Welcome

MSSU’s First-Year Experience Program was established to help you, a first-year student at MSSU, make a smooth and successful transition into the academic and personal challenges of the university experience.

The faculty and staff at MSSU want to give you the information, tools, and assistance you need to succeed and make informed choices while pursuing your goals at MSSU.

You may be asking yourself several questions as you begin your university experience:

• The liberal arts (academic areas of social sciences, natural sciences, fine arts, literature, and the humanities) are the keystone to MSSU’s degree programs.
• MSSU’s small class sizes allow students to experience a more intimate learning environment.
• MSSU offers diverse classes, including online, hybrid, and evening courses.
• The international mission is integral to academic and campus life at MSSU. This mission shapes travel opportunities, course offerings, and semester events.
• Student Success through degree completion

• As a first-year student, you’ll study the semester country in the “University Experience” course, as well as attend events and read a book related to the semester country.
• MSSU has exchange contracts with universities around the world for short or long-term study abroad opportunities.
• Several courses offer spring break trips to locations related to the course. Ex. France, Greece, Mexico.
• The exchange program creates a more diverse student population that allows you to interact and befriend students from all over the world.

• Developing a sense of personal potential and academic goals
• Learning from the experiences of successful students
• Researching and implementing study methods
• Practicing time management
• Taking responsibility for your physical and mental health.
• Interacting positively with your professors, MSSU staff, and other students
• Learn to appreciate and explore cultures different from your own

• Advising, Counseling, and Testing Services
• Bookstore
• Campus Map
• Career Services
• Dining Services
• Disability Services
• Financial Aid
• First-Year Experience Program Office
• Health Center
• Institute of International Studies
• Learning Center
• Project Stay
• Public Safety
• Registrar’s Office
• Residence Life
• Scholarship Office
• SPIVA Library
• Student Handbook
• Student Rights and Responsibilities