What can I expect while at Ohio State?

Learning is different after high school

• In elementary school, students are expected to memorize information. In assignments and assessments, they repeat or reproduce the information. For example, 4x4=16.
• In middle and high school, students learn processes (like math equations). In assignments and assessments, they recreate the process by applying classroom information to the situation. For example, students may learn about ionic bonds and are asked to draw the electron configuration for an H2O molecule. 
• In college/university, students are expected to review material ahead of class; instructors check your understanding through asking you to answer in-depth questions, relate the information to other kinds of learning you’ve already done, and complete practice problems. In assignments and assessments, you may be asked to identify themes or compare and contrast concepts, theories, or authors. 
  • In advanced classes, students are asked to combine information from various materials (from both within and outside of class) and analyze or critique it. In assignments and assessments, you may be asked to synthesize new knowledge, theories, applications, or interpretations of the information based on the class material.

OSU is BIG. 

This means that if you realize you need help with something, you will probably have to ask for it. This could mean asking a question in class, emailing your advisor to request a resource, or going to your instructor’s office hours (which is time they set aside to help students with questions and homework). 

You also need to take responsibility for your own learning, time management, and keeping track of important information. This level of independence and responsibility may be different from what you experienced in high school or at smaller universities.

What am I responsible for?

• Reading your OSU email daily
• Letting your instructor know when you’ll miss class, and arranging to make up the work or complete it early
• Making and attending advising appointments every semester
  • Student responsibilities when working with advisors
• Reviewing your syllabus for each class at the beginning of the semester and ensuring you understand the requirements, due dates, grade scale, and expectations of the class
• Planning enough time to complete all assignments, readings, and practice problems for a course so that you can come to class ready to participate and answer questions
• Understanding the requirements for maintaining your scholarship or other forms of financial aid
• Asking questions when you don’t know the answer to, and clarifying the requirements of an assignment when they are vague (e.g. – Is it OK to work with other students on this homework?)
• Meeting with career services every year
• Practicing courage – like having uncomfortable conversations when something needs to change, sharing your perspective, taking classes you’re not sure you’ll like, and meeting a wide variety of new people
• Accepting responsibility when appropriate
• Seeking help as soon as possible when a difficult situation occurs

OSU has many resources

If you have a need or an interest, there is probably a resource or a student organization that matches it. 

Getting involved on campus will help make a large university feel cozy while also creating a large network of peers and staff who can help you with job offers, professional opportunities, and more. 

• Struggling in a class
• Student Org list
• Personal issues