A Whole New World!

Introduction
Because Ohio is made up of so many "small towns," Ohio State is the perfect school to give young adults an opportunity to explore life in a city, while maintaining their roots in their hometowns. I chose Ohio State because I was given the opportunity to meet people who were different then me. I also chose Ohio State because I was able to study soooo many different subjects, and because it was far enough away from home that I could be independent but close enough that I could still go home. It is the perfect place to have your cake and eat it too.

Campus Life and Social Life
As for campus life, there is always something open. There is always a place to go. There are always people who are willing to socialize. There are new things to explore. There are people who are just like you and there are people who are completely different. There is a club for every hobby under the sun...and if there is not, you can go the the student union and start one. No one can feel left out with the options that are available. All you have to do is use your resources. It is a cultural mosh pit...and if you can't find it in Columbus, it probably does not exist. From home town comforts to big city luxuries...Ohio State is located in a perfect location to make you feel at home. Academics
Academics: the first thing to realize is that yes, the school is big. Yes, the lectures are impersonal. Yes, the TA's can be overwhelmed and not remember you name. But that is just in the first year. Once you figure out what you really want to do and you specify your schedule...you get to know the people in your department and they get to know you. Your classes get smaller and the relationships get more personal. However, even in the first two years, I found it refreshing that there were so many resources available to aid in my academic endeavors. The library system is exceptional. The professors are of the highest caliber.

Student Body
The typical student at Ohio State is not typical. There are people from 50 states and oodles of countries who attend Ohio State. There are 16 year olds and 21 year olds and 35 year old Moms. I even met a 68 year old grandma who just wanted to get a degree. The only thing typical about an OSU student is that they are students. They represent every race, every religion, every economic background, every sexual orientation, every height and every weight.

In Closing...
Choosing Ohio State molded my life. I went from a sheltered hometown girl to a wide-eyed aware and socialy concious adult. Ohio State offered me that opportunity. I am receiving the best education. I have made friends who will remain true for a life time. And, I am a part of a family...I bleed scarlet and grey.