CAS resources give students advantage in academia and career readiness
Friday, August 22, 2025
Media Contact: Elizabeth Gosney | CAS Marketing and Communications Manager | 405-744-7497 | egosney@okstate.edu
The College of Arts and Sciences plays a central role in supporting Oklahoma State University’s Ideal Graduate initiative by providing tools for students to succeed both academically and professionally.
“One of my favorite things to do is work with a student early on to help them blend majors and minors in a way that aligns with their goals,” said Dr. Amy Martindale, CAS assistant dean for student academic services. “It’s like solving a puzzle where each choice adds value to their future.”
From math tutoring to student government to career readiness, CAS student support extends well beyond traditional academic advising to foster well-rounded, marketable graduates. This includes offering robust undergraduate research opportunities across the arts, humanities, social sciences, mathematics and natural sciences.
“Many of the skills that students can build through research map nicely into career readiness,” said Dr. Rachael Eaton, CAS program director for research engagement. “Research helps students develop communication, teamwork and resilience skills that will serve them well in their careers.”
“The tutors at the MLSC are undergraduates who typically are engineering, math, statistics or computer science majors,” said Dr. Melissa Mills, MLSC director. “They have a real passion for helping others and are trained to help students become independent learners. They are curious about what the students are thinking and able to build on the students’ understanding and meet them where they are.”
While the MLSC is housed within CAS, it serves the entire campus. On the fifth floor of Edmon Low Library, it’s both a hive of activity and an oasis of learning for those needing personalized math support.
“Students are so isolated in this digital age,” Mills said. “Providing a space where they can interact with real people and talk about their homework problems is really crucial for growing their understanding of math and forming social connections.”
These hands-on experiences allow students to connect classroom learning to practical applications, Eaton explained. This bolsters OSU Ideal Graduate skills of critical thinking, communication, leadership and problem-solving.
“At the end of the day, we want our students to leave OSU confident in their abilities and ready to make a difference in their fields,” Eaton said.
The Math Learning Success Center is building student confidence in both the students receiving help and those giving it.
CAS also excels in fostering professional development by providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn outside the classroom. CAS Ambassadors and CAS Student Council are two of those avenues for growth.
“Being a part of CAS Ambassadors has helped me develop leadership and communication skills I never thought I had,” CAS Ambassador Grace Phelps said. “Talking to prospective students and helping them navigate college has taught me how to offer advice and support in meaningful ways.”
CAS Student Council member Staci Dodson echoed Phelps, emphasizing how StuCo allows her to be involved in both leadership and co-curricular activities.
“Through student council, I’ve learned how to work with people from different backgrounds and how to communicate my ideas effectively,” Dodson said. “These are skills I’ll take with me into my future career and beyond.”
The College of Arts and Sciences’ holistic approach to student development through advising, research, tutoring, career services and beyond ensures that graduates leave OSU with more than just a degree.
“We’re not just helping students graduate,” Martindale said. “We’re helping them craft their own future.
Story By: Olivia Blackford | Photos By: Jason Wallace, Elizabeth Gosney and Gary Lawson | casnews@okstate.edu