Ohio State University-Main Campus Top Questions

If I could go back and give my senior self advice, I would tell myself to not worry about the distance. Even though my home is hours away, the community is so great that it feels like home. I would tell myself to not worry about the size of campus. Once you get to know the buildings they become extensions of yourself. I would also tell senior me not to worry about making friends. The people you meet in college are some of the most amazing people you will ever meet and although some relationships might not work out, still embrace the time you have with those people.

You can't expect everything to just naturally fall into place. In high school, you could just "float by"; you had automatic friends, easily obtained grades, and instant relationships with teachers. In college, you actually have to work for everything. The people at college haven't known you since you were born; they don't know anything about you at all. They don't know that you are only sometimes quiet, or sometimes wisecracking, or sometimes lazy. They're going to go by first impressions, so you have to make them count. You have to actually go and show everyone what you're about, or you're just going to be a nameless face in a sea of nearly identical faces.

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself alot. College is alot more difficult that I had anticipated. I would say to myself to always ask for help because the professors are always more than willing to help you if you simply ask. I would tell myself to learn better studying habits and not to procrastinate, two things that I don't do very well that could definitely use improvement. Finally, I would tell myself to have a good time and get involved and meet as many new people as possible because that's the college experience and you should enjoy every second of it.

If I could go back and talk to myself in high school, I would tell myself to not to worry about trying to figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life, that's what college is for. I would remind myself to take classes that sound interesting to me and decide a major from there. Also, I would say to just be myself. The campus is a huge place and there are plenty of people for me to make friends with. I would also want to say to get out there, do what makes you happy, don't let anything hold you back, these are the best years of your life, enjoy them!

Some advice I’d give students when choosing where to go to college, “First, follow your heart, but there are still some other factors you should acknowledge.”Talk to your parents, think distance from home, and check out the swimming poolGo to a class or two, taste some food, and imagine yourself at the school.Do you want a small school, big school, prominent Greek life or no? Are sports teams important? Or would you prefer a place where people discuss Vincent Van Gogh?However you answer these questions, I’d hint that Ohio State has everythingFrom science experts to sports fanatics to poetry connoisseurs, you’ll be able to spread your wings.Be a dreamer, optimistic, and excited tooBut be realistic, open-minded and don’t go for that school that wears blue!

I would have told myself to just go for it! Move to that big city and the big college and love every minute of it because it's something that you can only do once. I would have told myself to make sure you stay on top of your classes and talk to the professor as much as you can. Plan study groups and go to all the events. I would have said, stop being so shy and meet new people, try new things and meet all of your goals that you MUST set for yourself before starting college. It's a huge change, so don't be scared, embrace it, love it and always remember the good moments.

Going off to college was a bit scary and often I would worry endlessly about exams, assignments, what classes I needed to take, etc. I would tell myself to enjoy college life more--go out more with friends, and experience the city surrounding the campus. I would also advise joining groups or taking classes that I thought I would not have an interest in. Often, my favorite elective courses were those that I did not expect to like but ended up really enjoying. I would also highly encourage studying abroad. While I did do this during undergrad and had a wonderful experience, I wish I would have studied abroad at least one more time. It was an eye-opener to live in another country and experience a different culture. It taught me a lot about myself and most importantly, who I wanted to become once I returned to the United States and what type of career would best serve my interests. Finally, I would tell myself that everything was going to work out in the end and that going to college was the best decision of my life.

Dear High School Self, I know you’re scared about going to a school that’s 15 hours away from home; you don't know a single soul at Ohio State. If you’re worried about making new friends, here’s my advice: take the initiative and start a conversation with a stranger. Sure, some conversations will be awkward but you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make friends that way! When it comes to academics, I have crucial advice: do not procrastinate, do your homework, take exams very seriously, do not procrastinate, study in places with no distractions, oh and DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! You may be used to getting all A’s and B’s in high school, but in college, it’s much harder to achieve those grades than you think. So learn how to say no to your friends who always want to go out and make sure to hit the books. Remember: education comes first. You’ll always have time for friends later. College is where you make mistakes, make memories, and where you make your dreams come to life. It'll be a long journey, but it’s the destination that counts.

College is a microcosm. This phrase captures very well what post-secondary education is all about. A student’s college life is sprinkled with bits of everything – from grades and classes, to friends and parties, to junk food and working out. It is a mini world which gives us experience we would not be able to gain elsewhere, and builds our characters and personalities, preparing us for the rest of our lives. My advice to you, a high school senior, is to keep an open mind. Be willing to try new things; join that skydiving club of which you have heard so much, take that “How to Raise a Revolution” class that every upperclassman raves about, try your hand at that dining hall chef job. The list does not stop. Be open to people of different cultures and, and give that mango chutney a try! College is the one time in life when you have the chance to truly expand your horizons and get a little taste of all that the world has to offer. Do not let it slip by. Study hard, balance your life, and college will remain in your memory as “the best years of your life!”

College Admissions officers see that you have been involved and see how hard you have worked. They appreciate the dedication you have shown and effort put forth in your academics, community involvement, leadership positions and extra curricular activities. You have truly presented yourself as a well rounded applicant. Remember, sometimes less is more. It's not necessary to over-involve yourself; universities appreciate consistency and quality over quantity. The stress associated with participating in every opportunity presented is not worth it. Finally, relax and have faith that you will be successful.