Welcome Back Week events, health resources, arts-based experiences

Jan 15, 2025 | FAMILIES

It's so great to see students back on campus! I hope you got a chance to reconnect with your student over winter break as they recharged for an exciting spring semester. As we all settle back into life at OHIO and students adjust to their new classes, remind them to take things one step at a time — it’s okay to ease into the rhythm of the semester.

Our housing staff have been checking all residence hall spaces to ensure heat is functioning properly to prepare for your student's return. If your student is experiencing heating issues, have them ensure all windows are closed, window air conditioning units are turned off, check that heating units are not blocked by furniture to allow for proper air flow, and make sure the vents on the heating units are open — some rooms have dampers you can adjust. If they're still having trouble, they should contact their RA or member of their hall staff first. They can also contact their RA for window supplies that can be distributed to cover air conditioning units, which can increase room temperature by 5-8 degrees.

Getting around campus might be a little more difficult with these frigid temps, but your student can get out of their residence hall or house with Welcome Back Week events or a trip to Front Room for a warm drink to reconnect with friends and the campus community.

I look forward to a successful semester and seeing some of you soon for Sibs Weekend!

Kathy A Fahl, MSW
Dean of Students

Holidays, travel and winter weather can take a toll on your student's immune system. OhioHealth Campus Care is open to all students enrolled for at least one credit hour. Review the other health and safety resources available to students too!

Applications have been extended through this weekend. Encourage your student to apply now for a chance to be recognized for their contributions to OHIO. Some awards come with a financial award or scholarship component.

Ohio University's career events provide students with opportunities to network with employers in a variety of industries. They can build meaningful connections with employers no matter where they are in their career journey.

Students can attend the College of Business Career Fair on February 12, the Campus-wide Career and Internship Fair on March 19 or the Education Career Fair on April 2.

OHIO courses are continuing to migrate to Canvas - even more classes will be taught using Canvas this semester! To find where courses will be taught, students should review their syllabus and watch for communication from professors. Whether this is their first time using Canvas or they already know the basics, students are invited to join a 1-hour Canvas online workshop on January 27 or January 28.

Sibs Weekend is right around the corner, February 7-9! Families can make plans for travel now, and keep an eye on the events calendar as more events continue to be added before the weekend.

Students can enjoy leadership opportunities, flexible scheduling around classes, meeting new friends, building connections, boosting their resume, and competitive pay. Once they apply, they can visit the Shively Hiring Hub on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays from 3-5 p.m.

The University community now has access to on-demand design and printing services at the new University Marketing Services Center (MSC) in Grosvenor Hall. The MSC can design and print projects including fliers, posters, business cards and more.

Housing and Residence Life is offering information sessions on four different dates to provide students with details about the upcoming 2025-26 Room Selection Process. Each day, there will be two sessions—one at 5 p.m. and another at 6 p.m. We encourage your student to attend a session to learn more about the room selection process and have the opportunity to speak with Housing staff about any questions they may have.

Students can attend January 23, 29, February 3,4 at 5 p.m. or January 23, 29, February 3,4 at 6 p.m.

Bobcat ArtsCare is a new OHIO program designed to connect students with increased access to the arts in ways that promote and enhance health and well-being. Students can sign up today to connect with a Well-Being Coach to identify their needs and obtain FREE access to arts-based experiences and events that intersect with performing, visual and literary arts around our campus and community. It's a great way to reduce stress, relax and engage with others through the arts and nature.

Starting January 20

Each year, Ohio University celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. throughout the month of January. Join the day of service, Understanding and Teaching Hard History, a community service fair, and more.

February 1 | 1-3:30 p.m.

Attend this free event at the Athena Cinema featuring the powerful new documentary "Join or Die." Based on the groundbreaking research of Ohioan Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone, this film underscores the crucial role of clubs and civic organizations in fostering community and strengthening democracy.