LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Hello to my peers, incoming students, and families,
As the sun shines brighter and the campus starts to fill with the arrival of new Bearcats for orientation, I extend a warm welcome to each of you embarking on this exciting journey.
Last year brought its share of uncertainties and thrills, creating impactful experiences across our campus. This year, with fresh faces, we anticipate even more memorable moments as we come together as a community.
In this issue of Bearcats Bounds, we are here to provide you with insights, stories and resources to help you navigate your time at the University of
STAFF MEMBERS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MANAGING EDITOR
MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
FEATURES EDITOR
SPORTS EDITOR
OPINION EDITOR
NEWS EDITOR
GENERAL REPORTER
NEWS REPORTER
FEATURES REPORTER
SPORTS REPORTER
OPINION REPORTER
DESIGNER
BUSINESS ADVISER
EDITORIAL ADVISER
HAJRA MUNIR EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Cincinnati. From tips on getting involved to what to explore in the beautiful Queen City, our goal is to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Remember, every Bearcat’s journey is unique, and while the path may seem daunting at times, know that you’re not alone. People are here to support you, celebrate your successes, and guide you through any challenges that come your way. My time as a Bearcat has already been unforgettable, and I can confidently say the memories you make here will stay with you for a lifetime.
So, take a deep breath, embrace what’s ahead, and let’s make this year truly unforgettable!
AIDAN LEONARD
ISABELLA ZINCHINI
LYDIA SCHEMBRE
MAYLEA SALMON
BROOKE BURKHARDT
TYLER EASTERDAY
LUCAS GRIFFITH
HAJRA MUNIR
ALANNA MARSHALL
ADDISON KOHN
AVERY PADGETT
BRIANNA JONES
CHLOE HALL
ABIGAIL RAUBENOLT
BOB JONASON
JENNY WOHLFARTH
ADVICE FROM UC STUDENT LEADERS
Transitioning from high school to college is an amazing and complex experience. As students begin studying and focusing on their careers, they gain experiences, knowledge and skills that will stick with them outside of the classroom.
While attending classes are a sure way to start this process, many students find extracurriculars to further this process.
These opportunities can significantly shape a student’s experience at the University of Cincinnati (UC) by helping them build strong résumés, expand their networks, and form meaningful friendships—while also opening doors for personal, academic, and professional growth within the organization and beyond.
Reaching this point may seem challenging, but with balance, accountability, and a bit of grace for yourself, it’s entirely achievable.
Ellie Miller, a third-year journalism major, previously worked as a Peer Leader for UC’s College of Arts and Sciences. Miller said that during her sophomore year, she was given the opportunity to be a peer leader.
“It was king of intimidating at first, since I was only a year older than my students, but it was extremely rewarding,” Miller said. “It gave me a chance to explore my creative freedom but also serving in a leadership role as an underclassman at a university was really exciting.”
Miller talked about all the different opportunities there are to be a part of a larger community here at UC, “Whether that’s Greek life or opportunities at Lindner or your own college, there are so many opportunities on campus for students to get involved in,” Miller said.
“Maybe it’s just a hobby that you like or a way to make friends. Just put yourself out of your comfort zone and try out something new.”
Tyana Mulholland works as a Teaching Assistant (TA) at UC and this year has been unlike any other for her. Mulholland typically TA’s online and alongside a professor, but this year, she would be acting as the professor for an epidemiology class.
Mulholland’s biggest piece of advice for incoming UC students is to get a calendar. “I have a giant one hovering above my bed, and I update it weekly because time management is so important in these kinds of things,” she said.
Both Mulholland and Miller talked about balancing class life with working and participating in clubs. “Give yourself some grace. College is about figuring out yourself and where your priorities lie,” Miller said.
Sainidhi Sadaram, president of the UC Telegu Association (UCTA), a club for Telugu speaking individuals on campus, echoed similar sentiments to Miller.
“In recent years, there have been a lot of Telugu students coming from India and I thought,
everyone is missing home,” Sadaram said. “We have come many miles away and I felt that they should have that homely feeling that were all there for each other and they should have that community feeling for themselves.”
Sadaram and Mulholland both discussed being able to understand both the commitments and requirements that may come with joining certain organizations or with starting a campus job.
For Mulholland, she was told that TA’s have a possibility of taking on a professor role. While she thought that it sounded like it would never happen, it did to her. “At first, I hated it, I cried a lot,” Mulholland said., However, she still recommended this kind of experience for students who want to go into some type of teaching.
Sadaram reflected on how a lack of commitment to student organizations has affected her, saying one of her biggest pieces of advice is for students to be proactive, show genuine interest and be willing to dedicate time to their involvement.
Starting at a university can be intimidating, but once class schedules are finalized and students arrive on campus, college life begins.
Having good time management helps not only with classes, but it can help students build a routine outside of classes.
CHLOE HALL OPINION REPORTER
Tangeman University Center on Sept. 4, 2024 LYDIA SCHEMBRE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Accessibility Resource Center on Sept. 4, 2024
LYDIA SCHEMBRE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
FIVE TIPS FOR INCOMING FRESHMEN
Taking those first steps as a college student can be quite overwhelming and stressful. How do I make friends? Will I like my major? What if these classes are too hard? These are all questions almost every incoming student has asked themselves, so you are truly not alone.
As a person who just recently graduated, I thought of five tips to help you get set for your next adventure.
AIDAN LEONARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
TIP #1: WALK YOUR CLASSES PRIOR TO THE START DATE
One of the biggest things that helped calm my nerves the most was walking to my classes prior to the first day. If you move in a few days early, the buildings will open (or you can use your key card) to scout your room numbers. So, day of, you aren’t panicking to get to your class in time because you already know where it is. You might even be able to leave a few minutes later, but most importantly, the anxiety about getting to class on time is gone.
TIP #2: KNOW YOUR PROFESSOR’S OFFICE HOURS
If you are unfamiliar with the concept of office hours, it’s a required period of time professors allocate for students to come talk with them or ask for help. If that time does not work for you, you can email them to arrange a different time. Either way, office hours are the perfect way to establish a relationship with them and give you that one on one time you often do not get in classes. The professors want to help you, but you also have to make the effort.
TIP #3: CREATE A CALENDAR
Whether you prefer an agenda, google calendar, or the old school whiteboard method, whatever style you prefer, do it! Making a calendar will allow you to see everything you need to get done, so can create a more balanced day. So, you aren’t cramming everything last minute or forgetting an assignment. This will ease your stress and give you a more balanced life.
TIP #4: GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS
A lot of people will tell you this, but it is best way to get the most out of your college experience. Any hobby or passion you have, there is probably a club for it. If you are worried about making friends or even a little shy, joining a club is the easiest way to “find your people” because you all share at least one similar hobby. Perhaps you want to join a sorority or fraternity, which is a great option for some. There is truly something for everyone, but it’s up to you to go find it.
TIP #5: ENJOY IT
This most certainly seems like a cliché, but it is truly my best tip of all: cherish your time. Four years seems like such a long time, but it goes by in a snap. So, take in every moment and make the most out of every opportunity you have. In only a short amount of time, you will be walking across the graduation stage yourself. And when you do, you’ll be grateful for the memories you made along the way.
Clifton Court Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024 LYDIA SCHEMBRE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
The Bearcat along the sideline at the Bearcats’ game against Towson on Aug. 31, 2024, at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati. LYDIA SCHEMBRE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
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TRANSPORTATION TIPS FOR GETTING AROUND UC AND CINCINNATI
Getting around the University of Cincinnati (UC) – and the city of Cincinnati itself – can be challenging in the first weeks of the semester. With issues stretching between a miserable parking situation, unreliable bus schedules, expensive Uber’s and more hills than one could ever imagine, figuring out how to get around can be extremely overwhelming.
Luckily, there is plenty of options for students to get around to everything Cincinnati has to offer. Whether offered by the university itself or a third party, students will never be left stranded.
Through the week, your classes and extracurriculars will likely be your most traveled routes. UC’s main campus has a fairly compact layout meaning that if you live on or near campus, your commute should not be more than 20 minutes.
While most students choose to walk to class, electric scooters have been steadily growing in popularity on UC’s campus.
Within minutes of arriving in Clifton, it’s not uncommon to spot at least a few Bird or Lime scooters scattered along sidewalks and street corners.
The price of these scooters depends on either the time or distance of your ride. If you choose to take a scooter from your residence to your class, it could cost anywhere between $5-$10. Despite the price tag, it can save an immense amount of time, so if you need to get to a class quick or simply do not have the energy to walk, electric scooters will be extremely helpful.
UC also offers a shuttle service to all students that stops at a variety of different locations around campus.
According to UC’s official website, “The Bearcat Transportation System provides free shuttle service for UC students, faculty and staff with 20 shuttles covering 16 routes.” UC Uptown shuttles run from as early as 6 a.m. to as late as 10:30 p.m., with varying start and stop times between each of the 11 shuttles offered at the Uptown Campus.
For students who may take classes at the UC Blue Ash campus, there are seven shuttles that travel between the Uptown campus and Blue Ash. Times for these shuttles range from a starting time of 7:15 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
There is an app available that provides upto-date tracking information on each of the shuttles to ensure that students and faculty can be punctual no matter where they are going. The app is called TransLoc and is available for free on both IOS and Android.
For somewhat longer trips —like heading to a Cincinnati Reds or Cincinnati Bengals game — ride share apps such as Uber and Lyft are always an easy option. While they can often be expensive, splitting the fair between a group of friends can make it much easier on your wallet.
Getting a handle on the ins and outs of transposition in Cincinnati can take some time and often a slight amount stress. Despite that, once you get the hang of it, getting around Cincinnati will feel just like your hometown.
The Cincinnati Connector streetcar is one of several public transportation options in Cincinnati. MAYLEA SALMON I CITYBEAT VIA TNR
EMILY WIDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTOR
UC 2025-2026 EVENTS CALENDAR
Whether you’re looking to adapt to campus, meet fellow students, or celebrate being a Bearcat, participating in events on campus is a great place to start. Here are some events that are recommended for all new Bearcats to attend:
BEARCATS WELCOME: AUGUST 1- SEPTEMBER 1, 2025
UC SORORITY RECUITMENT WEEK: AUGUST 17-24, 2025
FIRST DAY OF FALL SEMESTER: AUGUST 25, 2025
FIRST FOOTBALL HOME GAME: SEPTEMBER 6, 2025
FAMILY WEEKEND: OCTOBER 3-5, 2025
HOMECOMING WEEKEND: OCTOBER 24-25, 2025
The UC Bearcat leads the UC Band down Main Street during the 2024 Family Weekend Pep Rally on September 20, 2024.
EMILY WIDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTOR
EXPLORING FIRST-YEAR DORM OPTIONS
JOE CAREY STAFF REPORTER
Between choosing classes, coffee spots and clubs, what should you know before choosing where to live on campus your first year?
Whether you’re looking for something social and bustling or quiet and cozy, UC offers a wide range of residence halls for first-year bearcats. Here’s your insider guide to the top dorm options on campus, so you can pick the place that’ll feel most like home.
SCIOTO HALL: SUITE STYLE SOPHISTICATION
If you like your space and your privacy, Scioto Hall could be the home for you. With suitestyle living, each unit includes two double rooms connected by a shared bathroom. No community showers here! Scioto is especially popular among first-year students seeking a balance of social connection and personal space. On top of that, it’s just a short walk from TUC and Nippert Stadium.
Best For: Students who want semi-private bathrooms and a quiet, modern atmosphere.
CALHOUN/SIDDALL
HALL: RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE
Located right on Calhoun Street, these halls are in the heart of Bearcat country. You’ll have easy access to the toast of Clifton Heights, including nearby dining and grocery options. Both buildings have been recently renovated, offering updated amenities and connection to MarketPoint dining hall.
Best For: Social butterflies and students who want to be where the action is.
TURNER HALL: MODERN, GREEN AND GORGEOUS
Turner Hall is one of the newest additions to UC’s housing lineup, and it shows. With sleek architecture, environmentally friendly features and ultra-modern furnishings, it’s a top pick for anyone looking for that “new dorm smell.” You’ll find both single and double rooms with semi-private baths and spacious lounges.
Best For: Design lovers and eco-conscious students looking for the comforts of modern living.
MORGENS HALL: GLASS WALLS, CITY VIEWS
If you’ve ever wanted to live in a glass tower with sweeping views of Cincinnati, Morgens is the place. This high-rise is one of UC’s most unique housing options, with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary loft vibes.
Best For: Urban explorers and students who want style with their skyline.
DANIELS HALL: KEEPING IT TRADITIONAL
Daniels Hall offers a more classic dorm experience. It’s known for its supportive atmosphere, with Resident Advisors (RAs) who go the extra mile. You’ll find plenty of social programming here, great for easing the transition into college life.
Best For: First-time dormers looking for structure, support and camaraderie.
SCHNEIDER HALL: SUITE-STYLE WITH A COMMUNITY VIBE
Another great option for suite-style living, Schneider Hall offers two-person and four-person suites with private bathrooms. It strikes a balance between independence and connection, and its central location makes it easy to get to class or the dining hall fast.
Best For: Students who want comfort and convenience, with a little more elbow room.
Ouside of Calhoun Hall Feb. 4, 2025.
ZACHARY STEWART | PHOTO CONTRIBUTOR
Turner Hall on Sept. 4, 2024 LYDIA SCHEMBRE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
TIPS FOR PICKING THE RIGHT DORM:
Know your habits: Night owl or early bird? Neat freak or laid-back? Your ideal dorm should match your daily rhythm.
Talk to current students: Nothing beats first-hand advice. Ask about community culture and day-to-day life in the halls.
Check out the virtual tours: UC’s Housing and Residential Life website has great walkthroughs and
photos to help you visualize your space.
Remember, dorm life is about more than just where you sleep. It’s where you’ll meet your first college friends, host your first late-night cram session, and begin your own UC story.
So bring your posters, your extra-long twin sheets, and your Bearcat pride. Your new home is waiting.
NEW BUSINESSES TO LOOK FOR ON CAMPUS AND IN CINCINNATI
Equipped with an all-access meal plan and seemingly unlimited food options around campus, incoming Bearcats have an endless array of choices to satisfy their cravings. With Kenwood Towne Center only 10 minutes away from campus and Amazon deliveries one click away, shopping has never been so easy.
But the Queen City is home to several new businesses that are located just minutes away from campus that are absolute must-sees and make for a great day trip!
HUMMUS REPUBLIC, CALHOUN ST.
A Mediterranean customizable cafe, this restaurant has something for even the pickiest of eaters. Bowls, pitas and wraps are just a few of the options Hummus Republic offers, with fresh ingredients prepared daily.
SHAKE SHACK, WEST MCMILLAN
This fan favorite fast-food chain opened in April to rave reviews. Serving traditional American burgers and fries (and of course the famous milkshakes), Shake Shack is already a campus classic.
POP CULTUR’D CO, DOWNTOWN
Have you ever wanted a shop filled with all your favorite pop culture references in one place? This shop has you covered! Located in the heart of downtown, this dreamy store creates merchandise for all fans of Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Chappell Roan and more!
ALIEN RECORDS, DOWNTOWN
This nostalgic record store is like taking a time machine back to the 90s. Records old and new line the shelves of this hidden gem, with old TVs playing films everywhere you look.
KIKI JAPANESE, COMING SOON TO CLIFTON
The College Hill restaurant will be relocating to Clifton during the end of the year! Their business is now one of the few Japanese restaurants located within walking distance to campus.
BROOKE BURKHARDT FEATURES EDITOR
Shake Shack opens their eighth location in Ohio on Calhoun Street near the University of Cincinnati during Shake Shack’s grand opening on March 26, 2025. GRACE DIEDERICH | PHOTO CONTRIBUTOR
Shake Shack worker takes customer’s order during Shake Shack’s grand opening on March 26, 2025. GRACE DIEDERICH | PHOTO CONTRIBUTOR
From left: Morgens Hall, Scioto Hall, and Marian Spencer Hall on Sept. 4, 2024 LYDIA SCHEMBRE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
HOW TO GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS AS A FRESHMAN
One great option is Bearcat Buddies, a weekly tutoring program through the Center for Community Engagement that connects UC students with local K-12 students in Cincinnati Public Schools. It’s not just a chance to give back but participants also can fulfill scholarship hours and even become eligible for leadership roles and the Bearcat Buddies Scholarship.
These groups help you meet people from different backgrounds and develop leadership skills early on. Many freshmen also find community through campus jobs, intramural sports, or religious and cultural centers.
Starting college can feel overwhelming—new classes, a new environment, and the pressure to make friends and find your place. But getting involved on campus is one of the best ways to ease that transition, build community, and make the most of your college experience from day one.
One of the easiest ways to start getting involved is by checking out the student involvement fair that occurs days before classes officially start. This event showcases clubs, sports, and volunteer opportunities, giving you the chance to explore your interests, or discover new ones.
Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, enjoy performing arts or want to try something completely new like ultimate frisbee or a cultural organization, there’s something for everyone.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO GO TO A MEETING ALONE. EVERYONE WAS NEW AT SOME POINT, AND MOST STUDENT GROUPS ARE EXCITED TO WELCOME NEW MEMBERS.
In fact, showing up and introducing yourself is often the biggest step.
If you’re unsure where to begin, consider joining our student government or a service organization.
Getting involved doesn’t just help you make friends—it also boosts your mental health, builds your résumé, and helps you feel connected to your campus. According to the National Survey of Student Engagement, students who participate in extracurricular activities are more likely to stay enrolled and succeed academically.
HAJRA MUNIR NEWS EDITOR
Still nervous? Start small. Attend a campus event, join a group chat, or follow clubs on Instagram to get a feel for what they do. You don’t have to commit to everything right away because college is about exploring what fits you best.
Remember, involvement looks different for everyone. Maybe you’re leading a club, or maybe you’re showing up to a few fun events each semester.
WHAT MATTERS MOST IS THAT YOU’RE STEPPING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND INVESTING IN YOUR EXPERIENCE.
So take that first step. Say yes to the club fair, introduce yourself to the person next to you, and give that random club meeting a shot. You never know what friendships or opportunities might come from simply showing up.
Two people talking after getting drinks from a local coffee truck at the Pumpkin Palooza on Bearcat Commons on Oct. 15, 2024. TAVISH SWEENEY | PHOTO CONTRIBUTOR
People choosing a stuffed animal at the Build Your Own Bear event hosted by the University of Cincinnati Programs and Activities Council in the Tangeman University Center on Feb. 10, 2025.
TAVISH SWEENEY | PHOTO CONTRIBUTOR
EXPLORING UC’S STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Starting college can feel overwhelming, especially at a large school like the University of Cincinnati (UC). But here’s a pro tip for any freshman: the easiest way to make this big campus feel a little smaller is to get involved.
With over 600 registered student organizations, UC has something for everyone— whether you’re into hiking, dancing, coding, volunteering, or just trying something new.
Student organizations at UC help you build community, develop leadership skills, and find your place. From professional societies and cultural clubs to service groups and recreational teams, there’s no shortage of opportunities to grow outside the classroom.
Not sure where to start? GetInvolvedUC is your online hub for exploring campus events and student organizations. Whether you’re a current or prospective student, you can browse clubs by category, find out when they meet, and see upcoming events all in one place. It’s like a campus-wide directory for fun.
The Involvement Fairs—held every fall and spring—are another must. Picture hundreds of booths, friendly student reps, and free swag. It’s the perfect chance to walk around,
ask questions, and sign up for something that excites you. Even if you just add your name to an email list, it’s a first step.
One student favorite is the Mountaineering Club (UCMC), recently named Best Student Organization at UC in 2024-25. UCMC welcomes anyone, regardless of outdoor experience, and even offers gear rentals for trips like hiking, kayaking, and climbing.
Prefer giving back? UC offers numerous service-oriented organizations where students can make a difference in the community. These groups provide rewarding ways to serve, meet other service-minded students, and even qualify for scholarships or leadership roles.
And if none of the existing clubs match your vibe? You can start your own organization. The Student Activities Board and Center for Student Involvement offer support and resources to help you turn your idea into a registered student org.
Just ask Saba Rehman, a graduating senior and founder of Pages of Color—a student-led book club that highlights authors of color and promotes inclusive storytelling.
“I would tell an incoming freshman that it is completely normal to feel a little nervous or hesitant to join a club, and that you may feel overwhelmed with the newness of college— but joining a community or an organization will be the comfort that you didn’t know you needed,” Rehman said.
“THEY ARE NOT KIDDING WHEN THEY SAY THERE IS A CLUB FOR EVERYONE, AND IF THERE ISN’T... START ONE!”
Rehman started Pages of Color to combine her love of reading with her desire to create space for underrepresented voices—and along the way, she found some of her closest friends.
“As I look back as a senior graduating next week, I owe so many of my college memories to clubs like Pages of Color, for introducing me to some of my best friends and for letting me embrace a passion for reading.”
College is more than classes and grades. It’s about exploring who you are and finding others on a similar path. So whether you’re leading a camping trip or starting a club from scratch—get involved, stay curious and make the most of UC.
HAJRA MUNIR NEWS EDITOR
UC has a vibrant Greek life.
ERIK HEMMERT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Members of the UC Mountaineering Club stop along Stonecoal Run, a tributary of Red Creek, while backpacking through the Dolly Sods Wilderness in Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia on Oct. 26, 2024. ERIK HEMMERT | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
THE ULTIMATE BEARCAT BUCKET LIST
There are always hundreds of activities are going on at the University of Cincinnati (UC), and even more when combined with the city of Cincinnati at large. With 52 neighborhoods, three major league sports teams, a vibrant downtown sector and hundreds of interesting clubs, there are endless discoveries to be had.
This can seem overwhelming, so here is a quick overview of our favorite Bearcat bucket list items to get you started on your college adventures.
FOOD BUCKET LIST SPORTS BUCKET LIST
Attend Nippert at Night, a Friday night football game that’s been a beloved UC tradition since 1923
Go to a UC women’s basketball game
Join an intramural or club sports team like tennis, soccer or flag football
Tailgate a UC football game on Sigma Sigma Commons
Go to a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at the Great American Ball Park
Go to a Cincinnati Bengals football game at Paycor Stadium
Attend a UC vs. Xavier rivalry game (Also known as The Crosstown Shootout)
Do “down the drive” at a football game in the student section
Play sand volleyball on the Dabney Hall court
Try the Boldly Bearcat flavor at the Graeter’s in Clifton—a mascarpone ice cream with chunks of Oreos and chocolate chips
Visit the oldest standing Skyline Chili, which is easily accessible through the North Route UC shuttle
Try all the campus dining halls, including On the Green, DAAP Cafe, Center Court, MarketPointe, Stadium View Cafe and the Teachers Cafe
Get a late-night bite from Cane’s, Shake Shack or Drunken Tacos
Treat yourself to something sweet from Insomnia Cookies
SOCIAL BUCKET LIST
Get a photo with the Bearcat at a UC event
Join a weekly club not related to your major to meet new people
Float down the UC Recreation Center’s lazy river
Attend a free College-Conservatory of Music concert
Go to a Programs and Activities Council (PAC) welcome event
Watch a movie on the Nippert Stadium field
Go to a concert at Bogart’s, a nearby music venue whose fall semester lineup includes Franz Ferdinand and Matt Maltese
Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum for their monthly free-admission Art After Dark event
The UC Bearcat holds up the iconic C-Paw during graduation preparation in the Tangeman University Center bookstore in Cincinnati on March 25, 2025. KJ GARMONG | CONTRIBUTOR
Staged photo of PAC sticker that was handed out at the Pumpkin Palooza on Bearcat Commons on Oct. 15, 2024. TAVISH SWEENEY | STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST
A UC STUDENT’S GUIDE TO THE QUEEN CITY
Beyond on-campus activities, the Queen City has so much more to offer to both Cincinnati-natives and out-of-state University of Cincinnati (UC) students. Exploring the city is an essential part of life in Cincinnati as a UC student. Sports, food, arts, culture, music and more make up the vast Cincinnati lifestyle.
From the Cincinnati Zoo to the Cincinnati-style chili, the list never ends. Don’t worry about getting there without a car, either: UC students can ride the Metro at a discounted rate ($1 for a single ride ticket or $2 for a day pass). Here’s eight must-tries that you must try in your time here at UC, if you haven’t already.
FOOD
Skyline Chili – A delicacy that needs no introduction and a staple of the Cincinnati legacy, Skyline Chili is a must-have experience as a UC student. There’s no lack of options around campus, either. Choose from a handful of locations including Ludlow Avenue, Vine Street or East McMillan Street, to name a few.
Findlay Market – As Ohio’s oldest surviving municipal market house and home to over 50 full-time vendors, you can find just about any fresh product you need at Findlay. Walk the streets of Findlay while listening to live music performances to find fresh produce, meats, baked goods or sit down at one of the many restaurants nearby.
MUSIC
Bogart’s – For those who want a more intimate concert experience, Bogart’s is the place to go. Located on Short Vine Street and known to host “Gimme Gimme Disco” and “Emo Nights,” the venue hosts an array of shows in a standing-room only space (with the exception of balcony and side seats).
ALANNA MARSHALL GENERAL REPORTER
OUTDOORS
Krohn Conservatory – Take a walk through the Palm House, the Orchid House, the Bonsai Collection or even the annual Butterfly Show at the 92-year-old conservatory located in Eden Park.
Ault Park – Cincinnati has over 5,000 acres of parkland, and Ault Park is only the fourth largest. A picnic, a walk along one of the many trails and a beautiful lookout over the Ohio River are just a few reasons to make the trip on a sunny day.
The City Flea – Every month in the summer, Cincinnati’s original curated, urban flea market pops up at Washington Park. Peruse the local vendors selling vintage clothes, homemade jewelry, art, food, home decor and more.
Bogart’s in Cincinnati, on Feb. 26, 2025.
SWEENEY
CINCINNATI TRANSFER PORTAL BREAKDOWN
As a new school year begins, several Cincinnati athletes have entered the transfer portal. Here’s a full look at the Bearcats who left, and the players Cincinnati picked up in return.
PLAYERS WHO HAVE ENTERED THE PORTAL
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
ABBY HOLTMAN
The sophomore appeared in all 29 games during the 2024–25 season, posting career highs in points, rebounds, and free throws. The guard transferred to Mercer University.
A’RIEL JACKSON
The guard appeared in 29 games, making 25 starts, and notched eight double-digit scoring performances. She posted 13 points and four assists during a win against Kansas. The Brooklyn native transferred to Auburn University.
BRIANNA BYARS
The sophomore appeared in 32 games, averaging 2.6 points and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 36.8% from the field. The Kentucky native has yet to commit to another team.
CHLOE MANN
After spending one year with the program, the freshman guard made eight starts across 28 games and posted nine double-digit scoring performances. She scored a career-high 26 points against Baylor. Mann has committed to Grand Canyon University.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
DAN SKILLINGS, JR.
The junior averaged 9.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, starting in 13 of 29 games played. He missed six early-season games after suffering a knee injury during the season opener. The New Jersey native transferred to Baylor University.
RAYVON GRIFFITH
The redshirt freshman played in 19 games, scoring a season-high eight points in both the season opener and the final game of the season. The Florida native has yet to announce his next school.
JOSH REED
The junior started in nine of the final 10 games and finished the season averaging 4.8 points and 2.5 rebounds per game, shooting 85.3% from the free-throw line. The Georgia native transferred to Penn State.
DILLON MITCHELL
After spending one season with the Bearcats, the Tampa, Florida native entered the portal. He was one of three Bearcats to start all 35 games, averaging 9.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and shooting 61.4% from the field. Mitchell has not yet announced where he will play next season.
TYLER BETSEY
Betsey was recruited as a freshman by Head Coach Wes Miller. In his lone season at UC, he appeared in 34 of 35 games, averaging 3.3 points and 1.5 rebounds. A sharpshooter, 81 of his 112 shot attempts were from three-point range. He has not yet announced his next school.
ARRINTEN PAGE
After transferring from USC, Page spent one season with the Bearcats. The Atlanta native played in 31 games, averaging 3.5 points and 2.3 rebounds while shooting 49.4% from the field. Page will play at Northwestern University next season.
CONNOR HICKMAN
Hickman played in 13 games before a season-ending injury. He will transfer to the College of Charleston.
CJ ANTHONY
The senior guard entered the portal for his final season of eligibility. Anthony posted 28 total points during his time at Cincinnati between 2021 and 2024. He will spend his final season at Iona.
FOOTBALL
JORDAN ROBINSON
Robinson played in 10 games, totaling 18 tackles, two tackles for loss, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and one pass breakup. The defensive back will play at the University of Virginia next season.
KEN WILLIS
The defensive back started two games and appeared in several others, finishing the season with 23 tackles and two interceptions. The Cincinnati native, with two years of eligibility left, has yet to announce his next school.
TONY JOHNSON
The wide receiver played in all 12 games, making eight starts. He led the team with six touchdown catches and ranked third in receptions and receiving yards. Johnson has yet to announce where he will continue his career.
BRIANNA JONES SPORTS REPORTER
Cincinnati forward Dillon Mitchell (23) and guard Dan Skillings, Jr (0) attempt to score during the University of Cincinnati men’s basketball game at Fifth Third Arena against Baylor on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025.
ISABELLA ZINCHINI | MANAGING EDITOR
KEY PLAYERS CINCINNATI HAS SIGNED FROM THE TRANSFER PORTAL
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Mya Perry- Guard, Florida Atlantic University
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Kerr Kriisa- Guard, University of Kentucky
Sencire Harris- Guard, West Virginia University
Jalen Haynes- Forward, George Mason University
Moustapha Thiam- Center, University of Central Florida
Jalen Celestine- Guard, Baylor University
FOOTBALL
Joe Cotton- Offensive Lineman, University of South Dakota
Isaiah Rogers- Defensive Tackle, Monmouth College
Isaiah Johnson- Wide Receiver, Western Carolina University
Elijah Gunn- Defensive Tackle, Southern Illinois University
Dillon Mitchell (23) rises up to the rim during the University of Cincinnati’s men’s basketball game against Howard University on Dec. 8, 2024. The Bearcats defeated the Bison 84-67. ASHTON BOSTELMAN | CONTIBUTOR
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