The Reflector

Dear MSU Students:

Welcome to campus! Whether you're new to MSU or a returning student, we're glad you're here and contributing to the buzz of activity and excitement that marks the beginning of a new academic year. You've no doubt noticed by now that you have lots of company. We are again experiencing a record enrollment, thanks in part to the largest freshman class in university history. We're happy that each one of you has chosen Mississippi State and confident that your choice is a good one.

To those who are attending MSU for the first time, I hope you will make an effort to become involved soon in one of the many extracurricular organizations or activities available, especially those that provide service to the community or to fellow students. It's a great way to make friends and speed the transition into a new environment. And our history has shown that involvement in campus life outside of the classroom enhances academic success.

Of course, one key to a good start is to attend every class during these crucial first weeks. Very few students admitted to MSU lack the academic ability to succeed, but many do not perform up to their potential, and lack of regular class attendance is the strongest early indicator of potential problems. Our research shows that freshmen who have no absence problems by the middle of the fall term typically complete their first year with a B-grade average. On the other hand, students who have more than three absences in any course during the first half of the fall semester are likely to have a D average at the end of the year.

If you are a returning student, demonstrate your leadership this fall by taking time to help a newcomer learn the ropes and become part of the Bulldog family. MSU is known as a friendly and caring place, and much of that reputation rests on our tradition of students helping students.

I hope you're ready to work hard and play hard and to do both with a sense of teamwork, integrity and responsibility. We're looking forward to a great year; help make it safe and successful for everyone.

Go Dawgs!

Vance Watson is the interim president of Mississippi State. He can be contacted at president@msstate.edu.

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