Office of Student Life

Doc's Download: December 7, 2023

December 7, 2023

Dear Buckeyes,

The semester is nearly over, and I understand that it has been a particularly difficult one for so many in our campus community. Some of you have lost loved ones, overcome illnesses, encountered exceedingly difficult personal challenges and experienced significant life changes. I also know that the end of the year can often be a generally stressful time for students, considering finals and end of year projects, along with anything else you may be facing. I want you to know that all you are feeling matters...and so do you. If you are looking for some suggestions and resources to help you finish out the semester, I’ve shared some below.   

In this edition: 

  • Respect 

  • Well, well wellness   

  • Safety 

  • Service 

  • Involvement Fair 

  • OH! The Places You’ll Go  

  • Meet the Team  

 

Respect
It is more important than ever that Buckeyes treat each other with civility and mutual respect. If you are aware of incidents of discrimination or harassment involving a campus community member, it is critically important to report them to the Office of Institutional Equity (OIE). Reporting not only allows the university to provide you with support, but also allows us to track and respond to these incidents. 


Well, well wellness
Though the semester is coming to an end, support for your mental health and well-being is always available, whether you’re on campus or not. For support with problem-solving, campus resources or just a space to vent, Counseling and Consultation Service’s (CCS) Let’s Talk consultations will continue to be offered on weekdays throughout winter break. These are informal, confidential 15-20 minute conversations with a CCS counselor. Remember, you can choose to meet with the first available clinician or schedule with a clinician based on their identities or expertise. Conversations happen via phone or CarmenZoom. Additionally, CCS provides an after-hours line for urgent concerns that may come up outside of regular business hours such as evenings, weekends and holidays. You can call 614-292-5766 and select option 2 after-hours. If you need to talk to a counselor, we’re here.   

If you are having trouble navigating university processes or aren’t sure where to turn next, the Student Advocacy Center is a great resource. To connect or learn more, visit their website.

Safety 
Before you head home for winter break, consider how to secure your campus residence for the days or weeks you’ll be away. Take valuables, like cash, credit cards or electronics with you. Off-campus, lock all doors and windows and consider leaving outdoor lights on. You can pick up free smart plugs at Off-Campus and Commuter Student Engagement (Ohio Union room 3106) to have indoor lights come on at night while you’re away. Record serial numbers of electronics you can’t take with you and always report any missing items or crimes to police immediately. Off-campus, call Columbus Police at 614-645-4545, on campus call University Police at 614-292-2121. Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies. More safety resources are online. 

Service
Are you looking to get more involved in community service in the new year? Pay it Forward’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service event will take place on Monday, Jan. 15. You have the opportunity to honor the incredible legacy of Dr. King by participating in 2-3 hours of community service with a local nonprofit at sites both off- and on-campus. Check out the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service website for more information.

Involvement Fair 
The 2024 Spring Student Involvement Fair will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 17, and Thursday, Jan. 18, in the Ohio Union's Performance Hall and Archie M. Griffin Grand Ballroom from 4 - 7 p.m. each day. You do not need to pre-register. Student organizations may register for booths now through Tuesday, Dec. 19, at go.osu.edu/sifboothregistration.  More information about the fair itself can be found on go.osu.edu/sif.

OH! the places you’ll go  
Looking for a way to have fun this chilly season? How about visiting COSI, Ohio’s Center of Science and Industry! You can save money by getting tickets through D-Tix, Ohio State’s discount ticket program. COSI tickets are just $12 each, two per BuckID per week for current Ohio State Columbus campus students. There are plenty of other opportunities as well, including shows, museums, concerts, sporting events and more available at an exclusive rate. Find out more online.

Meet the Team 
I’d like to introduce you to Student Life Senior Director of Dining Services, Zia Ahmed. Meet Zia: https://studentlife.osu.edu/people/zia-ahmed/   

I hope you have a Scarlet and Great wrap-up to the semester, and a safe and happy new year!  

 

Doc 

Melissa Shivers, PhD 
Senior Vice President for Student Life