Ohio State University-Main Campus Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Margaret

Choose a school that will challenge you who are. The right school for you is a place where you can be comfortable, fit in, and succeed, and also the place that will transform who you are into someone you don't know yet. College is a creating process, each day is an adventure. Know that the best college experience lets you learn in the classroom but even more outside the classroom. The best intellectual discussions happen between you and a friend you've just met, or in your own mind while walking across campus. There are many opportunties to do things outside of studying; talk to people to find these opportunities. One lesson I've learned is to go somewhere, do something, talk to someone, even though I may be scared because I've never done it before. If nothing else, I feel good about saying I did something new today. College prepares you for tomorrow by molding who you are today; choose the school that's going to mold you into someone you want to be.

Annamaria

My advice for future parents and/or students about finding the right college would be to do lots of research on your top 5 college picks. Colleges that have tons of clubs, extra curricular activities, and endless amounts of choices for majors are always a good choice. Decide whether you would mind big class sizes or small. Would you mind walking a mile or more to class, or would you rather be in your classroom within five minutes of leaving your apartment or house? If you know what you want to major in, look and see how your prospective colleges rank in the top schools of the nation. It's never a bad idea to take a campus tour either because it gives you a real feel of how things go about on campus.You can make the most out of your college experience by volunteering and joining clubs. You will meet so many different people, and you will learn more than you ever thought about other people. College is such a wonderful experience, make sure you get out there and get involved at your future campus.

Jing

Do not, DO NOT base your choices on the prestige of a school. Find out as much as you can about the institute, including VISITING and ASKING questions--to your interviewer, to the administrators, to your tour guide, and most importantly, to as many STUDENTS as possible. You can never ask enough questions to ensure that you find the place that best fits YOU for the next 4+ years of your life. While applying to a school, it's very easy to forget that it's not all about the institute judging you; please, please do remember that YOU are judging the school, too. Once you're in, allow yourself the first quarter or semester to experiment every aspect of what being in college involves. Get a feel for classes AND dab in every sort of activity available on campus, even those you might find uninteresting. The goal is that by the end of this first quarter or semester, you will have a pretty good grasp on how to balance between play and study, as well as an idea of where you will want to commit yourself to in the future. Don't be afraid to seek help when needed!

Sarah

Don't let your parents influence you. Students should go where they feel most comfortable. Also consider your major program choices.

Jennifer

The best thing to do during a student's/family's decision making process is to go and visit the campuses that the student applied to. This gives the family and, most importantly, the student an idea of what campus life is like, how updated the school is in terms of recreational facilities, libraries, and dormitories, and if the student will fit into the environment i.e. city or rural surroundings. I would also suggest meeting with an advisor within the student's prospective major so that he or she may get an idea of the courses offered and workload. This is helpful in narrowing down what major he or she will pursue and if the school is qualified or unqualified in that industry. Finally, once the decision is made about what college to attend, I believe, it is very crucial for the new student to live in on-campus student housing with other incoming freshman. For me, as an out of state student, this was very important in developing strong friendships and a social network. From there, it is much easier for a student to join extra-curricular activities and become more involved in their major of choice.

Justin

It is necessary for potential students to always be resourseful and patient. When choosing the right college, parents and students should make sure to visit the campus before finalizing their decision. Many times, a student will select a school based on how well it looks on paper (rankings, programs, etc).

John

If you're unsure what you want to do, attend a community college first. After you figure out your desired field, don't let money stand in the way of your dreams. Between scolarships, private loans, and hard work, it's worth it to attend the best university you can afford to go to for your desired program.

Emma

Do college visits and if you have the opportunity, do an overnight visit. Pick a school that will fit you, whether you want a big campus or a smaller more intimate one. If you can, let the cost be the very last deciding factor. First year take a variety of classes to help you figure out what you want to major in. Don't be scared to get involved, but academics do come first. Take advantage of the opportunties like guest speakers or tutoring or just going out to support your team. College is the time to learn about new cultures and meet people from all over the world. As long as you are polite, most people will be more than willing to talk about their culture and themselves. Study hard and make time to have fun with friends, because in the end, it's those times that you will remember and learn the most from. In college you might never actually get the chance to sleep.

B.J.

First, I would suggest parents and students talk to each other. I remember talking to my parents about college and finding out they had differing views on college than I did. College is a big investment and it is important to be on the same page regarding money, living situation, dining plans, class schedule, and general direction for a degree. Secondly, I suggest that the student make a list of the areas of study that interest him or her. These are subject to change, of course, but it is advisable to pick a university or college with departments and emphasis on certain disciplines that matches the students' interests. Thirdly, I would recommend the student live on campus for at least a year. To me the college experience is not complete unless one has lived in a dorm in close quarters with other people. By living on campus one learns to make friends, solve disagreements, share space, form study groups, engage in the nightlife and other social events. Admittedly the college experience is sure to vary from person to person, but these suggestions I have made are based on the unforgettable and wonderful undergraduate experince I had at Ohio State.

Joey

Make sure to visit the schools you are interested in and ask a lot of questions. It is important to look at both academic and social aspects of the school. Finances are important, so part of the decision should be based on how much money you are awarded and how much it will cost to go there. Also, look at the rankings of the school and rankings for the school in your major, as well as the job outlook. It may seem like graduation is far away, but it is important to think ahead about getting a good job in this economy. The college process can be stressful so it is important to get the most information from each school in making your decision.

Dorothy

Run after your natural talents. They come naturally to you for a reason. Too much of your time will be spent on adjusting to shifting college norms to be able to chase after a major that is apart from yourself.

Brittany

Look into the school and see what is the most common degree obtained there. That will give you the most accurate way to find out how much time and energy your school will put into helping you with your degree. My suggestion would be to go to a community college first, and then transfer to a university. I think that was the best thing that I have done my whole college career so far.

Megan

Take your time and do your research. Focus on school during college and get lots of experience.

Justinn

Visit the school and the area.

Joseph

Visit the campus and interact with a variety of students before you enroll. College is largely what you make of it. Get involved. Meet new people. Study hard, but play hard as well and you'll leave no regrets when you graduate.

Nathan

Look for a school that has the program you are interested in. Also just be yourself, focus on your school and have fun.

Doreen

There is so much stress about choosing a major and a college in high school, but the biggest part of going away to college is finding yourself. Yes, choose a field that you're interested in, but you may find that down the road something else captures your attention and turns into a dream career. Be open to new experiences and new people. The biggest mistake I made was not taking advantage of all my college had to offer until I had almost graduated, and feeling like I had missed out on a big part of the experience. Be sure to visit prospective colleges, and walk around campus for a while without a guide. If it doesn't feel like you belong there, visit somewhere else. There's no point in spending four or more years in an environment in which you're not comfortable--it will only stress you out more and make it harder to learn. College is about absorbing new things, whether about the field you'll be working in or about yourself and what you want out of life. Take every experience to heart, because everything has a place in building the adult you'll become.

Terion

Finding the right college for both the student and parent can be a scary process. But this process should start from the time the child starts school all the way up to there senior year in high school! The number 1 advice I would give to students and there parents are to make sure that they have solid study/organizational skills. College curriculum in most cases, are more intensive than High School, concrete study and organizational skills will help make the college experice what it is supposed to be about, education. I would suggest that both students and parents take the time if possibe, to visit potential schools together. Parents and students should experience the campus enviorment and see if it feels right for them. Also I would do my best to talk to alumni of that school to get a real life perspective on what it is like to attend that particular University. Finnally I would tell parents not to force a particular school apon there child. Too much pressure to attend a school could result in a poor Freshman experience and eventually a drop out or a transfer.

Nicholas

I would strongly recommend that they research all colleges that have programs that are of interest to the student. I would try to visit the campus during a school year to see what the school is really like, and talk to some of the students there for their opinions. Finally, once in college I would try different experiences to find likes and dislikes, and always become involved.

Casey

For future students: Take advantage of the services that your school offers you. Don't be afraid to build connections with your professors as well as your fellow classmates. Remember, you are lucky to be able to further your education, so don't take it for granted.

jerrod

Allow your child enough space to grow internally and find out who they are.

Megan

Make sure the universities you are looking at include everything you want to get out of your college education: a degree from a well-respected university, research and internship opportunities, financial aid, extracurricular activities/social events, and memories and friendships that will last you a lifetime. When you finally get there, GET INVOLVED!!! I cannot stress to you how important your first year on campus will be and how much it will impact the rest of your college experience. I have found that the organizations and events I became involved with as a freshman have stayed with me through my senior year. You will be so thankful to have the many networking opportunities you create from getting involved in every aspect of your college career. Another piece of advice I would give is be persistent! The time old saying "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again!" comes to mind. Many of the goals you set yourself can be achieved if you never give in when it just seems too hard to continue on working towards your final destination. Just keep your focus on your goals and you will go far! Good luck and GO BUCKS!!!

Abbey

It's important to encourage your student to visit as many schools as possible and to be open minded about each of them. I found that going to a small school would not have been the right choice for me at all, but you might discover something entirely different! It's important that whatever choice you make to get involved right away. Being involved on campus and with other students holds you accountable to something other than yourself. You have more reason to do well in school and to stick with it even when the going gets tough. A close group of friends also makes a large school seem like home. What I liked about going to a big school was that I had so many opportunities yet I still had my small, close group that made college seem like home to me.

Andy

Make sure they your kid/student knows that college isn't only a place to find your career path in life, but it's the most growing up they will do in their life. These 4 years will not only determine the person they are, but the person they will become.

Yvonne

Just relax it is a big decision but it is also what you make of it you can go anywhere and get a piece of paper that tells you learned something but you have to work hard to know that you actually learned something. Make the most of wherever you go and you are always going to wish that you did something that's life just make sure that you try to those things you will always be happy you did. Not having a ton of loans is a great feeling it feels almost as good as getting your degree.

erin

While looking at the extra curriculars is important, you should really focus on what career you want to pursue and pick a school based on your states job market and career programs. I regret choosing a degree like psychology instead of nursing. Also, make sure you realize what classes you'll have to take, so you know how much work you're in for and can prepare for the harder classes and such. Good luck!

Ronald

First of all, do the research. College is expensive so you want to find a college that can offer you what you want - a good, solid education. There are good colleges all over the United States. Researching them is imperative. Don't worry if you don't know what you want to be "when you grow up" when you first enter college. I am a Sophomore and just declared my major in Communications. There are advisors at each college that will help you and guide you to a decision that is right for you. To make the most out of college, study hard but have fun at the same time. There is a way to do both without jeopardizing either. This may be the only opportunity you get to go to school so take advantage of it, don't waste it and look forward to it. It has been a great experience for me so far. I feel confident that when I leave school, I will be prepared for my future. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything and I'm excited at what my future holds.

Jennifer

Really investigate your career options based on your major. Do job shadows

Alex

Be open. Let your Son or Daughter choose. It's their life, not yours.

Akil

Choosing the right college entails considering many different factors. Price is of course one of the most important, but if possible, you should not make the price of a university the deciding factor. If you have already chosen a major, then look for schools with not only a good academic record in the field, but also a reputation for frequent interaction with faculty and solid researching opportunities. Research prospective schools' faculty members and schedule to meet with them if possible. The location and layout of a campus should also be an important factor. Tour the campus and see if you would like to spend at least for years of your life there. Even if you are undecided you can still consider other factors such as student teacher ratio, and the overall size and structure of a school. When you finally make your decision and begin taking classes, it will be to your benefit to establish a relationship with faculty and professors. This will not only help you after graduation when you need recommendations, but will also improve your overall experience as you get to share ideas with experts on in a particualr field. And last but not least, attend class!!

Lauren

In addition to doing a lot of research about available majors and programs when choosing a school, making a campus visit and speaking to current students is essential. Try to find someone unbiased to talk to and ask specific questions about the issues that concern you. Real students can give you better answers than admissions counselors can, especially about campus life. As for making the most of your college experience after you find the school with the best fit for you, the best advice I can give is to enter into it with the most open mind possible. Starting college is a huge change in your life, and you are about to be thrown into a lot of situations you've never dealt with before. Being mature and flexible will help you deal with these new problems a lot more smoothly. It might feel scary and lonely moving away from home and old friends, but you'll be exposed to a huge new diverse network of students. If you take advantage of it and put yourself out there then you will quickly make plently of friends and establish yourself enough to really enjoy your time in college.

Ashley

Know your school's spirit. Sometimes families can come together by attending or engaging in the activities that the college has. Parents who have gone to college should tell their kids about their experiences but should also be very open to what their own kids experience at college. For me, it built a lot of trust between myself and my parents. I share almost all of my experiences and encounters because they told me what they went through. It makes it easier to approach them when a problem or concern comes up. It is very easy to become overwhelmed while at college so having your parents there when you need them makes it so much easier to get back on track. And don't be afraid to go out and try new things. College is full of new and exciting stuff and can make you a much more happier person if you are willing to take the risk.

Michelle

Firstly, my advice would be make sure that the schools you are applying to have the major/majors you're looking to get into, as well as activities/clubs that you are interested in joining. I also think it's important to choose a school with other majors/fields of study that interest you, because with time and exposure to new things, you might end up changing your mind about what you want to do. Also, on the topic of paying for college-do your research! Apply to as many scholarships as you can, and become best friends with the financial counselors. STUDY ABROAD!! I cannot stress that enough. Lastly, be fearless! Take note-that does not mean be irresponsible, it means to dare to dream, think big and go places you never dreamed you'd be This is a great time in your life to discover yourself, so push the envelope-maybe that means going to a school alone, where all your friends aren't going, or maybe it means stepping out of your comfort zone and joining a new club, and maybe for parents it means letting go a little.

Jaimie

Plain and simple: Be true to who you are. You will be spending four years of your life at college and you want it to be somewhere you want to spend time. It has to feel right to you and be best for your situation. When I visited the campus, it just felt right. This may not make sense now, but when you are at the right place, you will know it. Once you find that place, be aggressive and pursue what interests you. Do not sit back and just watch. Four years goes by fast. It is a great time to make connections and build lasting friendships. In the end, just do what you feel comfortable with and never be afraid of learning or trying something new. College is all about new experiences and growing as an individual.

Claire

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Nicholas

Take a college tour. Its informative.

Robert

I would tell students to explore all colleges that interests you. The Ohio State University was the first college I visited, but it took me visiting other schools in Ohio to appreciate all the different oppertunities Ohio State had to offer.

Tia

Going off to college is hard, the discipline is not there, but trust that your child will do the right thing, but ask questions and if something doesn't feel right, then it is not right.

Juliane

Go with your gut!

Rosalyn

Pay attention is internship oppurtunities. Wish i would've taken one.

dgdsgd

Hi!

Julie

Finding the right college is not about getting into the most expensive school with the strictest admission requirements, nor is it about finding the cheapest one. As far as education goes, a good college is one where you can maximize your potetial and cater your education to your needs. Is the field that you plan to study very specific? In that case, a larger school might have a bigger program. Are you interested in pursuing research or study abroad opportunites? Furthering your education outside the classroom is just as important as your education inside the classroom. The college search is not all about academics, though. A college environment that you can see yourself living in is also important. No matter how good the educational program, if you can't fit in with the student and social environments of a college, then you won't be happy with your choice. Ask about the most popular activities on campus. Are the students highly school-spirited? What do students do for fun? Is Greek life popular on campus? The perfect college is one that is affordable, a place where you can grow intellectually, and most importantly, a home away from home.

Aakash

Parents and students should always look at the quality of education and facilities of the department of your field rather than the school as a whole. For example, at OSU, Mechanical Engineering has extremely new facilities, building and good equipment while Aerospace Engineering has older building and equipment. On the other hand, Aerospace has better computing facilities. Use online resources provided by state government. These resources include detailed information about colleges and offer comparison tools ? all free of cost. Access to these resources can be gained from high school administration. Once in college, think wisely of what you choose as extra-curricular activities. ?Getting involved? and ?having fun? are not the only criteria. There are things one can do that are not only fun but can help in career by building skills and making contacts. Such activities related to your field also look good on your resume. An example: rocketry club. Also work with other classmates outside of class. This helps in finishing your homework faster without being bored or getting stuck. Some extra free hours per week can be gained in this way. Finally, talk to upperclassmen. They will be your guide at least till you become experienced.

Edwin

Good school.

Anya

Make college vists and stay the night if possible. Make sure that there are plenty of extracurricular activities and get involved in atleast one or more. Don't think that you will be too busy with school work and end up not joining. Once you join you can always quit if it ends up being too much to handle. Never sit in your dorm room with the door shut, always leave it open as this is the only way to meet new people and seem open to anything. Talk to strangers. This may be the cardinal rule of little kids and not talking to strangers but at college it's the only way to make friends and seem like a really great and open person.

Megan

One of the most intergral parts of choosing a college, in my opinion, is the college visit. There is nothing you can read online or in a brochure that could compare to the feeling you get when you're on the campus or interacting with faculty and students. When searching for the right school for me, I had a list of criteria that my future school had to meet. However, it wasn't until the campus tour- when I felt excited, secure, and optimistic all at once- that I knew that this school was the one for me. Starting a new school, especially one as large as the Ohio State University, can be overwhelming. A new student might feel lost and out of place, like they will never find their niche. My advice to new students is to try new things, and a lot of them. Explore clubs and organizations that address your current interests and challenge yourself to participate in activities you never thought about participating in before. At the very least you will have tried something new and discovered something about yourself. Or, on the other hand, you may find the "niche" you've been searching for.

LeAsha

The advice that I will give parents and incoming freshman is to research every school of their choice and also to visit the school to make sure that the school is the right atomosphere for them. At some schools you can even sit in a classroom to see if large or small classes are right for you. Finding the right college is very important and a big choice to make and I believe that you should find the college thats is right for you and not what your parents or friends think.

Ryan

Before you go searching for that right college make sure that you know exactly what your major is going to be otherwise your going to go there and waste time and money trying to figure out what to do. Make sure that you have a plan of action, know what classes your going to take so that you can be in and out quickly. Don't feel that making friends is a top priority because it is will happen without you evening trying. Try to enjoy your campus.

Katie

Join student groups/organizations. Get involved. Chose a major that fits your personality and interests. Take classes that appeal to you. Study hard. It will pay off.

Cassie

research