, and/or faculty. More information can be found by clicking the registration links below.

     

    Once the registration closes, the official schedule will be sent out on Friday, September 11. You will see your team’s opponent and play time listed. 

    Dodgeball

    Dodgeball will take place on Monday evenings on September 14, 21, and 28. The playoff tournament will then take place on September 5 for those who advance.

    Register your dodgeball team

    Pickleball

    Pickleball will take place on Tuesday evenings on September 15, 22, and 29. The playoff tournament will then take place on September 6 for those who advance.

    Register your pickleball team

     

    We hope to see you on the court!

    Respectfully,

    Douglas Cooley II
    Assistant Director
    Student Life and Development

    Missouri State University-West Plains
    128 Garfield Ave.
    West Plains, Mo 65775

    O: 417-255-7734 | DouglasCooley@MissouriState.edu 

  • Resume and Portfolio Cafe

    Resume and Portfolio Cafe

    Career Services offers career-readiness resources for students and alumni.

    Faculty and Staff: Please encourage students and alumni, who are preparing to search for their next career role, to attend these events prepared by Career Services.

    Monday, March 30, 9 a.m. – noon

    Resume and Portfolio Cafe
    9 a.m. – noon, Lybyer Hall, Room 210

    Hey students and alumni! Need a quick review of your resume, cover letter, or any other career documents? Stop by our Career Services office for personalized feedback and guidance.

    Plus, enjoy complimentary coffee while you’re here. We look forward to helping you take the next step in your career journey!

    Questions? Contact Career Services at 417-255-7230 or by emailing WPCareer@MissouriState.edu.

  • Spring and Summer 2026 Graduates

    Spring and Summer 2026 Graduates

    Application Deadline: Friday, March 20,  2026

    If you are planning to graduate in Spring or Summer 2026, you must complete an “Application to Graduate.”  See your advisor to confirm graduation eligibility and how to apply.  Remember to apply in the term that you plan to graduate.  The application to graduate link is found on the Student Resources Card in your Grizzly Den.

    Applications MUST be received by March 20, 2026 for your name to appear in the Commencement program and in the newspaper.

    Applications to graduate will still be accepted after Friday, March 20, 2026, but your name will NOT be published.

    Did you know that you can view your degree audit?

    A degree audit shows all grades, current classes, graduation requirements not met, and other information pertaining to your academic record.

     Follow these steps to view your degree audit:

    1. Login to My Grizzly Den.
    2. Locate the Degree Information Card
    3. Click My Degree Works Degree Audit

     

    Office of Registration and Records
    WPRR@MissouriState.edu
    417-255-7979

  • Graduation Fair

    Graduation Fair

    Attention MSU-WP Graduates

    Beginning March 23, stop by the Drago College Store  to pick up your graduation regalia for commencement! Associate Gown, Cap, and Tassel are covered by the common fee, therefore, no additional charge.

    Students who apply for graduation will be asked if they are walking and if so their height and weight. A gown will be ordered for these students and available for pick up at the Drago College Store starting March 23 – May 9, 2026.

    Additional commencement regalia, announcements, and souvenirs are available to order on the Graduation Fair tab on the Drago store’s website.

    Drago College Store
    WPDragoCollegeStore@MissouriState.edu 
    417-255-7227

  • ASK Week Early Registration

    ASK Week Early Registration

    Advisement for Success Kickoff (ASK) Week is here, so please make students aware of the need to see their advisors prior to registering for summer session or fall semester classes.

    Students should make an appointment to visit with their advisors during ASK Week March 23 – 27. Advisors have set aside additional advising time during ASK Week specifically for student convenience. Students should meet with their advisors each semester to ensure progress toward a timely graduation and to have their Alt PIN released for registration.

    Students can make an appointment by phone or university e-mail. Make sure degree-seeking students understand Alt PINs must be released before they can register. Early registration begins April 6.

     

    Office of Advising and Academic Support
    Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    WPAdvising@MissouriState.edu
    417-255-7222

     

  • Celebrate National Autism Acceptance Day April 2

    Celebrate National Autism Acceptance Day April 2

    April 2nd is National Autism Acceptance Day, and this year it will be officially recognized by Mayor Topliff and the City of West Plains!
    To celebrate and support this initiative, ASCEND at Missouri State University-West Plains is encouraging local businesses to “paint the town blue.”
    Show your support by:
    •  Wearing blue April 2nd.
    •  Assembling blue-themed displays for the entire month of April.
    •  Getting creative to spread awareness and acceptance, whether you sell blue vehicles or blue drinks, show your support for inclusion by sending ASCEND a photo of your crew and displays to share on Facebook throughout the month of April.
    You can also show your commitment to inclusion in West Plains by ordering an ASCEND T‑shirt from the Drago Bookstore by March 20th. $10 of each shirt purchased goes directly to ASCEND to continue our commitment to neurodiverse students.
    Let’s come together as a community and shine a bright light on acceptance, inclusion, and support for our neurodiverse neighbors!
  • LEGO brick drive for Autism Acceptance Week

    LEGO brick drive for Autism Acceptance Week

    TJ Swift House ASCEND Program

    In preparation for Autism Acceptance Week, officials with the ASCEND program are requesting donations of clean, new or used LEGO sets or bricks, including instructions, if possible. Donations can be delivered to the Neurodiversity and Autism Center by March 20. Questions may be directed to Justin Wade.

  • Career Services Events

    Career Services Events

    This week, Career Services has three events

    Wednesday, March 18

    Interview Insights: Proven Strategies for Success
    2 – 3 p.m., Lybyer Hall, Room 202

    Ready to make a lasting impression and land your dream job? Join us for the Interview Insights: Proven Strategies for Success workshop, designed to equip you with the skills and confidence you need to excel in any interview setting.

    In this interactive and informative session, you will:

    • Master Common Interview Questions: Learn how to effectively answer frequently asked questions and articulate your strengths and experiences with impact.
    • Develop STAR Responses: Discover the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your answers and showcase your problem-solving abilities.
    • Enhance Your Non-Verbal Communication: Understand the importance of body language, eye contact, and other non-verbal cues in making a positive impression.
    • Prepare for Different Interview Formats: Get tips on handling various types of interviews, including virtual, panel, and one-on-one interviews.

     

    Friday, March 20

    Resume and Cover Letter Workshop
    9 – 10 a.m., Lybyer Hall, Room 211

    Students and alumni are welcome to join this workshop to learn helpful tips to create a standout resume and cover letter.

     

    Resume and Portfolio Café
    10 – 11 a.m., Lybyer Hall, Room 210

    Hey students and alumni! Need a quick review of your resume, cover letter, or any other career documents? Stop by our Career Services office for personalized feedback and guidance.

    Plus, enjoy complimentary coffee while you’re here. We look forward to helping you take the next step in your career journey!

    Questions? Contact Career Services at 417-255-7230 or by emailing WPCareer@MissouriState.edu.