Fri August 22, 2008
Around this time each year, prospective students, parents, and educators alike await a countdown of epic proportions. No, not the College Football Rankings. I’m talking about the US News and World Report’s List of 100 Best Colleges. This year, Ohio State was ranked the 56th best college in the nation. I can’t say I agree with that number, but I do agree with the blurb accompanying it:
“A big university means a big opportunity, and Ohio State prides itself on offering about any academic or extracurricular opportunity a student could dream of: 170 majors, 800+ student organizations; 120 study abroad programs; internship and research opportunities in every college; 60+ service-learning courses; multiple Honors and Scholars programs, and 40+ learning communities. To help new students successfully navigate these opportunities, Ohio State has designed great support services and one of the nation's best First Year Experience (FYE) programs.”
First and foremost, 170 majors! We excel in academic programs across the board. From Orchestral Instruments to Turfgrass Science, and everything in between! At other universities, you can rarely find opportunities for undergraduates to excel in research through events like the Denman Undergraduate Research Forum. Additionally, here at OSU, you can take your studies to more than 40 nations throughout the world.
The magazine also chose to highlight the First Year Experience (FYE) program. As a 4th year student, I am proud to say that I still regularly call these outstanding individuals. In a new, large environment, life can sometimes be overwhelming. However, the great thing about this large environment is… there’s AT LEAST one person who can answer any question you may have.
Finally, here comes the plug… Ohio State has over 800 student organizations! Judging from your presence on OUAB’s website, maybe you have an interest in our organization. That’s great! We’re accepting applications until October 10, 2008 at 5:00 PM. But don’t feel pressured to join only us! You can find a list of many more organizations at http://ohiounion.osu.edu/studentorgs/orgs_directory.asp The best thing about student involvement is not only what it gives back to the campus community, but also how it makes OSU a second home! Whatever organization you choose to join (and I’m confident you will…), they will become your 2nd family.
I think our very own President Gordon Gee said it best when he declared OSU “the University of the American Dream!” Apparently, the writers of the rankings didn’t get the memo. But they don’t matter! What I’m trying to say here is that over 56,000 of you have made the right college decision. OSU is the epitome of what college is all about: academics, life changing opportunities, an active involvement in your community, and learning more about you!
See you on The Oval,
Brooke Bockelman
OUAB President
