University of Missouri

Dec. 10, 2024
Contact: Eric Stann, 573-882-3346, StannE@missouri.edu

University of Missouri senior Hannah Bockting has fully embraced the Missouri Method — the university’s hallmark philosophy of learning by doing — turning every moment into an opportunity to grow, lead and make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond.

Through organizations such as Fighting Pretty Mizzou, which helps women battling cancer; MizzouThon, which supports pediatric patients; and the Agriculture Education Society, which focuses on community service, leadership and professional development, Bockting made the most of her time at Mizzou, discovering new interests and pushing herself beyond her comfort zone.

This December, Bockting, a native of Pershing, Missouri, will proudly carry on her family’s Mizzou legacy when she graduates with a degree in agriculture education, emphasis in communication and leadership, from the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources at the state’s flagship university. But her journey at Mizzou has just started. Next fall, this determined and ambitious Tiger will become a law student at Mizzou, fulfilling a dream she’s nurtured since her freshman year.

Read on for a Q&A with Bockting about her Mizzou experience.

Why did you choose Mizzou?

I grew up loving Mizzou — my whole family attended here and are proud alumni today. So, when it came time to decide where I wanted to go to college, there was no hesitation. It was the best decision I’ve made. I’ve created so many great connections, friendships and memories here. It also isn’t too far from home, so my parents often visit me and join me at important events. The whole atmosphere of being a Tiger, coupled with everyone in my family being so proud of attending Mizzou, was also something that drew me here.

How did you take advantage of hands-on learning opportunities on campus?

My degree program offers hands-on opportunities such as my current internship class. My professor works with me and my boss to ensure I meet the internship requirements and other needs. At the end, I’ll get to create a portfolio to showcase my experience. I appreciate how the program combines real-world career experiences with college learning.

How has Mizzou helped you achieve your goals?

One thing I learned early on about Mizzou is it’s full of opportunities for everyone. Although I had a plan going into college of what I wanted to do, I was happy to still have the option of exploring many other opportunities. The faculty have always been there for me and showed willingness to help guide me toward different courses I could take that piqued my interest.

What’s your favorite Mizzou memory? 

My favorite Mizzou memory is the first day I started classes — it was both exciting and scary at the same time. It’s really when reality hit me that I was finally in college, and now it was up to me to decide where I wanted my future to go. I was eager to finally have the freedom to discover my interests.

Why are you proud to be a Tiger? 

I’m proud to be a part of a university that values its students and gives them opportunities to achieve their dreams. I owe a huge “thank you” to the staff in my degree program and my academic advisors. Together, they have given me an infinite amount of support and opened doors to new opportunities. To me, being a Tiger means being proud of the person I’ve become since I started at Mizzou as a freshman. I’m proud that, as a Tiger, I was given the opportunity to grow in the professional and personal areas of my life. And being a Tiger means I will be ready to tackle any challenge that comes my way post-graduation as I continue my career journey. 

What would you tell someone who’s interested in coming to Mizzou?

I would tell them to be open to as many opportunities as they can. Although Mizzou is a big school and it can seem intimidating at times, there’s always a place for everyone, and you will find those long-lasting friendships. Getting involved on campus in small or big ways is also a great way to get yourself out there. Mizzou truly has something for everyone so take advantage of all the various opportunities offered your way.