Month: June 2014

21 Events to Experience on Campus

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For Ohio State students, there is always something to do around campus. Here are some highly anticipated events that I recommend you experience during your first year:

1) Buck-i-Frenzy: This is my favorite fall event which takes place before the first day of class. Buck-i-Frenzy is a “lifestyle festival” that features local and national companies, each giving out many, many samples (basically lots of FREE STUFF).

2) Community Commitment: A day of service for all Ohio State students to volunteer around Columbus.

3) BuckeyeThon: Like to have fun while supporting a good cause? Take part in BuckeyeThon, a 24-hour dance marathon that raises money to support children treated at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

4) Hockey Game: Want a fun and FREE night with friends? Check out the Ohio State Men’s Hockey team as they compete against other schools. Just bring your BuckID!

5) Movie on the Oval: Grab your blanket and friends and come watch a movie on the Oval! Free food and snacks provided 🙂

6) Homecoming Parade: Watch the Buckeye community parade down High Street— music, cheering, and all!

7) Study Abroad Expo: Planning on studying abroad? The study abroad expo is a great first step to take. Make sure to come with questions to ask the experts!

8) Welcome Week Concert: Come out and enjoy some music with your fellow Buckeyes! Past performances include 2 Chainz and The Band Perry.

9) Taste of OSU: A great evening filled with cultural performances, exhibits and food from all around the world.

10) Football Games: Need I say more? Even if you don’t buy season tickets, Ohio State football games are something to definitely experience at least once during your college career.

11) Group Fitness classes: As a student with a BuckID, you can take advantage of all the great programs Ohio State Recreational Sports has to offer, especially all of the group fitness classes! You can find the group fitness schedule on recsports.osu.edu.

12) Skull Sessions: Held two hours before every home game, skull sessions are concerts/pep rallies with over 10,000 fans in attendance.

13) Involvement Fair: Your greatest opportunity to get involved by finding an organization or club that fits your interests. This is one of the most exciting events of the year!

14) Columbus Welcome event: A large-scale event where all first years are transported from campus to Nationwide Arena and given a taste of all that Columbus and Ohio State has to offer!

15) Basketball games: Ohio State Men’s basketball games are a great display of school spirit and camaraderie. Come to the Schottenstein Center and cheer on the Buckeyes!

16) Big Free Concert: Hosted by the Ohio Union Activities Board (OUAB), this free concert is an annual springtime event. Past performances have included Childish Gambino and Skrillex!

17) MLK Day of Service: Hosted by Pay It Forward (an organization that sponsors several service events throughout the year), this particular service project takes place on Martin Luther King day.

…He who is greatest among you shall be a servant. That’s the new definition of greatness…Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.

18) Convocation:  Your first official welcome to the Ohio State community! At convocation, you will hear from several university leaders, faculty, and special guests, as well as experience the several different time-honored university traditions.

19) Light Up the Lake: Hosted by the Ohio Staters, Inc., this event takes place after Thanksgiving to kick off the holiday season! Students hang up seasonal lights around Mirror Lake and Browning Amphitheatre for this lovely lighting ceremony.

20) Synchronized Swimming meets: What better team to watch than the multi-U.S. National champions, AKA the Ohio State Synchronized Swim Team? Add this to your Ohio State bucket list!

21) Homecoming Pep Rally: A large-scale event held in the Ohio Union featuring several guest speakers in order to rally support for the football team against their opponents in the Homecoming game.

Make sure to tune in on Wednesday (orientation day 23) – Alex will share 23 Things to Do on the Weekends!

20 Acronyms and Idioms at Ohio State

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Welcome to The Ohio State University and to a new language of acronyms and idioms unique to our campus. Hang on to your snapback, flat-bill hats because we’re in for a roller coaster of a lesson here, folks!

1. RPAC (Recreation and Physical Activities Center): Next door to the Ohio Stadium is the largest collegiate recreation center in the nation. In my opinion, the RPAC is one of the most beautiful buildings on campus, especially at night when the famous “Scarlet Skyway” is lit up for all to see.

2. JO (Jesse Owens Recreational Center): In addition to the RPAC, our campus is also home to three smaller recreational facilities on north, south and West Campus. Named after our famous Buckeye alumnus and former Olympian, Jesse Owens, you can find one of these facilities within a two minute walk from any residence hall!

3. ARC (Adventure Recreation Center): This recreation facility on West Campus offers two indoor turf fields where students can play indoor intramural sports in the winter months. The ARC also houses the OAC (Outdoor Adventure Center) and its a 35-foot rock climbing wall.

4. CABS (Campus Area Bus Service): Need to get to class in Ohio’s unpredictable weather? No problem! Hop on a CABS bus and it will take you to major locations around campus.

5. COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority): You bought a ticket to a concert at Nationwide Arena, but you don’t have a car. That’s okay! Hop on a COTA bus with your BuckID and explore Columbus; the service is already included in your student fees!

6. NoCo (North Commons): Found in the center of the north campus residence halls, NoCo is a traditional all-you-care-to-eat dining location; on Wednesday nights — “Pasta Night” — you can forge strong friendships over a plate of pasta and chicken tenders.

7. KCom (Kennedy Commons): For all of you south campus dwellers, KCom is where you will find nearby buffet-style, all-you-care-to-eat dining. Check out their steak night or their breakfast options available all day!

8. KSA Cafe (Knowlton School of Architecture Cafe): Although not as large as NoCo or KCom, this hidden dining location provides lunch options and hot breakfast sandwiches all day for those who want a good meal between classes.

9. CSLS (Center for Student Leadership and Service): The CSLS might become your second home if you’re looking to get involved on campus. The CSLS offers office space in the Ohio Union for over 60 student organizations and is also home to the resource room, where you can always find a friendly face ready to help.

10. CFAES (College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences): Our university was founded in 1870 as Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College, and Ohio State continues to have a strong focus on agriculture as it leads the way as Ohio’s largest industry. Visit CFAES on West Campus.

11. RA (Resident Advisor): These students build community on your floor by planning fun events while also supporting residence hall policies. Become friends with them!

12. OA (Office Assistant): Need an on-campus job? Great! OAs work at the front desk of each building and handle the mail and equipment that can be checked out by students. It’s a great way to earn some money without leaving your building!

13. The Shoe (Ohio Stadium): After construction is completed this August, this monument to football is expected to seat over 107,000 Buckeye fans.

14. Beekman (Fred Beekman Park): Found on West Campus, this outdoor recreation area provides space for students to enjoy baseball, softball, flag football and sand volleyball.

15. TTUN (That Team Up North): On the Ohio State campus, it’s best that you never refer to *ichigan by its actual name. I mean, who would root for a team that plays like this?

Go Bucks!

16. TBDBITL (The Best Damn Band In The Land): You now go to a school where the crowd cheers as loud for the band as they do for a touchdown. Stick around during halftime…you won’t regret it.

17. MCC (Multicultural Center): If you’re looking for a place to connect with people or explore and celebrate different values and beliefs, the MCC (on the first floor of the Ohio Union) is the place for you!

18. Schott (The Schottenstein Center): Cheering on the Buckeyes doesn’t just end when football is over. The Schott is home to the Buckeye basketball teams and the 6th man, also known as the Nut House.

19. GE (General Education curriculum): These are the courses that everyone takes to supplement courses for your major and that contribute to a well-rounded education.

20. YAH (You Are Home): Welcome to the university that will change your life for the better and become your second home. The next years of your life at this place will shape your future in memorable and magnificent ways.

Be sure to check in next week as Mady shares 21 Events to Experience on Campus. 

18 Things You Can Only Experience at Ohio State

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Ohio State is a very special place. Here are just some of the things you can do to take advantage of its many incredible opportunites!

1. Learn to love our alma mater. At Ohio State we sing “Carmen Ohio” at the end of athletic events and student organization meetings–and of course at graduation. Get a head start and learn Carmen here!

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2. Enjoy the rivalry. Welcome to the winning side of the intense rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan! Go Bucks!

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3. Run along the Olentangy Trail. While campus offers state-of-the-art recreational centers, pounding the pavement on the Olentangy Trail can be a nice change of pace in favorable weather. Grab a friend, stay in shape and explore this little piece of nature in an urban setting!

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4. Attend an Ohio State football game.
The Ohio Stadium, AKA The Shoe, is a registered historic landmark built in 1922. Today it seats over 100,000 people! Be sure to check out the beautiful rotunda on the way to your first game!

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5. Play with puppies on the Oval! Many upperclassmen at Ohio State bring their pets to the Oval. Why not stop by and pet a puppy between classes?

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6. Visit the rooftop garden of Knowlton Hall. Simply discover its beauty!

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7. Take a chocolate science class. To earn one elective credit hour and learn a whole lot about chocolate, enroll in Food Science and Technology 1110.

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8. Stroll around campus and notice the amazing variety of architectural styles. From the modernity of the RPAC to the Richardsonian Romanesque style of Orton Hall, there is something for everyone to enjoy on campus.

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9. Gather a group of friends and request a tour of the Byrd Polar Research Center. This center collects, maintains and studies ice cores from glaciers. It is one of the leading centers for this type of research in the world!

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10. Schedule a visit to the Center for Automotive Research. Here you can learn about one of Ohio State’s research initiatives and visit the Buckeye Bullet, one of the fastest race cars in the world, built entirely by Ohio State students!

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11. Head to the 11th floor of Thompson Library. Here you can enjoy stunning views of campus and downtown Columbus.

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12. Take in the beauty of the “Winged Victory” sculpture in Thompson Library. The original stands in the Louvre in Paris, but Ohio State has its own replica right here on campus!

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13. Go on a Buck-I-SERV trip. While many schools offer alternative break programs, not many are as impressive as the Buck-I-Serv program here at Ohio State. Indulge your wanderlust and help others by applying to one of the many service programs!

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14. Get a smoothie at the RPAC! RPAC smoothies are absolutely incredible. Just trust me on this one.

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15. Head to the Outdoor Adventure Center (ARC) and climb the 35-foot-tall rock climbing wall! Admission is already included in your student fees. You just need your student ID! Leave your fear of heights at home!

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16. Take the COTA bus to a fancy dinner in the Short North, a trendy neighborhood just south of campus. COTA bus transportation is also included in your fees for the semester — take advantage of it!

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17. Take a stroll down the Long Walk of the Oval. If you walk hand in hand with your significant other while the Orton bells are ringing and no one crosses your path, your love is said to last forever!

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18. AND FINALLY: Experience the feeling that comes with being a Buckeye! Whether you have already felt it or not, I believe there comes a time in every Buckeye’s life when that person appreciates what it means to be a student at the Ohio State University. For you, that moment may come at orientation or it may come a bit later. But at some point, you will realize you are a Buckeye for life.

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So beautiful.

Be sure to catch the next blog post from Cody explaining the 19 Most Important Acronyms at Ohio State!

16 birthday gifts you can find around campus!

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As a student at Ohio State, everyday feels like my birthday! However, when my actual birthday rolls around (September 25th just in case you need to know when to buy my gift), an extra present doesn’t hurt. In honor of Day 16 of orientation, here are 16 gift ideas for Ohio State students (found in the campus/Columbus area):

1.Discount tickets

Discount Tickets (or D-Tix) gives you discounts on a wide variety of opportunities and events in the Columbus area! From sports, concerts, shows and almost anything you can imagine, tickets are sold at a reduced price…if you want to buy something for your friend on a budget, D-Tix is the way to go.

2. Concert tickets at Newport Music Hall

Newport Music Hall is directly across the street from the Ohio Union, and musical acts perform there nearly every day. You’re likely to find something your friend will love, ranging anywhere from 2 Chainz to Neon Trees.

3. Dinner at Bistro 2110

The menu at Bistro 2110 (located inside the Blackwell Inn) is top notch! If you’re a food connoisseur like me, using some of your meal plan to eat steak and other delicious food is the way to go. Just remember to reserve  a table in advance!

4. Ohio State football tickets

Just in case you didn’t know, Ohio State has a pretty good football team. What’s a better gift than getting the experience of seeing the Buckeyes win in person surrounded with 100,000 of your best friends?

5. Ohio State apparel

Perhaps you’ve noticed that your friend’s wardrobe is missing some scarlet and gray? Check out Barnes and Noble College in the Ohio Union and gift wrap that Ohio State jersey or hat.

6. Name an entree at Sloopy’s Diner!

Food naming rights is not a difficult endeavor, but it can have a meaningful (year-long) impact! It’s as simple as applying for the Sloopy’s Diner sandwich club.

7. CD of TBDBITL

TBDBITL is short for “The Best Damn Band In The Land” and if you haven’t experienced them yet, check out some of their shows on YouTube. A quick trip to the University Bookstore will get your friends the sounds of TBDBITL wherever they go.

8. Textbooks

Are textbooks really a gift? Absolutely! Textbooks can be a large investment each semester, so being able to alleviate some of that financial burden is a gift worth more than its weight in gold (and because those books can weigh A LOT).

9. Massages at the RPAC

Sometimes a little R&R is needed so that the stress doesn’t get the best of us. Massages at the RPAC are given by licensed massage therapists for a fee, so you know your friend will enjoy it.

10. Suit from Pursuit

Pursuit is a local suit shop owned by some Ohio State alumni. All you need is your friend’s size, and you can guarantee that your friend will end up with a quality suit. Don’t have the size? Pursuit also sells other accessories.

11. A personalized candle from The Candle Lab

You can get candles that smell like pancakes or grass, or make your own!

12. A round of golf at the Ohio State golf course

Whether your friend is a golf expert or they’ve never played before, it’s a great experience. Scarlet and Gray are the names of the Ohio State golf courses and all you have to do is pay a green fee and schedule a game!

13. Picnic on the Oval

As a college student, FREE is the best price tag. Pack up a lunch and spend some time on the Oval in the middle of campus. Pack a Frisbee for some fun games and a blanket for sunbathing, but remember to wear sunscreen!

14. Cookies from Insomnia

Sometimes, a box of cookies is the perfect combination of, here’s a gift for your birthday, and I know this is too much for food for you, so as your friend, I will take it upon myself to help you finish all of these cookies.

15. Segway tour of Columbus

One of the benefits of attending Ohio State is living within walking distance of the 15th largest city in the United States; however, I recommend having a birthday party via Segway! This is an awesome tour to get acquainted with Columbus.

16. The little things

Your friend may too busy on their own birthday to go anywhere or do anything but it’s the little things that make a huge difference. Offer to proofread a paper or combine their laundry with your own…even a text message can make any day feel like a happy birthday.

Tune in Wednesday to learn from Molly about the 18 things that you can only experience at Ohio State! 

The Freshman 15: Fifteen Things To Eat Around Campus

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The Freshman 15. With such wonderful food and drinks around campus, it’s kind of hard to avoid. Don’t think so? Well, join me as I talk about fifteen things you should eat and drink around campus to celebrate day 15 of orientation!

1. Adriatico’s Pizza

The thought of missing pizza will never cross your mind as long as we have Adriatico’s Pizza. This is some of the best pizza around, so be sure to check it out on Neil and 11th Avenue!

2. Noodles and Co.

What could be better than having a bowl of penne rosa for dinner with your friends to end a long week? Having that same bowl of penne rosa at Noodles & Co! They have a wide variety of noodles available AND they even let you know how many calories are in each dish; the hike to Lane Avenue and High Street will definitely be worth it!

3. Curritos

A recently new addition to High Street, Curritos makes burritos and burrito bowls to mimic the different tastes around the world such as Bangkok, Buffalo, and (my personal favorite) Tikka. It’s like making a trip around the world in your mouth without leaving your seat!

4. Chipotle Mexican Grill

Want to stick with that classic burrito you love and cherish so much? Well, no worries! Chipotle is located on High Street right across from the Ohio Union. If you aren’t a big fan of their tortilla chips but still want something crunchy, ask for taco shells instead and they’ll give it to you – free of charge!

5. Panera Bread

If you’re in the mood for a gourmet breakfast or something other than cereal every morning, try Panera! They have wonderful bagels, muffins and scones that will satisfy the morning appetite! Top it off with a cup of their hot chocolate and that’s what I call a great start to the day! We have double the goodness here at Ohio State with two Panera locations: one on High Street and one on Lane Avenue.

6. Brenen’s Café

Brenen’s is a great place to go to grab a snack between classes, especially for those of you who will be spending a great amount of time on South Campus. Don’t forget to order their fruit smoothie with frozen yogurt and whipped cream (you won’t regret it)!

 

Let’s be real for a minute – off-campus food can be expensive! But we have just as much good food on campus (which you can purchase using Campus Dining meal blocks):

7. Union Market

Go to the Union Market located inside the Ohio Union to get a quick lunch ranging from burgers to paninis to sushi as you head over to your next class!

8. Sloopy’s Diner

Also in the Ohio Union, Sloopy’s is a great place to sit down with friends for any meal of the day! Catering to vegetarian and gluten-free needs, Sloopy’s is bound to be a first choice for many students.

9. RPAC

Can’t get yourself to work out? That’s okay, you can still go to the Courtside Café inside the RPAC every day to try their mouth watering smoothies! They also have great lunch items including cheese tortellini (my personal favorite) and fruit and vegetable cups for those health-conscious students.

10. Berry Café

Berry Café, located on the ground floor of the Thompson Library, is the best place to get a snack while you study (or that morning coffee that’s a necessity for some of us!).

 

Now let’s review some drink choices you should explore:

11. The Ohio Union Mocha (hot or cold)

Served at the Espress-OH in the Ohio Union, the Ohio Union Mocha is one of those drinks that can keep you up and running for those long days as well as help you relax on a Friday night!

12. Starbucks

Those of you who need our coffee in the morning but can’t do with anything but Starbucks, you’re in luck! Starbucks in located right across the Union on High Street and caters to many Ohio State students on a daily basis. There are also branches around campus in the RPAC and in the basement of the McPherson Lab.

13. Fruit Smoothies

In my opinion, all the fruit smoothies on campus are delicious with the most street credibility going to those served at the RPAC, Brenen’s and the Berry Café. Check them all out to find your favorite!

14. Frozen Hot Chocolate

This chocolatey goodness is a must-have for every student at some point during their Ohio State career. For me, that would be every week! Make sure to request whipped cream and chocolate topping to get the most of this experience.

15. Apple/Orange Juice

We all love those espressos, frappuccinos and mochas, but at the end of the day, fruit juice is a healthy alternative! Find your favorite flavor: apple, orange, mixed berry or something else at any of our cafés on campus.

Check in with us again on Monday (orientation day 16) as Cameron Rankin shares sixteen birthday gifts you can find around campus! 

13 Myths and Traditions of Ohio State

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Ohio State is home to many traditions, stories and myths. In this post (coinciding with the 13th day of orientation), I will share a bit of this “Buckeye Spirit” as I explain 13 of my favorite Ohio State myths and traditions!

1. The Hopkins handpaint

Hopkins Hall is home to one of my favorite ghost stories. According to the story, a girl was stuck in an elevator and while struggling to get out she left her handprints all over the elevator doors. Although they say she safely made it out, on the left side of the building you can supposedly see her handprint, a symbol of her struggle inside. Legend has it that no matter how many times someone tries to remove this print it always reemerges.

2. Oval Beach

The Oval (known by many as “Oval beach”), the grassy field on central campus, is a great place to socialize and relax when the weather is favorable. Make sure you have a beach towel ready for those warm days of spring when this local paradise comes to life with activity.

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3. Mirror Lake tug of war

Historically, Ohio State’s freshman and sophomore classes had a tug of war competition stretching over Mirror Lake every year. (One may assume the losers had wished that had brought a change of clothes!) Today however, students no longer partake in this tradition.

 4. Welcome Week concert

Before classes start in the fall, the Ohio Union Activities Board organizes a concert. During the past two years, big-name artists such as Krewella, Lady Antebellum, One Republic, 2 Chainz and Big Sean have preformed. In my opinion, the best part about this concert is that you do not have to purchase the tickets, as a student you simply just show up!

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 5. Love stories

Ohio State has many traditions rooted in love. Some include a classic first date at Mirror Lake, a marriage proposal through the Hayes Hall whispering arch or going down the Oval long walk with your partner (granted, legend has it that no one can cross your path and the bells of Orton Tower must be ringing in order for “your love to last forever”). Whatever the circumstances, chances are you can find opportunities for romance here at Ohio State!

6. Light up the Lake

Before the holiday season starts in the fall, Ohio Staters Inc. decorates the trees of Mirror Lake with beautiful holiday lights. Before you graduate, be sure to grab your friends and attend this incredible event.

 7. Afro Duck

The myth, the legend, the duck. Ohio State’s Afro Duck has become a campus celebrity. Some hypothesize that Afro Duck has a tumor, while others claim that its afro is a symbol marking his “alpha” status among his fellow ducks. The truth is though that Afro Duck is part of the crested mallard species. Make sure to follow him on twitter @OSUafroduck to stay up to date on his tweets!

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8. Pomerene pool

Despite the common misconception, Pomerene Hall no longer has an indoor pool. Once known as the “Women’s Union,” Pomerene Hall was reserved for Ohio State’s female students and included a gymnasium, lounge and pool.

9. Beat *ichigan Week

During the week leading up the The Game, students rally together and create various events to show school spirit. For example, students use red tape to cross out all of the letter Ms on campus buildings and signs in order to contest our rival, That Team Up North.

10. Ohio State only cares for football

False! Although many students rally behind their football team, Ohio State is not just its football team. The university is full of opportunities for excitement, regardless of whether you care for sports or football! Use our climbing wall, experience downtown Columbus, visit the cartoon museum or see the giant sloth skeleton in Orton Hall to find your own avenue of excitement!

11. We love the word Ohio

We don’t care if it’s Script Ohio on the field, singing “Carmen Ohio” throughout the year or taking an O-H-I-O picture with your newest friends, we love any excuse to say Ohio. Eventually, when you hear someone call, “O-H!” you may find it second nature to holler back, “I-O!”

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12. Orton bell tower

Want a different view of Orton Hall? Ohio Staters Inc. can actually take you to see inside the bell tower. Just register your group through their website and they’ll make arrangements to take you to the top!

13. Buckeyes are only in Ohio

This is a myth! It turns out that Ohio State has one of the largest alumni networks in the country. This becomes apparent when you travel out of state. For many international travelers wearing Buckeye gear, out of nowhere random people have noticed their attire and responded to “the silent call of Buckeye love” by signaling O-H with their arms.

For me, it is the greatest feeling in the world to know that the Ohio State family stretches across the world and that I am never far from my Buckeye family.

Make sure to check us out on Friday when Sumedha lists The Freshman 15: The Fifteen Things You Should Eat Around Campus.

11 Things You Should Always Keep in Your Room

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The 11 Things You Should Always Keep In Your Room

Are you nervous about moving to Ohio State? Worried that you are going to over or under pack for your new room in a residence hall? Scared that you’re going to forget something important? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place! To kick off the eleventh day of Orientation, I’m here to let you know about the 11 things you should always keep in your room when you get to Ohio State.

1. A Computer

Having a computer or access to one is essential to your success as an Ohio State student. The university’s primary method of communication is through email and your professors will often use Carmen (our electronic hub for class information) for homework and quizzes. If you don’t have a computer of your own, don’t worry! The university has many computer labs that students can access for free!

2. Air Freshener

Let’s be real here — young people stink. You may wash your clothes and your body every day, but that doesn’t mean that your roommates or floor mates follow the same routine. Living in small spaces with many people is a breeding ground for the smelliest kinds of smells. Bring the air freshener and this problem will disappear!

3. Medicine

For most first-year students, this is the first time you’ll be away from home. That means it’ll be the first time you’ll be taking care of yourself if you get sick. When it comes to medicine, bring it even if you think you’ll never need it. Cold medicine, pain relievers, immune system boosters, cough drops— bring it all. A thermometer won’t hurt either.

4. Cards or Games

I’ve always believed that the easiest way to make new friends is by playing a super intense game of cards with a group of strangers. If you aren’t into card games, bring something you do enjoy. Cards Against Humanity, Bananagrams, Monopoly — a game that requires more than one person to participate is a great way to connect with your roommate and hall mates.

5. Extra Blankets and Sheets

Your sheets are super dirty, but you’re too tired to do anything about it! Having extras will definitely come in handy at that moment, and great for the busy college student who doesn’t have time (or doesn’t want) to clean.

6. Extension Cords

If you’re planning on trying to plug in more than four things in your new room, bring an extension cord. Trust me.

7. Snacks

There is no worse feeling than when you’re working on a paper late at night and you have an undying hunger that can’t be satisfied with vending machine potato chips.

8. Coffee Maker

You may find that, as a college student, you start to put a lot more caffeine into your body than you did previously (or at all). By no means is this necessary to survive your classes, but if you start to drink a lot of coffee or tea, it will be much more cost effective to have your own machine (and you won’t have to wake up so early to go out and get some before class).

9. Rain Gear

You don’t realize how much it rains in Ohio until your main mode of transportation is your own two feet. Bring an umbrella, rain boots and/or rain jacket or you’ll quickly discover that the worst state of being is a soggy one.

10. Hangers

I bet you remembered that you need to bring clothes, but did you remember hangers? This is the biggest thing I hear about students forgetting at home, but having these glorious plastic triangles in your closet is actually kind of a necessity.

11. Something That Makes You Feel at Home

Ohio State is full of opportunity and it’s a huge place. Because of that, you may (at times) feel lost and homesick in your first year here. When I was a first-year student, I found that the best thing I did to combat those feelings was bring photos of friends and family members and hang them where I would see them every day. Surrounding myself with something familiar enabled me to turn Ohio State into my home away from home.

Come back on Wednesday to read about Thirteen Myths and Traditions of Ohio State, brought to you by Marcos Olivarez!

10 People You May Meet at Ohio State

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It’s Day 10 of orientation, which means I’m here to share with you the 10 people you may meet at Ohio State. Here we go!

1. The Campus Celebrity

This student typically has a very memorable personality and has likely been committed to a student organization since stepping on campus for the first time. This student says “hi” to anyone and everyone on campus (celebrities know many people!). The campus celebrity could be motivation for you to become involved on campus…or campus celebrities could make you late for everything because of the number of people they stop to talk to along the way.

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2. The Over-Involved Student

There are nearly 1,000 student organizations on campus and there can be students who just want to be part of everything. Finding them can be a gift and a curse: a gift because you will have the opportunity to participate in things you could probably never imagine; a curse because you will probably get invited to everything! The key to campus involvement is balancing commitments (co-curricular, academic, social, etc.).

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3. The Athlete

Not all athletes are the same. There are so many sports that are offered on campus, and there could be an athlete in your hallway or even your room. Some students meet an athlete that they become particularly close with because athletes can offer a unique campus perspective…the athlete is just one more person who adds to your well-rounded Ohio State experience.

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4. The Thrifter

Saving money is something that many college students (and parents) love to do! Find a friend at Ohio State who loves to thrift shop – this person usually know where to go to save a couple dollars.

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5. The Classmate Soulmate

Students who can connect with a peer in a difficult class are more likely to achieve success. The Classmate Soulmate can help you more solidly comprehend the course material through things like review sessions and scheduled study times. Connecting with your peers around academics could be the difference between getting an A in a class instead of a C (or worse!)…and those helpful peers could become good friends along the way!

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6. The Ultimate Organizer

Similar to the Classmate Soulmate, Ultimate Organizers prove that no one can be too organized. From their socks down to the color of the pen they use for each class, they fully embody the word organization. The greatest benefit to you in befriending an Ultimate Organizer is that you’ll know exactly where to be, when to be there, and what you need to take with you.

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7. Cultural Clarifier

Cultural Clarifiers come from backgrounds different from your own. The diverse student body at Ohio State provides students with opportunities to learn more about unique cultures, customs, and traditions that they may not have known about prior to beginning their college journey. Cultural Clarifiers take pride in their cultural heritage and are excited to share aspects of their heritage with others.

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8. The Musician

Everyone should have a friend with a little Mariah Carey in their vocal cords or who can make anyone swoon with a saxophone! Meeting students who are into music or who love to perform helps you to release that inner celebrity that is only heard in the shower at home. Musicians can give great musical insight, and this can be a student who could accompany you to concerts or other music-related events that occur on campus and in Columbus!

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9. Mirror Image

Have you ever met someone and after a brief introduction or conversation you instantly thought,

WOW! We basically live the same life.

The Mirror Image is someone great to have around when you need someone who can relate to you! This person usually ends up becoming a best friend because you can spend hours on end talking about life experiences, academics, interests, family and even those unnatural obsessions you have with One Direction or Taylor Swift.

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10. The President of BSA (Black Student Association)

Alante’ Ward is the current president of the Black Student Association (hint hint, wink wink). He is a social butterfly who loves to make others laugh and smile. Also, he does a great job at representing a student who embraces his own ethnic culture, while at the same time adding to the overall student culture at Ohio State. I guarantee after one conversation, the rest of your day will be filled with smiles!

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For Day 11 of orientation on Monday, check out Lexi Fannin’s blog post about the 11 items that should always stay in your room!

8 Ways Your First Year is Like Falling in Love

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We have reached the 8th day of Ohio State orientation and in honor of this 8th day, I will share with you the 8 ways your first year is like falling in love.

1. The Butterflies

When first falling in love you may feel anxious, nervous and excited — what we commonly refer to as experiencing “the butterflies.” These butterflies are the similar to the feelings that students have before they enter their first year of college. Many students begin to feel anxious and excited as they think about their classes, their roommates or simply adjusting to a new lifestyle, unlike anything they have ever known before. Being nervous is normal. However, I encourage you to approach your first year with an open mind and to experience the new things available to you. This “leap of faith” toward your newfound love (Ohio State, of course!) can make your freshman year truly amazing.

2. Speed Dating

Falling in love requires finding the right person. When falling in love, you may search for “the one” or the person who is the right fit. This involves trying new things and learning about different people, similar to the Involvement Fair, which is held on the Oval on the first Sunday of Welcome Week. There are over 700 student organizations represented on the Oval with members eager to speak with new students about that club or organization. These groups gather there with the sole purpose of sharing their passions and interests with incoming students, hoping to create a connection. Like dating, it is a time for first-year students to learn about different student organizations and find the right path of involvement.

3. Your First Date

When going on your first date, one of the biggest decisions is deciding where to eat. Just like a date, your first year offers many dining options at the university. Some of my favorites include the Ohio Union, Kennedy Commons, Fresh Express and Mirror Lake Creamery (voted the best “cheap date” location on campus)!

4. The Honeymoon Phase

The honeymoon phase includes the early stages of a relationship when everything feels exciting and new. This can be compared to the first six weeks here at Ohio State, when first-year students start to make their connections and begin to adjust to their new lives and environments. My piece of advice for you is to stay on campus as much as possible during these first six weeks to take in the excitement and to develop these new relationships.

5. The First Kiss

In love stories, the “first kiss”  is a magical moment, symbolizing the love and connection between two people. It’s a moment full of beauty and understanding and one that is not easily forgotten.  This “magical first kiss moment” is similar to another magical moment during your first year at Ohio State. It’s the moment where you become a part of the Ohio State family and truly understand what it means to be a Buckeye. This could be the first time you sing “Carmen Ohio,” the first time you connect with your roommate, when you join a student organization, or even your first year orientation.

 6. The First Fight

Love can come with some bumps in the road. Problems arise and fighting happens but sometimes this is what makes relationships healthy. These disputes can offer opportunities to learn, grow and develop. Your first year may not be perfect, but challenges will serve as a way to grow as you begin to learn more about yourself and more about the world.

7. Sharing living space

A big step in a relationship is making the decision to spend more time with that person. Eventually some couples spend so much time together, they begin to learn the intricate details about a person (their cleanliness, daily habits, etc.) similar to moving in with your roommate during your first year. This could be one of the first times you learn how to cohabitate with someone and what it’s like to be away from your home and your family.

8. The Moment You Say “I Love You”

This is the special moment where two people express the feelings and emotions that have been developing for each other. Realizing how much you love a person can be similar to recognizing your attachment to your university. For me, I realized that I’ll always have a place for Ohio State in my heart because of my wonderful memories here and the simple fact that I am and always will be a Buckeye for life.

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Check out our blog on Friday to read our 10th day of orientation post from the amazing Alante’ Ward…he’ll discuss the 10 types of people you meet during your first year!

Your Summer Playlist: 6 Songs to Describe Orientation

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Hello again, everyone! I’m so excited to be back on First Things First, but I’m especially excited because I get to talk about a few things that I just love: summer, music and Ohio State Orientation.

Every summer there’s a slew of new music released (I’m loving “Problem” by Ariana Grande right now FYI). So whether you’re dancing around your bedroom or driving with the windows down on a summer night, there’s nothing like some good music to make everything right.

Today I’m super pumped to share 6 songs with you that describe the orientation experience. So pull up Spotify or grab your iPod and let’s make a playlist for your summer orientation.

 

1. “Wide Awake” – Katy Perry

When you show up to orientation on that first morning, it is EARLY. Whether you’re traveling five miles or 5,000 miles, it is rarely fun to get up early. However, I encourage you to arise and soak in the experience. This is your first introduction to Ohio State as an official Buckeye. Wipe the sleep from your eyes and enjoy those icebreakers, pay attention to the sessions and ask questions. Make sure that you’re wide awake and ready to make the most of your orientation experience.

2. “Ain’t It Fun” –  Paramore

Like I said before, orientation is probably your first time at Ohio State with your future classmates and peers. HAVE FUN! Why not? To quote the song, “don’t go crying to your mama.” This isn’t a sad time, it’s happy! Talk to as many people as you can, enjoy yourself at the evening activities at the RPAC and laugh as hard as you can during Orientation Night Live (the comedy show put on by the Orientation Leaders). Ain’t it fun? It should be!

3. “Carmen Ohio” – Ohio State’s Alma Mater

Of course I had to sneak “Carmen Ohio” onto this list. Perhaps unlike many other schools across the country, I can honestly testify that Ohio State students truly treasure their alma mater. This song is sung at the end of every football game, after club and organization meetings and at both Convocation and Commencement. The song is all about tradition, friendship and loving your Ohio State home. What better time to learn it than at orientation? (Yes, you will sing “Carmen Ohio” at orientation). This little song is a crown jewel of Ohio State and it continues to give me chills whenever I hear it.

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4. “Call Me Maybe” – Carly Rae Jepsen

You’re going to meet so many new people at orientation. It may be at the opening session, in your small group, at dinner, or a multitude of other places. These people could be the first of your classmates that you befriend. Don’t hesitate to call them (but who am I kidding: nobody calls anybody anymore), text them, or add them on social media. There is nothing wrong with staying connected on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram before school begins in the fall. Who knows, maybe someone you meet could end up being your friend, roommate, or significant other. Call them maybe?

5. “Clarity” – Zedd ft. Foxes

After your orientation, you’re going to have accomplished many things. You will have your classes scheduled, you will have tons of information about different resources and services available on campus and hopefully you will have made some new friends. This is what I call clarity, one of the best feelings in the world. I remember feeling so relieved after my orientation. Although I was initially nervous about my transition to college, after I attended my freshman orientation, this nervousness was replaced by readiness and excitement. I hope you will also achieve a sense of clarity, confidence and excitement for your first year once you’ve gone through your own orientation.

6. “Home” – Phillip Phillips

For so many people, orientation can be scary. You may be nervous about scheduling classes, meeting new people and potentially going out of your comfort zone. But there is no need to worry. This is your home now. Soak in the beauty of the Oval and campus both during the day and at night on your moonlight tour. Ask as many questions as you can. And relax, because this is a place where you will be able to grow and learn over the next several years.

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Welcome home and please enjoy your orientation, this playlist, and all that Ohio State has to offer. To me it’s like a good song that I just play on repeat. I hope the same can be said for you very soon.

Up next, the lovely and wonderful Lisa Combs will be sharing with you something that she knows quite a lot about: love. Her challenge is to list 8 ways that your first year is like falling in love. I’m already stoked to see what she has to say.

Charging my iPod,

Connor