Ohio University (OU) is a public research university located in Athens, Ohio. It was established in 1804 and has since become one of the largest universities in Ohio, with over 36,000 students enrolled across its campuses. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of attending Ohio University in detail.
Pros:
- Strong academic programs: Ohio University offers a wide range of academic programs across its 11 colleges, including highly-regarded programs in journalism, engineering, and business. The university is also known for its commitment to undergraduate research and provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in research across a variety of fields.
- Beautiful campus: Ohio University’s campus is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country. With its red brick buildings, lush green spaces, and scenic location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the campus provides a peaceful and idyllic setting for learning and personal growth.
- Small class sizes: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, Ohio University offers small class sizes that allow for personalized attention and meaningful interaction between students and faculty. This can be especially beneficial for students who thrive in a close-knit learning environment.
- Strong sense of community: Ohio University prides itself on its strong sense of community, which is fostered through a variety of programs and initiatives. These include a first-year seminar program, community service opportunities, and numerous student organizations and clubs.
- Location: Ohio University is located in Athens, Ohio, a small college town known for its charming downtown, vibrant music scene, and strong sense of community. With its proximity to the Hocking Hills region, Athens provides students with a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Cons:
- Limited diversity: While Ohio University is committed to diversity and inclusion, it still struggles with issues of diversity, particularly in terms of racial and socioeconomic diversity. This can make it difficult for some students to feel fully integrated into the university community.
- Limited internship and job opportunities: While Ohio University offers a variety of career services to help students prepare for the workforce, the university’s location in Athens may limit the number of internship and job opportunities available to students, particularly in certain fields.
- Limited access to public transportation: Athens’ public transportation system is not as robust as that of other cities, which can make it difficult for students who do not have access to a car to navigate the city and get to and from campus.
- Limited on-campus housing: While Ohio University offers on-campus housing options, these are limited in number and often fill up quickly. This can make it challenging for students who are looking for a traditional college living experience.
- Limited course offerings: While Ohio University offers a wide range of academic programs, its course offerings may be limited compared to larger universities. This can make it challenging for students who are interested in pursuing a specialized field or who are looking for a wider range of course options.
In conclusion, Ohio University is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a strong academic program and a close-knit learning community. While the university does have its drawbacks, such as limited diversity and access to public transportation, these are relatively minor compared to the many benefits of attending Ohio University, such as its beautiful campus, strong sense of community, and location in the charming college town of Athens.