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.
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On joining Model United Nations at Oberlin
Katherine Sicienski ’12
“By allowing one to take classes in English, environmental studies, history, and theater, all in one semester, Oberlin encourages students to develop new ways of thinking about the same problem.”
On his work at the Bonner Center for Community-Engaged Learning, Teaching, and Research
David Fisher ’12
“Working for eco-social transformation in Oberlin is endowing me with a far deeper understanding of many things, including how to write a grant proposal, build a project vision, and seek to change...
On finding friends on the field hockey team
Aditi Banerjee ’17
“A camaraderie developed—probably born out of undergoing the rigors of preseason together—which blossomed into close friendships over the course of the season.”
On reawakening an interest in accessibility
Rebecca Klein ’18
“As a Student Accessibility Advocate, my world at Oberlin expanded. I met new people just as interested in conversations about disability as I was, people whom I now consider some of my closest...
On finding his voice in a creative writing class
Liam Oznowich ’17
“Never before have I felt that excited about a story I was telling, which became all the more empowering when I realized this story was also my life.”
On the freedom of a month of independent study
Emma Marshall ’18
“Winter term at Oberlin has taught me to follow my instinct. Winter term isn’t about finding a perfect project that will make your life story more exciting; it’s about finding yourself in a project.”
On her winter term in Tokyo
Amy Hourcade ’15
“I was thrust out of my comfort zone, thanks to Oberlin, and have never been happier.”
On being a member of the men’s tennis team
Sam Towne ’12
“When I look to the court next to me and see a teammate fighting hard, I am motivated to give it that extra ounce of effort. We are all striving to reach the same goal.”
On a special meal at his co-op
Matt O'Connell ’09
“For me, this meal was exactly what Oberlin’s co-ops are all about: making food with your friends, and knowing exactly where your meal came from.”
On exploring new things
Hannah Fuson ’11
“I saw an outing club poster on a bulletin board. Though skeptical, I signed up for the trip, and spent a day hiking around the Appalachian foothills... [and] I never looked back.”
On her service trip to Open Ground
Hannah Gordon ’11
“Throughout the week, so many tight-knit connections were formed among people from various niches of Oberlin—people who otherwise would have probably never even met each other.”
On the interdisciplinary nature of her Oberlin experience
Assiatou B. Diallo ’08
“I love learning, and my own life sits at so many intersections. At Oberlin, I felt at home with my peers who were passionate about using their academic studies for social change.”