Hear from SEMO

LIFE-LONG CONNECTIONS ARE MADE HERE

"SEMO gives you the space, support, and encouragement
to grow in ways you never expected." – Layne Collier

Layne enjoying the high ropes course at Camp Redhawk

From Camp Redhawk

Every summer, students just like Layne pack their bags, say goodbye to home for a few days, and head to SEMO for Camp Redhawk.

The camp kicks off with students settling into the residence halls and having lunch on campus. This is their first real taste of life as a Redhawk.

Camp Redhawk transforms an unfamiliar campus into a place they navigate with confidence. Most campers head home with new friends saved in their phones, already looking forward to seeing them again on move-in day.

For Layne, that spark grew into something bigger. Camp Redhawk was the moment everything started to click.

To Man of the Year

Layne got involved, made connections, and poured himself into the SEMO community. Over time, he became a student whom others looked up to and trusted.

That impact was recognized at Homecoming in 2024 ,when the student body voted him SEMO’s Man of the Year.

His advice to new students is simple: "Try something you never imagined you could do. SEMO has helped shape who I have become. I couldn't be more proud to be a Redhawk!"

How Layne Found His Fearless

Building Confidence Through Work

After arriving at SEMO, Layne didn't waste any time digging in. He found that on campus jobs are a great way to build your resume, your confidence, and your community. He has held positions with Residence Life, Campus Life & Event Services, Admissions, and New Student Programs. He even headed back to to Camp Redhawk as a counselor to welcome new students to campus!

Connecting to the Community

With more than 275 student organizations, there's a community for everyone on campus! Layne quickly found his people in groups like Emerging Leaders, the Jane Stephens Honors Programs, and Lambda Chi Alpha, a fraternity focused on leadership and service.

Taking His Seat at the Table

At SEMO, your voice matters and you can be involved in decisions made on campus by joining committees. Layne takes pride in serving on the Homecoming Planning Committee and the Student Government Association, and in his role as a Student Representative for the University Foundation Board.

Southeast Missouri State University

Office of Admissions

One University Plaza

Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

(573) 651-2590

admissions@semo.edu