Ohio Northern University (ONU)

At Ohio Northern University, incoming undergraduates benefit from the school's first-year curriculum seminars. Available in most areas of study, the program offers regular one-onone time with professors and encourages opportunities for collaborative education while even presenting some of the faculty's own research in the field. The seminars help forge a bond between the students and the "renowned faculty" at ONU, who are "always available to help," "very friendly and down to earth," and "are outstanding and all influential in their field." ONU offers five colleges with a variety of programs, including "a great political science program [that] has sent many students to graduate school and politics," with 94% finding placement within six months of graduation. Students also point out that the "accounting program is highly ranked" and "the engineering college is great." One of the biggest draws is the university's Raabe College of Pharmacy, a "prestigious" educational track that "is focused on developing the next generation of clinical pharmacists who are well-rounded leaders, clinicians, and members of society." It offers direct entry into pharmaceutical careers with patient experiences available in the first year of study. The programs and opportunities offered at ONU add up to "a top-notch education." As one student remarks, ONU's "classes are tough, no doubt about it," but "my overall academic experience has been above and beyond anything I could've expected."

One of the great attributes of being an ONU Polar Bear is that "everyone is very caring toward each other," and their fellow undergrads are "always willing to help [out] or mentor younger students." The typical ONU student "is committed to academics, to service, and has leadership potential," students appreciate that "everyone here finds a supportive group of friends." Many students are Midwestern and "some denomination of Christian," with a majority of ONU's population hailing from "in-state, some surrounding states, and internationals." The general vibe at ONU is: "People here are very relaxed-you do what you want, and everyone is fine with you being who you are."

Ohio Northern University believes finding a good balance is the key to a great student experience. So, while there are "students who spend all of their time focused on school," there's also a "good number of students who enjoy having a good time and hanging out with friends." ONU's 200 student-led organizations plus programs in music, athletics, and Greek life provide ample opportunities to help undergrads and graduates help discover and develop personal interests. In fact, 82% of enrollees take part in student organizations, and 22% are involved in sports. As one undergrad explains, "Most students are friends with other people in the same activities that they're involved in, so join something you're interested in and don't be shy!"

The campus, located in the town of Ada, provides "a family-like atmosphere" and a more communal feel. "Because we are in a small town, the students bond together to find fun things to do," such as "pick-up sports games," "fraternity house parties and local bars (The Cask Room)," as well as "several university-sponsored events throughout the year." Students like to combine socializing and working: "People love hanging out with each other, especially when they are trying to get things done."