Why was SEMO a smart choice for you?

The hospitality program was all inclusive regarding restaurants, hotels, and events rather than a focus in one of the areas. This makes more sense and allows for a well-rounded education in the industry, which was an appealing aspect to me. The college was also a good sized school, not too big and not too small. Cape Girardeau was additionally a good size with a lot to offer. SEMO overall appeared to be a great fit for me personally and for my future career. Financially, I also received the Regent's scholarship which made SEMO an appealing option.

What is it that you feel sets SEMO apart when you were making your college decision?

The size of the school and town were appealing, campus was pretty, and I liked being on the Mississippi River. I felt like I would fit in with the student population here and it was a very welcoming environment. It also had my program which was a big factor in narrowing down schools.

What is your major and how do you feel that program is preparing you for a successful career?

My major is Hospitality Management and the program does a great job in preparing the students via the classroom but also through real life experience. We gain an understanding of the entire industry including restaurants, hotels, and event planning rather than focusing solely on one element, and we actually step out of the classroom to work on real projects and learn from real people working in the field. Our professors have professional experience and are more than professors to us, but also friends that truly want the best for our futures. We are self-driven but guided with assistance and the passion that our professors hold, help to promote the industry and get us excited for what we can do in the future.

Do you have a scholarship?

Yes

If you have a scholarship, how will your scholarship from SEMO help you graduate with less debt and what will that mean for your life after graduation?

Because of my scholarship, I have not had a financial burden weighing over me throughout my college years and I can happily say that I will never have a financial burden from college in my future. My parents also did not need to worry as much about money because I was able to achieve a scholarship, and I feel very proud to have eliminated that worry from them. I will be able to focus on making money and saving up for a home, car, and my future, rather than be concerned about using that money to pay for my past.

What is your favorite thing about SEMO?

My favorite things about SEMO are the size of the school and the opportunities I have been given. Class sizes were perfect because I was able to know my fellow students while also gaining a relationship with my professors. All the student organizations I joined also allowed me to thrive and gain great leadership and professional experience. I believe that if I went to a huge school, I would not have made the relationships I have been able to make nor would I have stood out. SEMO allowed for me to make my own mark and gain confidence that has prepared me for my future.

Describe SEMO in two sentences.

SEMO is a medium-sized school that is dedicated to its students' success and future careers. The beautiful campus provides many opportunities for students to make relationships, gain leadership experience, and create lifelong memories.

What makes SEMO faculty great?

In my experience, they are so understanding of students being true human beings with lives outside of school. They are willing to help you along the way and would like the students to thrive and be successful. Because we are adults, we are still held to high standards and expected to be responsible and professional, but we are supported along our journey and can network with the faculty as adults.

Describe life on campus?

There are many opportunities provided on campus for students to get involved in. Every single student should be able to find something they are interested in or would like to participate with. Most students are actively involved on campus and have found their group or area of interest that they can thrive in. Many students do go home quite often which may limit activity on the weekends.

Are you involved in Greek Life, Honors Program or any other student organization, please tell us about that experience and how it has impacted you.

I am actively involved, holding leadership positions, in the service sorority Gamma Sigma Sigma, Club Tennis, and Hospitality Management Student Association. I also have completed the honors program to graduate with the honors medallion. Participating in these organizations have truly shaped my college career outside of courses. These have allowed me to meet my best friends, have fun experiences, and practice my leadership and organizational skills. Without my participation in these organizations, I do not believe I would have made the most out of my college experience because though these were "work," they were optional and improved me more as a person than any one course would have been able to. From social skills to taking on responsibility, these organizations have truly prepared me for my future.