Office of Student Life

Doc's Download

September 30, 2025

Dear Buckeyes,   

We’ve passed the first month mark of the new academic year, and I hope you are doing well. Please know that we are here for you and are fully invested in your success at Ohio State and beyond. In fact, in Student Life, we want to help you engage, learn and thrive!    

Take a look at the updates and information below to help you make the most of the coming weeks.  
   
In this edition:   

  • Buck-I-SERV 

  • Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition   

  • Medication Disposal Day  

  • OH! the places you’ll go  

  • REACH 2.0  

  • RECESS  

  • Report Hazing  

  • Safety Devices  

  • Stress Busters  

  • Well, well, wellness  

  

Buck-I-SERV  
Travel, learn and serve during winter break by participating in a Buck-I-SERV Alternative Break trip. The Office of Student Life’s Buck-I-SERV Alternative Break program is now accepting applications for winter 2025-2026 trips. Winter break trips will travel from January 3-10, 2026. Buck-I-SERV is a week-long, substance-free program centered on direct community service and civic engagement. Applications will be accepted until October 5 through an online application. Please visit the Buck-I-SERV webpage or contact Buck-I-Serv@osu.edu for more information. 
 
Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition 
I have launched a regular podcast with interviews, news and information to enhance your Ohio State experience. I think of it as a companion to this e-newsletter. Doc’s Download: The Podcast Edition is available on Apple Podcasts and YouTube. Topics already posted include Mental Health and Wellness: Breaking the Stigma and Knowing Your Resources, what’s new and changing in Housing, Dining and Recreation, advice for new Buckeyes and their families and a look inside Ohio State athletics and the fan experience. You can listen at go.osu.edu/docpodcast or watch it at go.osu.edu/docyoutube. I hope you’ll tune in. 
 
Medication Disposal Day 
Medication Disposal Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of any expired or unused over-the-counter or prescription medications, while also educating the general public about proper use and potential outcomes of misuse of medications. Vapes are also acceptable for disposal (but please remove battery first). All Ohio State students, faculty, and staff are welcomed and encouraged to participate on October 22 and 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on South Campus on Siebert Lawn (West 11th Avenue end) and on North Campus (Town Square North). More information about Medication Disposal Day is online.

OH! the places you’ll go  
Love trying new foods and want a way to experience the Columbus food scene? How about trying one of the Columbus Food Adventures food tours! You can save money by getting tickets through D-Tix, Ohio State’s discount ticket program. Food Tour tickets are just $35 (50% off original pricing), two per BuckID per week for current Ohio State Columbus campus students. Options this semester include Alternative Eats and Dublin Food Tours for a fun food-filled afternoon. There are plenty of other opportunities as well, including shows, museums, concerts, sporting events and more available at an exclusive rate. Find out more about D-Tix online.   
 
REACH 2.0 
Student Life’s Suicide Prevention Program offers REACH, a gatekeeper training program designed to help the Ohio State community prevent suicide. Beginning in October, they will offer REACH 2.0, a new, advanced training program designed for those already certified in REACH. This interactive in-person training will be offered monthly and designed to bring together student, staff and faculty suicide prevention advocates committed to creating a campus culture of care. Registration is required to attend a REACH or REACH 2.0 training. If you have any questions, email reach@osu.edu. 
 
RECESS 
Play isn’t just for kids—it’s a lifelong tool for boosting physical and mental health. That’s why Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) partners with campus offices and student organizations to host RECESS, a joyful event dedicated to rest, relaxation and play, on Monday, Oct. 14, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the South Oval. Whether you stay for two hours of crafting or just swing by to pet a therapy dog (or cat!), we invite you to take a break and reconnect with your playful side. 
 
Report Hazing   
Ohio State offers anonymous reporting through a secure platform, Real Response, for reporting hazing-related concerns. This system allows anyone to submit reports anonymously and confidentially in a safe and accessible way. Members of Student Life review incoming text messages and emails from Real Response and will respond accordingly. Real Response allows connections through anonymous back-and-forth communication, with phone numbers and email addresses remaining hidden throughout the process. Reports can be submitted through the online platform by texting 614-482-2678, or by emailing reporthazing@osu.realresponse.com. For more information about Ohio State’s efforts to combat hazing, visit our hazing prevention website.  
 
Safety Devices   
Student Life’s Willie J. Young Sr. Off-Campus and Commuter Student Engagement (OCCSE) resource center offers students free window and door alarms as well as personal safety devices. Deterrence tools can play a big role in helping to prevent crimes. Students can stop by the OCCSE office on the third floor of the Ohio Union to pick up the devices, Monday – Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. More information about the safety devices is online. 
 
Stress Busters  
This time of year can be stressful as we head through the middle part of the semester, but there is support available for you. Student Life’s Student Wellness Center has wellness coaching to help with things like stress and time management. Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS) also has excellent resources including “Let’s Talk” and other programs that could be helpful.   
   
Well, well wellness  
Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself from getting sick. The influenza vaccine is available through Student Life Student Health Services for students. Most health insurance plans, including the Student Health Insurance plan, cover flu shots at 100%. Students can schedule a flu vaccine appointment during a flu vaccine clinic or via My BuckMD and select "Vaccine Pharmacy Appointment" under appointment type.  
   

You’re in the home stretch to Fall Break (Oct. 16-17), so hang in there, and as always, Go Bucks – and that means YOU!  

  

Doc   

Melissa Shivers, PhD   
Senior Vice President for Student Life