InCommon Blog : InCommon

Important Registration Updates

Kelly McNeilis — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:55:00 GMT

Good Monday to you all…we are in the home stretch now…only 3 more weeks of classes.

A couple of items for you to be aware of as you continue to plan for summer and fall registration.

1. In order for a course to make (and not be cancelled due to low enrollments) I strongly urge you to pre-register for courses.

a. For summer, I will make decisions about small classes by end of finals week in May. In cases where a class is in jeopardy, I will contact ALL students currently registered. Courses that are currently at risk include COM 315 and COM 209. If you plan to take one of these classes, PLEASE REGISTER NOW.

b. For fall classes, we give it more time. The decision to cancel a class will likely occur in mid to late July. So, please check your campus email accounts and postal mail HOME this summer for information about this.

c. If we cancel a class due to low enrollments I will work with students directly to find adequate substitutes for their programs. For example, I note that COM 360 has only 4 students currently registered. If we cancel that course and it’s required in your program and you graduate in December, we will make a substitution. If not, we will offer it in Spring 2010 and you’ll need to make schedule adjustments.

2. Consider taking an online course or special topics class this fall. These courses can count in your programs, but check with your advisor:

a. Organizational and Interpersonal COM majors----COM 511/611 Online: Conflict and Communication, Charlene Berquist

b. All COM Studies majors---COM 513/619 Online: Ethical Issues in Communication, Susan Waters

c. Health COM majors---COM 597/698 Live: Health Communication and Culture, Heather Carmack

3. Banner enforces pre-requisites. These are pre-requisites set by the department and agreed to by the COM faculty. Permission to waive a pre-req is always an instructor decisions. A few other things to consider:

a. If you are taking the pre-req this summer on campus, you need to register for it first. Then you should be able to go into Banner for the fall and add the course you want. Banner should recognize you as being In Progress with the pre-req. If it does not, contact the Registrar’s office directly and they’ll get it fixed for you.

b. If you plan to take a pre-req this summer off campus, you’ve got to contact the instructor directly and inform him/her of this and request an override due to completing the pre-req this summer.

c. If you are not currently eligible for admission to the major, but will be by the end of the summer, again, you can contact the instructor and request permission to waive the pre-req.

d. By departmental policy, if you will be in progress with it this fall, you are NOT eligible to take that course, and the instructor will not give you permission to take the course.

4. Admission to the major: If you are eligible right now for admission, please see your advisor immediately to complete the paperwork to clear the “admission” pre-requisite so you can register. At the same time you need to make plans to get admitted to your minor as well. Please make a separate appointment for that to happen before or right after we complete your paperwork in COM.

a. If you will be eligible for admission by the end of the semester, then in most cases, you will not be given permission because we cannot guarantee that you will complete the course or get the necessary grade in the course that is necessary for admission. So, you may have to plan for another course and if you meet the requirements after grades are posted, you can contact the instructor directly and request permission now that you’ve met the admission criteria.

b. We just want to be sure that you are eligible to be in the course and that you have a proper course sequencing plan for taking the course.

5. Remember to request permission DIRECTLY from the instructor. Requesting does not mean automatic permission is given.

GREAT OPPORTUNITY in KANSAS CITY. Please read the attached flyer for a chance to travel to Kansas City this Wednesday with IABC. Please read this information flyer Student Career Day.doc.

Kelly

Spring is here!

Kelly McNeilis — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:24:00 GMT

Welcome back everyone from Spring Holiday. I hope you got some good rest and got caught up on things last weekend. We are now in the home stretch to the end of the semester. Below are a few items of interest to all COM majors and minors...opportunities, registration tips, and honors to our students.

1. Everyone is invited to our annual Communication Honors Ceremony scheduled for Wednesday, April 22 at 3:00 in PSU 312 A, B & C. At this annual celebration we award all the COM scholarships, induct this semester's Lambda Phi Eta students, and celebrate the end of the semester. Of course we'll have some munchies and refreshments. Stop by and see some friends and faculty and celebrate your accomplishments from 2008-2009.

2. A note from the president of PRSSA: Cheer on the Springfield Cardinals!

TO: COM students

FR: Leah Almeling

With all the long, hard work we put into our education together, it is time for some fun! The Public Relations Student Society of America is sponsoring Springfield Cardinals PR Night on Thursday, April 23 for the COM department and all of your friends! The first pitch is at 7:10 p.m., but we are also hosting an informal PR meet and greet beginning one hour prior to the game! We have invited our local professional chapter of PRSA to come talk to students interested in the business. And for those over 21, it is two beers for $5 on the patio and Budweiser koozie night for people that get there early!

Tickets are only $9 and available for purchase from Karen Sikes at the COM office in Craig 375 Hope to see you all there.

CONTACT: Leah Almeling (Leah06@missouristate.edu) for more information.

3. Need some help with your money (or lack thereof)? Check out Financial literacy.docx this opportunity.

WHAT: Come and Learn. “The Bear Essentials” needed to Survive!!!!!!

HOW TO: Creating a Spending & Savings Plan--Understanding Your Credit Report--Financing Your Education--Mastering Money Management--Calculating Your Future

WHEN: Monday, April 27th at 6 p.m. – PSU room 308
Tuesday, April 28th at 6 p.m. – Blair-Shannon Grand Lounge
Wednesday, April 29th at 6 p.m. – Hammons House Basement
Sponsored by: The Office of Student Financial Aid and Missouri Department of Higher Education (MDHE)

4. Some additional registration tips: How goes registration on the new Banner system?

Contact faculty in advance of registering if the course requires permission. You should email the person directly using the email link on the class schedule page.
Remember that most errors refer to pre-requisites or permissions that you have not yet met or cleared. If you get an error for program or pre-req that means you do not meet a specific requirement. If you plan to take a class this summer as the pre-req, you need to register for the summer class first. The banner system will recognize that as meeting the pre- req and you should be able to register for the fall class after that.
How do you find out how many seats are left? Click on the hyperlink of the course that you want to get into. That link will show you capacity and seats still available.
Plan your schedule in advance of getting online to register. Use the old style "trial schedule" pdf that is found on the registration page. Once you have that done, you can keep checking close levels of courses to see which ones are still available.

Let me know if you have any questions about registration. We are all learning this system together, so remember to plan ahead and be patient.

Kelly

When do I register? And where? Why?

Kelly McNeilis — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:08:00 GMT

Have you uttered any of these words lately? This time of year is always a bit anxious for students as you wonder what courses will be offered, what times, will you get into the ones you want, and when do I register are issues you all are dealing with right now. On top of that, we are using TWO different registration systems this year--the old one for summer and a new "banner" system for the fall (and beyond).

In this post I hope to provide you with concise, helpful information to wade through the sea of information out there...and sometimes that which isn't so helpful. Here goes:

1. What's this new "banner" registration thing I've been hearing about? Just for you, the university has created a short YouTube video to show you step by step how to register. It's a short, simple look at how to register click by click. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you take the quick 9 minutes to watch it. You'll pick up on the steps very quickly.

2. When do I register for fall classes? Click here and you'll find a series of drop down menus to select, once you hit submit, you'll get a date returned to you for the day you can register. The good news is that registration begins at 7:00am each day for each group and runs CONTINUOUSLY after that. Yes, that means starting at 7am, you can register day and night from that point on. Wasn't it frustrating to register at a specific time, or only to start at one point and get timed out at the end of the day.

3. Where do I find the list of classes and when they are offered? Again, we'll start with the idea that you are trying to plan for fall classes. Click here and you'll get to a new "class schedule" page within banner. Here you won't have to log in, you click on TERM: Fall 2009 and then search by COM, MED, JRN, ENG, etc. for classes you want to put into your schedule. This assumes you know which classes you want to register for. The old "Find a class" option is no longer available...so be prepared to look. The YouTube video gives you some great short cuts for how to navigate this search engine. My recommendation, look at COM classes, for instance, by COM and the number you want to find. Just input only those items to see the new format of the courses. After that, you can search with more terms.

The "trial schedule" tool is no longer. Booo, I know. But until the computer programmers get us a new program built, you'll have to use the old fashioned way, use the trial schedule worksheet. You'll find a link to it on the class schedule page. Print it and use the old pencil and paper method...it's good for you to do some things by hand every once and awhile.

4. How about some good news? Starting this fall registration and beyond, there will be NO $60 deposit fee required to hold classes. Good news indeed, that means you won't be dropped from your classes for failing to pay the fee! Indeed this is a great policy for students.

5. Want more tips?

If you plan to register for any course that has a lecture and lab combination, you need to register for them at the same time. In the new system, you can register course by course, or all at once. With "linked courses" you need to list them both (lecture and lab) and then click on "register for classes" at the same time. If you do not, you will get an "link error." So, avoid the error, register for linked classes TOGETHER. This applies to COM 209 and MED 120.
Speaking of ERRORS, expect a lot of them the first time you register. BE PATIENT. You can read about what they mean and how to get them remedied.
You will need to request PERMISSION from a faculty member in the following situations:

The course requires permission. What to do? Email the faculty member and request it. Once you get permission from the faculty member, then you go into registration and REGISTER for it. The permission does not register you. This will apply to courses like COM 509, 599 and online courses which require permission already.
The course is closed. Again, you contact the faculty member and request permission to enter a closed class. Of course, the faculty member can deny you permission, that part of the process hasn't changed. It just means you need to email or call the faculty member and request to be put on their "waitlist" so that when someone drops, you are next in line.
You don't meet a pre-requisite for a course. This is a tough one. There are course pre-reqs (like you need COM 209 or COM 210) that if you have not completed it, then you cannot register for the course. If you want to talk with the faculty member about a specific course pre-req, of course you may request an exception.
If you are not admitted to the major because you have not completed the requirements (2.5 gpa, core gpa of 25, etc.) then you WILL be blocked from registering for the course. The good news is that if you are currently completing those pre-reqs now, the system will recognize that and allow you to register. However, if you are NOT currently enrolled, you cannot register. In other words, PRE-REQUISITES WILL BE ENFORCED AND REGISTRATION WILL BE BLOCKED. Please do not request permission to register for a course that you do not meet pre-reqs for, faculty will not be granting overrides in cases where you are not eligible for admission.
In any case where you have a question about a pre-req for a class that you do not meet, TALK to the faculty member directly via email or phone.

6. What is this I've heard about new course minimums and classes being cancelled? Sad but true, we have to meet new course minimums for a class to make beginning this fall. The good news is that historically MOST COM classes make without a problem. So, don't worry too much about this.

Where we may have a few issues is with special topics courses (COM 397, COM 597) that are different topics each semester. Students tend not to know much about these courses, "fear the 500" level course, or otherwise think they can't take such courses. Quite the contrary, we offer special topics courses BECAUSE you should take them and get different material than we offer in regular classes, and 500 level courses are not to be feared but approached with great ferver! In fact, our COM 597 offering with Dr. Heather Carmack "health communication and culture" is a great course which you should consider. We need 15 students enrolled for it to make. If we do not, we will have to cancel the course. Don't miss a great opportunity to experience this and other "special topics" courses. If you have a question, ask me or your advisor or the instructor. They are great courses, which we offer sparingly with good reason. You will begin to see at least one special topics course each semester and so take advantage of them.

Note too that this summer is not immune to the new course minimums. COM 315 with Dr. Dudash needs to have at least 16 for it to make. If you want to take a 300 level course this summer and have not completed 315, summer is a GREAT time to take this course. If you don't pre-register for the course, we may not be able to offer it. Spread the word to others in different majors because ALL departments are being heavily scrutinized regarding caps. Generally 100-200 level courses need 20, 300-400 need 15, 500-600 need 8 to make.

Let me know if you have questions and as always, my pledge to you is that you will be contacted WELL in advance of a course being cancelled and we will make accommodations to your degree plan if you are graduating that semester (or have other sequencing issues). We are here to make sure you get your programs completed in reasonable timeframes. Your degree plan is safe! even if we have to cancel a course.

That's it for now. Please talk to your COM faculty and advisors. We are all learning this new system together so patience is the word for the rest of the semester. We will get through it together.

Kelly

P.S. Just so you know, my name in the new schedule appears as Kelly S. Wood, that's my new name

Unique Opportunities To Explore: Jobs and New Courses Offered

Kelly McNeilis — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 14:47:00 GMT

My last post provided information about COM scholarships and I hope you have taken my recommendation to apply based on your qualifications. March 1 is the deadline, so you've got plenty of time to complete your application, request letters of recommendation, or write a short essay. With money tight for everyone these days, finding all available sources of funding for your continued education is very important. These scholarships range from $300-$1000, which will be applied to your 2009-2010 account.

This week's post is about additional opportunities and offerings coming up. Be sure to check out the updated COM bulletin board in the lobby of Craig Hall (next to the newstand). I have updated staff and student profiles as well as a couple of new quotes for February.

Summer 2009 COM courses

The budget for offering summer classes is tight. Of course, we always offer COM 115 sections because students always fill those up. However, other COM classes are more difficult to fill, so I am advertising those that we are offering so you can make plans to take one or both.

COM 209, online, full 8 weeks: Ms. Heather Walters
COM 315, M-R, 12:30-1:45pm, full 8 weeks. Dr. Elizabeth Dudash
If you would like to see another course offered, please email me as soon as possible. If enough people request the same course, we may be able to open a section.

Planning for Fall 2009 Registration

With the arrival of new faculty (Carmack and Norander) we have a great opportunity to offer special topics classes to explore their areas of expertise and current practices in communication. In the next few blog posts I will highlight a specific course that we are offering which I believe you should consider putting in your fall schedule. Here's the first:

COM 597/698: Health Communication and Culture. Tuesday 6:30-9;20pm. Dr. Heather Carmack

Jobs in the health care field are predicted to rise each year, despite the economic downturn. Dr. Carmack's research specialty is health communication, the study of communication processes in the delivery of health care. This special topics class (undergrads register for COM 597 and grad students for 698) focuses on communication in health with an emphasis on how culture influences the experience and delivery of health care. This class explores the role of culture in how we understand and make health decisions. It explores both Western and non-Western cultures and their conceptions of health. Learn about how cultural experiences shape how we communicate about health. This topics (COM 597) course should count in any COM major or minor program...check with your advisor. Health com, intercultural, and interpersonal majors especially should take this course!

Career Expo 2009 Coming Soon

Summer vacation is only 100 days away!

Where will you work?

Find a FULL-TIME job, a SUMMER INTERNSHIP, or a PART-TIME job

at the Missouri State University Career Expo 2009

When? Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 1:00- 5:00 PM

Where? University Plaza Convention Center, St. Louis Street, next to Kentwood Hall

More than 100 EMPLOYERS will be there to meet you!

For additional information or for help preparing for the Expo,

call us at 836-5636

or visit the Career Center- Carrington Hall 309 or Glass Hall 103

Don't be jobless June 1^st!

Speaking of Internships--PR Majors should look into Fleishman-Hillard Internships opportunities.

Did you know that most PR agencies hire college grads only as interns as a "training" period to see if there is a good fit? Fleishman-Hillard is a St. Louis based agency and is a leader in this practice. I'm attaching here a Fleishman-Hillard STL Internship Brochure.pdf with information about their internships and how to apply.

Thinking of something cool to do after graduation?

CIEE Teach Abroad Programs

February 2009

Why CIEE?

Since October, the job outlook for most recent graduates has gone from bad to worse. On January 12th, the New York Times reported, "There are 11.1 million unemployed people in the United States, and the unemployment rate is at a 16-year high." CIEE Teach Abroad programs provide college graduates with semester or academic-year paid teaching positions in Spain, Chile, China, or Thailand. No matter their career aspirations, teaching English abroad is a fantastic opportunity for graduates to:

Build transferable management skills in the classroom
Acquire international savvy and perspective through full cultural immersion
Make a difference in the lives of students and school community
Gain real-world skills and international competency
Improve their foreign language ability

Why CIEE?CIEE Teach Abroad programs are the most comprehensive foreign teaching programs available worldwide, offering complete service and support. With over 60 years experience in international education, you can trust CIEE.

CIEE provides:

An English Teaching position with primary, secondary, or university level students
A local stipend (to cover living expenses and some travel!)
Comprehensive in-country orientation
Accommodations (full housing in Thailand, China, and Volunteach Chile; temporary housing in Spain/Chile)
Knowledgeable staff offering pre-departure and 24-hour in-country emergency support
Visa advice
Travel and medical insurance
TEFL certification at a discounted rate
Teaching, language, and cultural resource materials

Teach TimelineAll of this is good news for frustrated job seekers! CIEE offers programs to accommodate anyone at any point in their job search.

VolunTeach Chile starts May 25, apply by February 15 ~Graduate in May, start working RIGHT AWAY!
Teach in Thailand starts May 5, apply by February 21
Teach in China starts in late August, apply by May 1
Teach in Spain starts in late September, apply by March 15
Teach in Thailand starts in mid-October, apply by June 15

I hope that you encourage your students to explore the experience CIEE Teach Abroad programs offer. If you or your students have any questions or would like additional posters and brochures, please do not hesitate to contact me.

SincerelyJ. Spencer Jones
Director of Non-Credit Programs
CIEE International Work & Study Programs

Tel: .207.553.4045
Fax: .207.553.5045
Email: jsjones@ciee.org
Web: www.ciee.org/teach

In the category of "something to think about"-- FACEBOOK and your boss

Check out this article on CNN.com about if you should friend your boss from work. It's definitely something to think about as you move from school to work. I wonder if you think the same decision rules applies to friending your faculty members as well. What do you think? Post a comment...

Kelly

Winter Is Calling: Get Involved, Get Networked, Get Interviewed & Get Registered!

Kelly McNeilis — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:42:00 GMT

So, as the days are getting cooler (okay, cold), it’s time to start doing some planning and preparation for next year (for some of you next semester, others on the job market). As students, you are presented with numerous opportunities to make connections with professionals to help with career preparation and even that first job. You also have opportunities to volunteer and make connections as well.

Because we want you to make full use of resources on and off campus to succeed and get your prepared for the world of work, below is a wide variety of opportunities for you to get … “fill in the blank.” Make the most of your time here, choose wisely. Note #4 includes some excellent tips for cool classes and special topics for spring 2009 in the COM department.

1. Get Involved: Dr. Gloria Galanes has a volunteer opportunity for anyone who’s interested and lives in or near Greene County. Morey Mechlin is managing the campaign for a nonpartisan court plan for Greene County (re: the appointment of judges, etc.). She needs volunteers to work 2-3-hour shifts on election day, Tuesday, Nov 4. Here’s the relevant information from her email:

“We need students who can provide their own transportation to a voting precinct for 2-3 hour shifts on Tuesday, November 4. They will be outside passing out "Vote Yes" cards. They have their choice to work morning (6-9 a.m.), noon (10:30 - 1:30 p.m.) or evening (4-7 p.m.) shifts. We will have a training session on Sunday, November 2 at 4:00 p.m. so that they are familiar with the issue and understand the laws about working at a precinct.”

If anyone is interested, please email Dr. Galanes that you are interested by Wednesday noon if possible and she’ll give Morey the list of names: GloriaGalanes@MissouriState.edu 417.836.4983

2. Get Interviewed: The Career Center will host a Mock Interview Day for students on November 12, 9am-4pm in the PSU Ballroom West. This event gives students experience interviewing with employers so those students will become more comfortable and knowledgeable with how to interview when they are seeking a job or internship.

The employers will interview each student for 10-15 minutes and then provide 10-15 minutes of feedback for the student. Many different types of employers are participating in this event, including Missouri State University Graduate Programs, Cerner, Liberty Mutual, St. John’s Health System, Missouri Parole & Probation, Unifirst, Associated Electric, City Utilities, Jack Henry, and Joplin School District. This diversity of employers doing the mock interviews should enable students to interview with a company/organization in their future career field.

Students may sign up for this event and find the full list of employers on the Career Center website: www.careercenter.missouristate.edu. Please contact the Career Center (Carrington 309 or Glass 103; 836-5536; CareerCenter@missouristate.edu) if you have any questions.

3. Get Networked: Mentoring 101

From Rachel Bachus, 2007 alum: “I wanted to share with you about the “Magic of Mentoring”, AWC-Women in Communication Event (the Magic of Mentoring.pdf flyer explains and has registration details). The event is on Wed. November 12 and the guest speaker is Dr. Nancy O’Reilly who will discuss the importance of mentoring at any age and give tips on how to be a mentor, find a mentor, etc.

I am a current member of AWC and it is a great networking opportunity for any communication/public relation majors at MSU…a way to learn about communication related jobs in the community. This would be an excellent event for any MSU students and/or professors to attend.

Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks so much and hope to see you soon!”

Rachel L. Bachus Advancement Coordinator

1212 Lombard, Springfield, MO 65806

Direct:417.864.3974 Fax:417.869.0276

Rachel.Bachus@bgtm.org

4. Get Registered: Next week begins pre-registration for the spring 2009 semester.

As you plan your schedule, take note of a few special sections, cool topics, and additions/changes.

• COM 397: January Intersession: Randy K. Dillon
TOPIC: SEMIOTICS: COMMUNICATION OF SIGNS AND SYMBOLS 01/05/2009 to 01/09/2009, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm MTWRF

• COM 436: Communication and Leadership, special section taught by Dr. Gloria Galanes with local leaders as guest speakers and lecturers. T R 12:30 pm to 1:45 pm

• COM 315: Special Section on Public Speaking in the Legal Environment by Joe Passanise, local attorney and COM alum
Section 301 6:30 pm to 9:20 pm Thursday

• COM 505: Health Communication with Dr. Heather Carmack
Section 301 5:00 pm to 6:15 pm Mondays and Wednesdays

• COM 300: Careers in Communication
1st block course, 01/12/2009 to 03/05/2009, MW 2-2:50.

• Need a flexible course to meet your needs as a busy student?
How about COM 328: Online section of Persuasion—how convenient is that?

Online COM 512: Communication and Diversity in the workplace—TWO sections

Online COM 511: Communication and Conflict.

• COM 326: previously MWF at 9:00, now offered MWF at 10:00am

That's it for now,

Kelly

Reflections on COM Week and other opportunities for students

Kelly McNeilis — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:02:00 GMT

Last month, during the week of Sept 15-19 we hosted our annual COM Week activities. For about six years now, the department has offered this week of events for students to get experiences outside of the normal classroom through what we call “master classes,” to learn directly from alums and professionals working in good jobs. And as a culminating activity, we host a networking luncheon to connect students and alums. This is something we believe is inherently valuable to students and it also provides alums with connections back to the department and MSU generally. “It’s good thing,“ as Martha Stewart would say, that we give you real life examples of “what do you do with a COM major.”

It’s a good thing that may need to be rethought. Over the years, attendance at the events has been solid, but sporadic. This year, master classes were not well attended…in fact, it was dismal. Instead of blaming students (you) for not coming to these free and extremely useful activities, I started thinking about why students didn’t come in larger numbers as in the past. I’m still a bit perplexed about this. If students are busy, what are you busy doing? Were the scheduled event times inconvenient? If so, why? Did we not give you enough advance notice? Were the topics too vague for you to want to register? For those students who did register, why didn’t they show up? Ultimately, I’m left with more questions than answers. We want to serve you and provide useful programs and opportunities, and we do our best to tailor events to your needs (surveys, information given in classes, input, student involvement in planning). At some point, it’s up to you to attend (or not). So, where do we go from here?

Having said that, the networking luncheon on Friday was a huge success. We had very strong numbers of students who registered AND attended. The feedback during and after the luncheon was extremely positive (from both students and alums). Perhaps these types of networking activities are more of what you need? Instead of learning about how to write a good resume or use the newest techniques for posting your resume, perhaps you just want to meet people who can help you get jobs (and get fed at the same time J). I’d like to hear from you about this so that next year we can plan appropriate and exciting activities that you will clamor to attend.

In a future InCommon, I’ll post some of the great tips that the alums shared during COM Week.

MORE THINGS TO CONSIDER…

I get requests from fellow students to post items in the blog and I’m happy to do, here’s one:

_______________________________________________

FROM: Andrew Meyer (COM Major)Missouri State SIFE is partnering with Drury SIFE to host project WISE (Women Inspiring Student Entrepreneurs).This project will help female students make business connections, meet women in their future career field, and network to find possible internship/career opportunities. Students who sign up will be matched with an entrepreneur. They will then be invited to attend an opening banquet, held on Monday, October 27, where students will meet their business counterpart, arrange a date to shadow them, and hear from a keynote speaker. The project will conclude with a closing banquet to be held on Thursday, November 20, where you will have a chance to reflect on your experience and provide project feedback. WISE is a project specifically designed by Drury SIFE to provide a unique networking and learning opportunity for college women. To apply for project WISE, please visit, http://www.drury.edu/multinl/story.cfm?ID=22586&NLID=288To be considered for participation, students must submit an application no later than Wednesday, October 8, 2008.Questions? Contact Project Leader, Caitlin Pierce, at CPierce02@drury.edu (417) 873-7378.Andy Meyer, President, Missouri State SIFE (Missouristatesife@gmail.com) (417) 773-2415.

Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) is a global, non-profit organization. For more information about Missouri State SIFE or Drury SIFE, please visit,Missouri State SIFE Drury SIFE

Kelly McNeilis

Two Great Opportunities for COM students

Kelly McNeilis — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:17:00 GMT

ONLY A WEEK AWAY!

COM Week 2008

September 15-19, 2008

THEME: "Making it in the Real World with a communication degree"

Registration Continuing!

Alumni/Student Networking Luncheon Friday, September 19, 11-1 p.m., PSU Ballroom East Cost: $10, includes FREE COM Week t-shirt.

MASTER CLASSES: Registration is required and seats are going fast.

All classes are 3:30-4:45pm.

Monday: Learn what it takes to get your name out there and start connecting with those in the field ~ Drucilla Owenby, Craig 321

Tuesday: Take a look at “The Fabulous Life” of those working in the field ~ Dana Montgomery & Sheila Boutwell & Chris Dixon, Craig 337

Wednesday: Make a good impression while job and internship hunting. ~ Career Services, Craig 337

Thursday: Gain insight on the skills and experience you will need to be a “Survivor” in the workforce. ~ Jacob Day, Craig 337

CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK EVENT: RESERVATIONS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS.VISIT CRAIG 375, CALL 836-4423 OR EMAIL COMMUNICATION@MISSOURISTATE.EDU

******************************************************************************************

From the Desk of the Career Center:

How do you intend to get experience? How about a suggestion....

Participate in the Missouri State Legislative Intern program: As a com major or minor, you could have the opportunity to write press releases, interact with the media, resolve problems, participate in a mock legislative session with fellow interns, and help draft legislative proposals within our state government as you are paired up with a state legislator and spend a full spring semester in our state capitol. I believe it is an incredible and unique experience for COM majors and minors in particular. To learn more about this outstanding public affairs opportunity, email Sarah Douglas at sarahdouglas@missouristate.edu or call 836.5636. The application deadline for the Spring 2009 Legislative Intern cycle is October 10^th.For more information, check out this information sheet.

Have a great week,

Kelly McNeilis

Welcome Back COM majors and minors

Kelly McNeilis — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:05:00 GMT

Did you enjoy the last summer weekend of Labor Day? Now it's the start of the second week of classes. How are things going for you so far? Have you figured out your schedule yet? How's parking this year?

Remember InCommon? New to InCommon? Hi, my name is Dr. Kelly McNeilis, I'm the department head for Communication. This is my bi-monthly blog/newsletter. This blog is for COM majors and minors so that you have a place for news and upcoming events. You'll get an email from me first and within it, I post partial contents of the blog and then a link to the page so you can read it in its entirity. I always encourage feedback on this blog. Tell me what you like, tell me what you want to hear more about. I hope you will share your comments at the end of this blog...

MARK YOUR CALENDARS--Two Upcoming Events

A) Get ready for COM Week 2008

"Get Your Reality Check: Making it in the 'Real World' with a communication degree"

Events taking place during the week of September 15-19, 2008

Alumni/Student Networking Luncheon

Friday, September 19, 11-1 p.m., PSU Ballroom East

Cost: $10, includes FREE COM Week t-shirt

MASTER CLASSES starting @ 3:30 p.m.

All sessions conducted by COM alums. These sessions are FREE, but registration is required

Monday: Learn what it takes to get your name out there and start connecting with those in the field.

Tuesday: Take a look at “The Fabulous Life” of those working in the field.

Wednesday: Make a good impression while job and internship hunting.

Thursday: Gain insight on the skills and experience you willneed to be a “Survivor” in the workforce.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED FOR ALL EVENTS.VISIT CRAIG 375, CALL 836-4423 OR E-MAIL

B) Career Center Activities

1. Attached is the Career Center Flyer for Resume Madness coming up in 2 weeks! Get your resumes reviewed by Career Center Staff. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s free. Check it out.

2. Also, the Career Center is hosting a career fair, Fall Career Fest, on September 24, 2008 in the Plaster Student Union from 10 am – 2 pm. See current list of employer attending Fall Career Fest: http://careercenter.missouristate.edu/assets/careercenter/FallCareerFest2008.pdf

Note: Accounting, Business & Computer Days are also scheduled in Glass Hall respectively on September 15, 16 & 17, if students in your departments may be interested in attending.

For More Information, contact: Margie Wieland, Employer Relations Manager/Career Counselor

marjoriewieland@missouristate.edu

That's it for now, let me know if you have any questions or comments.

Kelly McNeilis

Department Head

Congratulations are in order

Kelly McNeilis — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:46:00 GMT

I intended the "last hurrah" to be the last post for this semester. However, I didn't want the semester to pass without congratulating a few of our own and others.

PUBLIC SPEAKING SHOWCASE

This past Wednesday, May 7, the department of communication hosted its semi-annual Public Speaking Showcase. At the end of each semester, students enrolled in COM 115 can compete in a public speaking competition. Each section of COM 115 forwards its top speaker to compete in two preliminary rounds by giving an informative speech. After those two rounds, the top 5 rated speakers are selected to compete in a final round in front of their peers of COM 115 students, friends, and instructors in the Plaster Student Union Theatre. This final round is judged by special guests invited from the university and the community. This year, guests included our very own Dr. Susan Waters, Dr. Elizabeth Dudash, Mike Wood (Director of Student Success), student Jordan Haymes (Ag Com major, Com minor), and a publishing sales manager.

After all five finalists gave their speeches, they were presented with trophies, bookstore goodies, and a gift certificate to the MSU bookstore. We want to send out congratulations to ALL FIVE finalists for their accomplishment in making it to the final round. Jonathan Ellis (5th place), Daniela Gemgigiani (4th), Quiana Smith (3rd), Sarah Reinhardt (2nd), and Lauren Terry first place speaker. Speech topics included sleep disorders, job/career outlooks, cyberbullying, synesthesia

Pictured above are Lauren Tracy (first place speaker) and her very proud instructor, Jerri Lynn Kyle. Lauren spoke about bullying and cyber bullying. Mrs. Kyle is very proud of her and it was especially gratifying for her because this Showcase was a milestone for her. Mrs. Kyle is the showcase coordinator, and this year was her 20, over the last 10 years, showcases! Isn't that amazing. She deserves an award too!

I'm pleased to announce the 2008-2009 officers for our communication honor society, Lambda Pi Eta

President: Emily Trammell

Vice President: Emily Standley

Secretary: Erin Pridemore

Public Relations: Nikki Vandepopulier

Event Coordinator: Jessica Lewis

Treasurer: Kristin Hurd

Congratulations and we look forward to your efforts next year.

Kelly

The last hurrah!

Kelly McNeilis — Wed, 07 May 2008 13:28:00 GMT

There was a definite process by which one made people into friends, and it involved talking to them and listening to them for hours at a time.
Rebecca West, Irish critic, journalist, & novelist (1892 - 1983)

I've posted this quote on the Craig Hall lobby board for May. As we say goodbye to our seniors and look forward to the next year with our returning students, it's important to remember friends; those you've made here and those you will make after you leave here. As a COM major or minor, you understand the important role of communication in creating and maintaining friendships. Once you leave the hallowed halls of Craig, you'll have to work at keeping in touch with your college buddies. via calls, emails, facebook posts, and visits. I have a younger sister who, since graduating from college in 2000, meets up with her college roomates every year at a new location. Of course since graduation they've had weddings and baby showers, but I've noticed that dedicated time together is key to maintaining their close ties. Consider what you are going to do to keep in touch with your friends, as well as the department. As you move into the next stages of your life, drop us a line here and let us know where you are, what job you've landed, and what exciting things you are doing since graduating. Do keep in touch with us. The above quote also means that you can still make new friends, no matter where you are, it just takes time to invest in creating and maintaining them through frequent interaction.

THREE ITEMS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION (skip to #3 if you are not graduating):

1. In Your Honor

For graduating seniors, I want to remind you that the College of Arts and Letters (wherein COM is located), is hosting a pre-commencement reception for you and your family and friend, Friday, May 16. Do plan to come by and celebrate with your favorite COM faculty members and other students. Graduation begins at 1:30 in Hammons Student Center.

Date and time:
    Friday, May 16, 2008, 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Location:
    First and Calvary Presbyterian Church attrium (right next to Hammons Student Center) 820 Cherry Street

    Open to current students, parents and family, alumni, faculty, staff Free.

2. From the Desk of the Career Center

As the semester ends, the Career Center is in the process of collecting graduate placement data. Students can go online or complete and return the attached survey to the Career Center --- so if you have accepted a job or plan to go to graduate school, etc, please to let us know by completing the survey online.

We will be entering students names in a drawing to win $25 gift certificate to the MSU Bookstore – drawings will occur on May 12^th & June 16th. Even if students do not have a job yet, they can still be included in the drawing, if they complete & return the survey.

Graduate Survey online: http://careercenter.missouristate.edu/GraduateSurvey.htm

Note: The Career Center is open all summer – we help alumni in their job search all the time. If graduates are still looking, refer them to the Career Center! If you can pass this message on to students in your department, that would be great! Let me know if you have any questions! Thanks! For information, contact: Career CenterEmployer Relations Manager / Career Counselor http://careercenter.missouristate.edumarjoriewieland@missouristate.edu(417) 836-5636(417) 836-5656 (Fax)

3. RATE YOUR CLASS INSTRUCTOR

From the Office of the Provost:

To Missouri State Students, As we near the end of the spring semester, we are asking that you take a few minutes to participate in the Rate My Class Instruction or iGrade option on the My Student Information system website which will be available to you May 3 – May 19. Your participation is especially needed now in order for the University to comply with a relatively new law in Missouri which requires state institutions of higher education to provide additional information on those providing instruction on our campus which includes having student evaluations available on our website. We are fortunate to already have a system in place due to the joint efforts of the Student Government Association and the Faculty Senate. Please take a few moments to submit your evaluations of your spring 2008 classes. You simply go the My Student Information page and select Class Schedule. Your spring 2008 class schedule will have buttons that allow you to submit your responses to each of the 5 questions. The summarized results of all evaluations will be available to all current and future students beginning May 20. We very much appreciate your time and attention to this very important campus-wide endeavor. Sincerely,

From all your COM Faculty and Staff, congratulations seniors, and to all of you, have a great rest of the semester and even more enjoyable summer!

Stay in touch,

Kelly

Some REALLY great opportunities!

Kelly McNeilis — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 03:03:00 GMT

Additional section of COM 439 offered this fall. Due to overwhelming demand, we've opened a second section of COM 439 this fall, TR, 3:30-4:45 with Dr. Sam Dyer. Registration is open for this section now and the seats are filling up quickly. Be sure to register as soon as possible for this class so that it makes!

Graduating next month? You are invited!

Spring 2008 commencement is coming soon, and for those of you who are graduating , plan to attend a college sponsored reception before commencement! Bring your parents, friends, and other guests and meet the Dean of the College, Dr. Carey Adams and other COM faculty members. Friday, May 16, 11:30-1:00 in the lower atrium of First and Calvary Church (next to Hammons Student Center).

Free concert event this weekend planned by COM 309 students!
Tina Stillwell's COM 309 class (Principles of Public Relations) is coordinating a special event in conjunction with Ozarks CW this Saturday (April 26) to raise awareness of gynecologic cancers and to raise donations for GYN Cancers Alliance here in Springfield. The event, which will take place from noon-6 p.m. at Jordan Valley Park, features the music of four bands and MSU’s A Cub Bella (women’s a cappella group). From their press release:

MSU STUDENTS HOST FREE TO BE ROCK FEST FOR GYN CANCERS ALLIANCE

    SPRINGFIELD—Public relations students from Missouri State University and The Ozarks CW will host Free To Be Rock Fest, an afternoon of music, to raise money for the GYN Cancers Alliance (GYNCA) of Springfield, from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at Jordan Valley Park. The event will feature an eclectic mix of performers while raising awareness for GYNCA.
    The following bands will perform during the benefit: A Day Away, Taylor M. Swift and Alea Kilgore, Funkee Noosa, A Cub Bella, Better Left Behind, and Time of Favor. Giveaways and educational segments about gynecologic cancers will take place between band performances.
    Each year more than 83,700 women in America suffer from gynecologic cancers. The COM 309 section 301 “Principles of Public Relations” class taught by Tina Stillwell of Missouri State University is teaming up with The Ozarks CW to raise awareness and funds for GYNCA.
“This is truly a win-win situation and we are thrilled to partner with this event,” said Tammy Mast, GYNCA executive director. “One of GYNCA's primary goals is to educate the community about good gynecologic health especially disseminating information about the HPV vaccine that can ultimately prevent most cervical cancers. The college age group seems very open to the vaccine but wants to be informed."
“We are excited about this opportunity to provide PR students with hands-on experience in event planning while educating young people on age-relevant cancers,” said Jamie Dopp, KY3 and The Ozarks CW community relations director.
-MORE-
    “Using what we learn in class to make a difference in the community is the best kind of learning,” said Katie Grana, a Missouri State junior from St. Louis and event logistics chair. “I hope the event makes a big impact.”
GYN Cancers Alliance is a non-profit organization that helps women find new hope while coping with gynecologic cancer by fostering an atmosphere of compassion, support, and learning. The services of GYNCA include peer-to-peer mentoring, New Hope support group meetings, education and awareness, and non-medical financial assistance.

Informational Interviews for COM students
**A free service from the League of American Orchestras**
The League of American Orchestras provides a wealth of services, meaningful information, learning and leadership opportunities, and grass-roots advocacy to its diverse membership, which encompasses nearly 1,000 member symphony, chamber, youth, and collegiate orchestras of all sizes, and links a national network of thousands of instrumentalists, conductors, managers, board members, volunteers, staff members, and business partners.

WHO: For students pursuing non-profit career tracks and who are interested in working for American orchestras

WHAT: 30-minute one-on-one conversations (in-person or over the telephone) with a professional working for an orchestra in the field of Artistic Planning, Development, Education/Community Engagement, Marketing, New Media, Operations, Public Relations or Executive Management

WHEN: Offered on an on-going basis throughout the calendar year

HOW: By request through the League of American Orchestras website. INQUIRE HERE

Find out about how you can put your skills and passion to work in the field of orchestra management.

Sign Up Today for a FREE Informational Interview
For additional information or to find out more, please contact:

Allison Ball, Director of Leadership Training
League of American Orchestras
646.822.4027
aball@americanorchestras.org

JOB OPEN IN PR: Public Relations Coordinator job description (click here for full description) PR Coordinator job description 4-08.doc
The Development & Communications Department at Ozarks Food Harvest, the regional food bank, covering 29 southwest Missouri counties, and one of the region’s leading, largest nonprofits, seeks an organized, multi-talented PR coordinator to help implement communication strategies.

Responsibilities include:
The PR Coordinator will support the Director of Development & Communications in the day-to-day administration of PR and fundraising activities, specifically with writing/designing/updating (newsletters, monthly memos, annual reports, brochures/handouts, web site, social networks, press, case statements etc.); facilitating and coordinating various events’ elements. PR Coordinator to prioritize and manage high volume of detail work, while establishing and maintaining positive relationships with a variety of organization’s publics.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communication, Marketing or related field (Those nearing graduation may also apply)
  Excellent written and verbal communications skills
  Organized; detail oriented; able to multi-task; self-starter; able take initiative to get projects completed successfully
  Basic understanding of press releases (writing and disseminating); SWMO media outlets; event planning; online social networks; letter writing; editing, etc.
  Ability to manage deadlines
  Ability to work in a team environment or with minimal supervision
  Basic computer skills including proficiency in all Microsoft Office programs as well as Adobe software (PhotoShop, InDesign, etc.)

Experience:
    Entry level; internship or service learning experience a plus
    Ability to effectively present information to publics in written or oral form a must

No contact information was provided, but you can contact the Ozarks Food Harvest directly, here is the website.

Kelly

2nd Annual PRSSA day a success

Kelly McNeilis — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 20:38:00 GMT

In a conference style setting, Friday, April 4 provided upwards of 50 students the opportunity to hear from PR professionals about how what it means to be a PR professional, from how to get that first job to how to handle public relations crises. A key note address started the day with Katie Pace who talked about those coveted internships at Fleishman Hillard in St. Louis to understanding how Facebook and MySpace pages are used by agencies to "screen" applicants. After that address, a panel of local PR professionals (Melinda Arnold, Jacob Day, John Scroggins, and Sarah Cochran) and academics (Sam Dyer) talked about everything from "the (a)typical day" on the job to how one gets started in PR, to what the new buzz words and trends are in the profession. After this livelly session, panelists joined students for lunch. At each of the tables discussion centered on getting internships and resume tips. Students brought resumes for professionals to review and provide comments.

Congratulations to the officers of the PRSSA student group for putting on a great event (as it should be, they are PR professionals in training). Emilee Mudd is the current president who deserves kudos, along with the other officers and planners for putting on such a professional event!

Debate Team Scores BIG this year

Kelly McNeilis — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 17:15:00 GMT

Some of you may not know that our debate squad has ties to the beginnings of this university, way back to 1906...when Dr. Virginia Craig began and was the first coach of the debate team. Since that time, we've enjoyed MUCH success with the debate team and this year is no exception. Every year, collegiate debate teams have tournaments, just like college basketball. They have the National Debate Tournament (NDT) and the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA) each year around spring break. Teams of two speakers advance with each round and they move towards rounds such as the sweet 16, elite 8, and final 4. This year the 2008 NDT was in Fullerton, CA, March 26-April 1, 2008 (from the debate webpage)

Missouri State's Martin Osborn and Clay Webb reached the semifinals, tying the record from 1973 set by Tom Black and Jon Jackson. They competed as a 1st round large bid bid to the 2008 NDT, which was the 2nd time Missouri State secured a 1st round bid. Their run included a win over Emory, who had been 8-0 in prelims, top seed, and 2nd in the Copeland voting based on their year-long performance.

Missouri State's Michael Mapes and Meggie reached the octofinals, which we believe means this is the first time Missouri State has advanced two teams to the NDT elimination rounds. Their 6-2 run through prelims included a 3-0 win over Berkeley, who had been the Copeland Award winner (the top vote getter in the 1st round voting process).

Martin Osborn won 1st speaker, surpassing Bill Maynard's previous Missouri State record (2nd speaker, 1955). Osborn was also the 1st speaker at the CEDA Nationals the week before, and is the first debater in history to win BOTH top speaker awards in the same year. Michael Mapes was 17th speaker. The field included 156 debaters.

CONGRATS TO OUR DEBATE TEAM, including Martin "Ozzie" Osborn and Clay Webb for their final 4 appearance. Here is Dr. Eric Morris having just openned the traveling trophy/cup for Top Speaker at the NDT. Soon we will engrave Osborn's name on it and it will be on display for the next year in the COM office, College of Arts and Letters office, and hopefully the President's office.

HONORS RECEPTION reminder

Please RSVP to Dr. Janis King to attend next week's honors reception to induct new members of the Honor Society, award the COM scholarships, and recognize the Debate Team for their achievements this year. Monday, April 14 at 3:00, PSU 400. This is a time to celebrate our accomplishments within the department. Hope to see you there!

Do a good deed...DUNK THE DEAN.

Friday April 11, noon-2:00pm you can dunk the dean of the college of arts and letters, Dr. Carey Adams for $2.00 for one, and $5 for 3 attempts. Dr. Adams is the previous department head of Communication, so I"m sure you'll want to try and get him all wet...and it's for a good cause. The college's Relay For Life team, Art with a Heart is putting on this event to support their team. Even if you aren't a good throw, surely you'll want to attend and see this awesome site! There will be a bake sale, games, a kiss booth (?) and more.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE: Seeking Solutions: Conflict, violence, and the courage to change.

Three years ago, Missouri State University commemorated its centennial year. The keystone of the celebration was the inaugural Public Affairs Conference. During 2007, we hosted the third conference: One World, Many Voices. The fourth annual Public Affairs Conference will convene April 15-18, and its theme is Seeking Solutions: Conflict Violence and the Courage to Change.

As a communication major or minor, we know there are many ways that communication influences, is influenced by, and can impact on conflict between people. This conference deals with conflict and violence at many levels, so pick a panel or guest speaker to attend that you can learn from and apply communication principles. Consider the interpersonal communication implications at two Wednesday sessions at 9:00am, Is violence a part of human nature? or at 10:30, Dealing with the effects of violence and trauma. Or two panels Thursday at 9:30am, you might think more rhetorically at the panel Why Remember? Public memorials as a response to violence, or The state of public discourse. There are many more besides these, so look at the program and pick at least one event to attend. Tell your faculty members about what you learned, maybe even write a short reflection on it and turn it in.

Welcome Back!

Kelly McNeilis — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:42:00 GMT

We're in the home stretch now... May is fast approaching! There's still lots of time left in the semester, and still many things to do. Check out these important dates and events!!

Summer and Fall Pre-Registration Begins April 4 for seniors. Others after that.

You know the drill. Make an appointment to meet with your advisor in advance of your registration date. If you need to get admitted to your major or need a waiver to register, plan to meet with your advisor at least a week in advance of your registration date. If you need a minor approved, do that first. If you have a minor in the business college (MKT, for example), it usually takes two weeks to get an appointment with the business advisement center. So, contact them ASAP and get an appointment before your COM advisor appointment (or after as long as it's before your reigstration date). The turn around for all paperwork requests (waiver, admission, etc.) is 24 hours. Again, plan accordingly as I need that time to review every request individually. We have over 300 majors, so you get the idea.

Plan to attend PRSSA Day "Managing Mutually Beneficial Relationships" Friday, April 4, 2008

9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Plaster Student Union 315

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Register by Tuesday, April 1, 2008. Registration forms (PRSSA Day Registration Form.doc) are available on the PRSSA bulletin board. Turn form into Craig 375. Pay with cash or check.

$5 for members, $10 for non-members

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Guest speaker Katie Pace of 417 Magazine

Discussion panel

Dr. Sam Dyer of Missouri State University on researching and teaching public relations

Jacob Day of BKD on government affairs and public relations

Melinda Arnold of Dickerson Park Zoo on not-for-profit public relations

John Scroggins of Noble & Associates on for-profit public relations

Sarah Cochran of Price Cutter on special events and promotions

Networking Luncheon

Resume & Portfolio Review

Attendance Prizes

Communication Honors Ceremony, Monday, April 14 at 3:00 in PSU 400.

Plan to attend our spring awards ceremony to celebrate student accomplishments, announcement departmental scholarship winners, and induct new members into the honors society Lambda Pi Eta. After the short program, we will be serving an assortment of appetizers and desserts.

Scholarships in Communication: March 15 application deadline

Kelly McNeilis — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:08:00 GMT

As noted in my posts from Feb 22 and 27, applications for scholarship in Communication are due March 15. There are five undergraduate and two graduate scholarships available this year.

Don't miss this opportunity to apply for a scholarship--sure it's money but it's also a way to be recognized for the great work that you do. Scholarship recipients will be notified at our Annual Honors Awards Ceremony, April 14, 2:30 in the PSU. In addition to receiving a fabulous plaque, the scholarships have a monetary award, and those range in value from $300 up to $1000. As they say, "if you don't apply, you can't be considered." If you aren't sure if or how you should apply, talk to a faculty member about the scholarships and get their input on which one to apply for or how to write a strong application letter. Here's a recap:

UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS
The Faculty Scholarship in Communication
Awarded to a promising undergraduate student who has declared a major in Communication and completed at least 30 hours with a 3.0 cumulative g.p.a. and a 3.0 in the departmental core.
Application must include at least one letter of nomination from a Department of Communication faculty member.

The Holt V. Spicer Scholarship (retired faculty member, debate coach [hand picked by Virginia Craig herself], and dean)
Recipient must be a full-time junior or senior Communication major with a 3.0 cumulative g.p.a.

The Russell Keeling Scholarship (retired faculty member, debater, and president of the university)
Awarded to an undergraduate Communication major who demonstrates a commitment to public affairs and citizenship.
Application must include a 500-1000 word essay demonstrating your understanding of and commitment to using your college education as preparation for citizenship

The Donal and Vicki Stanton Scholarship (retired faculty member, debate coach, and political pollster)
Awarded to an outstanding student majoring in Socio-Political Communication.

Chris Sifford Memorial Scholarship (to honor the memory of alum of the department of communication and media, press secretary for former governor Mel Carnahan)
Awarded to a communication or journalism major at the sophomore level or higher with a minimum g.p.a. of 3.0 with preference to students in these Missouri counties: Boone, Cole, Audrain, Callaway, Moniteau, Cooper, Howard and Randolph, Stoddard and Greene.

GRADUATE STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

The Richard R. Stovall Graduate Scholarship (retired faculty, debate coach, and assistant dept head)
Awarded to an outstanding graduate student in the Department of Communication.

The Christina S. Drale Graduate Scholarship (former media faculty member and associate dean)
Awarded to an outstanding graduate student in the Department of Communication.

Complete applications MUST include:

Signed Application Form
Letter of Application
(Address to Department of Communication Scholarship Committee)
Any other materials specifically required for particular scholarships.

The application deadline for scholarship applications is March 15, 2008. Application forms are available online at the MSU financial aid webpage and in Craig 375. Letters of application should address your academic and career goals and explain why you are deserving of the scholarship(s) for which you are applying.