Oberlin Stories Project
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 a full-fledged learning experience
“No matter our individual passions, Oberlin provides us the opportunity to do what we love while connecting us with peers and professors that broaden our perspectives and help us make connections.”
Reid Palmer ’14
On supportive friendships
“Among the many things I’ve learned from my best friend is to be proactive about my life. You can’t just sit around and wait for opportunities to come to you - you have to take matters into your own...
Anna Band ’13
On finding his voice in a creative writing class
“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.”
Liam Oznowich ’17
On the “best kept secret in the Midwest”
“Before coming to Oberlin, I had sworn off theater completely. In fact, I was done with performing in general. But looking back, I have no clue how I thought I could have gotten away with choosing...
Holland Hamilton ’11
On finding a home on SciFi Hall
“Like many incoming first-years, the thought of having a roommate and finding a solid group of friends was extremely daunting.”
Sammy Moores ’17
On Oberlin’s Student Senate
“Students take active roles in all levels of the Oberlin administration, help determine the courses that are available for students to take, and help make hiring decisions.”
Ben Klebanoff ’09
On a special meal at his co-op
“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.”
Matt O'Connell ’09
On joining Latin dance group Movimiento
“Walking into rehearsal every Thursday and Sunday night, I am greeted with hugs and kisses and an energy that is as vibrant as the salsas and merengues we dance to.”
Jennifer Jimenez ’17
On being a part of the Oberlin swimming and diving team
“[It] means becoming absorbed into a large family of people who are committed to exploring their lives athletically and academically in various ways.”
Simone Christen ’15
On writing a novel
“I was afraid I would not be able to finish the novel by the end of the semester, but I did it. It is not polished, but it is a complete story. Coming to Oberlin and taking creative writing classes...
Chantal de Somer ’09
On teaching jump rope in Tanzania
“It may seem unconventional. You’re right - it is. That’s part of what drew me to Oberlin. What I see on a daily basis are students who aren’t afraid to try something completely new, entirely...
Mike Fry ’09
On changing intellectual pursuits
“Oberlin [gave] me the chance to see that I could find that same level of fulfillment and meaning in any field that struck my fancy.”
Joshua Morse ’12