Something New

Beat the Cold: 5 Things to Do in Columbus’ Great Indoors

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No matter how long you’ve lived in Ohio — born and raised or truly new to OSU — you probably do not love the cold. We’ve all seen our newsfeeds become filled with negative comments the minute the first frost hits and first flakes of snow fall.

The freezing temperatures make it hard to muster the effort to leave your residence hall, especially if you live on the outskirts of campus. As a former Lincoln Tower resident, I understand this well.

But fear not, because Columbus offers plenty to do beyond your residence hall (but still within the warmth of the great indoors). All of these places are accessible by Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) buses; check Google Maps or a COTA schedule for details.

1. Columbus Museum of Art

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I visited the Columbus Museum of Art just a few weekends ago, and while it’s small, it is definitely worth a trip. There is currently an exhibit called “In __ We Trust: Art and Money,” which includes a really cool mural created by thousands of pieces of dollar bills, rearranged to make new pictures. This particular exhibit is on display until March 1.

This is a great spot to take a date, to bring a friend or to visit alone. Admission is only $8 for students and the museum’s downtown location makes it a fun day trip away from campus, accessible on a budget.

2. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

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Just down the street from the art museum is the ultimate place to be inside in the winter. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens allows you to escape reality for a day and surround yourself with long-out-of-season blooming flowers and plants.

The indoor gardens and art displays are the perfect distraction from the bitter chill outside. Bring a friend for a day trip or a book to get lost in among the flowers; either way you’ll be able to transport yourself back to sunnier times. Admission is $10 for students.

3. North Market

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Already sick of the same five campus dining locations you frequent? Head downtown for the ultimate variety of food from all over the world including Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, fresh produce and other fun shops.

In addition to the fantastic food offered there, the North Market is a great place to spend the afternoon people watching, catching up with friends, or studying for class in the expansive seating area on the second floor. Head back when the weather is warm, and you can even get your meal to go and enjoy eating it in nearby Goodale Park.

4. Center of Science and Industry (COSI)

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COSI is perhaps one of the coolest places that students take the least advantage of in Columbus. For some of us, COSI is a place our Girl or Boy Scout troops visited when we were younger, while for others it’s a foreign land. But for any college student, COSI is a really cool place to learn more about science and the universe.

In addition to its exhibits on topics such as energy, space, the ocean and life, COSI recently opened its planetarium — which, though it costs $5 more to visit, includes some really interesting shows about the universe. Admission to COSI is $19 for adults and students.

5. Columbus Blue Jackets game

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If you’ve never given hockey a chance, being a student in Columbus gives you the perfect opportunity. There are two ways for students to get cheap tickets to a Blue Jackets game: with D-Tix, through the Ohio Union, and through CBJ student rush tickets.

Hockey is sometimes swept aside and is perhaps less dominant in a country (and city) obsessed with football. But now that the Buckeyes are officially done (and undisputed champions), why not check out another Columbus team? Hockey is really easy to get into, and supporting your city makes it a win-win. Games are held at Nationwide Arena downtown.

 

Remember me? That Bernie guy…

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Oh hey! I remember you; you’re that funny guy from Orientation!

That’s how most you of know me. At least that’s what you say when you see me on campus. Yes, I was the guy who welcomed you to Orientation. It’s a great job, it really is. But sadly, that’s probably the last time most of you saw me or my colleagues in First Year Experience. And why should we expect any different. We work on the third floor of the Student Academic Services building on the far edge of campus. You have no reason to wander up here.

Many of you are probably still connected to your Orientation Leader, right? I’m sure they may help you from time to time. “Yes, but Bernie, they don’t actually work for you anymore,” you might say. That’s right. The summer is over. The red polo shirts have been retired.

[End scene]

My colleagues and I started a conversation just like this a little over a year ago. It wasn’t hard to figure out that we’ve been doing this all wrong. The people you might actually listen to, connect with and reach out to when you have a question (your peers, that is)…we let those people go. Every August. And now, during the school year, we’re hoping you’ll listen to us. A bunch of staff members who haven’t been college students for 10 or even 20 years. Heck, my son is closer to your age and he’s nine.

So, I hope you’re not offended, but starting this fall, when it comes time to actually connect with you, it won’t be me or my colleagues leading the charge anymore. Instead, we’re going to let you connect with and talk to a fellow student. And not some random upper-class student you haven’t met before (because honestly, that’s always awkward) but those same students you’ve come to know and trust because they helped you feel at home, get some answers and have a great time at Orientation.

Now, there will be a slight change. We won’t call them Orientation Leaders anymore. They’ll be so much more than that. They’ll meet and help new students like you over the summer at Orientation, just like they always did, but now they’ll stay in touch, answer your questions and help you explore Ohio State all throughout the year. And the new name: FYE Peer Leaders. Simple, right?

I have a hunch that some of you (if you’ve read this far), might be thinking, “Bernie, how can I apply for this new Peer Leader job?” Well, I have good news for you. The application is available now (through January 30). All you have to do is go to our webpage to find out more about applying. I hope you’ll watch the short video and maybe even join us this month at an info session.

The one catch is that this job isn’t for everyone, and you may not be ready…just yet. I say that because I remember applying for a pretty amazing job on campus my first year, one that had the potential to impact other students. I started the process, filled out the application and even successfully made it through the group interview. But then, just before getting the final word, I removed myself from the process. Why? Well, I knew I wasn’t ready yet. I barely knew myself, how was I going to help others. I still had some growing up to do. The next year, my sophomore year, I applied again. And this time I stayed with the process. The very next fall I became an RA in Taylor Tower and had the time of my life helping other students.

I hope, when the time is right, you’ll apply to be an FYE Peer Leader. First-year students need people like you in their lives. We understand that now.

So maybe you’re not going home for Thanksgiving…

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So maybe you’re not going home for Thanksgiving… and you’re probably worried that you’ll be stuck on campus with nothing to do while everyone else is at home with families and friends. Last year I stayed on campus for Thanksgiving weekend and instead of just sitting alone in my residence hall the entire time, I made the effort to stay busy on campus by attending different events. As a result, I used the time to meet new people and support my fellow Buckeyes! So from personal experience, I strongly recommend that you check out some of these exciting opportunities.

Here are my top events to attend over Thanksgiving weekend this year:

1. PizzaPalooza, 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25 at the Ohio Union West Plaza

Do you love being a Buckeye? Do you love pizza? Why not combine the two and enjoy free pizza at the Ohio Union West Plaza with many of your fellow Buckeyes. This event is free for students!

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2. Ohio State Men’s Basketball Game vs. Campbell, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26 at the Schottenstein Center

Maybe volleyball isn’t really your thing. Consider checking out our men’s basketball team take on Campbell University at the Schottenstein Center. This event is not free for students, but you can buy tickets at the Schottenstein leading up to the game. Here’s a tip: the ticket office has a limited number of $10 tickets available starting an hour before tipoff.

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3. Ohio State Women’s Volleyball Game vs. Minnesota, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26 at St. John Arena

Don’t have anything to do on Wednesday night? Consider checking out the Women’s Volleyball game at St. John Arena. The games are free for students, all you need is your BuckID. Support the Buckeyes in their last home game of the season and their senior night. Do not worry if you don’t know anything about volleyball, the games are fun for everyone!

4. 23rd Annual Thanksgiving Dinner, 11:45 and 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 28 in the Ohio Union

Perhaps you were worried that you weren’t going to get your fill of turkey if you’re not going home. Have no fear, you can enjoy a free Thanksgiving dinner at the Ohio Union. Seating for the dinner will take place at 11:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. and all guests must have a ticket to enter. Tickets are free and are available in 100 Oxley Hall, the Hale Black Cultural Center (Tuesday until 10 p.m. and Wednesday until 5 p.m.) and the Ohio Union Information Center (Tuesday until 10 p.m. and Wednesday until 8 p.m.). There will be about 1600 other Buckeyes, so make sure if you’re around to join in on this wonderful free event!!

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5. Ohio State Men’s Basketball Game vs. James Madison, 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28 at the Schottenstein Center

After you get your fill of Black Friday shopping in Friday morning, consider attending the Men’s Basketball game at 4 p.m. Again this is not a free event for students, but you can buy tickets at the door and there are a limited number of $10 day of game tickets available an hour before the game. What better way to prepare for the game on Saturday against That Team Up North than supporting the rest of your fellow Buckeyes!

Dining in the Short North

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Hey first year students!

Missing your mom’s cooking? Tired of always eating at Traditions? Try going to the Short North! COTA buses can take you there in minutes and it’s a fun, easy, and appetizing weekend activity.

There are also awesome affordable options. Some cheap and casual choices include Mikey’s Late Night Slice and Melt Bar and Grilled. If you are a huge fan of grilled cheese, like me, Melt is the place to go. Late Night Slice — which is somewhat of a dive — offers cheap, delicious, and quick pizza.

If you’re willing to spend a little extra money for delicious dinning Northstar Cafe and North Market are fantastic prospects. North Star, a spunky organic restaurant, has great brunch and offers vegetarian options. North Market, my favorite, is like a food festival! Individual cafes, butchers, grocers, ice-creameries, and bakers are set up in a retro warehouse. Although it can be a bit pricy, there are so many yummy options. Some include crepes, Thai food, Indian, German styled sandwiches, etc. If you go to North Market, be sure to factor in money to park if you don’t take the bus.

If you’re craving authentic food, a few selections include Marcella’s, Haiku Poetic Food and Art and La Fogata Grill. La Fogata delivers mouthwatering Mexican food — the restaurant offers fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, and other authentic cuisine. Marcella’s, an Italian restaurant, has great high-end pizza and pasta. Haiku Poetic Food and Art offers Asian Pacific style food, like appetizing sushi, noodles, salads, and more. Poets, musicians, and artists come in to perform as part of a fine dining experience — the atmosphere is amazing!

If you’re looking for desert options or if you love coffee, there are a number of selections in the Short North. Some include famous, locally owned Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Le Chocoholique, Tasi Café, and ZenCha Tea Salon. If you have not already tasted some of Jeni’s ice cream, it’s a fantastic place to bring your family if they are visiting. Le Chocoholique has fondues, coffees and gelato. They also have delicious crème brûlée. Tasi Café has enjoyable coffee in addition to freshly baked breads, and they also offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Finally ZenCha Tea Salon is a fun place to drink lots of tea or experience the ambient atmosphere.

If you’re looking for something fun, want to experience delicious foods, or want to adventure through Columbus, check out the Short North!!

3 Things to Do Off-Campus This Fall

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Columbus is a city filled with so many activities and opportunities that there’s always something to do — especially this fall! To celebrate Ohio’s finest season, here is a list of my favorite fall activities to do off-campus.

One of my personal favorites is the Circleville Pumpkin Show. Just as the name suggests, this festival is all about the pumpkin! Try one of the many different ways that pumpkin can be used: from pumpkin brownies, to pumpkin funnel cake, to pumpkin donuts, and even pumpkin pizza!

There are so many different ways to enjoy pumpkins and the Circleville Pumpkin Show is definitely a must-see. Last year, my residence hall had free busing to the event, so definitely check explore whether any residence halls  or campus organizations are planning to make a trip out to the event.

My second favorite thing to do during the fall is to go apple picking. Lynd Fruit Farm in Pataskala, Ohio, is a wonderful place to visit! Many residence halls organize bus rides to the Lynd Fruit Farm from campus, so again, ask your residence hall or your RA if there are any planned trips to the farm.

Lynd Fruit Farm also has an 8-acre corn maze where you can step out of our world and begin an amazing adventure into a maze of mystery and intrigue! Apple picking is great way to celebrate the beginning of fall by hanging out with friends, taking some great pictures, and tasting some crisp, yummy apples.

Finally, another great event in Columbus is the HighBall Halloween Masquerade in the Short North. The one-night event is centered around a Costume Couture Fashion Show, followed by a street party, live art, electrifying stage performances, and a public costume contest. All the proceeds go to support the initiatives of the Short North Arts District.

Autumn is finally here, so let’s sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate as we watch the leaves turn to pretty shades of fall.​ Happy autumn everyone!

 

Your Week in First Year Success: September 29-October 3

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By now you probably recognize that the First Year Success Series features many sessions which address common first-year student issues. The First Year Success Series also offers many opportunities to learn about and explore topics you may never have thought about before. These sessions may touch on ways to get involved in the community, new ways of thinking about things, or common issues that aren’t often discussed. College is a time when we hope you take advantage of branching out to learn something new, so one of these sessions may be a great way for you to do that!

The Events and Violence Prevention at OSU
Theme: Diversity and Global Awareness
October 1, 7:30-10 p.m.

What is unique about this session? One of the highlights of the Wexner Center for the Arts’ 25th anniversary celebration, The Events is an award-winning play that addresses the effects of mass shootings and the impact they have on communities. Students attending the performance as part of the First Year Success Series will have a discussion after the play about how art is used to address important issues and what students can do to prevent violence on campus.

Droppin’ Science: Introduction to Hip Hop Research
Theme: Diversity and Global Awareness
September 29, 1-2 p.m.

What is unique about this session? At Ohio State, you have access to research just about anything in which you may be interested or for which you have a passion. This interactive session will demonstrate how you can use the resources available to you to research hip hop culture. No matter what your interests are, this session will show you how easy it is to connect to the library resources that will help you learn more about the things you care about!

Not So Tech Savvy? Basic Tips for Academic Success
Theme: Academic Engagement and Career Exploration
September 29, 6-7:30 p.m.
October 1, 1:30-3 p.m.

What is unique about this session? You have probably noticed that the ability to use things like Google or MS Office (Word, Excel, and Powerpoint) are treated as basic skills. If you don’t feel confident in your computer literacy or want to take your skills to the next level, this session can teach you some tips and tricks to be successful!

Lived Experiences: A Day in the Life of Columbus City School Students
Theme: Leadership and Civic Engagement
September 30, 6-7:30 p.m.

What is unique about this session? As a student at Ohio State, you are also a citizen of the city of Columbus. Ohio State students have had a tremendous impact on the local community through their dedication to service.  This session allows you the chance to learn about what it is like to be a a high school or middle school student in the Columbus inner-city. Learn about the struggles and strengths from the students themselves and hear how students like you can leave a positive legacy on your new home.

Generation Rx: Every 15 Minutes
Theme: Health and Wellness
September 30, 5-6 p.m.

The Adderall Dilemma: The Truth About Prescription Stimulant Abuse
Theme: Health and Wellness
October 1, 5-6 p.m.

What is unique about these sessions? Many college students find themselves with so much to do, and so little time. In the face of this dilemma, many students chose to use and abuse prescription drugs to study and focus. This problem is prevalent, but isn’t often on the top of the list of concerns among college students. Come to these sessions to hear about the potential negative effects that this very common issue can have on your health.

There are so many different and unique session topics within the First Year Success Series. Use this opportunity to learn about something new and unique that you may have never thought about before. Whether it is something you find interesting or concerning, now is your chance to explore! Register for your sessions today at www.go.osu.edu/FYSS.

5 Roles of a Peer Mentor

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One of the amazing things about Ohio State is the opportunity to meet new people.

Perhaps you’re excited to bond over late-night movies with the people on your residence hall floor, or maybe you’re making plans to hang out with friends you meet in your classes.

Is a peer mentor on your list of people to meet at Ohio State? Peer mentors can be a telephone switchboard, a magnifying glass, a trampoline, a street, and a cheerleader all rolled into one incredible resource and source of support. Crazy, right? Read on to learn why you should find a peer mentor at Ohio State.

A peer mentor is a magnifying glass

Peer mentors who are in their second year (or beyond) can benefit you in many ways. They have been in your shoes not too long ago–they have experienced the excitement of Welcome Week, the thrill of meeting new people, and the pleasure of being a new Buckeye. They have also endured the occasional bad grade, the rough patches of being in a new environment, and the stress of finals week.

The good news is peer mentors want to share their experiences with you, and give you tips and advice to succeed and excel. Maybe you have a chemistry professor with whom you’re just not clicking. How can you get through the semester when you’re really struggling with this class? Peer mentors can share with you a similar experience they navigated and discuss some resources that may help. When you’re struggling with something, or simply seeking another opinion, your peer mentor can offer a helpful perspective because they have already examined the problem thoroughly (using their magnifying glass of experience).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A peer mentor is a switchboard operator

Think back to a time before we were born, and offices had switchboard operators to direct telephone calls to the proper recipient. Your peer mentor can be like a switchboard operator, taking different avenues to make a connection for you. Let’s say you’re interested in getting a part-time job on campus, but aren’t really sure how to go about looking for one. Peer mentors have a variety of tried-and-true resources to connect you to the correct contact on campus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A peer mentor is a trampoline

No, your peer mentor won’t be doing jumps and flips–though we would jump through hoops for you! We are a sounding board, someone with whom you can “bounce” around ideas. Maybe you have an idea to start a new club on campus. Peer mentors are happy to listen to you and hash out your idea. They’ll also help you set it in motion by connecting you to the right resources on campus.

Much like how you soar on a trampoline, peer mentors also help you soar. Let’s go back to that chemistry class example: we want to see you succeed and will do anything to help you. Your peer mentor might study with you, quiz you, and encourage you on the day of your test. We’ll help you receive a Au (ahem, the chemical symbol for gold) star at the end of the semester.

A peer mentor is a street

Peer mentorship is not just about the mentee (that’s you!); it’s a two-way street. Through peer mentoring, not only are you connected to resources around campus, you also develop a meaningful relationship and resource in each other. Peer mentors learn as much from you as you learn from them. You may come from a different background or hometown, or you could be pursuing a different major; and yet, here you are guiding each other along. Don’t look at this as an upperclass student telling you what to do and what clubs to join. Think of it as a relationship you’re building with someone who has been in your shoes, and you’ll learn and grow from each other.

A peer mentor is a cheerleader

Peer mentorship is not only about providing you with resources and helping you get through tough times. It’s about celebrating all the successes too! A peer mentor is your own personal cheerleader. We’re here to support you and cheer you on, and to make sure that your time at Ohio State is one that lives up to our alma mater:

Time and change will surely show, how firm thy friendship O-HI-O.

So all those people you want to meet while you’re at Ohio State–your hallmates and classmates–make sure to add a peer mentor on the list, because we want you to enjoy every second you spend here, and we come with our own set of pom-poms.

Next step: The First Year Connections Team is a group of dedicated upperclass students who want to ensure that YOU have a memorable first year. Sign up by Monday, September 8 to participate in the Connections Team peer mentoring program this fall: click this link and enter the code fyctmentor.

Try Something Different: Welcome Week 2014

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We’ve come to one of the most exciting weeks of the year–Welcome Week! The week when new friendships are born, giveaways are endless, and free and exciting events take place every day.

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You may be familiar with some of the big events: the Student Involvement Fair, the President’s Convocation, Community Commitment, Buck-I-Frenzy and the Welcome Week Concert.

However, I’d just like to share a few awesome #welcomeOSU opportunities that you may not know about.

Click the links for event details and get excited for this year’s wildly wonderful Welcome Week!

Day 1–Sunday, August 24

The President’s Picnic. The involvement fair is sure to gather many people on The Oval in the afternoon. While you’re there, be sure to sample some of the best locally-produced barbecue options!

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source: www.welcomeweek.osu.edu

8th Floor Improv Presents: The Secret FREE Show! Begin your week with a laugh; stop by the Union at 8 p.m. to watch one of Ohio State’s best comedy groups!

Day 2–Monday, August 25

Ohio State Ice Bucket Challenge: Soak Michigan. After the Columbus Welcome event, Undergraduate Student Government hopes to make history by creating the largest “Ice Bucket demonstration known to man.” Bring your own bucket (and perhaps a towel) and help raise awareness for ALS!

Wipeout. Want a challenge? Try your luck with an inflatable obstacle course that stretches the length of an Olympic-sized pool! Participate or come watch the show at the McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion at 6 p.m.

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source: www.osu.edu

Tired from a long day? Sit back and watch the show! Fishbowl Improv will give you a good laugh or if you want to be amazed, come to the RHAC Magic Show!

RHAC Late Night Breakfast. Come to Kennedy Commons and with only 2 meal blocks, enjoy some late-night breakfast food!

Day 3–Tuesday, August 26

The Instant Nows – Art Exhibition. Come check out some of the artwork created by your fellow Buckeyes!

Like sports? Want a chance to win a coveted intramural champion t-shirt? Head toward south campus for the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament or north campus for the Sand Volleyball Tournament, no preregistration required!

Fighting Cancer Fitness Challenge. Come to The Shoe to speak with survivors and participate in physical challenges to support the cure for cancer.
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Trivia Night. Play some trivia and learn more about Ohio State’s foreign languages!

Day 4–Wednesday, August 27

LGBTQ Welcome (Back) Mix & Mingle. Come discover our diverse and vibrant LGBTQ community!

BBQ Block Party. Hang out with and learn about two of the largest student organizations on campus: Block “O” and Buckeye Barbeque Club! There will be giveaways, games, and free food!

Boats and Battleship. Experience what it’s like to “kayak over a waterfall,” play “battleship,” and participate in various other water games!

Drums and Dough. Experience Ohio State’s diversity through a variety of live performances, free food from around the world and lots of fun activities!

Movie on The Oval featuring Captain America. Come out with your new friends to enjoy yummy snacks, cool drinks and a movie!

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source: www.osu.edu

Day 5–Thursday, August 28

Looking to the future? Check out the 2014 Buckeye Careers Campus Job Fair or the Career Fair Crash Course.

OSU Is Sweeter with You. Come grab a cupcake with the Ohio State University Alumni Association and learn what they can do for you!

PULL LEFT reception with artists and curators. Enjoy art exhibits? This reception features a contemporary Chinese art exhibition.

Buckeye Kick-Off. Can’t wait for the spirit of football Saturdays? Come check out the interactive games at the fan fest and tailgate outside Ohio Stadium at 6 p.m. Gates to the Stadium open at 6:30 p.m., with more exciting performances at 7 p.m. (Want to be a part of the historic group photo? Wear red!)

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source: www.welcomeweek.osu.edu

Day 6 — Friday, August 29

Dump & Run. Come to the  JO North to shop at Ohio State’s very own yard sale! Check out some some of the fantastic deals!

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source: recycling.org.ohio-state.edu

This is Your World: Serve, Learn and Lead in it! Listen to Caribbean rhythms, watch Latino and African inspired dances and have some dessert with MUNDO! See what a global experience has to offer!

OUAB Presents – Welcome Week Concert — Come to the South Oval and watch the performances of Capital Cities, GRiZ and Captain Kidd!

Day 7–Saturday, August 30

Dancing With the Stars. Participate in a free ballroom dancing class for beginners, no experience required!

Welcome BBQ Night. Learn more about healthy eating and dining options around campus!

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(For a complete list of Welcome Week events, check out this link.)

I look forward to seeing you at some of these awesome events and I hope you have an amazing time with your first taste of the Buckeye Spirit and the incredible Ohio State community.

–Regina

I Wrote This With My Tears

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Hello readers, just an emotional senior over here writing a blog post for first-year students with my tears. Casual.

When I think back on the summer before my freshman year, I had a lot of emotions going on. I was beyond excited to finally go to college at The Ohio State University, nervous about leaving my friends and family at home and absolutely terrified because I didn’t know what to expect as a student at Ohio State. My life was going to completely change and I had no idea how I would handle the transition. For you first-year students who are moving to campus in, oh, approximately SIXTEEN DAYS, I imagine you’re feeling similar emotions, experiencing similar fears, and fluctuating between this…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…or this…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…or maybe this…

 

 

 

 

 

 

…all while attempting to prepare yourself to start at The Ohio State University.

My situation now isn’t too different. I’m approaching my last semester at The Ohio State University (I’m graduating early in December. Totally not freaking out or anything. Like, it’s fine. BRB, CRYING IN THE FETAL POSITION).

 

 

 

 

 

And guess what? I’m still scared of the unknown. For the first time, my path isn’t directly laid out at my feet. After high school, I had to make the choice of where to go to college, but there wasn’t a question of going. Now, I could look for a job, apply to graduate schools or enroll in a service program. I could also move back home (hi, Mom and Dad!) but we’ll say that’s not an option right now. Three years ago as I was coming to The Ohio State University, I also didn’t know where my path would lead me over the next four years. I could switch my major (and I did); I could join any student organization (or none at all); I could decide who I wanted to be at this huge university where nobody knew me. Though this idea is terrifying, it’s one that first-year students should appreciate because of the opportunities that await you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Really! One of my favorite things about Ohio State is the limitless choices that students here have. No Buckeye will follow the exact same path as anyone before or after them; the combination of academics, involvement, interests and activities that mark their time as an Ohio State student is completely unique. To my incoming Buckeye friends – take advantage of this. Pursue what interests you, whether that is your passion for history that results in a Folklore minor or your love of The Best Damn Band In The Land that sees you at the Lincoln Tower fields on Friday nights to watch their final pre-show practice. It is these things that make Buckeyes love Ohio State in their own unique ways.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can do what you want to do and be who you want to be here at the greatest university, and I am so jealous and so excited that you have the next four whole years to do just that. You may ask yourself this question like little David after the dentist,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But the sad news is, your time at Ohio State will eventually end. As Carmen Ohio states,

The seasons pass, the years will roll…

It’s incredibly true that all of a sudden you’ll be scheduling your last semester of classes and wondering where the years went. Cherish your time on campus, find the friends who will become your family and treasure your memories. I’m taking inspiration from Bilbo Baggins in how I’m looking at the next phase of my life:

 

 

 

 

 

 

You’re doing just the same by coming to The Ohio State University. And hey, if you need to write a reminder to yourself on move-in day or President’s Convocation or the first day of classes, I’ll have the same thing on my hand during Commencement on December 21st:

31 Ways Your First Year is Like Your Favorite Flavor of Ice Cream

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Ohio State was founded in 1870 as a land-grant university. 75 years later in 1945, two hopeful entrepreneurs created an international sensation and paved the way for ice cream shops. This sensation is now known as Baskin-Robbins, which originally featured 31 ice cream flavors – one for each day of the month. Oddly enough, these 31 ice cream are similar to different aspects of your first year. Here is a fun and lighthearted list of what you may experience during your first year at Ohio State, represented by Baskin-Robbins ice cream flavors.

1. Creole Cream Cheese: Get ready for a whole new experience.

2. Chocolate: Use campus resources for a rich, smooth transition.

3. Lemon Custard: Like some untraditional flavors, you may need to adjust to some things. 

4. Peppermint Stick: Many aspects will be fresh and new.

5. Banana Nut Fudge: Like the many ingredients in this flavor, there will be so many things to do.

6. Maple Syrup: Love syrup? Get a side with some pancakes at Sloopy’s Diner. 

7. Egg Nog: During the holiday season, be sure to go to Light Up the Lake.

8. Rock ‘n Pop Swirl Sherbet: Want some exercise? Dance to the music at BuckeyeThon.

9. Splish Splash Yogurt: Get your swim on at the RPAC (the pools are amazing!).

10. Amazing Spider-Man 2: See your favorite movie on the Oval with OUAB.

11. German Chocolate Cake: Visit German Village.

12. Baseball Nut: See a Clippers baseball game downtown.

13. Cherry Macaroon: Maybe you come here and find that special someone, that “cherry to your macaroon.” Go for a romantic walk around Mirror Lake (see #2 on this list of romantic places)…

14. Love Potion #31: …and maybe even win his or her heart.

15. Peppermint Fudge Ribbon: If you’re looking to “make ties” you can start by attending the Student Involvement Fair in the fall.

16. Super Yumberry Greek Yogurt: Find out what it means to be in Greek Life.

17. World Class Chocolate: Definitely look for a study abroad opportunity! (I went to Guatemala this past year and it was such a great experience.)

18. French Vanilla: En savoir plus sur l’étude à l’étranger à l’étude à l’étranger exposition!

19. Pistacho Almond: So get crackin’!

20. Chocolate Ribbon: A school like Ohio State is a gift, unwrap that gift and think outside of the box.

21. Rainbow: There is something here for everyone, regardless of background. Find your own “pot of gold” at the end of your journey.

22. Cotton Candy: Have fun and don’t be afraid embrace your childish side.

23. Pineapple Sherbet: Trust me, college is going to be sweet.

24. Lemon Crisp: It can also be sour at times.

25. Rocky Road: There are going to be bumps along the way.

26. Coffee: You may need some energy for those late night study sessions.

27. Strawberry: Stop by for a treat at Thompson Library’s Berry Café.

28. Chocolate Chip: Big or small, no two chips are the same. Be your own person.

29. Peach: Do your best in your classes, so you can be just peachy.

30. Vanilla: Vanilla is standard. Ohio State has high standards for you, but we have faith you can be successful here.

31. Date Nut: And at the heart of it all is a nut that we all love: a Buckeye.

Your first year will be one to remember, so try to make the most of it. Get involved, meet people and take risks. This will be a time that will challenge you, but at the same time will teach you so many things. You will discover more about yourself and make the friends of a lifetime, so get pumped because your college experience is just around the corner!

Stay tuned for Sam’s post, the 33 Things I Now Know About Ohio.