What is it Like to Attend Ohio University?

The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach—they’re sharing their college experiences as well. Kedrin is an Atlanta tutor and a 2013 graduate of Ohio University where he studied communications, English, and theater. He currently specializes in math tutoring, English tutoring, and numerous other areas. See what he had to say about his time at Ohio University:

Describe the campus setting and transportation options.

Kedrin: The campus setting can be overwhelming at first. It’s the first time that you are ‘on your own’ in a sense. Activity is vast and extensive; it’s almost as if you don’t know exactly what to engage in first. However, it’s all about catering to your interests—the campus setting has something for every individual. You will find an eclectic selection of people on campus; it’s the equivalent of getting your first taste of the real world. It can be both exciting and intimidating; however, everything will be just fine. Campus is both urban and safe. It’s like being in a hip, upbeat city with your peers where there is time for fun and academics. There’s always something to do whether it be a gathering, social event or an event hosted by the school itself. Security is always on duty at all hours of the day and night. If you would like someone to escort you back to your dorm late at night, there are security officials on hand for that. Most freshmen are not allowed to have cars; this is where buses become useful transportation. In addition, you can catch campus buses to/from your classes as well (freshmen or not). You don’t need a car/bike on campus, but most upperclassmen like to have one when it’s allowed.

How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants at Ohio University?

Kedrin: Professors, academic advisers and teaching assistants are very accessible. The most common way to contact these officials would be via email. Most of these individuals are usually very efficient when it comes to responding promptly. In addition, you can always set up appointments to visit with professors, academic advisers and teaching assistants in your spare time. I would recommend this as well. It’s always nice to be able to communicate in-person with staff on campus.

How would you describe the dorm life—rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students?

Kedrin: Dorm life is something that I think all students should experience. It’s not the most glamorous way of living, but it’s also one that you will always remember. The rooms are usually much smaller than your room at home. I wouldn’t suggest bringing everything you own. In addition, you are likely to  have a roommate or roommates (unless you request a single room). Dining options usually fall under the category of a meal plan. A meal plan consists of a specific amount that you are given to spend each week on food. This amount is loaded onto a card weekly that you just swipe for purchases. There are small ‘grocery stores’ on campus, dining halls, food courts, etc. all for food options. There are also always fast food restaurants that you can eat at, but you will have to spend your own money at those places. Meal plans usually don’t apply. The location of dormitories is central to everything you will need as a student. In fact, it’s so central that you will be able to walk to everywhere you need to be (class, events, to eat, etc.). Some walks may be longer than others, but it’s never too bad! The opportunity to socialize with other students is all around you! Dorm life is the perfect opportunity for this. You naturally and organically get to know the people that stay in the same residence hall as you. There are activities and social gatherings specific to your residence hall, which also allows you to socialize with other students. Also, getting involved on campus is a great way to connect with students. I would recommend joining a club or organization that you are interested in.

Which majors/programs are best represented and supported at Ohio University?

Kedrin: I would say the major or program that is best represented/supported would be anything in the School of Business. Business is a typical and popular area of study for a lot of students. A degree in business opens the door for a range of opportunities in the workforce. Also, communications is well represented and supported at universities (for the same reasons). I studied journalism with a focus in broadcast. I’ve always been interested in entertainment and television. I also had minors in Theater and English. I felt these areas of studies reflected my interests. I didn’t want to choose another area of study just for the sake of ‘security’ after college. I recommend studying what interests you and the opportunities will come. The university did a fabulous job of supporting my area of study. The E.W. Scripps School of Journalism is one of the most noted in the country.  

How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life?

Kedrin: It wasn’t difficult for me to meet people as a freshman. I’m a people person and can get along with almost anyone. I think it really depends on the person and his or her personality. It’s important to keep an open mind because you will meet several people that are different than you are (which makes the college experience what it is). Greek life is very present on campus. For me, it didn’t influence my social life one way or another. At the end of the day, they are students and people just like everyone else. Greek life has just always been something that a certain group of people cater to.

How helpful is the Career Center and other student support services?

Kedrin: The Career Center is a resource I would suggest all students take advantage of while it is accessible to them. A college campus prepares you for life after college. It would only make sense that resources relating to careers, employment, etc. be reachable for students. There are career fairs and events that several reputable companies come to for the purpose of recruiting students for potential employment. It’s a great thing given that students get to see what awaits them post graduation (and options that they have). The Career Center is beneficial for helping you narrow down what you may be interested in as a career. A lot of times students go through their undergraduate years unsure. Career resources on campus help you get rid of some of this uncertainty.

How are the various study areas such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges?

Kedrin: Libraries, the student union and dorm lounges are good for a number of things. Studying, organization meetings, social gatherings, or just to hang out; these are all things that take place in these particular places on campus. As a student, these areas are always easily accessible to you. However, depending on where you are in the semester (or the time of day), the issue of over-crowding could be active. This usually occurs during finals week. A lot of studying takes place during this time. You will find that libraries are full of students when finals are about to take place. It’s all part of the college experience.

Describe the surrounding town at Ohio University.

Kedrin: The surrounding area is a small town. The university is actually the main attraction in Athens, Ohio. However, all of your normal establishments are still there (Walmart, Kroger, McDonalds, a movie theater, bowling alley, etc.). The university itself is what makes Athens fun, and a town to always remember. Athens doesn’t have a downtown or city area. The uptown area on campus actually serves as the substitute for what one would consider ‘downtown.’ Individuals who do not attend the university would sometimes make their way to ‘uptown’ for entertainment.

How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes?

Kedrin: The student body is very large at Ohio University. Students love the university given that it’s like its own little town where memories are created. I was pleased with the typical class size. It really helped create the experience of what it’s like to be a college student in a college classroom (while also being part of the general student body). If the class size had been too small, it would take away from the experience.

Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most.

Kedrin: One class I loved the most was a theater/acting class that I took. I am a lover of the arts and entertainment. I enjoyed this class so much that sometimes it didn’t even feel like a real class. We were required to go see plays, movies and things relating to the arts. I’ll never forget The Addams Family Musical came to campus, and it was our assignment to go see the show and write a review. How cool is that?!

Check out Kedrin's tutoring profile.

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.