May 27, 2025

DAILY RUNDOWN

Greetings from the

2025 Orientation Guide

Resources allow students to thrive

NYLA GILBERT ASSISTANT ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

As the class of 2029 explores Ohio University’s campus at Bobcat Student Orientation, excitement arises for their arrival. Although it’s fun, the independence and distance from home can also be stressful, especially without the physical presence of home. College is transformative and empowering, but it can also be difficult. There is no need to face these challenges alone.

The closure of the Multicultural Center, Women’s Center and Pride Center will eliminate some of the most visible support resources on campus. Although the centers leave big shoes to fill, many other campus resources have long worked in tandem with those departments, creating innovative student and faculty engagement programs in recent years.

Baker University Center has been a hub for campus resources since its creation. Departments and offices, such as the Office of Health Promotion, have provided free resources including condoms, lubricant and dental dams. The office also offers education on sexual health, alcohol and other drugs, mental health and suicide prevention, interpersonal violence and bystander intervention.

Career Services, located in Baker 507, supports students’ professional development through career coaching, major exploration and industry guidance. The office also offers career fairs, alumni networking events and access to the

career closet.

Bobcat Network is an online tool for professional development. It’s a social media app to connect current Bobcats with our vast alumni network.

Career Services is also a part of a wide range of academic support resources.

The Academic Achievement Center offers Peer Assisted Learning, drop-in tutoring and First-Generation Student Success services. They also have more discipline-based tutoring, such as the STEM Academy, Media Arts Tutoring, Learning Commons and Writing Commons.

The Allen Center also offers academic advising, advocacy and coaching. The Allen Center offers major exploration where students are guided through figuring out their academic and career goals. An immediate resource all incoming Bobcats will become acquainted with is the Student Success Advisors. They can act as a first point of contact for any needs for academic advising and help.

If you encounter concerns about living arrangements and housing, contact Housing and Residence Life, located in

The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, located at Chubb Hall room 020, is a great resource to utilize when looking for financial aid and funding help.

If help is needed with food, housing or bills, the Dean of Students offers a Basic Needs Program to support OU students experiencing financial hardship.

Technology issues can be directed to the Office of Information Technology, which has a website that goes over common issues and shares contact information for the IT Service Desk. The Bobcat Depot is a great place to look for any new technology you may need, while the Tech Help Desk is located on the fourth floor of Alden Library.

College students should be aware of both on and off-campus resources for any health needs. Local providers such as Planned Parenthood, also known as the Athens Health Center, and OhioHealth Campus Care offer sexually transmitted infection and sexually transmitted disease testing, pregnancy services and contraception.

Sexual violence and mental health are prevalent issues on college campuses. OU’s Survivor Advocacy Program offers confidential support to students affected by sexual assault, harassment, dating or domestic violence and stalking. SAP helps students access resources and navigate reporting through Community Standards and Student Responsibility or the Office of Civil Rights Compliance.

Counseling and Psychological Services provides free mental health services to all students, including crisis support and counseling. Wellness can also mean student engagement across campus. Bobcat Connect is the university’s portal to more than 570 student organizations, including groups based on identity, interests and academic majors.

The first year of college can be nerve-wracking. Being away from home and surrounded by strangers is hard, but you are not alone. These resources are here to help, and they are ready to support you with open arms.

the Living Learning Center room 215.

A unique gathering place of students and community members

Social Justice • Fair Trade Local Art & Music Spoken word Musicians Open Stage

Voted “Best Coffee in Athens” - The Athens News

Awarded “Best Coffee House in Ohio” - Ohio Magazine

Rated “3rd Best Coffee House in America” - Great American Coffee Tour

People, places to know

TALAGA | COPY CHIEF

Stepping onto campus for the first time may feel intimidating. Ohio University can easily feel overwhelming, and getting to know Athens can be difficult. Luckily for new students, there are a few key buildings to remember and people to keep in mind.

BAKER UNIVERSITY CENTER

At the heart of OU is Baker. No matter what part of campus one may find themselves at, Baker is always a short walk away. The five floors of Baker offer a wide variety of conference rooms and offices. Here, students will find the U.S. Postal Service and multiple dining options, including Front Room Coffeehouse, food-court-style West 82, Latitude 39 and Life is Sweet.

ALDEN LIBRARY

When it comes time to grind out a paper or study for exams, Alden is the place to be. The library’s seven floors offer group, quiet and silent areas designed to meet various studying needs. Book a study room for collaborative sessions, or enjoy independent working spaces throughout Alden. Desktop computers and printers are also available for use.

HUDSON HEALTH CENTER

Getting sick in college is inevitable. Luckily, OU’s on-campus student health center, located at 2 Health Center Drive, offers urgent and primary care through OhioHealth. Counseling and Psychological Services is also located in Hudson Health Center, offering mental health support and resources.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT CENTER

The AAC, located in Alden, provides tutoring services for all students. From drop-in tutoring to group sessions to weekly Peer Assisted Learning sessions, the AAC supports students through academic challenges. The Writing Commons, located in Bromley Hall 032, offers support for academic papers and essays.

NELSON COURT AND BOYD DINING HALL

For those with a meal plan, Nelson Court and Boyd Dining Hall are campus hotspots. Nelson on South Green and Boyd on West Green serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with continuous service Monday through Friday, with open weekend hours as well.

Welcome to your new favorite study spot, hangout hub, and creative refuge. At Donkey Coffee, we serve up ethically sourced coffee, live local music, rotating art from regional creators, and a whole lot of heart— right in Uptown Athens. Whether you’re grabbing a latte, catching a poetry slam, or flipping through justice zines, there’s always a seat and a story waiting for you.

PRESIDENT LORI STEWART GONZALEZ

President Gonzalez is the 23rd president of OU and is the university’s first female president, according to a previous report by The Post. Gonzalez began her work at OU on July 1, 2023. Gonzalez and her team have developed the Dynamic Strategy to strengthen and support OU’s mission and goals. Gonzalez is frequently seen engaging with students at campus events.

ANDREW POWERS

Every OU student should be familiar with Powers, the Ohio University Police Department’s chief of police. OUPD is a full-service police agency responsible for on-campus investigations and enforcing criminal law. OUPD also sends out communications to students and staff about instances of crimes posing a threat to campus safety.

DAN GORDILLO

Gordillo serves as the Student Senate president. The Senate supports the student body by advocating for positive campus changes and working with university administration to meet the needs of students and staff. General body Senate meetings are held every Wednesday in Walter Hall 235.

STEVE PATTERSON

Patterson serves as the Mayor of Athens. Patterson has lived in Athens since 1998 and worked at OU as an associate professor of health psychology until 2016. As mayor, Patterson oversees the Board of Control, Board of Disability Services, Board of Zoning Appeals and the Recreation Board of Appeals, among others. Patterson was elected to his third term as mayor in 2023, according to a previous report by The Post. At a university with a seemingly endless campus, finding the right places and people can be a tall task. However, the above places and people offer important services and shine as pillars of OU.

ELIZABETH

Health care resources available to students

Ohio University offers numerous health services to ensure students have access to health care. Between new routines, academic pressures and adjusting to campus life, students often need physical and mental support.

Hudson Health Center, located at 2 Health Center Drive, has many services available to students.

The center is only for OU students and offers primary and urgent care services, including vaccinations, physical exams, X-rays, management of acute illnesses and testing for sexually transmitted infections.

Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The walk-in clinic is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with no appointment.

A complete list of available services and insurance information can be found on the Hudson Health Center website.

Physical health is especially important while adjusting to a new routine and environment. Students who need further physical care can go to the OU Therapy Associates.

OUTA, located at 290 West Grover Center, provides students and Athens locals with physical, occupational and language and speech therapy.

On top of physical challenges, adjusting to life on campus with classes and a busy schedule can take a toll on mental health. In such cases, students can utilize the university’s therapy services.

Students seeking mental health support or counseling can also head to Hudson Health Center. Physical care is on the first floor, while Counseling and Psychological Services is located on the third floor.

Same-day appointments are available Monday through Friday from 9:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. More information is available on the CPS website and there’s a phone number students can call to make appointments.

According to the CPS website, they do not bill health insurance. Students in the Ohio Guarantee tuition plan can access CPS services without an additional fee.

Those not enrolled in the Ohio Guarantee are automatically charged the wellbeing fee, a university program designed to lower the cost of services at CPS.

Students who opt out of the wellbeing fee are charged $20 per individual therapy session.

Counselors-In-Residence also provide in-person support to residents and Housing & Residence Life staff during Let’s Talk hours with no appointment from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Friday, in the Living Learning Center Room 160.

Students can go to OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital, located at 55 Hospital Drive, for more serious health issues. O’Bleness provides outpatient services, surgical procedures, treatment options and therapies, according to the OU website.

According to a previous report by The Post, Planned Parenthood - Athens Health Center, located at 416 W. Union St., offers contraception and pregnancy services, as well as testing for sexually transmitted diseases and checkups for reproductive and sexual health concerns.

The Pregnancy Resource Center, located at 77 E. State St., offers free ultrasounds, pregnancy tests, a diaper bank and free maternity and infant supplies.

Attending college can be nerve-wracking, but students and parents alike can rest easy knowing OU is committed to providing medical care.

To learn more about each location and what they offer, visit the websites below: General information about healthcare locations on campus: Athens Campus

Physical and Behavioral Health Resources | Ohio University

Therapy at Ohio University: Services | Ohio University

Information about OhioHealth: OhioHealth Campus Care/Urgent Care at Ohio University

Ohio University Therapy Associates: Ohio University Therapy Associates

President’s scholarship allows local students chance at free education

ZOE WEYAND | FOR THE POST

Through the introduction of the Ohio University President’s Opportunity Promise Award, Southeast Ohio students are offered an opportunity to study at Ohio University without heavy tuition costs.

The scholarship, created by OU President Lori Stewart Gonzalez, offers high school students in Athens, Hocking, Meigs, Morgan, Perry, Washington and Vinton counties a way to attend OU tuition-free. The 2024-25 school year was the first school year the scholarship was offered.

Val Miller, assistant vice president and executive director of student financial aid and scholarships, said during the first year of the program, 191 students were offered the award, and 138 of those students enrolled in fall 2024 tuition-free.

Miller also reported 181 students have been offered the scholarship for the upcoming 2025-26 school year as of April 24.

The scholarship played a part in the university being awarded the title of best value public university in Ohio for the fifth year in a row by the U.S. News and World Report. The university was also ranked 26th in the nation for its affordability and quality of education.

In an OHIO Today article, the previous provost of the university, Elizabeth Sayrs, claimed OU has worked hard to maintain these rankings over the years.

“OHIO’s commitment to academic excellence, research and student success is apparent in these rankings and is a testament to the outstanding work our faculty, staff and students are doing every day,” Sayrs said.

According to the Appalachian Regional Commission, the poverty rate

in Appalachia is 14.3% compared to the national poverty rate of 11.1%. In addition, the median household income in the Appalachian region is $13,461 less than the national median household income.

In Appalachia, more than 28.2% of adults aged 25-64 hold a bachelor’s degree, which is 19.3 percentage points less than the nationwide average.

In another OHIO Today article, Gonzalez said the scholarship will provide more accessible education to students in the southeast region.

“I firmly believe that education is the pathway to opportunity,” Gonzalez said. “This new scholarship program will provide increased access to an affordable, high-quality education to countless students in our region.”

To apply, students must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average in high school with a strong college prep curriculum. Submitting ACT or SAT test scores is optional.

Students must submit their admission and scholarship application by the specified deadline; this year, it was extended to April 1.

Completion of the free application for federal student aid is also required by the given deadline. Qualification for the Federal Pell Grant, a financial needbased grant, is required to be eligible for the President’s Scholarship.

To get the scholarship, students must confirm their intent to enroll as a fulltime student on the Athens campus by May 1 and continue to complete their FAFSA by the priority deadline each year that they are enrolled.

ZW211923@OHIO.EDU

KAITLIN HOGG | NEWS STAFF WRITERS

The outside of Athens High School in The Plains, March 16, 2025. (ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF DESIGN)

The outside of Hudson Health Center, where students can receive a range of health services, in Athens, May 24, 2025.

(MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

COVID-19 continues to impact students, education

The COVID-19 pandemic shut down schools and caused a setback in educational and social learning that continues to impact students today.

The COVID-19 pandemic first struck the globe in 2019. More than five years later, its impact on education remains visible, with lasting changes to how teachers educate and how students learn.

Since returning to normal in-person classes, many worry the pandemic caused an irreparable setback to learning that continues to impact students to this day.

According to the Associated Press, many students have begun making up for lost time, while others continue to fall behind.

According to the AP, students made up one-third of their pandemic losses in math and one-quarter of their reading losses during the 2022-23 school year. Additionally, in nine states across the country, reading scores maintained a decline during the same year.

Math performances have increased since 2020 in third to eighth grades in Athens, but, following the national trend, reading performances have decreased, according to a data chart from the Education Recovery Scorecard.

Professors and teachers across the country had to find new adaptive ways to teach classes that coincided with the distance the pandemic caused.

However, many teachers did not have the training to operate a class through a computer screen, but had to quickly adapt to the change. According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, about 94% of teachers taught online during the pandemic, but only 16% of those teachers taught online before the pandemic.

Fox Associate Professor of Marketing at Ohio University Jacob Hiler said he once had strong opinions on online teaching

prior to the pandemic. However, his opinions have since changed drastically.

As a student in college, Hiler said he was opposed to online learning as he found teachers typically see online classes as an excuse to divert and forfeit attention. When the pandemic hit, Hiler said he knew he needed to alter his teaching methods to ensure learning online would flow smoothly.

“I kind of bridged very quickly into recording video lectures and also producing them in a way more akin to a YouTube video than, say, a lecture in a classroom,” Hiler said.

Hiler said he used his background in streaming and podcasting to curate engaging and creative video lectures for his classes that maintained interest and skillfully taught the course material. Hiler noted his use of applications, such as Discord, and their seamless addition to his course.

Hiler expressed concerns regarding some teachers’ abandonment of lessons learned during the pandemic. He recognized the benefits of returning to normal teaching but also argued the pandemic brought new ideas and concepts to teaching that could be extremely beneficial to incorporate in the future.

“A lot of professors and faculty were very quick to throw away the lessons that we learned during COVID and just go right back to the way it was beforehand,” Hiler said.

According to a study by Brookings, teachers who used educational technology prior to the pandemic report are using it more frequently now. Through the use of applications, such as Nearpod, Prodi-

gy and Flowcabulary, teachers are using online tools to help facilitate a smoother and effective learning process.

Loss of educational learning due to the pandemic was not the only impact on students. The pandemic also took students away from classrooms full of peers, removing an important source of social interaction.

According to the study by Brookings, almost 40% of teachers report more students are struggling with depression or anxiety than prior to the pandemic. As a result, teachers have had to adapt their expectations of students by requiring fewer educational learning assignments

and more flexibility in deadlines and exams.

Hiler said students who suffered difficulties as a result of the pandemic will be able to assimilate and catch up to where they should be.

“It’s about providing students those opportunities to socialize, and then once they get in those situations, they’ll catch up,” Hiler said. “It’s just about making sure that they have access to them.”

FINN SMITH | NEWS STAFF WRITERS

Outside of Shively Hall and the Ohio University Covid testing center, 2021. (ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF DESIGN)

Darcie Zudell is one of the many Ohio University students who have been isolated due to Covid-19, OCT. 26, 2022 in Athens. (MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

Students take learning around the world

Ohio University students are expanding their education through immersive global experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world impact.

ABBY WAECHTER | FOR THE POST

At Ohio University, education can stretch beyond campus, and sometimes far beyond the country’s borders.

Through the university’s Office of Global Opportunities, students can take part in a range of domestic and international programs that connect academic learning with real-world experience.

Whether consulting with businesses in Central America, exploring sustainable agriculture in East Africa or interning in Washington, D.C., these opportunities allow students to test their skills in new and unfamiliar environments.

The Global Consulting Program in the College of Business operates in 12 countries, placing students in shortterm consulting roles with local and multinational clients.

Paige Kemmett, a junior studying marketing and business analytics, spent her spring break in Costa Rica working with Biophilia, a natural reserve and environmental education center.

During the weeklong project, students consulted on sustainability practices, a challenge rooted in the biodiversity of the Costa Rican rainforest. Kemmett said the experience provided new insight into how business is conducted outside the U.S.

“I don’t even have the words to say how amazing it was, but it was just such an eye-opening experience,” Kemmett said. “It gave me a new level of experience that I couldn’t get in a classroom.”

She said the trip shifted her perspective and made her think more intentionally about how she wanted to shape her remaining time at OU.

“I don’t think my outlook on certain things has shifted as much as it did since I’ve been in Costa Rica,” Kemmett said. “It was a very eye-opening experience and I think everybody should do it … it’s probably going to be the highlight of my college career.”

In another study abroad spring break program, students traveled to Panama for a field-focused course on plant biology led by OU professors, Glenn Matlack and Harvey Ballard. The program combined academic study with jungle excursions, including snorkeling, Cayman tracking and species identification.

Hannah Wiederhold, a senior studying plant biology, said the trip gave her a chance to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting.

“It was interesting because I’d never really done fieldwork before,” Wiederhold said. “I had some trouble with the fish, but plants were easier … you could take a picture and look it up later … it was kind of like seeing your textbook come to life.”

Wiederhold said the experience not only enhanced her resume but also helped her build confidence in her academics. She encourages other students, especially freshmen, to con-

sider going abroad early in their college careers.

Experiential learning at OU is not limited to science or business majors. Students from a variety of fields are taking part in programs that combine global travel with coursework and cultural exchange.

Kathleen Shuttleworth, a 2025 alumna who majored in climate, environment, and society, traveled to Kenya for a three-week-long program centered on agroecology. Students partnered with the Institute for Culture and Ecology, a grassroots organization that supports sustainable farming practices and local food systems.

Shuttleworth said the program offered a unique look at both community-level efforts and international policy development. After visiting local farms, students met with representatives at the United Nations Environment Programme in Nairobi.

“It’s not just about planting a seed and selling a product,” Shuttleworth said. “It has to do with food culture, the solidarity economy, and how to create jobs for local farmers through a more inclusive value chain.”

She described the transition from rural farming communities to international aid discussions as “incredible.”

“One week you’re in the field making bio-pesticides, the next you’re in a room with people deciding how to allocate millions in environmental funding,” Shuttleworth said.

Although Shuttleworth had previously traveled abroad, for some students, the Kenya trip marked their first time leaving the country.

“They had just finished their first year at OU,” she said. “They had a really fresh perspective and could use that to shape what they wanted to learn moving forward.”

I don’t even have the words to say how amazing it was, but it was just such an eye-opening experience

– Paige Kemmett, a junior studying marketing and business analytics

Opportunities for growth through travel are not limited to international destinations. For students interested in public service or media, OU also offers the Scripps Semester in D.C. program, which includes four weeks of coursework followed by a full-time internship in Washington, D.C.

Students secure their own internships

and live in the city, gaining firsthand experience in a professional environment. Hebah Abdalla-Lehmann, co-director of the program, said it offers more than just career development.

“Students learn what it’s like to work a nine to five job and gain real experience,” Abdalla-Lehmann said. “But they also learn how to navigate a new city, use public transportation, and maintain a social life and build an invaluable network, skills that will take them to the next level in their careers.”

For education majors, the Storytelling in Education in England program offers a chance to explore children’s literature through visits to London, Oxford and sites tied to authors like C.S. Lewis and J.K. Rowling. The program also includes a visit to a Department of Defense school that serves U.S. military families abroad.

Jennifer Lisy, an assistant professor of instruction on OU’s Zanesville campus and co-director of the program, said she created the course after missing out on study abroad as a student herself due to student-teaching requirements.

“This is the kind of program I wish I could have done,” Lisy said. “These short-term trips are a great way to

travel as part of a course, even if you can’t go abroad for an entire semester.”

The course also examines how literature is taught across cultures, including discussions about censorship and banned books.

“We’ll visit C.S. Lewis’ home and talk about books like “Harry Potter” and what it means when books are challenged or banned,” Lisy said. “It’s not just about seeing places, it’s about thinking critically about the stories we share.”

Lisy said she believes strongly in the value of international learning, whether short-term or long-term, and encourages students to take advantage of it.

“There are a million reasons to study abroad,” she said. “These are the kinds of experiences that stay with you long after graduation.”

Religious services encourage faith, growth on campus

RENAE HEFTY | FOR THE POST

New Ohio University students have numerous opportunities to practice their religion or discover new religious organizations on campus.

There are 13 different religious organizations that have representatives who are a part of the University Interfaith Association, a group providing counsel to the Dean of Students on religious activity on campus. The association includes Athens First United Methodist, Athens First Presbyterian Church, Athens Friends Meeting and others.

Places of worship around campus include 24 Christian churches, two Jewish Centers, one Islamic Center and one Buddhist group.

Julia Krauth, a 2025 OU graduate, majored in Lead Industrial Systems Engineering and was the president of the student organization OU Catholics.

“I showed up to the first event right before school started my freshman year,” she said. “I honestly don’t know if I was

expecting to stick around or not, but ever since that event, I’ve been an active member of the community for my four years at school.”

There’s no charge for students to join OU Catholics and they can find information about any of their events @oucatholics.

At Christ the King, there are five different Catholic Masses Monday through Friday, all at 12:15 p.m. On the weekends, Saturday Mass is at 5 p.m. and Sunday Masses are at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Krauth said the organization’s biggest event of the week is Sunday dinner after Mass in Christ the King’s community center.

The OU Catholic organization hosts weekly Bible study groups as well.

“There’s a variety of Bible studies people can choose from,” Krauth said.

Throughout the semester, OU Catholics host various events, including soccer games, movies and game nights.

“They can come as frequently or as infrequently as they want,” Krauth said.

Some members of OU Catholics write

for De Sales Magazine, the only other Catholic organization on campus besides OU Catholics.

“I think it’s really important to have a community like that, who has the same faith as you, and to give you people to go to Mass with, or people to pray with, or to talk about your spiritual life with,” Krauth said.

Another place of worship students can explore is Chabad, a Jewish student organization, headquartered at 33 N. Court St. Rabbi Levi Raichik, advisor of Chabad, said interested students can text “Join” to 740-306-6668 to join Chabad’s mailing list. He also said the organization is free to join and a majority of Jewish students at OU are members of Chabad.

“We offer events, programs, classes, trips, internships and holiday programming, anything that a Jewish student could need at a university,” Raichik said. Chabad hosts Shabbat, a four-course dinner, every Friday at 7 p.m.

“When (students) come to college, they explore the Jewish religion which they have not done at home in a deeper way,”

Raichik said, emphasizing how Jewish students can use Chabad to learn about their religion. “It’s also part of growing up in college learning everything in a deeper way and opening yourself up to new experiences.”

The Islamic Center of Athens is located at 13 Stewart St. and home to the Muslim Student Association. New students can find information about events @msa_ohiou.

Athens Karama Thegsum Chöling practices the Karma Kagyu tradition of Buddhism. They meet every Sunday at Serenity Roots Yoga and Wellness Center, in the yoga studio building at 8950 Lavelle Road.

New students can also explore OU’s religious services on Bobcat connect. rh919022@ohio.edu

Human Interest Staff | What advice do you have for first year Bobcats?

“Before I even got to OU, I was told how rowdy and outrageous every weekend would be at the famous ‘party school,’” Abby Jenkins, a senior studying journalism, said. “It felt all the more intimidating coming in as someone who was unfamiliar with that environment. Now, as a rising senior, I can confidently say you can find your own fun wherever and whenever. You will meet incredible people here and whether going out is your thing or not, there will always be someone you can lean on.”

“Don’t expect to figure everything out right away, your major, friends and interests can and will change throughout your college career,” Mary Kate McNamee, a senior studying English literature, said. “Find a healthy balance between school and life and most importantly: work hard, play hard.”

“Try to join one or two clubs and focus on school,” Gina Napoli, a junior studying journalism, said. “There is no need to overload yourself; get used to campus first.”

“I’d strongly advise freshmen to get involved,” Anna Parasson, a senior studying journalism, said. “Campus organizations are a great way to settle in, make friends, and have fun. Many of them look good on a resume and can help you gain career skills.”

“Interact with people at Bobcat Student Orientation,” Sophia Anness, a junior

studying journalism, said. “Find out one way you can step out of your comfort zone and try something new. The best way to make connections on campus is to get involved. If you hear of a student organization you are interested in, seek it out! Clubs are just one way you can meet people once you come to OU. Good luck and remember, college goes by in the blink of an eye.”

“Get used to real studying,” Ethan Herx, a junior studying photojournalism, said. “High school doesn’t prepare you for how you need to study in college. Also, put in the work, do not use ChatGPT or other AI. Yes, it is more effort, but it is a lot more worth it than getting caught using AI and failing a class.

“Spend as much time as you can on campus,” Maia LeClair, a senior studying journalism, said. “It’s amazing to be so close to everything: friends, food and classes. Make spontaneous plans where you’ll, for example, tell a friend to go hammocking with you in five minutes”.

“Speak up about your concerns, even if they seem small they could make all the difference,” Alexandra Hopkins, a senior studying journalism, said.

“Go to all the free campus events,” Cami Seymore, a junior studying journalism, said. “It’s a great place to meet people, make friends and get involved with the school.”

Discounts Include:

Buffalo Wild Wings - 10% off food order, not valid with other offers (dine in only)

Brenen's Coffee - Free fountain drink with lunch sandwich purchase

Bubbles Tea and Juice - 20% off any tea or smoothie

Carsey's Barber Shop - $2 off haircuts

Cour t Street Coffee - Free size upgrade

Donkey Coffee - 10% off El Tenampa Mexican Restaurant - 10% entrees

Gran Ranchero - 10% off entrees

Island Tanz - 10% off any bottle of lotion

Little Professor Book Store10% staff picks

Lulu's Casa El Camino - 10% off meal order over $10

MG Fit - $5 off day pass Ohio is Home - 15% off Ohio Valley Running CompanyFree 3-pack of socks with any full-price shoes

Passion Works - Free OU deluxe flower (pin or magnet) with purchase

Pizza Cottage - $5 off $25 purchase

River of Time Boutique - 10% off Star of India - 5% off

The Good Cleaners - 10% off all dr y cleaning (alternations excluded)

The Pigskin - 15% off regularpriced food entree or appetizer

Tim Hor tons - 10% off regularpriced items

Tire Choice - 10% off all ser vices

Union Street Diner - 10% off

The Human Interest Staff poses for a photo (ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF DESIGN)

Learning communities welcome incoming students

Alexandra HOPKINS COMMUNITY STANDARDS EDITOR

Nearly every Ohio University freshman is in a learning community, but what are they and should students opt-in to the program?

Each year about 98% of OU’s incoming class becomes a part of a learning community, claimed Brock Stephan, assistant director of student leader engagement. These communities provide a built-in group of support as students settle into their first semester on campus.

Stephan described learning communities as a “home base” for incoming students.

In learning communities students take a series of clustered classes with 20 to 25 other students, according to Stephan. This cohort shares a one-credit hour course and two general education courses so students can see members of their learning community in other classes.

“While we introduce information and resources and everything else that you need to be a successful Bobcat, it is much more in terms of building the people that you’re going to be with for your entire four years and beyond,” Stephan said. “Those connections are really powerful during that first year.”

Though being in a learning community is not required, it is strongly recommended by the university. Learning communities are instructed by a faculty or staff member from a student’s academic

college and assisted by learning community leaders, upper class students within a similar major. “You get somebody that’s been in your position before within that major,” Stephan said. “ … And then you also have the faculty member that can introduce those other resources and make talking with faculty less scary during that first year.”

Megan Hastings, a senior studying engineering, technology and management, will be a learning community leader for the third, and last, time this fall semester. She was inspired to take on the role to help students transition into college, following her experience as a freshman.

“It was a little daunting in my major, especially with engineering being a very male dominated field,” Hastings said. “Our learning community leader was actually a female, and I also had another girl in the class with me, so it was great seeing that and being able to form connections.”

In class, students participate in team building exercises, develop major-related skills and engage in academic activities with other members. Outside of class, cohorts will often get together to study or socialize. This could be activities scheduled by the leader, such as a hike or game nights, or scheduled by the students themselves.

“It’s a great opportunity to make friends … it actually helps you get more comfortable meeting new people,” Hastings said.

Learning communities also bring students on experiential field trips, exposing them to real-world opportunities.

“I’ll use chemistry as an example,” Stephan said. “So, a chemistry professor takes (the class) on a field trip to the chemistry labs, and they’re walking around the labs doing a fun experiment during the seminar course as an example. And then somebody’s like, ‘Oh, I want to do research and talk to a professor.’”

Learning communities provide incoming students with an introduction to the university and open doors for future opportunities.

“It really is a catalyst for building connections,” Stephan said. “When it can feel like you’re just one out of 5,000 incoming students … you instantly have 25 people.”

Incoming students can sign up for learning communities at Bobcat Student Orientation during their scheduled advising session.

@AHOPKINS909 AH875121@OHIO.EDU

OU provides resources for undecided students

HADLEY LYNCH | FOR THE POST

Many students go into college with an idea of what they want to study; however, some students don’t.

According to U.S. News, approximately 12% to 14% of first-year college students nationally are undecided.

Although this number may seem small, there are many students at Ohio University who begin their college experience not knowing what career they want to pursue.

Zach Graman, associate director of Learning Communities, has worked with undecided students over the last five years.

Graman said students starting college undecided is more common than people may think.

“Last year, University College had about 450 students enter (OU) exploring undecided, undeclared,” Graman said. “I want to say that trend has been pretty close to the same the past couple of years … and students change their major more often than people realize as well.”

It may feel isolating to be surrounded by peers who know their major, but for incoming freshmen who may be in this group, there are resources available.

“If a student during their application process declares as an undecided or exploring student, they are housed in University College where we have advising and student services,” Graman said. “There are specific advisors in that realm that work with students to help look into different majors, career outcomes, that kind of content.”

For both decided and undecided students, Graman said Learning Commu-

nities are a great resource for exploring interests with guidance.

“Some Learning Communities will be more designed towards students that might have an interest in writing or journalism … film … or … health sciences, to really give students a taste of the different majors their first semester,” Graman

the opportunity to explore their interests.

“I remember my high school, we had the basic classes that we needed, and that was about it, not a whole lot of room for exploration in high school,” Graman said. “So we try to give them that chance to do so sooner rather than later.”

said.

“My advisor helped me a lot. I wasn’t sure. I had a couple of options and I couldn’t narrow it down, but my advisor helped me a little bit with that,” said Emma Prazer, a junior studying studio art, started college undecided and just recently chose a major. Prazer said utilizing her resources was helpful in deciding. “I was in a Learning Community, and I took a class that was half of the semester that was supposed to help you choose a major.”

Many high schools offer mostly basic classes and students don’t always have

Not only do Learning Communities offer students guidance, but the course also fosters connections with other undecided peers.

“I think it’s part of just that sense of belonging and building that community, right?” Graman said. “I went here as an undergrad, and learning communities were just starting to be developed during my time when I was here, and so really I never had that place where I could go once a week to be around like-minded peers, to be around students who were also so in that same vein of exploration.” Typically, students have a good sense

of what field they want to go into by their junior year, but Graman said it can vary from person to person.

“It really depends on the major the students are interested in,” Graman said. “If a student, for instance, finds out in their first or second semester that they really love psychology … we’re going to help them declare that by the end of the first semester.”

For students who may take longer to decide, there are plenty of resources available to ease the process, such as the Career Service Center and Allen Advising. However, even though there is support for undecided students, many may still feel pressured to know exactly what they want to major in when they start college.

“There is this performative pressure, right?” Graman said. “Like all of my friends know what they’re doing, why don’t I? When, in reality, their friends might just act like they know what they want to do. I think the statistic is that 70% of students typically change their major at least once.”

It may feel intimidating to begin college feeling unsure about what the future may hold, but there are resources available for every student, including those undecided.

“(My advice is to) join clubs that you might be interested in, because I didn’t really do that, but I feel like I feel like that’s important to do right away to really help figure out what you actually like,” Prazer said. “Talk to your advisor frequently, go to your learning community and be active and explore.”

hl526522@ohio.edu | @hadleylynchh

Chubb Hall, which houses the offices for Undergraduate Admissions, on College Green, in Athens, Aug. 28, 2024. (ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)

ABBY DOENCH | ASST. ART DIRECTOR

Ohio sports year in review

OWEN LIPSTREU | ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

The 2024-25 collegiate sports year brought a ton of success to Ohio and after this past year, aspirations are high in Athens as we turn the page to the year ahead. Before jumping forward, The Post looks at the past and remembers some of the best moments for Ohio’s teams last year.

FOOTBALL

Ohio has always been a school with rich history, but another chapter was written on Dec. 7, as the team traveled to Detroit, Michigan, with stakes higher than ever before against archrival Miami.

The two schools had never met for the Mid-American Conference title in football until this season. After the RedHawks won the regular season matchup, the Bobcats showed up looking to make a statement. They did just that after a 38-3 victory and the first MAC title in 56 years, but they were not done there.

Ohio had won six games in a row after defeating Miami in Detroit. It was powered by quarterback Parker Navarro, who had four touchdowns in the game. The victory brought about a trip to Orlando, Florida, to take on Jacksonville State in the Cure Bowl for Ohio.

The Bobcats suited up and ran up the score in the first half, with four touchdowns from Navarro. The Bobcats needed one more field goal in the fourth quarter to close out the game and collect the first 11-win season in school history. This victory was also the first for the new Bobcats head coach Brian Smith.

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Ohio Men’s basketball had a season riddled with injuries, but proved playing in Athens is a challenge for anyone, even the then-unbeaten in the MAC, Akron. Akron had been perfect in MAC play and had won 14 in a row before stepping foot inside The Convo in February. Ohio brought it to them out of the gate and never let up.

The Bobcats stormed out to an early lead, and the crowd was behind them after some early flashes from A.J. Clayton. The Zips weren’t prepared for the onslaught and were provided by guard Jackson Paveletzke, who had 21 points. The Bobcats routed the MAC’s best by a score of 84-67 and made a statement to the rest of the league about playing in The Convo.

Ohio sent the message but after a heartbreaking loss in Oxford, felt it needed to send it a little louder. Miami grabbed an early lead but would be no match for Ohio inside of The Convo. Nearly 8,000 strong were behind the home team and the impact was felt throughout the contest.

The Bobcats were in control throughout the second half and put the finishing touches on the game at the free throw line. Clayton, in his final Battle of the Bricks, had 20 to lead Ohio to a 75-66 win.

VOLLEYBALL

200 was a popular number for coaches at Ohio last year. Before Boldon, former Ohio volleyball head coach Geoff Carlston got the mark first in October. Ohio

welcomed Toledo inside The Convo and won 3-2. Outside hitters’ sophomore Kam Hunt and senior Anna Kharchynska, who had 44 combined kills, look to continue to be a presence up front in 2025.

SOFTBALL

Ohio is a place built on community, but when Miami comes to town, all hands are on deck to make sure they go back to Oxford facing defeat, especially on senior day. After taking the first two games of the weekend series, Ohio took the field April 20 to celebrate its seniors and take

down Miami in the process.

The Bobcats jumped out to a 5-0 lead but surrendered six runs before grabbing the bats in the bottom of the sixth. They tied in the sixth with aspirations to close it out in walk-off fashion in the seventh. Senior outfielder CiCi Keidel brought home the winning run to send the RedHawks home and cap off a great year of sports in Athens.

OL415422@OHIO.EDU

Football: Breaking down every incoming transfer

CHARLIE FADEL | SPORTS EDITOR

The new age of college football has added lots of new ways to build a team, none more well-known or used than the transfer portal. Ohio utilized the transfer portal very well last season, picking up big players that helped the team win the 2024 Mid-American Conference Championship. Here is every incoming Ohio transfer broken down.

RB SIEH BANGURA

Bangura is one of a few former Bobcats to come back to Athens after departing in the portal. He was the first player Ohio signed this offseason and one of the biggest acquisitions after Rickey Hunt Jr. left through the portal and Anthony Tyus III graduated.

K DAVID DELLENBACH

The Utah native played his first year of college football for UCLA, and after not seeing any playing time last year he will likely be taking his first in-game kicks this year as a Bobcat.

OL JOSH WAITE

The Pennsylvania native stayed local for the last three years of his college career, playing at Division II school Shippensburg in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. Waite started all 11 games last year and started six the year before in 2023 for the Raiders.

WR ALFRED JORDAN JR.

A veteran leader, Jordan spent the last two seasons of college football playing for Idaho State, an FCS team in the Big Sky conference. During his time as a Bengal, he put up 479 yards and three touch-

downs in 2023, and four catches for 90 yards last year.

WR COLTON GROVER

One of the coolest tidbits about this Ohio roster this season is that new transfer Grover played at the same Phoenix high school as Parker Navarro. Both played high school ball at Desert Vista, even though they didn’t cross paths there. Last season for the South Dakota School of Mines, Grover went for 451 yards and five touchdowns.

OL NICK MARINARO

Marinaro will be spending his last season of college football in Athens after spending every other year in the Ivy League with Dartmouth. He has started 19 games over the past two seasons for the Big Green, and he was a 2024 All-Ivy Honorable Mention.

OL ANDRES DEWERK

Much like new head coach Brian Smith, Dewerk hails from the West Coast and he stayed close to home to start his college career, spending the first three seasons of his career with USC. He then transferred to App State, and the 6’7’’ giant played in all 11 games for the Mountaineers last year.

OL SHEDRICK RHODES JR.

Much like Bangura, Rhodes is a former Bobcat who transferred to the Big 10 for a season only to come back to Athens a year later. After starting all 13 games for Ohio in 2023, he saw action in two games last year for Rutgers.

QB TIM CARPENTER

Carpenter is the only in-state product transferring in on the offensive side as

the signal caller is from Trotwood, Ohio, just outside of Dayton. He spent his first year in college at Tulsa last season and saw action in four games.

DB PIERRE KEMENI JR

Kemeni is another former Bobcat who will be coming back to Athens. He played for the Bobcats in 2020 and 2021 before transferring to Texas State in 2022, going the junior college route at Garden City in 2023, before landing with New Mexico last year..

DB RICKEY HYATT JR.

Hyatt Jr. was a top-ranked recruit out of high school at Westerville Central and played his freshman season at Kentucky before leaving for South Alabama, where he spent the last three years as a Jaguar.

DL NEHEMIAH DUKES

The junior defensive lineman played his last two seasons just north of Athens at Youngstown State. Last year he played in all 12 games for the Penguins and recorded a sack in the process. He and other transfers on the defensive line are needed heavily this upcoming year.

DL ANAS LUQMAN

Similar to the Grover and Navarro connection, Luqman played his high school football at Princeton in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was on the same roster as wide receiver Rodney Harris II. Luqman rejoins Harris after spending last year at Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

DL EVAN HERRMANN

Coming out of high school, Herrmann was a three-star recruit and the top recruit in the state of Wisconsin. Vanderbilt was sold on his talents, and he spent the

last two years there, but didn’t do much in a limited role in the SEC.

DB JAYMAR MUNDY

A former Miami RedHawk, Mundy has spent time on the other side of the Battle of the Bricks rivalry as a freshman in 2021. After that year in Oxford, he transferred to Hutchinson CC, a junior college, which allowed him to play his last season of football with Western Kentucky.

DB RONALD JACKSON

Jackson will be coming to Ohio for his fifth year of college football, and he will be returning to the MAC in the process. He spent his first three years in college as a Zip before transferring to Montana for the last two years.

DB CALEB CHAMBERLIN

Chamberlain will be the second former Air Force Falcon to come to Ohio, joining secondary partner Mike Mack. The Florida native redshirted last season and didn’t see any game action as a Falcon.

LB DEREK REAGANS

Reagans will be coming to Athens from the Community College of San Francisco, a junior college in the Bay Area. Last year he put up 22 tackles in six games and he looks to be involved this year after the departure of Shay Taylor.

LB MAKEL WILLIAMS

Another linebacker, Williams also comes from a small school in Fort Hays State, located in Hays, Kansas. He was named to the All-Mid American Intercollegiate Athletics Association third team in 2022 and 2023, and put up 88 tackles last year.

Here it is in cmyk and the caption is: Quarterback Parker Navarro rushes in for his second touchdown of the day at Ford Field in Detroit, MI at the MAC Championship Game, Dec. 7, 2024.(REECE MERKEL | FOR THE POST)

Best athletes to watch this year

Here are the most impactful student athletes to watch across seasons and sports in the 2025-26 school year

In just a few months, Ohio University will open its doors once again to kick off the 2025-26 school year. Freshmen finally get the opportunity to experience what college is like on a public campus, and they also get to witness Ohio’s best athletes across all different sports play against other terrific athletes from different colleges.

The 2024-25 academic year saw many great things from several of Ohio’s sports teams, such as when Ohio’s football team took the victory against rival Miami in the 2024 Mid-American Conference Championship game.

All of Ohio’s teams have had stellar performances from all sorts of individuals across numerous teams and disciplines. Listed below are a handful of Bobcats who took their game to the next level last year and will return this coming year.

PARKER NAVARRO | FOOTBALL

During the 2024 season, the Ohio football team wouldn’t have had the success it had without its key players, especially quarterback Parker Navarro. Navarro had 2,423 passing yards on 295 passes with 195 completions. He rushed for 1,054 yards on 160 attempts with 18 touchdowns.

Navarro is known for his many accolades. He was awarded MAC Conference Player of the Week four times, MAC Male Scholar Athlete of the Week, MAC Championship Offensive Player of the Game, MAC Second Team Offense and so on.

Quarterback

Parker Navarro (13) and Offensive line Jacob Dennison (77) celebrate after a touchdown during Ohio University’s game against Ball State at Peden Stadium in Athens, Nov. 29, 2024. (EMMA REED | FOR THE POST)

Navarro returning to Ohio this coming fall is a blessing for all Bobcat fans as the team will be looking to become the first school since Northern Illinois in 2012 to repeat as MAC football champions.

SKIPP MILLER | SOFTBALL

Miller is a dominant pitcher for Ohio’s softball team, and in 2025 she pitched in 36 games for the Bobcats. She led Ohio in many statistical categories, including ERA (2.68), strikeouts (124), saves (2) and innings pitched (169.2).

Miller was named 2025 MAC Softball Pitcher of the Year, First Team All-MAC, MAC All-Tournament and is a three-time winner of MAC Pitcher of the Week. She took her game to a new level in 2025, and she looks to go even higher next year as she spearheads another MAC softball contender.

JACKSON PAVELETZKE | MEN’S BASKETBALL

Paveletzke really made a name for himself in the 202425 season. He started all 31 games for Ohio in his first season. He averaged 13.4 points a game, shot 51.2 percent from the field, 32.2 percent from three, 76.3 percent from the line, 4.1 rebounds and 4.8 assists a game. In his first season wearing the green and white, Paveletzke achieved many personal statistical milestones. He recorded a career-high 28 points against Eastern Michigan University on Jan. 21, and he dished out another career high 12 assists at Marshall this past

Redshirt junior

pitcher Skipp Miller throws a strike in the Ohio Softball Stadium, April 1, 2025. (JACKSON MCCOY | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF)

December. Moving forward, all eyes are on Paveletzke’s continual success playing basketball playing for Ohio.

After playing for three different schools in his first three seasons of college, playing for Wofford, Iowa State and Ohio, Paveletzke has found a home in Athens.

SCOUT MURRAY | WOMEN’S SOCCER

Murray played in 18 games and started in 11 in the 2024 season. She recorded four goals in 26 shots, which included 12 shots on goal. In the 2023 season, Murray was a leading contributor for Ohio, winning the 2023 MAC Tournament.

She had two game-winning goals, and was named the tournament MVP and was even selected to the All-Tournament Team. As a result of her amazing play, Murray became the first in program history to be named MAC Tournament MVP. Her return will mean more success for Ohio’s Women’s Soccer team.

It’s too early to suggest what each of these four athletes will do for their teams and for representing OU in general. However, it’s not outlandish to think they will each continue to provide only great things for their teammates and their coaches.

@HANNAHS_JUDE

JH825821@OHIO.EDU

JUDE HANNAHS | SPORTS STAFF WRITER

Scout Murray (22) kicks the ball away from Northern Kentucky players at the game at Chessa Field Sept. 3, 2023, in Athens, Ohio.

(MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

Ohio Bobcats guard Jackson Paveletzke (13) fights off defenders against Eastern Michigan University in The Convo in Athens, Mar. 4, 2025.

(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)

Softball: Recapping a successful 2025 season

BRANDON GROSS | SPORTS STAFF WRITER

Ohio (37-19 overall, 18-8 Mid-American Conference) had a very strong season, showing it can contend at the top of the MAC. It finished as the best overall pitching team with the production of redshirt junior Skipp Miller, freshman Anna Wise and sophomore Mikie Lieving. The team also finished top 7 in the conference in both batting and fielding.

Ohio’s season started with the Elon Softball Classic, where it would dominate the competition, winning all four games while outscoring opponents 52-32. Ohio was flowing in every part of the field, especially the offense; against UConn (3519) both junior Shelby Westler and junior Belle Hummel scored four runs apiece in an 18-14 victory lasting eight innings.

Ohio struggled in the Bear Down Fiesta tournament as it opened the tournament with back-to-back losses against Cal State Fullerton and South Alabama. Ohio would pick up its only win of the tournament against South Alabama next game with a close 3-2 win. Ohio would proceed to also lose the next two games, the first against No. 15 ranked Arizona (48-13) and the second to Cal State Fullerton again. After a tough stretch of opponents in the Bear Down Fiesta and picking up four losses, Ohio regrouped and managed to win out in the Lowcountry Classic. Ohio went 4-0 with the last game being cancelled. The strongest performance was a 15-2 six-inning shutdown of the College of Charleston. Ohio’s pitching and fielding didn’t allow Charleston to get many opportunities and the offense delivered, bringing Ohio to 9-4.

The next tournament, the Purple and Gold Challenge, started poorly for the Bobcats, as they seemed to lose all the steam they had in the previous games. Ohio dropped the first two against Northern Iowa and Lipscomb. Ohio stepped up after the losses and won the next three games, defeating both teams by scores of 2 or more. The team defeated Illinois State by a score of 7-2 to end the tournament.

Ohio moved into its final tournament, the George Mason Tournament, with a three-game win streak, which would be extended to a seven-game streak. Ohio scored a combined total of 15 runs in the tournament compared to its opponents’ combined 2.

Ohio came out swinging for MAC play, ending the first two series with a record of 5-1 in the conference. The first series against Buffalo (17-33) was an offensive

showcase for the team as it scored a combined 18 runs in the first two games while shutting out Buffalo in both, as both games ended in 5 innings. Ohio slowed down a bit in the third game but still won.

In the second series, this time against Northern Illinois, Ohio once again won the first two games dominantly. However the Bobcats shockingly lost the last game by a score of 9-1 after they had dominated the entire series. It was Ohio’s first conference loss of the year.

Ohio continued to cruise through conference play, defeating Kent State in both games and splitting games with Akron. Ohio also hit a road bump against Toledo, the first MAC series it lost. That didn’t shake the team, though, as it swept Bowling Green in the next series.

The biggest moment in the season came against Miami in The Battle of the Bricks. Ohio had the home-field advantage and put it to good use, as many fans turned out to watch the top two teams in the conference battle it out. Ohio swept Miami despite cutting it very close in the last game with a score of 7-6. These games launched Ohio to the top of the conference late in the season.

The hope for a win against Ohio State ended quickly, as it showed why it was ranked No. 22 in the country. Ohio State won with a score of 15-5 and had numerous players score home runs. The game ended in 5 innings, but Ohio cruised on to finish its play in the MAC.

Ohio ended the regular season losing a series to Western Michigan, as it won two games to Ohio’s one. With the regular season over, Ohio was the second overall team in the MAC conference and boasted a record of 37-19.

Heading into the MAC tournament, its first game was against Northern Illinois, a team they had dominated earlier in the season. Ohio continued that trend and shut them out, resulting in a 7-0 score and a win.

All of Ohio’s next three games were against Miami, with Ohio comfortably winning the first game with a score of 5-2. However, Miami was able to regroup for the second and third games, not letting Ohio score a single run in the second game with a score of 6-0 and sealing the deal in the third game with a score of 8-2.

The peak of Ohio’s mountain this season was the MAC championship game. Despite falling short of a win, this season showed the team can still compete next season as key contributors such as sophomore Brenna Farmer, Miller, Westler, Hummel and Izzie Wilson are returning.

Senior outfielder CiCi Keidel looks to the outfield after sliding into home base in Ohio Softball Stadium, April 12, 2025. (JACKSON MCCOY | EDITORIN-CHIEF)

Best places to eat, drink

Athens is a diverse town not only with its opportunities for students, but also its array of food options.

JUDE HANNAHS | FOR THE POST

This fall’s incoming first-year students will partake in their first official semester of classes. They will become involved with student organizations and build relationships with faculty and fellow students.

They will also get to experience dorm life and how different it is compared to living at home. First-year students with meal plans will be provided with a handful of different locations where they can use meal swipes for food and drinks.

At Ohio University’s campus, there are three dining courts: Nelson Court on South Green, Boyd Dining Hall on West Green and Earl’s Coop, located between Shively Hall and Perkins Hall on East Green Drive.

Students also have the chance to explore OU’s three markets: Jefferson Marketplace, Nelson Market and Boyd Market. Freshmen can explore other spots on campus, including coffee shops and food trucks.

However, OU can only provide so much for both hungry and thirsty Bobcats. Undergrads unfamiliar with Athens may be eager to explore other places to eat and drink. The Bobcats of old will recommend some obvious choices, but some tend to fly under the radar.

BREAKFAST: VILLAGE BAKERY & CAFÉ

For those freshmen who cannot get through the day without having a proper breakfast, Village Bakery & Café is a good option. Its menu offers delicious choices like breakfast sandwiches, quiche and often features daily specials that use local ingredients.

As the name suggests, it also serves coffee. Although its selections aren’t as varied as Starbucks, its menu is far from mediocre.

Village Bakery & Café is open Wednesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is closed Sunday through Tuesday.

LUNCH: BIG MAMMA’S BURRITOS

Court Street is home to a Chipotle Mexican Grill, but it also houses Big Mamma’s Burritos. Many students may prefer Chipotle, but Big Mamma’s Burritos is just as good, if not better.

Although it may not be as popular as Chipotle, Big Mamma’s Burritos offers the same casual-local atmosphere while offering burritos, salads, bowls and chips.

When lunchtime rolls around, hungry students should consider Big Mamma’s Burritos.

DINNER: LULU’S CASA EL CAMINO

If students and their friends are looking for a nice restaurant to have dinner,

beyond what’s available uptown, then a quick drive to Lulu’s Casa El Camino is just what they need.

The restaurant itself doesn’t show itself off too much, but it still has the nice aesthetic of an actual Mexican restaurant with authentic Mexican cuisine.

The staff are always friendly and attentive to what customers need, and they almost never get an order wrong. Lulu’s Casa El Camino is a hidden gem for food lovers.

DESSERT: WHIT’S FROZEN CUSTARD

Here comes the part everyone enjoys: dessert. Even though this choice is a cliché choice in Athens, Whit’s Frozen Custard is still a spot worth highlighting.

Whit’s is a delightful place to enjoy a variety of sweet treats, from custard to ice cream sundaes. It also serves as a popular social gathering place for students to talk with their friends while eating creamy deliciousness.

Despite everyone having their preferences, the options listed above are some of the best places to go for students who need a break from the dining hall food. Each one will make an incoming freshman’s experience in Athens just a bit more special.

@HANNAHS_JUDE JH825821@OHIO.EDU

Survival Guide: Residence hall essentials

Students may not consider some things they might need, but here are some items and tips to help

LEANNE ABEL | FOR THE POST

One thing students worry about is what they should bring to college. Luckily, millions of people have gone through the process before and have tips on how to handle the situation.

Shower shoes are a top priority of bathroom necessities. Flip flops, clogs and water shoes are just a few examples of what could work best. This is something most people would not use at home but will appreciate in a communal bathroom.

A robe is a similar necessity. Most dorm showers are in communal bathrooms and are shared amongst residents. Robes provide a nice extra degree of privacy while also being a cozy addition to a nightly routine.

Students should bring any hygiene products they use at home. This includes shampoo, soap, contact lens supplies, lotion and anything else one may need. A shower caddy is great to carry these products from the dorm room to the bathroom. There is a big debate on whether mesh or plastic caddies are better, but the consensus is mesh is better for storage, while plastic is easier to hold and clean.

Hair products can also be included in this category. Hair ties go missing quickly and having extra won’t hurt. A tip for those who know their roommates prior to move-in, discuss what products each

could bring and share. For example, if one roommate prefers straightening their hair and the other curls theirs, they each only have to bring one and can share the other.

Shoe racks may also be simple to share as an individual may not need all the space for themselves. This will prevent shoes from creating clutter in the compacted shared space. Amazon sells a white four-tiered shoe rack for $9.98; however, the price varies due to color and size.

Organization in general is important. Rolling carts serve as easy storage shelves, as do desk organizers. They can be used for school supplies or makeup and hygiene products. Clothing organizers, which Amazon sells for $16.99, are good for tidying drawers in dressers.

Some residence halls provide sinks and mirrors inside dorm rooms, but most do not. Bringing one or two mirrors for the room reduces the number of visits to the communal bathroom or opening the camera app to check one’s hair.

Dorm lighting isn’t the best. Bringing a lamp makes it easier to do homework at a desk or relax in bed with a dim light on. For big readers, a clip-on reading light may be helpful.

In addition to bad lighting, the dorms have limited outlets. A power strip with USB and USB-C ports is going to be useful when everything is dead. Amazon sells one for $9.99.

Heating and cooling are dependent on personal preference. The units in rooms are often reliable, but residents are gen erally unable to change the temperature. Those who get hot easily should bring a travel fan. Amazon carries a USB-powered version for $18.86. Most residence halls will not allow heaters, so those who run cold should bring socks and blankets.

Laundry baskets and bags with straps and wheels are convenient for the walk from residence halls to laundry rooms. Amazon sells one with a front pocket for $16.99.

At Ohio University, the beds are extra-long twins, so residents may need to get a new set of sheets. A mattress topper is also helpful for getting a good night’s sleep. Walmart carries one for $39.99, and Amazon offers another for $74.99.

Washing dishes can be a daunting task. While residents can use disposable dishes for the whole year, it is cheaper to get reusable plates and dishes from places like IKEA.

Other miscellaneous things people forget include umbrellas, sunglasses, warm clothes and even backpacks. Be prepared for all types of weather during the semester as it gets cold quickly in Athens. Scissors, bandages and tape are also easily forgotten.

Making sure one has everything for college is important, but also remembering replacements can be bought is helpful. Bring what matters the most and have a great freshman year.

The Living Learning Center on Ohio University’s South Green, Oct. 30, 2023, in Athens, Ohio. (MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

On, off-campus activities provide activities for students

GRACE SCHMIDT | FOR THE POST

Meeting new people as an incoming student and integrating yourself into a new space can be intimidating. During students’ time at Ohio University, the school offers activities to fill the space between classes. Here are some activities on and off campus to escape the dorms and refresh between classes:

Coffee shops are a good place to start. Court Street is filled with various local coffee shops, perfect for meeting with friends or studying between classes. OU coffee culture is evident on campus, and it is rare people ever find a cafe empty on Court Street. Popular options include Donkey Coffee, Court Street Coffee and Brenen’s Coffee Cafe. A coffee shop is the perfect place to study independently or with friends off campus to reset your environment.

Hiking at local sites is a popular off-campus activity. Hanging out at Strouds Run can be a great activity for friends and an escape from school. Strouds has a beach area where many students gather to lay out in the sun and picnic on warm days.

The Ridges is a popular site for students interested in history. The Ridges used to be the Athens Lunatic Asylum, which OU bought and renovated parts of the building for academic use and an art museum.

The Bobcat HangOUt in Baker Center holds many games such as pool, foosball

and darts for any Bobcat to bring their friends during free time between classes. Baker also has Front Room Coffeehouse and West 82 to grab a snack or meal before visiting the Bobcat HangOUt or can be used to chat and do homework.

Ping Recreation Center is a popular spot on campus for physical activity. Ping has machines for independent workouts and group workout classes free of charge for students. There are cycling, Pilates, boxing, yoga and F45 classes. There are also various places for sports, such as basketball and volleyball and a rock climbing wall in the center of the building when you first enter.

Most recently, the Ping has added the Well-Being Wing, which provides “a place where students can work on their mental, emotional, environmental, physical, social and spiritual well-being.” The space has facilities and activities such as massage chairs, morning affirmations, drawing, coloring and poetry.

There are many food options in Athens when the dining hall becomes repetitive. Some popular local spots include Bagel Street Deli, a bagel sandwich place with infinite options; Hot Box, a locally owned business similar to Raising Canes and Mac Shack, a popular stop on Court St. for their hot and fresh Mac and cheese options.

Paw Print Park is located behind Nelson Court and is a great place for walking and

outdoor sports. The park has paved sidewalks and green space, along with sports fields next to it.

Just outside Nelson are sand volleyball courts for when the weather is nice, which is a great place to bring friends and get in some physical activity. Behind Nelson, there is a bike/walking trail lined with cherry blossom trees. The trails are full of people throughout the year, but

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they are most popular when the weather is warm and the trees are in bloom.

Picnicking on College Green is one of the most popular activities amongst students. When the weather is warm, students grab their blankets and snacks to meet with friends and enjoy the sun.

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The outside of Donkey Coffee and Espresso on Washington Street, May 24, 2025, in Athens. (MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

Commuter’s Corner: Freshman commuters face unique challenges

HAYLEE LEASURE | FOR THE POST

Despite common tropes, college commuters make up 85% of college students. Whether they are commuting 5 minutes or 30 minutes, freshman commuters face a unique struggle navigating college in an untraditional way.

Traditional college students who live on campus may not understand the various factors commuters have to take into account when navigating freshman year. Tips that apply to traditional students may not apply to commuters; that’s why commuters require a unique set of tips from a fellow commuter.

Always know your parking situation

The feeling of waiting with bated breath, hoping a particular parking spot will be open, is humbling. It’s essential to be fully aware of all available commuter parking spots. The Athens campus parking map is a great resource to pick out the perfect parking spot closest to classes.

Every year, Ohio University sells student permits, which give students the ability to park in commuter lots across campus. The permits go on sale at different times, so set an alarm to ensure your permit is secured.

Time management saves sanity

Although time management is an important skill for any incoming freshman, commuters also need to factor in driving times, walking times and getting home before it gets dark.

Some commuters live only a 10 minute drive away, but others live over 30 minutes away, which makes managing time difficult. I have a 30 minute commute and it can become stressful if I run into traffic or get a late start in the morning. Leaving early and arriving on campus an hour before your class can give you extra studying time and a cushion in case you run into problems. Arriving early at campus also allows commuters to explore campus life, find good study spots and feel more at home.

Planning out your day completely by factoring in time elements that might be thrown your way will save you time and, most importantly, your sanity.

Get involved right away

Being involved in campus life as a commuter can be difficult. When you’re not in class, you’re either home or studying and making time in between can feel impossi-

ble.

Despite those factors, OU offers events specifically for commuters, which can make it easy to find friends. Clubs and other organizations are often very accommodating, and with enough searching, you’re bound to find something to fit into your schedule. It can take some time to find clubs that are accommodating, which can be discouraging; however, they are out there.

OU’s Bobcat Connect is a great resource for finding various clubs on campus. Contact the people in the club and ask if they are accommodating for commuters; most people understand the struggle.

Many of the clubs and organizations I became a part of are incredibly accommodating and make me feel welcome as a commuter. Clubs with earlier meetings or the option for meetings online are extra helpful for a commuter’s busy schedule.

Find your spaces

As a commuter, time on campus can be limited and fully exploring campus can be an afterthought. It is extremely important to find your go-to spots for studying, eating and hanging out.

The campus can feel extremely large when you first get here; however, you’ll quickly gravitate toward the spots where you feel the most comfortable. Schoonover Center and Alden Library have always been the two spots I go to the most, and it makes me feel more connected to a campus I’m only on for a few hours a day. Schoonover Center is where I have the most classes, and Alden is always open, making those spots extra accommodating.

Finding your spaces will greatly improve the college experience because you’ll feel more connected and comfortable on campus. Pick a day to go exploring, check out every building and spot you can think of, and you’re bound to find at least one that speaks to you.

Realize every college experience is different, and that’s OK

As a commuter, it can easily feel very isolating. Seeing all of your peers have experiences you won’t have can make you feel like you’re doing something wrong.

I have experienced this countless times, feeling like I’m somehow missing out on the traditional college experience. However, I quickly realized even if my college experience looks a little different, that’s OK.

The college experience looks different for everyone, and differing experiences are OK. As I approach my last semester at Ohio University, I am thankful for the decisions I’ve made.

Although there’s some negatives, commuting has so many positives that have saved me time, money, and effort throughout my four years. My experience was different and at times unconventional, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Haylee Leasure is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Haylee about their column? Email them at hl125421@ohio.edu .

Clara’s Commentary: Friends in class make a difference

CLARA LEDER | ASST. OPINION EDITOR

As a freshman starting at Ohio University, one of the most daunting tasks is making and finding friends on campus. For college students, friendship is essential for one’s overall well-being. Although friends can be made anywhere on campus, making friends in academic classes is an easy place to strike up conversation and makes the difference in finding your home at OU.

When I was a freshman, I was petrified about finding my people, I felt immense pressure to find lifelong friends and find them quickly. This feeling is one many students face, especially as they head to university for the first time.

With added pressures from social media that make college look like it has to be the time of your life, it can be daunting to head into college feeling like you have to find your place and best friends right away.

The good news is, you have time and are not alone. Over 71% of college students find it hard to form deep re-

lationships in college. College provides a unique circumstance for friendships with no supervision and more free time, and good and deep friendships are essential to make campus feel more like home. Although it can be difficult to make friends, one of the best places to start is in your classes.

When I first came to campus in 2022 as a freshman, I was determined to make friends, but didn’t know where to start. In my very first education class, I remember feeling that pressure even more as I could hear the advice from Bobcat Student Orientation play through my ears: go up to someone in class and make friends with them. Although this notion is much easier said than done, I mustered up the courage to go up and talk to a girl in my class and introduce myself.

Four years later, the girl with red hair whom I went up to is now one of my best friends and roommates. Kirsten and I met in our first education class together, and from there, we spent our college years in almost all of the same classes.

The friendship I found with Kirsten was built on shared interests. We had the same major, the same goals and

Finding friends in classes not only helps you to feel more comfortable on campus but can also benefit students academically. Friendships in college classes make it easier to study for big exams and understand material leading to collaborative learning, which can have a positive impact on your GPA.

During your first year at OU, everyone is in the same boat when coming into the classroom: nervous, scared and probably a little intimidated. Those shared feelings are the perfect gateway for making connections, so understand everyone is in the same position as you and take the leap.

– Clara Leder, Assistant Opinion Editor

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Strike up a conversation in class and start making friends with the people who will be with you throughout your time in college.

– Clara Leder, Assistant Opinion Editor

spent most of our weeks in the same spaces. But those initial freshman year introductions turned into a lifelong friendship and I couldn’t have gotten this far in college without Kirsten.

Not only has this friendship made college more enjoyable for me, but it has also made it more manageable.

During your first year at OU, everyone is in the same boat when coming into the classroom: nervous, scared and probably a little intimidated. Those shared feelings are the perfect gateway for making connections, so understand everyone is in the same position as you and take the leap. Strike up a conversation in class and start making friends with the people who will be with you throughout your time in college. Friendship in college is essential for overall well-being and those friendships can start in the classroom. It is an ideal place to make friends as there are shared interests, similar feelings and a removal from the outside campus world that allows for students to make connections with people they otherwise wouldn’t run into.

If you find yourself nervous to make friends, or feeling lonely on campus, strike up a conversation with someone in class; they may just become one of your best friends.

Clara Leder is a senior studying education and journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Clara about their column? Email them at cl125221@ohio.edu.

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Natalie’s Reads: Three books to read before freshman year

NATALIE SADDLER | SLOT EDITOR

As a new summer of Bobcat Student Orientation begins, it can be daunting for many incoming freshmen to develop a smooth transition into college. Last summer, I was filled with excitement, but fear of starting college suddenly crept up on me. Reading can be a comfort to look toward during times of uncertainty. These are three books to consider reading this summer to help ease the nerves and build excitement for the upcoming school year:

influence. This rocks Halter and his friends’ worlds. Everything Halter knew about love was conquered by grief. However, this tragedy helped Halter realize how much life there is left to be lived.

Every incoming freshman is scared and nervous in some way. This book opens up the idea of taking risks. One piece of advice for incoming freshmen: take the risk and enjoy the moment. Freshman year is all firsts and putting oneself in uncomfortable positions. Friendships and different kinds of relationships blossom from stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and “Looking for Alaska” is the perfect example.

“Mary Jane” by Jessica Anya Blau is an underrated gem with different themes most incoming freshmen can experience or see. With an overall rating of 4.13 stars on Goodreads, “Mary Jane” follows the story of 14-year-old Mary Jane while she nannies the daughter of a local doctor and his wife. The family, the Cones, teaches Mary Jane valuable life lessons throughout the story.

Although this story centers around a young teen, the book offers insight into themes many college students experience. One of the main themes Mary Jane encounters is the desperate need to grow up. Her household lives the traditional lifestyle, and her family is always at church on Sundays.

Through her job, Mary Jane discovers a new perspective on life through the Cones. She realizes that outside her family, there is more to life than just one belief. After the summer, she notes how acceptance and change bring a better outcome than the one she had planned.

College can act like a prism. Each person you meet brings a new perspective to life, and it can be a privilege to hear their story. It is normal to feel nervous, but think about all the people waiting to tell their stories. A new view on life could help embrace the change. Content in “Mary Jane” includes drug use, sexual situations and more that may be difficult for some audiences. However, this is a perfect coming-of-age read to enjoy before the start of college.

Along the same lines, “Looking for Alaska” by John Green is a classic young adult novel that captivates readers into the world of Miles “Pudge” Halter. This story is set in Birmingham, Alabama, where Culver Creek, a boarding school, is located. Halter is scared to attend this new school, but in this new experience meets friends who change his life.

One friend is Alaska Young, a girl whom Halter becomes enamored with. Unfortunately, Young died from a fatal car accident while driving under the

3.

For a book that provides more life advice, “Everything I Know About Love” by Dolly Alderton is a memoir detailing events of growing older, experiencing love, friendships and loss. This memoir is mainly marketed toward women entering their 20s; however, anyone can relate to Alderton’s writing. Alderton discusses different topics she learned growing up. She went through her 20s chasing the idea of being in love with a person romantically, rather than focusing her attention on the platonic love in front of her. Alderton makes a famous statement toward the end of her memoir, “Nearly everything I know about love, I learnt from my long-term friendships with women.”

It can be difficult to detach from wanting romantic love. When coming into freshman year, there is this pressure to experience everything at once. Yet, no one talks about the waiting room where others sit waiting for different experiences to approach them at the right time.

Alderton does a great job of explaining her time sitting in this waiting room while others experience life differently. I got upset with myself this past year waiting for different “canon events” to happen to me, but I came to realize these life-altering events don’t happen to everyone.

Freshman year will slip away from your fingertips; however, take time with every moment. Feel the worst and enjoy the best times, these books are some to help with that idea. Not everyone nor everything will have the best intentions, but what you make of it will define you.

Natalie Saddler is a sophomore studying journalism and marketing at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions expressed by the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Natalie about their column? Email them at ns505423@ohio.edu.

1. “Mary Jane” by Jessica Anya Blau

2.“Looking for Alaska” by John Green

“I Know About Love” by Dolly Alderton

Sassie Cassie: Survival guide for out-of-state Bobcats

CASSIE DYE | MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR

Going to school out of state was a must for me when applying to college. I love my home state of Pennsylvania, I really do, but it was time to experience something new. Moving to Athens, there were a lot of adjustments I needed to make, so for the first Sassy Cassie of my senior year, I figured I would share some things that helped me adjust to life in Ohio as an out-of-state student.

Before move-in day begins, make sure to pack everything you need. From basic college essentials to legal documents. If you want a job while in college, you need I-9 documents for authorization to work. While packing, be sure to transfer any medication to a pharmacy nearby, and check with your healthcare provider if your coverage will still work. Also, schedule any doctor’s appointments before you leave, so your parents don’t nag you about them when you come home.

Moving on to move-in day, if you are an out-ofstate student, seriously consider signing up for early move-in. At Ohio University, early move-in starts on August 16 and costs $125, but if you sign up for the Bobcat Move-in crew, the cost gets waived. With early move-in, students have more time and space to get organized, get to know the campus a bit better

and get comfortable in the dorm. This is good for an out-of-state student because most do not have the opportunity to visit campus more than twice, if that, before coming for the fall semester. So, one can explore more of the campus and Athens if they move in early. You can take these few days and try some of the restaurants like Ginger or Star of India, and figure out where all your classes are or even start looking for a job.

So now that you have moved in and have everything you need, the next step is to adjust to Ohio. The scenery in Athens is great; however, if you are coming from a big city, be prepared to possibly be hit with allergies. There are trees everywhere on campus, and pollen is just floating around. Make sure you purchase allergy medicine sometime within the first week, so you don’t end up like me, sick for three weeks and thinking you are dying when you just have allergies.

For the first weekend when everyone is on campus, going to a big state school like Ohio University, a lot of people know each other from high school or have some connection to one another. Do not be afraid to go up to people and introduce yourself; established cliques are not a thing in college. The first weekend, there is also the involvement fair, which is a great time to join organizations and clubs, which are great

Aiden’s Add On:

AIDEN RYAN| FOR THE POST

Bobcat Student Orientation is full of the classic college fanfare: the frills, friendly staff and new friends. Green and white dot Baker University Center, The Convo and Peden Stadium. These are places incoming freshmen and their parents may remember from previous tours or the Ohio University website that often serve as important landmarks to navigate campus in the first few weeks.

Yet, it is different living in a dorm far from home. College can be an incredibly rewarding time, but countless factors also build uncertainty. It is when positive mental health practices become necessary not only as a source for motivation, but as a tool to combat fear. The constant change of college also makes it easy to get carried away and lose ground. Students may find themselves simply asking, “What am I going to do with the rest of my life?”

There are two answers to such a demanding question. First, students must realize life has a way of changing pathways in an instant. One degree is not definite. The Pew Research Center finds, of those enrolled in a four-year public university such as OU, only about 69% finish a degree program in six years. Motivation to complete college can be difficult to find, it is important to practice long-term sustainability for

for meeting new people and making friends. Although you will meet lots of new faces at the involvement fair and during the first few weeks, homesickness may still creep in, and that’s okay.

Homesickness is “the feeling of being unhappy because of being away from home for a long period.” Being from out of state, you may not get the chance to go home as often as in-state students. I know for me, I only go home during longer breaks like Thanksgiving and winter break. So, make the most of your time at home when you get it, see high school friends and go to your favorite spots in your hometown. But while you are away at school, try to bring a part of your home with you. Taking decorations from your home bedroom and calling friends and family from home weekly can help combat any homesickness. Check out my column from last year about how to adjust to dorm life.

Going to school far away from home can be scary, not knowing anyone or very limited people is terrifying. But once you find your own community at OU, Athens will start to feel like home as well.

Cassie is a senior studying communications at Ohio University. Please note the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Cassie? Email her at cb086021@ohio.edu.

Receive experiences, not a piece of paper

mental health.

Having a college degree is important in an ever-changing job market, but getting the piece of paper is only half of the experience. Some people will find themselves graduating earlier, and some will take longer to finish their degree. That’s fine because receiving a diploma grants access to the group of 23.5% of U.S. adults aged 25 and older who hold a bachelor’s degree, per the U.S. Census Bureau. It is important to note college experiences make successful college graduates, not the diploma they receive at the end of their journey.

The other half of attending college is trying new things, attending compelling events and meeting people with completely different viewpoints. OU has over 550 student organizations, and many of them will be showcased at the OU Involvement Fair at the beginning of the fall semester. Getting involved with student organizations is another great way to navigate uncertainty in college and find a clearer path for the future while building a resume.

Having a schedule and practicing proactivity is also important, but taking life one day at a time makes the biggest difference. According to Harmony Healthcare, 46% of college students have a diagnosed mental health condition. Of those, 86% of college students are diagnosed with anxiety. Countless students struggle with their mental

health, and going to college can add unanticipated challenges.

Just “taking a break” from stressful situations may not be enough in the coming years. Students must prioritize their mental health through good rest, exercise, socialization and routine planning. It is nearly impossible that every day will be perfect, but having a plan for a better tomorrow should always be a goal.

There is a path for everyone at OU, no matter where they come from or how acquainted they are with college. Unlike a few schools across the country, OU is geographically nestled in the Appalachian foothills. The closest major city to Athens is Columbus, which is still 68 miles away. That physical isolation has fostered a strong support network in Athens that awaits the next group of freshmen.

There is a great deal of pressure to craft a resume, create a lifeplan and start a career for all students, regardless of their majors. For now, find the things that bring the most joy and the strongest motivation. Everything else will follow.

Aiden is a freshman studying journalism. Please note that the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Aiden? Reach him on Instagram at @aiden-with-an-i- or email him at ar260223@ohio. edu.

SUDOKU

Letter from the Editor: BSO isn’t something to be afraid of

Welcome to Bobcat Student Orientation, new students! I am so excited for you all to be joining the Ohio University network — enrolling here makes you a part of OU’s storied 200-year history, connecting you with innumerable graduates across the globe.

It may seem intimidating to have so many possibilities at your fingertips. If you feel terrified at the idea of choosing classes, a major or even what to order at Donkey Coffee, you’re not alone. Being on campus alone for the first time at BSO is a very scary experience.

But it shouldn’t be. The years you have

at OU are years of unprecedented freedom for many people. At BSO, you get a taste of that freedom, whether it be by staying overnight on campus, meeting a brand new set of friends or enrolling in a course about a topic you’ve never heard of. Many more nights of freedom await you, but BSO is the start.

You will hear many people say college is the best time of your life. Although I would agree it has been fun, the best time of your life does not mean it will be easy. You’ll have setbacks, you’ll fail a test and you’ll get in fights with those new friends. It’s inevitable. But you’ll also form the strongest connections of your life, you’ll learn some truly mind-blowing things and you’ll get opportunities to do things you couldn’t have ever possibly imagined doing in high school.

There is nothing quite like the time you get at OU. I have had the time of my life here. I’ve met the best people and had lots of fun, but I’ve also grown more than I could ever imagine. I would never choose my best day in high school over my worst day in college.

You, too, can have this experience. You can interact with new people, find new interests, explore a plethora of professional and academic options, and it all starts here at BSO. Don’t be afraid of the possibilities you have, embrace them. Embrace the chaos and stress of your first time on campus as a Bobcat, not as a prospective student. You’re not a failure if it doesn’t click immediately or if your first few days as a Bobcat aren’t the most enjoyable. You just have to keep trying, growing and learning — that’s what college is all about.

For right now, however, take it one step at a time. Let BSO be the introduction to your next stage of life, enjoy the rest of your summer and, most importantly, get ready to be a Bobcat.

Jackson McCoy is a junior studying journalism and environmental studies at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to share your thoughts? Let Jackson know by emailing him at jm049122@ohio.edu or Tweeting him at @_jackson_mccoy_.

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Daphne’s Dispatch: OU faculty contribute to institution recognition

DAPHNE GRAETER | OPINION EDITOR

At Ohio University, faculty members are decorated with multiple degrees and have decades of real-world experience, making them highly qualified to teach the next generation of business professionals, scientists, journalists, engineers, teachers, the list goes on.

OU owes much of its esteemed reputation to its faculty whose work has played a role in earning the university a variety of prestigious achievements. One of which is the Carnegie R1 Classification, which is awarded to institutions indicating the highest level of research activity.

This R1 classification is also due to the employment of Ph.D.-level personnel engaged in research. As OU is regarded for its high levels of research across the institution, more than 100 faculty members are recognized for contributing to the development of knowledge, professional service, teaching and mentoring.

“This is a significant milestone for our great University. This Carnegie R1 Classification amplifies OHIO’s ability to attract additional outstanding faculty and more research dollars, which will ultimately lead to innovation and discovery to the benefit of our global society,” OU’s former President Hugh Sherman told OHIO Today.

Research dollars also contribute to the R1 recognition. Institutions with the Carnegie R1 Classification spend, on average, at least $50 million annually on research and development. Faculty at OU are responsible for this esteemed recognition and it is only half of their role at the university.

Aside from their support and dedication to research, OU faculty are decorated with awards and certificates for their notable contributions to their fields and industries. Known as OHIO Faculty Newsmakers, the university recognizes faculty members for their work, insights and expertise that have elevated OU’s national and global profile.

Ways in which faculty may be recognized under this title include, “being quoted as an expert or source in one or more media stories, having research or creative work picked up by multiple news outlets, being featured in a significant media profile or article and receiving an award or honor highlighted by the media.”

Roberto Duncan, an associate professor of economics and M.A. graduate chair in the College of Arts and Sciences, is a Faculty Newsmaker for 2025. In March, Duncan was featured in local and national media for his analysis on the new tariffs, providing insights into how the tariffs could lead to higher consumer prices, disrupting supply chains.

Sharon Casapulla, director of rural and urban scholars pathways program and assistant professor of primary care in the Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, is also a Faculty Newsmaker who, in February, was featured in the Columbus Dispatch. Casapulla discussed the critical issue of healthcare deserts in rural Ohio, placing an emphasis on the profound impact on communities where access to medical services is limited or nonexistent.

Duncan and Casapulla are two of the seven Faculty Newsmakers who have contributed extremely to OU’s institutional recognition, but there are many faculty members who provide the same recognition and have yet to be recognized.

Faculty members are credited with paving the way for students and opening industries to the next generation of experts. To have such esteemed faculty working so closely with students through research and development, an institution such as OU is spectacularly different and should be recognized for its dedicated faculty.

Daphne Graeter is a senior studying journalism at Ohio

University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Let Daphne know by emailing her at dg422421@ ohio.edu.

Fun Fact: The College of Arts and Sciences is OU’s largest college and has recognized faculty research on topics ranging from geography to history to astronmy and physics.