College Guide Fall 2017

Tulsa World Supplement, Sunday, October 15, 2017

2017

College Guide

Plan your future with useful information from area schools

tulsaworld.com/collegeguide2017

2 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

A mom’s advice to her college-bound daughter Go to class! We hope you’ll make friends and

get involved with exciting things. But remember why you worked so hard to get here and make learning your biggest priority. Keep up with the reading, study every day, and you’ll still have plenty of time to play.

Get to know your professors. Especially at a big school, it can be intimidating, but you’ll get more out of school if you introduce yourself to your professors and go to office hours at least occasionally. Most professors — at least the good ones — genuinely enjoy getting to know students, especially the ones who put in some effort. Sit near the front of class and turn your cellphone off, and when you find inspiring professors, see what else they teach and try to take more of their classes.

Say yes to new experiences. College is a unique opportunity to do and go to unusual things, and many of them are free and within walking distance.

Try things you wouldn’t normally be interested in (plays, student movies). Whenever possible, say yes to new experiences. Who knows where you might meet a fascinating friend or discover a hidden talent or passion?

Show up. A friend mentioned this one (channeling Woody Allen’s famous line), and it is one of the most truest lessons I’ve learned. Whether it’s a club meeting, study group, a friend’s birthday, concert, game or her move into that third-floor walk-up, it’s important to be there. It will deepen your relationships and experiences. (While you’re at it, plan on showing up five minutes early so you won’t get stressed out, and it will show that you respect other people’s time as

much as your own.)

Eat at least five fruits and veggies a day. No matter how busy you get, take care of your

body and its needs. You’ll be able to stay healthy, think more clearly and enjoy yourself more if you get some sleep, exercise, eat well and take some time to breathe, unplug and think your own thoughts. Try to become an expert at recognizing what your mind and body need and finding ways to get them.

Immerse yourself in new places and cultures. You have the good fortune of having this

exciting opportunity to live somewhere new and travel without the binds of a full-time job or much financial pressure. Once you settle in, get off campus and explore Nashville by bike, bus or foot. Taking a semester abroad or living in a culture different from your own for at least a summer broadens your perspective.

fields. You may be surprised to learn that you love ornithology or archaeology, or that you really don’t really like the subjects you thought you would. There will always be opportunities to change careers, but college is tailor-made to explore what stirs your heart and mind.

Start saving whenever you start earning. Whether automatically or deliberately, try

to put away 10 percent of what you earn throughout life so you’ll have more options when you need or want them. Someday you might want to take a trip around the world, buy your dream house or give a year of service, and having a fund to draw from will make following your heart easier. (If not, there’s always WWOOFing!).

When you feel like judging, be curious instead. You’ll meet people with different beliefs

and lifestyles from yours, and they’ve had different life experiences than you. Be kind, be curious and give people the benefit of the doubt, at least the first time.

Keep things in perspective. Suffering — and treating — life’s wounds and setbacks (whether self-inflicted or not) is part of the journey. Problems that seem devastating or daunting usually are solvable, and have a way of working themselves out with time, sometimes even one good night’s sleep. And of course, no matter what you do and what mistakes you make, Dad and I love you and stand ready to help.

Trust your gut and stay true to your values. You have to live with the consequences of

Wear sunscreen. Bring a sweater.

Call your mother (and father).

your actions, not the person who may be pressuring you to climb on the rickety roof or steal that sign.

Keep looking until you find a passion.

College can give you the opportunity to explore new

– Aviva Goldfarb wrote this for The Washington Post. She is a mother of two children, including an 18-year-old daughter who is a freshman in college.

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

Sunday, October 15, 2017 3

Student Population: 3,919

ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY

Highest Degree: Doctorate

Tulsa, Oklahoma • (918) 495-6518 • oru.edu Make No Little Plans Here

For 50 years, this powerful challenge has inspired more than 40,000 ORU alumni to take God’s healing power to 145 nations around the globe permeating every part of society — business, education, medicine, politics, media, science, engineering, ministry and much more.

As a world-renowned Christian university, ORU focuses on building Spirit-empowered leaders through its unmatched Whole Person approach to education — transforming students academically, physically and spiritually to equip them for success in every area of life.

Not Just a Bible School

Although ORU houses one of the world’s most well regarded colleges for theology and ministry, it’s a liberal arts university with programs spanning every interest and stage of learning: • Six unique colleges with bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs

• 135+ undergraduate majors and minors • 12 master’s programs • Two doctoral programs • 100% online bachelor’s, graduate, diploma and certificate programs • On-campus and online dual-enrollment programs for high school students

Value and Affordability

For back-to-back years, ORU has remained a distinguished institution in the Tulsa area, the U.S. and around the world. It’s listed as a “2017 Best Regional University” by U.S. News and World Report.

In addition, ORU’s Whole Person Education is more affordable than many think. With recently increased academic and legacy scholarships, as well as the premier Quest Whole Person Scholarship, ORU students are awarded the support they need to reach their dreams through an ORU education.

According to research compiled with data from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems

(IPEDS), 94% of ORU students benefited from financial assistance compared to 45% at the University of Texas, 79% at Oklahoma State University and 83% at the University of Oklahoma. ORU students receive $6,526 more in grants and scholarships per student than OSU, $6,354 more than OU, and $4,660 more than UT per academic year.

Dynamic Student Experience

One of the distinctions you can expect when studying at ORU is the vibrant student and community experience that exists in and out of the classroom. ORU’s positive culture is experienced through: • Individual attention and mentoring from Christ-centered professors • Personable 16:1 student-to-teacher class sizes • Bi-weekly chapel services fused with powerful student-led worship, life-changing messages and multi-media packed experiences • Student-led campus and “wing” events

Mascot: Golden Eagles Follow ORU on Instagram & Twitter at @OralRobertsU or like us on Facebook!

• Competitive intramural sports • Leadership development opportunities • 14 NCAA Division I athletic teams • 35+ academic and co-curricular clubs • A diverse student community from every U.S. state and an astounding 1 101 nations • International opportunities for mission and study abroad trips

College Weekend

Discover more about the university in your own backyard. You’re invited to the biggest visit event of the year, November 2-4.

College Weekend gives you a taste of life at ORU. Accept your invitation at oru.edu/cw.

ORU students come from all four corners of the United States and 101 nations around the world.

COLLEGE GUIDE

4 Sunday, October 15, 2017

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

The University of Tulsa The UNIVERSITY of TULSA n 918-631-2000 n utulsa.edu Tulsa, Oklahoma Tulsa, Oklahoma • (918) 631-2000 • utulsa.edu TheUniversity UniversityofofTulsa Tulsa a top 100 doctoral The is ais top 100 doctoral degree-granting institution, a top 50 private degree-granting institution and Oklahoma’s college and Oklahoma’s top-ranked university, according to the 2018 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” publication. top-ranked university according to the 2017 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” TU attracts some of the brightest students publication. from across the U.S. and around the globe TU attracts some of the brightest students fromto an inclusive campus that values diversity. across the U.S. and around the world. This fall,In addition to welcoming more than 1,000 international students from about 70 TU welcomed 724 freshman with an average countries, the university’s study-abroad ACT score of 30 to its 200-acre residential programs provide opportunities to embrace campus. TU’s diverse student population is new cultures. Students find themselves on a attracted not only by the university’s highly 200-acre residential campus near downtown with traditional college experiences such regarded academic reputation, but also its 11:1 as Division I sports, dozens of student-to-faculty ratio. organizations and a variety of housing options. TU has been recognized for its energy

Student Population: 4,440 Highest Degree: Doctorate Mascot: Golden Hurricane

than 50 years. Today, that TU offersprograms small classesfor andmore an 11:1 reputation extends to areas such as cyber security, student-to-faculty ratio. Incoming finance, psychology and Native freshmen, transfers and nontraditional American law. In TU opened thesupport Oxley College students 2015, receive exceptional from of Health which brings together nursing, kinesiology dedicatedSciences, faculty and staff.

Committed professors empower students to tackle and rehabilitative sciences and the communication biggest challenges facing Tulsa and the sciences and disorders. world. The True Blue Neighbors community engagement program allows Global education is an important component students of to the participate in service projects TU experience, and all students are and maintain a steady presence in local schools and neighborhoods. Undergraduate research is supported in every college at TU, and emphasis is placed on leadership development and self-discovery.

encouraged to study abroad at least one semester.

The opportunity to embrace new cultures also can be found on campus where about 1,200 international students come from more than 70 countries. TU’s dedicated community engagement program, True Blue Neighbors, allows students, faculty and staff to participate in civic service projects and maintain a steady presence in local schools and neighborhoods. Much more than a prestigious university, the TU family is a force for good in the Tulsa community.

Follow TU on Facebook at @utulsa.edu and on Twitter/Instagram at @utulsa

From the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and math) to the arts and humanities, TU offers a major for every interest. The university also is home to a top-ranked business college and law school.

More recently, TU has been recognized for expanding its healthcare disciplines Highest Degree: Doctorate by adding a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree to its highly regarded School of Nursing.

TheMascot: university’s Golden world-classHurricane facilities prepare students for graduate school and meaningful Facebook: @utulsa.edu employment.

Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat: @utulsa

TU is a good value with excellent scholarships, valuable internships and a 93 percent placement rate. Last year, the university awarded more than $20 million in financial aid to incoming freshmen, and TU alumni earned the highest mid-career salaries among all Oklahoma college graduates. TU is a private university dedicated to knowledge, research and community.

TU is home to more nationally competitive scholars than all other Oklahoma colleges combined.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 5

6 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

Norman, Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Oklahoma • (800) 234-6868 • ou.edu Created by the Oklahoma Territorial Legislature in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a doctoral degreegranting research university serving the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation.

The Norman campus serves as home to all of the university’s academic programs except health-related fields. The OU Health Sciences Center, located in Oklahoma City, is one of only four comprehensive academic health centers in the nation with seven professional colleges. Both the Norman and Health Sciences Center colleges offer programs at the Schusterman Center, the site of OU-Tulsa.

OU enrolls more that 30,000 students, has more than 2,800 full-time faculty members, has 21 colleges, offering 170 majors at the baccalaureate level, 153 majors at the master level, 80 majors at the doctoral level, 32 majors at the doctoral professional level, and 46 graduate certificates.

OU is a pacesetter in American public higher education. OU is the only public university in U.S. history to ever rank No. 1 among both public and private universities in the number of freshman National Merit Scholars enrolled.

Student Population: 30,000+ Highest Degree: Doctorate Mascot: Sooner Schooner

This year, OU has achieved a freshman-to-sophomore retention rate of 92.1 percent, ranking OU among the top universities in the nation. OU is one of only 34 public institutions in the nation currently reporting retention rates of 92 percent or higher.

Follow OU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and You Tube.

OU – The state’s largest university and home to its top scholars

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 7

8 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

TULSA TECH Six campuses in the Tulsa area • (918) 828-5000 • tulsatech.edu

Tulsa Tech is the oldest and largest technology center in Oklahoma’s nationally-acclaimed Career Tech system. We provide affordable, industry-standard technical training in an engaging, innovative learning environment where students benefit from instructors with years of valuable industry experience.

Tulsa Tech offers a wide range of opportunities to prepare students for success in a career. With six campuses in the Tulsa metro area, a campus is never too far away.

A recognized Locations: contributor to Broken Arrow, Jenks, regional economic Owasso, Sand Springs prosperity, we have and Tulsa one vision, to be the Student Population: 5,500 region’s leader of career and technical Follow Tulsa Tech on Faceeducation, resulting book and Twitter. Find us at in a quality job for every Tulsa Tech student @tulsatech. and a skilled workforce for every company, and our mission is simple, educating people for success in the workplace. We take pride in being a highly-diversified institution that rivals the complexities of many colleges and universities, and serving as a link between students and the developing economy of the Tulsa metro area.

We currently serve over 5,500 high school and adult students exploring over 90 full-time career majors in addition to providing training for over 31,000 patrons in both part-time classes and customized business and industry training.

Students can choose from a variety of programs including health sciences, aerospace, pre-engineering, automotive, construction, and information technology.

Tuition is free for public, private and home-schooled high school students with low-cost tuition for adult learners. We offer morning, afternoon, evening and all-day classes to fit any schedule.

Tulsa Tech offers the Accelerating Independence Scholarship, which covers 100 percent of tuition and required fees for students age 18-23 with GED or high school degrees from any in-district, public, parochial or home school. The Accelerating Independence Scholarship was developed to help provide a pathway for this age

group to acquire the skills that currently align with the industry needs of our region.

Increasing student educational access and career success are among Tulsa Tech’s top priorities. To facilitate this, we have created many shorter courses aligned with overall career majors, and industry certifications, provided to our students in a more business friendly way. Many of these shorter course offering build upon larger career majors, and ultimately offer students optional pathways within a particular career field.

Tulsa Tech believes in providing students with resources for work-based experience and placement — resources that are critical for making the transition from the classroom to the workplace.

Our strong partnerships with businesses and industry in the region create unique opportunities for student placement and work-based experiences. Students who successfully complete training are referred to available and appropriate employers in their field. Career advisement is also available for middle school, high school and adult students in the Tulsa metro area.

If you are currently looking for a challenging new career for both high school and adult students, quality customized corporate training, or exciting evening and weekend classes, Tulsa Tech invites you to visit today. For more information, please call 918-828-5000 or visit us online at tulsatech.edu.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 9

COLLEGE GUIDE

10 Sunday, October 15, 2017

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY - TULSA Downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma • (918) GET-HERE • osuintulsa.com

Earn an OSU degree in Tulsa As Tulsa’s only public four-year university located downtown, OSU-Tulsa offers Oklahoma State University’s world-class academic programs in an urban setting. OSU-Tulsa offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in areas including business, education, engineering and technology, human services and liberal arts. Undergraduate students Student Population: generally transfer to 2,280 OSU-Tulsa after earning Highest Degree: their associate degree Doctorate or completing about Mascot: 45 hours of freshmanCowboys and sophomore-level coursework.

Follow OSU-Tulsa on Facebook and Twitter at OSUTulsa and Instagram at okstatetulsa

OSU-Tulsa students graduate with the same OSU degree that students in Stillwater receive. OSU-Tulsa’s downtown location adds to the value of that degree by giving students access to the internship and volunteer opportunities, cultural attractions and social scene that come with an urban campus.

Research Focused Since OSU-Tulsa is a comprehensive research institu-

tion, students have the opportunity to participate in research that impacts Tulsa-area businesses, communities and families and changes the lives of those in need.

• The Helmerich Research Center is a state-of-the-art facility for materials science and engineering research with an emphasis on partnering with industry to commercialize that research.

• The OSU Center for Family Resilience focuses on research that addresses everyday issues confronted by families and helps transform that research into practice.

OSU’s research focus and reputation for high quality pay off — salaries for OSU graduates are higher than those of many regional and online-only institutions.

Making College Doable OSU-Tulsa’s class schedules are created to help students balance busy lives with earning a degree: • Most on-campus classes are offered one night a week.

• Most on-campus classes start at 4:30 p.m. or later.

• Hybrid and online class options are also available.

Earning an OSU degree in Tulsa is affordable, too. OSU was named a 2017 Best Value college by Kiplinger’s — the 14th time it has received this recognition. OSU-Tulsa has awarded nearly $3 million in scholarships since 2005, and awards thousands of dollars in grants and financial aid each year. Since OSU-Tulsa’s undergraduate students are all transfer students, many spend their freshman and sophomore years at local two-year colleges, which typically have lower costs.

Start Early OSU-Tulsa’s academic counselors serve as personal guides from pre-admission through graduation.

Whether you plan to start your OSU degree next semester or next year, start meeting with an academic counselor now.

• Academic counselors have offices at or regularly visit local two-year colleges.

• One-on-one appointments are available to discuss career goals and degree options in Stillwater or Tulsa.

• Find out about financial aid opportunities and graduate education options.

Learn more about earning an OSU degree in Tulsa at osuintulsa.com or in Stillwater at admissions.okstate. edu.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 11

12 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

Weighing in on the truth behind the ‘freshman 15’

With college in full swing, health-conscious freshmen may have an extra worry on their minds: the dreaded “freshman 15.” Amid the unlimited food at the dining hall, no parents telling you to eat your veggies, and late-night study sessions with plenty of snacks, the freshman 15 seems inevitable.

But do most freshmen really gain 15 pounds during their first year? Research tells us no. Several studies have looked at the freshman 15 phenomenon and found that while weight gain is common during freshman year, 15 pounds is more than the average.

The actual weight gain of freshmen varies greatly among different studies, with an overall average of 7 1/2 pounds. A meta-analysis of studies examining the freshman 15 phenomenon found that although nearly two-thirds of students gain weight as freshmen, fewer than 10 percent gain 15 pounds or more.

So should you worry about gaining those 15 pounds? Probably not. But that’s not to say that you should be hitting the dessert bar in the cafeteria and having pizza and beer every night, either.

Even though the freshman 15 is really more like the freshman seven, the problem is that habits that cause significant weight gain during freshman year aren’t likely to stop when the year ends. Creating beneficial habits during your college years can set you up for success not only in beating weight gain while you’re in college, but also in establishing habits you need to stay healthy afterward. Here’s where to start.

Stick to structure. Fit breakfast, lunch and dinner into your daily schedule, with a healthy snack

between meals if needed.

Getting into a routine and creating structure for your meals will help you feel more in control of what you’re eating. Knowing that you’ll eat three meals every day means you can plan in advance for healthy options.

Be careful in the cafeteria. When your dining plan has you going to all-you-can-eat buffets every night, it can be tough to rein in your eating habits.

Take on the cafeteria in a few steps. First, do a lap through the line to see what your options are so you can make smart, not impulsive, decisions.

Grab a salad plate rather than a dinner plate — you’re likely to eat less while still feeling satisfied when you eat from a smaller plate.

Next, fill half your plate with veggies from the salad bar, hot bar or both. Fill a quarter of your plate with lean protein such as grilled chicken or baked fish, and the last quarter of your plate with whole grains like brown rice or whole wheat bread.

Once you’ve made your plate, don’t go back for seconds (unless you’re grabbing veggies to munch on), and skip the dessert bar for hot tea and a piece of fruit to take back to your dorm.

Get fit with friends. Chances are your friends are also trying to avoid weight gain, so create a workout group to hold one another accountable.

Print out a schedule of workout classes at your school gym and highlight classes that you’ll try together. That way you’ll know in advance when you’ll

work out, and you can plan study sessions accordingly.

Having friends to work out with always makes exercise more fun, and it’s not nearly as easy to call off a workout when you know people will expecting you at the gym.

If the gym isn’t your thing, take advantage of intramural sports or join a club that will get you active regularly. These are great ways to meet like-minded people, too.

Don’t drink your calories. If you’re downing energy drinks, you’ll find those calories add up fast.

For a caffeine boost, stick to black coffee or tea — or add just one packet of sugar, rather than ordering a pre-sweetened drink loaded with sugar.

Stock up on healthy snacks. It’s easier to avoid junk food if it’s not within arm’s reach.

Rather than having bags of chips and candy on hand for late-night studying, stock your dorm room with healthy snacks such as individually portioned packs of nuts, whole-grain granola bars with fewer than 5 grams of sugar, and fresh fruit, yogurt, veggies and hummus in your mini fridge.

This is also a great strategy for healthier eats after a party. Knowing you have healthy snacks in your dorm room saves you from the temptation to grab takeout or pizza on the way home.

- Christy Brissette, Special to The Washington Post, is a dietitian, foodie and president of 80TwentyNutrition.com.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 13

Tips for success from college advisors to freshmen As students settle in to their new lives as college students, I know how hard it is for parents to become college parents. As both a professor and faculty adviser to incoming college freshmen, I’ve worked with many students adjusting to life on campus.

While parents naturally want to do all they can to ensure that their children succeed, many have a hard time knowing when to hold on and when to finally let go.

I feel a connection to the parents I meet as they face one of the ultimate milestones in parenting.

I turned to the experts to better understand how parents can support their college students while also giving their children the autonomy they need.

Offer support, but don’t solve their problems. Parent-

ing expert and family doctor Deborah Gilboa explained that while milestones appear frequently in early childhood, as children grow up, there are “vast wastelands” between milestones. This can make it challenging for parents to know how and when to start offering their children autonomy.

“Within these ‘wastelands,’ exist the time when parents need to separate the ‘we’ into ‘I and you,’ “ Gilboa says.

Rachel Nelson, an academic adviser at the University of Florida, recommends parents not only be supportive but stay open-minded.

“Too often, students feel familial pressure and guilt to pursue certain majors, earn certain grades,” Nelson says.

“Recognize that their journey to success and happiness may be very different from your own. And, that’s okay.”

This process of separating peaks when children leave home.

“This is the hard work of being the parent to a college student,” Gilboa says to students and parents. “You got them here, now it’s time to let them go and let them thrive.”

Lynn O’Sickey oversees academic advising for residential students in the University of Florida College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Academic Advising Center. She reminds parents that while they can’t solve their collegeage children’s problems, they can still be a source of both strength and of support. Now a parent to college students herself, O’Sickey is experiencing

this firsthand.

“Your student is most likely going to turn to you when they are feeling most vulnerable,” she recently shared with other college parents. “You are their safe place where they can share their worst fears and frustrations and be met with support and sympathy.”

Ask questions before giving advice. Gilboa’s overarching

advice to parents is to “ask before offering help.” This isn’t always easy.

“It is much harder to show empathy without intervening,” Gilboa emphasizes. “For most parents, it’s so much a part of our habit to micromanage our kids’ lives.”

As students settle into college life, they will find that they are over-prepared in some areas, but also underprepared in others, Gilboa says. Instead of stepping in right away to fix problems, she suggests students are better served if parents first ask them, “what do you not feel prepared for?” Parents can follow up with “What can I do to best support you?” A student might ask for help with laundry or perhaps assistance with finding a new place to live. These are the times when a parent can offer help while still respecting the student’s autonomy.

Ophir Lehavy is a student success coach at the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications. She recommends that parents ask their child questions like: What do you want to get out of your college experience? What are you hoping for?

She suggests parents return to these conversations when their students are stressed.

“Those initial thoughts can change as they are exposed to new people, subjects, and experiences,” Lehavy explains. “When the semester is underway and they are in the midst of deadlines, remind them of that initial conversation, how much they have already accomplished and that you are there to support them.”

Give advice, then give space. O’Sickey reminds parents that

“students often call for support when they are at their lowest.” She recalled times when her college-age son called her in crisis. She would give him some advice, but then wouldn’t hear back for

hours or even days. When she’d finally get another call, he’d casually tell her “Oh, yeah, that worked out okay.”

“Try not to panic,” she says. “Remember that you’re their outlet and that chances are once they’ve vented, they’ll go off and begin to address the situation and move on.”

Akilah Brown teaches first-year students at Pasadena City College. She is also a parent to a freshman college student.

“Don’t make your student feel guilty for not speaking to you as often,” Brown says. “They are going to be busy making friends and enjoying the freedom of being college students. I think it’s fair to have a regular check in day or time to talk, but, unless parents feel their children are engaging in risky behavior, let them enjoy being on their own.”

Always listen to your gut. Sometimes parents must get in-

volved, especially if they are concerned about the student’s safety or well-being.

“You are the expert on your child,” Gilboa stresses but suggests that, if you tend to overreact, you could first check in with a parenting partner, counselor or trusted friend.

Nelson urges parents to help break the stigma surrounding mental health.

“Set the standard that talking to a counselor is okay, that asking for help is okay, that addressing your feelings instead of ignoring or burying them is okay.”

She encourages parents to not only educate themselves on the mental health issues that college students face, but to also learn about the resources available to assist students at his or her institution.

When should a parent step in? Jennifer Sager is a mental

health expert who regularly works with college students.

“College students need space to make their own mistakes,” she said.

“But there are some experiences that are ‘above their pay grade.’”

Sager believes that college students still need a fair amount of direction. She noted that college students can face significant issues that may need more direction from you.

Still, it’s okay for students to sometimes struggle or even occasionally fail, she said.

“College is a relatively safe place for them to do that, and it’ll teach them a lot about themselves,” she says.

Even in the face of uncertainty, most experts agree that parents of college students need to take a deep breath and step back. Trusting their children to solve their own problems is a tremendous show of support and love.

- Stacey Steinberg, Special to The Washington Post, is a legal skills professor at the University of Florida Levin College of Law.

14 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

ROGERS STATE UNIVERSITY Claremore, Bartlesville and Pryor, Oklahoma • (800) 256-7511 • rsu.edu A dynamic, regional university with more than 3,700 students, Rogers State University provides the complete college experience where students can live on campus, participate in a myriad of student activities, or enjoy the thrill of NCAA Division II athletics — all while earning a degree from one of RSU’s many high-quality academic programs.

RSU offers bachelor’s and associate degree programs in Oklahoma’s top 10 fastest growing industries. These include traditional programs such as communications, humanities, business administration, criminal administration, applied technology, and nursing, as well as emerging fields such as game development and environmental conservation.

Many students from northeast Oklahoma who plan to attend medical school complete their undergraduate studies through RSU’s program in medical/ molecular biology. RSU’s nursing program produces students who consistently score better than the state Locations: Claremore, and national averages on the RN Bartlesville and Pryor licensure exam.

Student Population: 3,722 Students work closely with faculty Highest Degree: members who mentor their Master’s academic progress and professional Mascot: Hillcats development. RSU attracts highachieving students through its Follow RSU on Facebook, rigorous Honors Program and the Twitter, Instagram.

President’s Leadership Class (PLC). @RogersStateU Additionally, students can participate in international study-at-large programs that provide opportunities to see the world, learn about other cultures and enrich their educational experiences.

RSU also offers graduate education through its master of business administration that utilizes its signature strengths in accounting, entrepreneurship, management, and sport management disciplines.

Rogers State offers conveniently located campuses in Claremore, Bartlesville and Pryor (at the MidAmerica Industrial Park) alongside its nationally recognized online program that provides classes that meet any schedule. RSU is the only public four-year university in the Tulsa metro with on-campus housing.

Hillcat Athletics compete as members of the NCAA Division II in baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, and track and field, as well as competitive cheer and dance.

The university consistently ranks among the nation’s leaders for graduates who earn diplomas with the least amount of debt. In fact, last year, almost half of RSU’s graduating class earned their degree without student debt thanks to RSU’s affordable tuition combined with public and private student aid.

RSU is the Tulsa metro area’s only public university with on-campus housing.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 15

16 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY Stillwater, Oklahoma • (405) 744-5358 • admissions.okstate.edu

Build a Brighter Future Students visiting Oklahoma State University instantly feel at home the first time they step on campus. The OSU campus has a big college atmosphere with a small-town family feeling. This family-like environment welcomes the next generation of innovators, leaders and visionaries.

As a land-grant institution with an energetic atmosphere, OSU continues to grow in many ways. From Student Population: record undergraduate enrollment to historic levels of 25,254 giving to help students succeed and new state-of-theart buildings on campus, OSU proves it is the place to Highest Degree: be!

Doctorate As a student at OSU — and a future leader in Mascot: Oklahoma — you can experience all of this and more Cowboys at a great value.

An Affordable Option

Follow OSU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and SnapChat. Find us at @BeAnOSUCowboy

A high-quality education at OSU is more affordable than many students think. Our students know their financial future will always be a priority at OSU. OSU awards more than $320 million in scholarships, grants and financial aid each year. Eighty percent of OSU students receive financial aid and 49 percent of graduates had zero debt when they graduated. OSU also has more Oklahoma’s Promise students than any other institution in the state.

College is an investment and students at OSU get a quality education for the best price.

As the best value in the Big 12, OSU is committed to helping you make college affordable.

Academic Opportunities With six academic colleges and more than 200 degree programs, OSU will help you discover your area of interest. With aviation to zoology available — and everything in between — students will find a major that fuels their passions and leads to a rewarding career.

At OSU, students can challenge themselves with a rigorous academic plan through The Honors College. This program provides smaller, discussion-based classes with students

who have similar academic interests.

Students also have an advantage at OSU by being able to participate in hands-on research. With the Freshman Research Scholar program — a program offered at few campuses around the country — you can participate in undergraduate research alongside a faculty member in any area of study as early as your freshman year.

This program provides experience and prepares students for continuing their education at graduate or professional schools.

Get Involved Your college education doesn’t just include academics.

OSU provides students with an opportunity to be part of something bigger than themselves and to make a change in their community. More than 500 different campus organizations offer opportunities for you to be involved, learn leadership skills and connect with other students who have similar hobbies and interests.

Come experience OSU for yourself!

Schedule your campus visit at admissions.okstate.edu to see all OSU has to offer you.

Looking for scholarships? Get your application in by Nov. 1 for Early Opportunity Consideration or Feb. 1 for priority consideration.

Visit admissions.okstate. edu/apply to get started now.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 17

COLLEGE GUIDE

18 Sunday, October 15, 2017

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY Oklahoma City, Oklahoma • (405) 208-5050 • okcu.edu

Oklahoma City University is a private liberal arts university with top-ranked undergraduate and graduate programs, accomplished and engaged faculty, successful graduates and strong connections to the business, healthcare and arts communities.

The OKCU Difference — Oklahoma City University is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and embraces a tradition of scholarship and service.

Founded in 1904 and located in the heart of one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities, OKCU offers a creative, rigorous environment in a lively urban setting where students from across the globe pursue their passions in the performing arts, sciences, business, nursing, law, religion and athletics. Professors, not graduate assistants, teach all classes at OKCU.

A student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 fosters an environment of personalized instruction, collaboration and community.

Outstanding Programs — From the sciences to the stage, academic programs garner national acclaim. In the Petree College of Arts and , more than 80 percent of Sciences Student Population: science students who apply are 3,200 accepted to medical, dental, pharmacy, Highest Degree: and biomedical research schools.

Doctorate Mascot: Stars

Accredited by AACSB, the Meinders School of Business is recognized in

Twitter: @OKCU

the top 4.5 percent of business schools worldwide. The school provides problem-solving and engaging learning experiences for students focused on leadership, business and effective management practices with students participating in internships and research projects with faculty. Courses are taught in an interactive environment by Ph.D. faculty along with CEOs and business professionals to provide real-world experience for students.

The Kramer School of Nursing features no-waiting-list programs for beginning undergraduates, a second bachelor’s degree in nursing, bachelor’s completion for RNs, master’s in leadership and education, and Ph.D. degrees. The school also features a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

completion program and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program, one of only two BSN-to-DNP programs in the state. The Physician Assistant program at OKCU is designed to deliver a high-caliber basic and clinical science curriculum and provide a wealth of hands-on experience through clinical rotations. The PA program will also focus on training within the community primary care practices, providing charitable care through central Oklahoma City fostering a holistic approach to healing. The program is completed in just 28 months.

OKCU’s Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment is ranked among the top 10 in the country, and pioneered tap, jazz and music theater dance in higher education. Alumni can be found on Broadway and around the world.

The Wanda L. Bass School of Music is an all-Steinway piano school boasting star-studded alumni performing around the globe, including Tony Award winners Kristin Chenoweth and Kelli O’Hara. OKCU also has one of the fastest-growing theatre schools in the country, putting on more productions than any other undergraduate program in the United States.

The OKCU Stars compete in 21 varsity sports in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and have won 66 national championships.

OKCU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and embraces a tradition of scholarship and service.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 19

COLLEGE GUIDE

20 Sunday, October 15, 2017

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Tahlequah-Muskogee-Broken Arrow, Oklahoma • (800) 722-9614 • Go2NSU.com public safety offering an opt-in free GPS savvy security smart phone app and offers seamless transition from two-year to four-year degree through Smart Choice.

Your success is our mission at Northeastern State University. One institution with three campuses and a robust online presence, we share a common thread — a tireless dedication to serving each student individually, meeting their needs and exceeding their expectations from first contact to graduation, career placement and beyond.

We are determined that our students will be successful, no matter their background. We offer strong academics focused on career readiness, hands-on learning experiences ranging from robotics to reading labs and the thirdlowest tuition of any university in Oklahoma.

In 2016, NSU awarded just over $35 million worth of financial assistance in the form of scholarships and grants. Our HawkCents Certified Financial Counselors can help you make informed financial decisions while you attend NSU, as well as provide the skills you need to reach your financial goals after graduation.

Your Success Begins Here.

The Tahlequah campus, nestled at the foot of the Ozark Mountains, is a blend of old and new, where rich history meets modern technology.

Here, classes are small, people are friendly and supportive, and new students feel at home. There are more than 100 student organizations, 10 NCAA athletic teams and plenty of oncampus and nearby activities.

Locations: Tahlequah, Muskogee, Broken Arrow and Online Student Population: 8,109 Highest Degree: Doctorate Mascot: RiverHawks Follow NSU on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Find us at @NSURiverHawks.

Our highly credentialed professors and our team of advisors and counselors are focused on and committed to student success. NSU offers a wide variety of options for students, where they can select from 57 exceptional undergraduate and 23 graduate degree programs, along with the professional doctor of optometry degree.

Classes are offered on the home campus of Tahlequah, as well as Broken Arrow and Muskogee. We are a comprehensive regional university and the fourth-largest public four-year institution of higher learning in Oklahoma.

NSU is one of only 23 colleges of optometry in the United States. It is a top university for American Indian baccalaureate graduates and has a long-standing history of preparing more American Indian educators than any other school in the nation. NSU is a regional leader in healthcare education and has prepared the majority of educators in Oklahoma. Northeastern is the frontrunner in campus

Focusing on Healthcare Degrees.

Muskogee’s modern campus serves upper-level undergraduate and graduate students, offering programs in nursing, occupational therapy and physician’s assistant (expected in 2019), as well as education, business, general studies, industrial management and other disciplines.

Classes in Muskogee are geared toward working adults pursuing their degrees on a part-time basis, with evening and online class schedules.

Finishing Your Degree is Closer Than You Think.

Broken Arrow’s state-of-the-art campus serves mostly upper division and graduate students with 35 undergraduate and 18 graduate programs, including a Professional MBA and master’s degrees in Criminal Justice, Higher Education and Special Education Autism Spectrum Disorders, among others. Class schedules are designed to maximize a student’s time on campus with evening, online and blended formats, as well as weekend seminar and workshop courses.

NSU was founded in 1845 as the Cherokee National Female Seminary, and on March 6, 1909, the Oklahoma legislature purchased the seminary from the Cherokee Nation. In September that same year, classes began at the Northeastern State Normal School. Seminary Hall still stands as the historical centerpiece of campus where classes are held daily. For decades, NSU has played a key role in the area’s history and development.

Apply today at Go2NSU. com.

NSU was founded in 1845 as the Cherokee National Female Seminary and is now the state’s fourth-largest university.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 21

COLLEGE GUIDE

22 Sunday, October 15, 2017

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

OKLAHOMA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY Shawnee, Oklahoma • (800) 654-3285 • okbu.edu

At Oklahoma Baptist University, we want to help you find your place, both on our campus and in your life, calling, and career. We will prepare you to think critically about worldviews, values and truth to discover God’s plan for your life and your place in the world.

Pursue academic excellence OBU has a reputation for strong academic programs, with a liberal arts curriculum connecting different fields Student Population: of study for a 2,093 well-rounded Highest Degree: education. At Master’s OBU, our faculty Mascot: Bison members are Twitter: @obunews more than professors. They are visionaries helping you imagine who and what you might become. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, OBU offers a climate where students can ask questions and find answers.

Engage a diverse world As you find your place at OBU, you will find abundant opportunities to serve others, whether on campus, around the community or on the other side of the world. You will find community at OBU through service projects and worship experiences. You will be encouraged by a network of mentors among our faculty, staff and upperclassmen. This focus on service and personal growth has led OBU to be a national leader among Baptist colleges and universities in the number of graduates working in international service or missions vocations.

Live worthy On our campus, known as Bison Hill, you will not be alone as you find your place. Most OBU students live on campus, and connecting your God given talents with classroom training occurs best in the context of family and friends. Our students participate in a wide range of activities throughout the year, including a strong

intramural sports program, club sports, student talent shows, concerts and Bible studies. OBU also competes nationally in 21 NCAA Division II varsity sports.

Find Your Place You are unique, and God is calling you to a unique future. Join us on Bison Hill, and find your place at OBU.

Such a personal approach has produced outstanding results, and that success has led to national recognition.

For 26 consecutive years, U.S. News & World Report has ranked OBU as one of the top 10 best regional colleges in the western United States. The Princeton Review named OBU as a “Best in the West” college for 2018, and Forbes.com has repeatedly listed OBU as one of Oklahoma’s highest ranked universities.

Integrate faith OBU academics integrate faith into all fields. You’ll experience a Christian worldview in business classes just as you will in religion classes. Faculty and students actively discuss their faith on a college campus that is truly Christ-centered. OBU is committed to providing students with an interdisciplinary approach to education. All OBU degree programs feature a common core of classes designed to provide a solid foundation of knowledge.

Three members of OBU’s inaugural class in 1911 later became U.S. senators, including Robert S. Kerr.

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

COLLEGE GUIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2017 23

24 Sunday, October 15, 2017

COLLEGE GUIDE

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT