Ohio State University

First off - anyone who complains that you are just a number needs to get up off their lazy butt and actually make an effort to get to know the professors. I came from a small university and if you didn't make an effort there, they didn't know you either. It is no different here - this is not high school; grow up.

Secondly - I came from a top 15 nationally ranked business program. I left the school because, although they were ranked highly, I was unhappy with the quality of education there. The professors didn't seem to care all that much about the actual learning of their students. I have been very impressed with Ohio State. The professors are extremely intelligent and hard working individuals and truly care about the success of their students. The coursework is much more challenging here, but not impossible. I put in the work, take time to get to know my professors, and I do very well here. I have learned a lot more at OSU in one year than I did at my previous university in two years.

Thirdly - people here do care about a lot more than drinking. Yes, students here do drink very often. Can you name a single non-dry campus where students don't drink? This is the biggest university in the nation and it is in Columbus. If you can't find something to do besides drink there is something seriously wrong with your social skills. I go out with my roommates all the time and I don't drink, but I have a blast. Just walking around sober on a weekend here is more entertaining than any night I previously had at any other college.

Yes, a lot of your TAs will be foreign. However, they must pass rigorous English tests before being allowed to be a TA. Their English is probably better than yours. They may have an accent, but TAs teach in classes of less than 25 (such as recitations and labs) so it is very easy to pay attention and understand. All of my professors have been native English speakers.

I personally like the huge classes here. If I don't want my professors to know me or if I want to skip class - no big deal. If I want to get to know them, I can get an appointment same day, but the classes are big so I can still skip without them knowing. However, in addition to the big lectures, all classes have small group recitations of less than 25 students. This is your time to go over any confusing details and learn what exactly will be on the exams. To me, that beats the average university class of 50 students or so.I work in the admissions office talking to potential students/parents and giving tours so feel free to ask me any questions.

1st Year Female -- Class 2009

Faculty Accessibility: A+, Innovation: A-

I came here from a smaller town and was scared at first because I knew no one here and the university seemed really big. It was really easy to meet people, they all seemed very nice and easy to talk to. There are a TON of things to do everyday. It really does seem like there is something for everyone to do. Some people may think that football and partying is the only thing to do here, but they are wrong. I personally don't party at all and I still have a wonderful time here. The city is also very pretty and it seems pretty safe for a big town. I would highly recommend coming here if you are considering it. Don't let the size scare you, it really is a wonderful college.

1st Year Female -- Class 2011

Scholastic Success: A+, Friendliness: B+