WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Students give many reasons for their decisions to attend Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP). For Christian Hirsch, his decision came down to the most practical reasons.
“I chose MSU-WP simply because of the affordability and how close it was to home,” the 2018 graduate of Thayer High School explained, adding that it allowed him to be near his family while saving money for the next two years of college.
But Hirsch admitted he did not expect much from the experience. “I thought going in it would just be a boring community college, but my experience has been so much more than I ever thought it would be,” he said.
“After getting connected and involved on campus, I met so many new people. My experience has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and grow so much as an individual during my time here,” he added.
Hirsch participated in a number of activities and organizations, including the Student Ambassadors program through the admissions office and the Professional Agriculture Students (PAS) academic organization.
As an ambassador, he said, he worked with several faculty and staff members who gave him unexpected and unique experiences and opportunities. “Making these connections has allowed me to grow my network and to be more prepared for my future career,” he said.
One of Hirsch’s greatest achievements at MSU-WP was competing at the PAS state competition, which he believes also will be beneficial to his future endeavors. “I was able to qualify for the national competition in several events, along with other students. Although we never got to compete at nationals due to COVID-19, it was awesome to see so many students qualify,” he said.
These experiences, along with his classes, helped the self-described quiet, shy student broaden his horizons and come out of his shell.
“This college has allowed me to develop into a more confident and educated person,” Hirsch said. “MSU-WP has truly helped to shape me and prepare me in many aspects for my future career.”
Hirsch graduated from MSU-WP in August 2020 with an Associate of Science in Agriculture, and he is currently working on a bachelor’s degree in agriculture business at MSU in Springfield.
“The West Plains campus helped me accomplish my goals in so many ways. Everywhere you are on campus, every department and every staff member want you to succeed. This campus is great about working together to help every student succeed.”
The key to that success, Hirsch said, is becoming involved.
“Don’t allow yourself to go to class and then go back home or to your dorm. Connect with people and get involved with events on campus. This will make your college experience so much better, and you will make memories that will last you a lifetime,” he said.
For more information about MSU-WP and its programs, visit wp.missouristate.edu or call 417-255-7955.
