Collegetown, U.S.A.: Getting to know MU

You stand on the north end of Francis Quadrangle and take it all in. This is MU.

The white dome of Jesse Hall reflects the sun. Two red squirrels rest on the bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson. A couple sits on the base of one of the MU Columns, books open. On the surrounding grass, a group of students tosses a Frisbee.

It’s that combination of history and student life today that makes MU a landmark unto itself — a university like none other. Mizzou.

New students will soon discover the buildings and monuments that shape the campus. There is the well-worn statue of Beetle Bailey — a tribute by comic artist and MU alum Mort Walker — and there is Brady Commons, the heart of so much that is vital in student life outside of the classroom.

Sure, there is the classroom: MU is 1,358 acres of academic excellence. More than 250 degree programs operate on that land. Student opportunities continue to increase as facilities, such as the new Life Sciences Center, are built and programs expand.

You can’t forget the living-learning communities in residence halls, the many religious organizations that cater to student spirituality, Marching Mizzou, the Missouri Tigers (pick your sport) and all the other ways to bleed black and gold. MU students have limitless opportunities to get involved and add to their college experience.

Jill Villasana, a recent MU graduate, encourages students to take part in all MU has to offer,

especially the people. “The faculty, staff and students that love being here are what makes MU unique,” she said. “The effort put in to getting to know people is what will make Mizzou special for any student.”