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 moving to India after graduation
Anne Richmond ’83
“There is nothing like being immersed in another culture -- no longer being the majority -- to force one to recognize what profoundly cultural beings we really are.”
On the haven that is a college library
Sarah Minion ’17
“Since that fateful phone call during my first year it has become second nature to, when in doubt, go to Mudd.”
On the freedom to be herself
Meghan Schott ’06
“At Oberlin, for the first time I was able to venture well outside-the-box without criticism. For Halloween, the soccer staff allowed the players to dress up for practice ... [and I] decided to be a...
On being on the mock trial team
Isadora Jaffee ’13
“Our successful team is the perfect example of how you can create your very own passionate enterprise at Oberlin and find others who want to help.”
On alumni support
Brandi Ferrebee ’10
“I’ve had the good luck to have several incredible alums on my side, helping me through those new experiences I’ve chosen and nudging me towards the new ones which they instinctively know I will need...
On implementing Oberlin ideals
Steve Bagley ’06
“As a reporter, I have the power to actually change the world. I can uncover corruption and expose it. I can discover things and show them to people, change the world by spreading knowledge.”
On joining Old B as a new student
Natali Terreri ’14
“While for my own sake I’d like to think my Old B community is special, I don’t think it is uncommon - this is ultimately what makes Oberlin so great. These communities are everywhere.”
On being a member of Oberlin Student Finance and Investment Club
Jiayu Lin ’11
“All club members learn together in various forms: an ExCo, themed discussions at meetings, and, most often, the teamwork involved with putting together the stock presentations.”
On learning to choose
Chelsea de Souza ’16
“Oberlin has helped me with something that I have struggled with my entire life — the strength to make choices and believe in them despite any regrets that might follow.”
On embracing public speaking
Ty Diringer ’14
“My tenure on the Student Union Board helped me to know with certainty that I wanted to enter a world of pivotal dialogue with a firm, clear voice, and gave me confidence that I could.”
On using social media for social justice
Patrick Yaeger ’95
“I wanted to bridge the gap between the fledgling post Prop 8 equality activists and the educational empowering quality media that I knew was out there.”
On living on SciFi Hall
Julie Lopresto ’12
“...when I step out my door, there will be a friendly face around the corner. I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever had there, and have found what I’m proud to call my home at Oberlin.”