What is it Like to Attend The University of Oklahoma?

The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach – they’re sharing their college experiences as well. Bethany is a Dallas Fort Worth tutor specializing in Biology tutoring, History tutoring, Middle School Math tutoring, and more. She is a 2008 graduate of The University of Oklahoma and holds a degree in International Studies. See what she had to say about her alma mater:

VT:  Describe the campus setting and transportation options. Are there buses or do you need a car/bike?  

Bethany: Getting around the University of Oklahoma is very easy. The majority of the academic buildings are centered around two ovals. There are buses to help students who live off campus and many students use bikes to get around more quickly.

VT: How helpful are the academic advisors?

Bethany: The academic advisors are extremely helpful. They are more than happy to help you find the right fit for your major and will even recommend classes. 

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

Bethany: Living in the dorms was key in helping me acclimate to the college life. I met tons of great people who are still my friends today. Plus, I didn't have to cook my own meals! 

VT: Describe the surrounding town. What kinds of outside establishments / things to do are there that make it fun, boring, or somewhere in between? To what extent do students go to the downtown area of the city versus staying near campus? 

Bethany: Norman, Oklahoma is a suburb of Oklahoma City. It's about a 20-minute drive to downtown where there are plenty of restaurants, attractions, and concerts. There is a river walk downtown, a minor league baseball team, and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Plus, there are great museums and a memorial for the OKC Bombing. However, if you don't want to drive, Norman has many great things to do as well. There is an area on campus called "Campus Corner" with cute shops and great restaurants. But, many students spend time watching the OU sporting events and cheering on the Sooners! 

VT: Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? 

Bethany: All of the majors and programs are well represented on campus. 

VT: How are the various study areas such as libraries, student union, and dorm lounges?  Are they over-crowded, easily available, spacious?

Bethany: There are many great places to study on campus depending on the atmosphere you prefer. The library is a very quiet place for students who like to focus in silence. The student union or dorm lounges have a bit more activity and are therefore, less quiet. All the locations on campus are great because they have late-night food access and plenty of coffee for long study sessions.

VT: How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? 

Bethany: Because I lived in the dorms, I was able to meet a lot of new people. It's also a great idea to get involved in intramural athletics, a club, or a church group to meet more new people with similar interests as you. 

VT: How helpful is the Career Center?

Bethany: The Career Center at OU has many helpful services including help with resumes and interviewing techniques. They can also give you guidance on career choice and internships that may help guide students to the career that's right for them. 

VT: How big or small is the student body and how does that affect your experience?

Bethany: The student body is not too big but not too small. It is the perfect amount of students to give everyone a place to feel comfortable. There are plenty of opportunities to find your niche at OU without feeling overwhelmed by the number of students. 

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

Bethany: My favorite class was Freedom in Greece. It was a popular class with an amazing professor. Everyone wanted to take his classes and you could only get in as a senior. He made the material interesting by the way he lectured and gave us the information.  

Check out Bethany’s tutoring profile.

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