OSU is a big institution
The key is to turn it into a smaller place. Join a student organization or club to meet people and get involved in the university. (Visit the Ohio Union website in order to view the student directory http://www.ohiounion.osu.edu/studentorgs/orgs_directory.asp).


Buying textbooks
Definitely think “used” but also consider buying your textbooks online by typing “Compare textbook prices” in a search engine. It might be much cheaper than the campus bookstores. In addition, the Ohio State library has a limited number of textbooks that can be borrowed.


Printing on campus
You have $5 in printing every quarter on your BuckID...use it! (Public computer sites: http://scc.osu.edu/sites/).


Explore Columbus!
Even though Columbus is not New York, it has a lot to offer. No matter where you come from, you will find what you’re looking for. Check out the Experience Columbus website for things to do in Columbus: http://www.experiencecolumbus.com/.


Do your laundry right, save your clothes!
If you come from a place where you have always line-dried your clothes (or someone else did your laundry!), you will have to experience commercial washers and dryers. The most important points to remember are:
- Do not overload the washer or else it will not clean your clothes well. There should be more water than clothes in the washer! Making two loads out of an extra large load will practically save you money.
- Do not overload the dryer or else it will not dry your clothes and it will wrinkle them.
- To save your money and your clothes, make sure there is more air in the dryer than there are clothes!
- Always read the care instructions on the label before putting clothes in the washer or dryer.


Don’t walk alone at night
To ensure student safety at nighttime an escort service is available to pick you up and drop you off anywhere on campus. Call 292-3322 to schedule a pickup.


Protect your bike against theft
If you own a bike, use the latest technology to install a tracking device (bug) in case of theft. The “bugs” are available at University Security and Fire Prevention Services, Community Crime Patrol, and Off Campus Student Services.


If you drop, drop on time!
Remember that you have until the third Friday of the quarter to drop any course. After that, you will have until the seventh Friday to drop but you will get a W mark on your transcript, which stands for ‘withdrawn’ and will be permanent on your record.


College is different from high school
There are certain similarities between college and high school, but it has major differences. Even though you may be accustomed to waking up early, due to the more relaxed environment, it gets harder.


Nobody is checking your homework
When at college, you have a lot of responsibility to make sure you get to your classes, turn things in on time, and study well. There is no one making sure you are doing what you need to be doing, so make sure you can be self-disciplined enough to make smart choices and get your work done. Keep yourself in check and remember your parents aren’t coming to college with you.


Don’t fall behind
College life is a whole new experience. You will soon realize how many activities and involvement opportunities are available on campus. It is always good to get involved with your community but don’t forget to manage your time wisely. Participate efficiently, party smartly and study hard! Welcome to Ohio State!


Meet new people
There are lots of different ways to meet new people. Introduce yourself to classmates and form study groups. Find friends to have fun with. Talk to your professors and graduate assistants. It will make you feel less alone, and you never know when you meet someone who will be a good contact to have in the future!