Explorers came to discover Missouri Southern on Feb. 20.

Discovery Day, organized by Mark Lloyd, admissions counselor, is a recruitment day for the University. More than 100 high school students and their parents filled Connor Ballroom to learn about different degrees, admissions, financial aid and housing.

University President Julio León also spoke about the University’s international mission.

“Discovery Day is our large campus visit day, so we invite a lot of people from all over the state and out of state,” Leon said. “They come to our campus; we give them a tour of campus and show them all the services that are available to students.”

Discovery Day allows students to experience what it is actually like to be a Lion for a day. The event allows for students to see several aspects of Southern.

“They get to meet the faculty and students,” Lloyd said.

Discovery Day provides time for high school athletes to meet with the athletic coaches and Southern athletes. The event is free to all high school students.

“Any student interested in attending Missouri Southern is welcomed to come,” Lloyd said. “And we take care of them when they get here.”

Discovery Day was advertised throughout the four-state area.

“We advertised during high school visits, on the Internet and we also do some mailing,” Lloyd said. “We try to send the word out to students we meet with.”

A combination of different organizations helped to make the event possible.

“Career Services helped out,” Lloyd said. “Student Support Center helped out. The residence hall director helped out.

“Dr. Page, head of education, helped out, Derek Skaggs – everybody in the Admissions Office, Financial Aid Office – a little bit of everybody.”

Ambassadors, the student tour group, also helped by giving tours, by aiding registration and talking with students.

“I think Discovery Day is an excellent way for high school students to experience Missouri Southern for a day,” said Danielle Dunn, sophomore mass communications major.

“It allows them to see the campus and learn about possible fields they might be interested in.”

Discovery Day another way the University is reaching out to are high school students to show them all Southern has to offer.

The Admission Office hosts multiple Discovery Days throughout the year. Tours are also available Monday through Friday and the first Saturday of each month. Students interested in giving tours should contact Sarah Griffin, freshman admission counselor and faculty sponsor of Ambassadors at 625-9364.