Today's Update: Thursday, August 22, 2024

August 22, 2024

Dear Student Life team,

The beginning of a new academic year is exciting for everyone, and that includes our members of the university’s Board of Trustees. They’ve been meeting on campus this week, and I had the pleasure of updating them on how we roll out the Scarlet Carpet for the arrival, and return, of our students. 

I walked the Academic Affairs and Student Life committee through many of the things we do at the start of each year, from the herculean task of getting all the rooms ready to be occupied to the many events that we plan and execute during Welcome Week and beyond.  

My real message to the Board members, however, was the why—why we put so much into this effort. The answer comes down to two words: student success.  

Everything we do is very intentional and laser-focused on supporting our students and giving them the best opportunity to engage, learn and thrive. Before, during and after Move-In, Student Life works to create environments and opportunities for students to focus on their academics, develop professional skills and accelerate their sense of belonging and mattering on campus.  

Research shows that the first few weeks of college are critical for students’ long-term success. And social adjustment to college in the first few weeks is linked with higher rates of degree completion.

So, while it may sound warm and fuzzy, deliberately creating opportunities for students to engage, and yes, even have fun, with others is not a nice-to-have, but a must-have. 

Students, even if they don’t recognize the theoretical and research-based underpinnings of this approach, certainly appreciate the results. I was joined at the Board meeting by senior Ash Williams, who works in the Willie J. Young, Sr. Off-Campus and Commuter Engagement unit and just wrapped up being one of the OWL Coordinators. He told the members how being involved, and helping others become involved, from the first moment of stepping on campus, was a powerful influence in his successful journey as an Ohio State student.  

This entire Student Life team is the reason we can support our students so effectively. The hard work you put in 12 months a year makes all the difference. You are truly the Scarlet and Greatest!  

 

Melissa S. Shivers, PhD            
Senior Vice President for Student Life             
The Ohio State University