Contact: Sara Diedrich, diedrichs@missouri.edu
July 8, 2026
Summer Welcome at the University of Missouri gives incoming and transfer students a firsthand look at life on campus. During the program, students explore resources, learn what to expect in their first weeks and begin building connections with fellow Tigers and future classmates.
At the heart of the experience are Summer Welcome Leaders: current students who share insights, answer questions and create a welcoming environment that helps new students feel at home from the moment they arrive.
Learn more about the experience through the eyes of two Summer Welcome Leaders.
ZORIANA NOVY
Major: Journalism, Missouri School of Journalism
Hometown: Fairfax, Virginia
What made you want to become a Summer Welcome Leader, and what do you enjoy most about the role?
I remembered how I felt during my transition to Mizzou and how helpful the Summer Welcome Leaders were. They played a big role in helping me feel comfortable and excited about starting college, and I wanted the opportunity to provide that same support for incoming students. I understand firsthand how impactful it can be to have someone answer your questions and help you feel like you belong.
What I enjoy most about the role is getting to build connections with students and watching them become more confident throughout their Summer Welcome experience. I love being able to share my experiences and help new students navigate their transition to Mizzou.
What advice do you find yourself giving incoming students most often?
I often say, “Put yourself out there and be open to new experiences.” When I first came to Mizzou, I was not a very outgoing person, but I knew that if I wanted to find my place and make meaningful connections, I needed to step outside of my comfort zone. Whether that meant attending a new event, joining an organization or introducing myself to someone new, each experience helped me grow. I encourage new students to take advantage of opportunities and try new things.
How has being a Summer Welcome Leader helped you grow personally and professionally?
Personally, I have learned to trust myself more, which has given me confidence I did not expect. This role has pushed me outside of my comfort zone by requiring me to lead student groups and speak in front of large crowds.
Professionally, I have developed valuable skills in communication, leadership and customer service. Working closely with a tight-knit group of leaders has taught me the importance of collaboration and making decisions that benefit the group.
What do you hope students remember most about their Summer Welcome experience?
I want students to come away from Summer Welcome knowing how supported and valued they are at Mizzou. If every student leaves feeling confident and excited about being a Tiger, then we, as Summer Welcome Leaders, have done our jobs successfully.
JOHN VALERIO
Major: Accounting, Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business
Hometown, Bolivar, Missouri
What made you want to become a Summer Welcome Leader, and what do you enjoy most about the role?
I didn’t attend Summer Welcome when I came to Mizzou, but I’ve often heard about the impact Summer Welcome Leaders had on my classmates and friends. I’ve had a great time getting to know my fellow leaders, participating in all the events and activities — especially the nightly dance party. I’ve also enjoyed meeting members of the incoming Mizzou class and serving as one of their first mentors on campus. I know our role is important in helping students feel welcome and giving them a memorable introduction to college life.
What advice do you find yourself giving incoming students most often?
I tell them to keep an open mind. Listening to others, while also expressing my own views, has allowed me to connect with so many people I never imagined finding common ground with, let alone seeing as potential collaborators and even lifelong friends. Because of this, I have grown so much as a person, and I know that anyone can accomplish the same, so long as they approach life at Mizzou with an open heart.
I know what it's like to feel as though everyone else has their lives figured out when you don't, so I make a point of telling students that it's OK not to have everything mapped out yet. I try to be the person I wish I'd had to look up to during my first semester: someone who encouraged me to say yes to new opportunities, even when I was nervous.
How has being a Summer Welcome Leader helped you grow personally and professionally?
It’s given me practice balancing competing commitments. There were times when I needed to devote time to my family, friends and other obligations while still being fully present for my Summer Welcome responsibilities. This role has taught me how to prioritize what needs my attention and what can wait. I’ve also become more comfortable with taking breaks when I need time to unwind on my own.
Professionally, this role has taught me how to communicate effectively with different audiences. Whether I'm working with coworkers, coordinators or the students I lead, I've learned to slow down, read the room and adjust my approach while still being myself. Switching between different communication styles throughout a single day has helped me become more adaptable, a skill I know I'll continue to use long after this summer ends.
What do you hope students remember most about their Summer Welcome experience?
I want students to leave Summer Welcome knowing that the awkward, nervous feeling they arrived with won’t last forever. My biggest fear coming to college was that I’d have trouble meeting people and finding a place where I belonged. But I quickly discovered how easy it was to strike up a conversation with someone, whether that was in line at the dining hall or sitting in class. No matter where you are, there’s always someone you can lean on, and that same sense of connection is something I try to bring to every student group I lead.
