Sept. 14, 2022
A senior from Kahoka, Missouri, Chloe Brewer is on track to earn a degree in social work. But when she arrived at the University of Missouri two years ago, she felt like she had some work to do socially. Thankfully, Brewer said Mizzou offers countless ways to get involved, make new friends and find your home in a community of 30,000-plus students.
Why did you choose Mizzou?
In high school, I didn’t feel like I fit in. Coming from a small town, I sought more diversity in college — especially diversity of thought. Although my mom graduated from Mizzou, and I was born in Columbia, I didn’t spend a lot of time here. When I visited in fall of my senior year it just felt right. I knew Mizzou was where I needed to be, and I was ready to commit right then. I felt an immediate connection because everyone here is so friendly. There is a place for everyone here and I found my people quickly. There are many people here with different experiences and world views.
How did you get involved?
One of my first opportunities to see the world from a different perspective was with Mizzou Alternative Breaks. During my freshman year, I went on a trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma. There, I worked with disadvantaged schools which confirmed that I wanted to be involved in service — leading me to a major in social work. There is so much need in the world, and so many things that should be fixed. The world needs helpers and those willing to push for change. That trip made me realize I want to work with adolescents and teens. I also want to get involved in policy to help make changes that benefit teens.
How did you benefit from getting involved?
Getting involved on campus has been so important for me. As the leadership development director for Mizzou Alternative Breaks, and as an ambassador for the School of Health Professions, I’m trying to create a welcoming place for incoming students so they can find their own spot here. It’s important for students to recognize that life in college is going to be OK. You don’t have to know everything. Once you get on campus, go to office hours of professors, ask questions, talk to people … Mizzou is so welcoming, but you must reach out and get involved.
What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned at Mizzou?
It's important not to shrink from a challenge. I took the hardest class I’ve ever taken, “Race and the American Story.” It’s also the best class as it made me understand different perspectives and made me want to add a criminology minor to my degree. Mizzou will challenge you to grow your knowledge of your major, but maybe more importantly, in your understanding of yourself.
What would you say to a high schooler considering Mizzou?
I’ve been so impressed that a university this big can have moments and people that make it feel so much smaller. I’ve had great professors who have confirmed for me that Mizzou is right where I need to be. Everyone at Mizzou really helped me make the transition from high school to college and encouraged me to find my way.
