Oberlin isn’t known for wild parties, big tourist spots, or endless places to hang out. But as a freshman finishing my first semester, I keep hearing people say there’s nothing to do here, that they’re bored, or that life feels dull. I’ve realized that mindset is more about perspective than reality.
There’s an incredible sense of community here. Yes, you run into someone you know almost everywhere you go, but that’s the beauty of it. That familiarity is what makes this place feel so connected. I feel like a celebrity at times, with how many dap-ups I get on a Monday dinner.
This isn’t me trying to force anyone to come to Oberlin; at the end of the day, my stories can only show you what I feel. It’s more a reminder that choosing a college isn’t only about what you can get from a school. Sometimes it’s about choosing to see the good in the campus, the professors, the friendships, the blogs (like this one I hope...) and the everyday moments.
I’m not here to lecture, and yeah, people will annoy you sometimes. That’s the unfortunate reality of any kind of interaction. But we’re all just figuring things out and trying to make the most of an experience that doesn’t last forever ( but it can last in your heart...right?). Like my mom always says, live your life now, college won’t be here forever, just like high school wasn’t.
We’re often focused on what we can gain: more fun (besides ice sledding), better entertainment (other than the Apollo Theatre or the museum), or the “right” relationship, thinking those things will make us happy. But a lot of happiness comes from looking within, appreciating others, joking around about what’s right in front of us, and being present in our shared Oberlin experience.
So the next time you think, “Should I go to this snowy state of Ohio?” or “It’s not as big a city as I wanted,” take a walk. Call a friend. Slow down. Notice what we do have: community, freedom, quiet (the good kind), and space to grow. It's pretty selective with a 30% acceptance rate, so you're lucky to be here. Imagine all of the things that had to go right or wrong to make us land in this exact place at this exact year. Crazy, right? Now, please continue reading... :)
No matter where you are, there will always be somewhere else that seems better. That’s our human nature: we love to compare, we like to chase, we obviously wonder. But often we don’t realize how special a place or time was until it’s already passed. Don’t let that happen at Oberlin. Promise me that, yeah? That’s why you hear parents and grandparents say, “I really loved that school… that time… that person… but I wish [Insert Blank]."
So far, Oberlin has been one of those chapters for me.
And honestly? I can't wait to continue my journey and look within, on this great winter day!
