Published on Dec. 1, 2025

By: Jake Aron

Yesenia Moreno, a junior psychological sciences major from Woodstock, Illinois, has been deeply involved with the Center for Academic Success & Excellence (CASE) throughout her time at Mizzou.

One of her most impactful experiences came through an Undergraduate Research Circle. Moreno joined a small group of undergraduate students from Kansas City participating in a year-long research opportunity with faculty mentors. The program, offered jointly by CASE and the Office of Undergraduate Research, opened the door for Moreno to research the history of dual language education in Kansas City public schools. As part of the research circle, she also met weekly with other student researchers to strengthen their research abilities, build professional skills and deepen their understanding of the discipline.

Through CASE, Moreno also served as a leader in the Summer Bridge Accelerator Program, which gives first-year, first-time college students the chance to enroll in general education courses and get familiar with campus before the fall semester. Students in the program receive free tuition for six credit hours, plus free housing and meals. As a program leader, she helped plan events to keep participants engaged outside the classroom and had the opportunity to network with board members from the School of Medicine and the College of Engineering.

In addition to her research and leadership roles, Moreno said her CASE advisor, Edwin Davis, student service coordinator, has played a crucial part in her success.

“He’s been very helpful throughout my whole career here at Mizzou,” Moreno said.

As a first-generation college student, she often had questions her parents couldn’t answer. She turned to Davis for guidance on FAFSA, jobs, classes and student organizations.

“Having [Davis and CASE] has been very helpful for me,” she said. She continued, saying that without these resources, “I may not even be here right now.”

That support, Davis said, goes both ways.

“Knowing that I add value to my students’ college experience, that they trust me, and being able to provide them a space to figure out life is what motivates me,” he said.

His favorite part of the job is seeing students grow — something he has witnessed consistently in Moreno.

“Since I first met Yesenia, she has consistently stepped out of her comfort zone and taken on new challenges. She has gone from ‘I’m not sure’ to ‘Okay, what is the next opportunity?’” Davis said.

Because of her experiences with CASE, Moreno encourages other students to get involved.

“They’re super helpful people and can help build a bigger network for what you want to do,” she said. “They will guide and mentor you through this whole journey.”

Explore CASE resources and meet with an advisor to begin your journey.