We have collected hundreds of personal narratives from students, alumni, faculty, and staff that explain the merits and strengths of Oberlin through the eyes of those who have experienced it firsthand.
Add your story
On Promoting Youth Climate Action
Harriet McSurdy ’23
‘‘Prior to attending Oberlin, I was unaware of the extent and impact of climate change. In the fall as a first-year, I was introduced to research in the environmental studies department and was...
On the Asia House dragon
Bill Heinrich ’81
“It would have been tedious work except that it was ambitious, self-directed, and had nothing to do with classes or credits. What made it something to look forward to was the enjoyment of working...
On organizing a Bassoon Quartet tour of China
Joycelyn Eby ’09
“As someone who was reluctant to go to college “in the middle of a bunch of cornfields,” I now can’t imagine having gone anywhere else for school ... no other institution would be so supportive of my...
On the improv scene at Oberlin
Corina Bardoff ’07
“[It] is so accepting and completely full of fantastically talented and inventive people who want nothing more than to “yes” what you give them.”
On sources of inspiration
Zoe Darsee ’13
“Oberlin has given me these opportunities within Ohio and more importantly beyond Ohio... widening my experience and giving me a greater understanding of worlds outside my daily comforts.”
On finding her path
Qian Cheng ’13
“Oberlin opens up so many opportunities and challenges for students to explore life choices that even if you have absolutely no idea what you are heading for... you will always somehow find your...
On opportunity
Lauren Choban ’16
“At Oberlin, there is something—a club, a research lab, a play—for everyone to take part in, succeed in, and, best of all, enjoy.”
On a second home
Eint Kyi ’16
“In addition to the rewarding experiences I’ve gotten from my service sites, over the past two years, the little house known as the Bonner Center became my go-to place.”
On the Oberlin Journalism Workshop
Alicia Smith ’10
“Meeting and working with some of the best in American journalism, many of them Oberlin alumni, was truly inspiring.”
On the real breakfast club
Rose Guardino ’17
“Our crew is composed of varsity athletes, artists, intramural people, scholars, and scientists...We recognize that everyone has something to offer and deserves to be heard.”
On her passion for photography
Ma'ayan Plaut ’10
“Being at Oberlin and loving the arts go hand in hand, and luckily I get to translate my love of people, music, theater, and dance to a medium that serves both as a reminder and an inspiration to...
On overcoming physical injuries with community support
Gabe Brown ’16
“Being on the cross-country team has been the glue that has held my Oberlin experience together.”