As seniors across the University of Missouri get ready for commencement, those graduating with Arts and Science degrees know their education prepared them not for just one path — but for any path.
Meet three students whose futures demonstrate practical versatility of an Arts and Science degree.
Zoë Malik
Zoë Malik Makes Her Mark
Graduating senior Zoë Malik has made the most of her time at Mizzou. She started college knowing she wanted to go to med school but didn’t limit herself to a traditional pre-med track.
“I’ve always wanted to be a doctor, but I wanted to have a well-rounded education,” she said as she prepares to graduate with double majors in biological sciences and anthropology.
Malik says anthropology classes with Lisa Sattenspiel helped her connect her studies to her future goals. “Her classes were challenging in the best way."
Malik also worked at the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, where a research opportunity turned into a deeper passion for inclusive healthcare. And when she needed a break from her busy schedule, she found joy in Ceramics for Non-Majors, a hands-on class that helped her recharge and meet students outside her field.
Malik jumped into campus life early, and her involvement leaves a legacy for other Mizzou students after she graduates this month. One of her proudest accomplishments was co-founding Mixed at Mizzou, a student organization for multicultural, multiracial, and multiethnic students.
Reflecting on this effort, she said, “I joined the team when it was just an idea, and now we’ve grown into a thriving community. It’s been amazing to help create a space that didn’t exist before.”
After graduation, Malik plans to work in healthcare and apply to medical school. Her advice to future Tigers: “Try everything you can — clubs, classes, all the things. You’ll learn so much, and four years goes by so quickly.”
Rose Plank
Rose Plank Draws a Bright Future
When Rose Plank transferred to Mizzou two years ago, she wasn’t sure what to expect. Now, as she graduates with a BFA in Studio Art, she looks ahead with confidence.
Plank said she found a community that helped her grow both personally and professionally at Mizzou. “There were so many opportunities to connect, from art events to peer mentoring. Mizzou gave me the tools and support to get ready for life after graduation,” she said.
As a student, Plank made an impact as a Peer Navigator, helping students feel more connected and confident. “We plan fun events like the Fall Scavenger Hunt, and we’re there to talk with students about schedules, stress — anything, really. Because we’re students too. We get it.”
In the classroom, Plank found inspiration and encouragement from faculty mentors. She credits drawing professor Matt Ballou and painting instructor Alejandra Salinas for pushing her creatively and helping her prepare for the next step.
“Alejandra was so kind and supportive, especially when it came to getting our graduation packets together” said Plank, “and Matt’s class really shaped my work. I learned so much.”
Plank’s senior capstone work is on display at Mizzou’s Bingham Gallery in the Fine Arts Building through May 16, where visitors can see her drawings, sculptures, and paper weavings. One of her most meaningful pieces is an oil pastel drawing of the Chicago airport.
Describing the piece, she said, “It was one of the first pastels I ever did. It reminds me of the last trip I took with my grandma, and that memory means a lot.”
After graduation, Plank plans to pursue a career as a draftsman, a specialized role that blends creativity and technical design for fields like architecture and construction.
She’s also looking forward to connecting with the art community and volunteering in her free time. She said, “I want to give back and keep creating.”
Blake Lilly
Blake Lilly Builds Confidence and Community
When Blake Lilly started his studies, he knew he wanted to pursue a degree in communication, but he didn’t yet know just how far that path would take him. This spring, he graduates with a focus in mediated communication and a certificate in sales and customer development. He'll be leaving Mizzou with new skills, lasting friendships, and his choice of four job offers.
Lilly thanks his academic advisor, Katie Brueggemann, for helping him find direction and confidence. “She knew what I needed to do and helped me figure it all out,” Lilly said.
Lilly also found mentorship in the classroom. He remembers Haley Horstman’s Rational Communication course as a highlight of his time at Mizzou.
“She had such a gift for getting everyone involved and making us all feel welcome,” Lilly said, “I made genuine friendships in that class, and I want to make others feel that same way in my future career.”
Next, Lilly will begin a financial advising program with a national firm and pursue his securities licenses. He said of the four offers he received, this opportunity most reflects what he’s been striving for.
This step was made possible, he said, through the hands-on learning and career prep Mizzou offers. “I even passed my insurance licensing exam recently. I’m excited to keep learning, and I know I’m ready,” he said.