1. Avoiding the PSU at 1:00 p.m.

The lines grow so long that I feel they could stretch all the way to Carrington, which is not a good thing if you have class in 15 minutes.

2. Strong Hall's stairs are your worst enemy.

I have never dreaded something more in my entire life than trudging up those four flights of stairs in Strong. I ended up taking the elevator most days because otherwise I couldn't breathe by the time I got to my class. But I have to admit... the view at the top looking out those windows is amazing.

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3. The weird smelly plants.

I know they're supposed to help the butterfly population on campus but geez, those plants smell terrible. If you go to MO State, you know what I'm talking about and you probably hold your breath when walking through that area of campus.

4. When it rains... You'll wish you were Noah with his Ark.

Everything floods. When it rains, our swim team just practices outside in the mini lakes that form on campus. Rain boots and an umbrella are a must if you are a student at Missouri State.

5. Parking is nonexistent.

It's basically a fight to the death to get that one parking spot at the back of the parking lot. What's worse is when you can't find a spot and you have class in 10 minutes.

6. Always missing a good day in the dining hall.

I have missed too many chicken nugget days in Garst Dining Hall, and each time my heart breaks a little. Oh well, I guess another grilled cheese will have to do (Just kidding. I'm obsessed with Garst grilled cheese).

We can all relate to these small inconveniences, but we can also relate to all the other amazing things Missouri State University and Springfield has to offer us:

7. Downtown Springfield

Whether it's the clubs, the restaurants, the shopping, or the cute coffee shops and cafes, downtown always has a fun experience to offer.

8. Everyone's obsession with Clif Smart

When MO State people tell others that we love our president, I feel like sometimes they think we're lying or don't really understand. But seriously... Clif Smart is the best.

9. When the fountain is on

I don't think there's anything more exciting than when you walk by and the fountain is on. It gives me that extra boost I need to have a good day.

10. The people

Genuinely, I don't think I've been a part of a community that's more kind and more willing to go out of their way for others. The students are friendly when walking on campus. There's always someone nice to hold the door open or to have an awkward chat in the elevator with. There's certainly a special kind of camaraderie here at Missouri State that no other place can match.

11. How pretty our campus really is

I may be a little biased, but Missouri State's campus is absolutely gorgeous no matter what season it is.

12. Bear Up!

Missouri State University is on the rise. Everyone better keep their eyes on us because we're doing great things, and we're only getting bigger and better. Missouri State has truly become my home away from home and I wouldn't want to be a part of a more amazing community.