The first time I ever stepped foot in Athens, Ohio I knew that it was a special place. I never imagined that it would become a place that is so important to me and to so many others. As a freshman, I have only spent about four months at Ohio University but I have quickly come to realize that this place is so loved. The community that Athens provides cannot be compared to any other place. I talked to many new friends I have met here and asked them what things make Athens the amazing place that it is.
I asked what made everyone choose OU as their school for their next four years and got the overwhelming answer that the campus is what makes people fall in love with the university. College Green is a place that is beautiful year round. From the lush green leaves in the summer, colorful trees in the fall, snow covered pathways in the winter and blooming flowers in the spring, it is a place that is hard not to enjoy. Off campus there are so many activities to do and organizations to join. Athens and the surrounding areas are known for their amazing hiking and outdoor pursuits. These opportunities make OU the special place that it is and make sure there is always something to explore.
The Athens community might be the biggest factor in what makes OU so loved. I asked friends for their advice for people looking to get more involved in the OU and Athens community. Utilizing things that Athens offers like the bike trail and not being afraid to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people is the biggest advice that is given. At OU it is easy to create a routine while still being able to go out and have fun on the weekends and that is something that people love most. The sense of community that you can create for yourself in such a short amount of time makes this campus so special. There is so much diversity among the community in Athens and you are sure to find people with common interests that you can connect with. Despite Athens, Ohio being such a small town, there is always something to do or get involved with. This place is truly special and a unique experience to be able to call it hOUme.
Deanne Allen is a freshman studying communications with a minor in advertising and public relations in the Scripps School of Communication at Ohio University. She is currently a dues paying member of Scripps PRSSA. Connect with Deanne on LinkedIn here!