Looking at D2 Colleges in Missouri

Hola! I'm a high school junior from Missouri, and I'm considering staying in-state for college. I'm kind of interested in D2 colleges because I heard they're a good balance of academics and athletics. Does anyone have any info about D2 colleges in Missouri? How do they compare to other colleges in terms of academic rigor, campus life, and athletics?

Hello! You're right that Division II colleges often balance academics and athletics well, as they aim to offer a comprehensive collegiate experience.

In your home state, you have a couple of options when it comes to D2 schools. Let's look at a few:

1. Drury University - Located in Springfield, Drury offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Known for its robust liberal arts program, the university provides diverse academic opportunities. It has a strong track record in NCAA D2 sports through the Great Lakes Valley conference, particularly excelling in swimming and diving.

2. Truman State University - This public liberal arts and sciences university is located in Kirksville and prides itself on providing rigorous academics and a high-quality undergraduate experience. Ranked as a top public school in the Midwest for value and quality by U.S. News, Truman State is part of the Great Lakes Valley Conference and has hosted a wide range of sports.

3. Missouri Western State University - Located in St. Joseph, MWSU is committed to applied learning and boasts comprehensive studies in the liberal arts, professional studies, and sciences. MWSU is part of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) and fields 16 varsity teams.

In terms of campus life, colleges and universities can vary widely. Small to mid-sized D2 schools often have a tighter-knit campus community with many opportunities for student involvement. D2 athletes usually have more balance between their academic and athletic commitments than D1 athletes, so they might have more time to get involved on campus and engage in other activities.

Athletically, while D2 programs may not receive quite as much attention or funding as D1 programs, many top-level athletes compete at this level. These schools take their sports seriously, and you'll find competitive athletics, talented athletes, and passionate fans at D2 schools.

Keep in mind, no two schools are the same and the best way to understand if a school is the right fit for you is to learn as much as you can about them. You might consider reaching out to the schools directly, arranging a campus visit if possible, speaking with current students or faculty, and doing further research on their academic programs and athletic successes. It's all about finding the right balance and fit for you!