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.