The first day on a college campus can feel overwhelming, but at Ohio State University-Mansfield, orientation is designed to ease uncertainty and create connection — ensuring students feel like they belong before their first class even begins.
From the start, staff and faculty make it clear: the word “welcome” isn’t just a formality. It’s a commitment.
“When we say welcome, we mean we’re happy you’re here, that you made it to this point in your life and your college experience,” Dr. Jason Opal, dean and director of Ohio State Mansfield, said during his opening remarks July 15.
That welcoming spirit is reflected in the structure of the orientation itself. Students receive one-on-one attention, guidance on their academic path and a clear understanding of how to navigate campus resources.
Incoming freshman studio arts major Lily Swain attended the orientation.
“It’s helped with expectations and to know where I’m going with my studies, and around the campus physically,” Swain said.
Whether it’s financial aid, finding tutoring support, or discovering campus activities and groups, the goal is to ensure students don’t feel alone in figuring it out. After welcoming students, Financial Aid Specialist Kendra Boggs covered aid, scholarships and loans, followed by a first-year experience presentation from Academic Success Coordinator Tara Hines.
Students connected directly with the people and services that will support them throughout the year, while parents and guests participated in a session on how to support their student’s transition.
Diane Kanney, director of regional campus recruitment strategies and initiatives for Ohio State, said this personalized approach is what sets Ohio State’s regional campuses apart.
“We pride ourselves on paying attention to the individual needs of every student,” Kanney said.
Kanney, a first-generation college graduate, understands the unique challenges many students face. She emphasized that first-generation students, in particular, may not know which questions to ask — and staff are trained to bridge that gap with extra support and conversation.
“You have to do a little bit more digging and a little more questioning of the student to really understand them,” Kanney said.
“I see opportunity in these students’ eyes. They’re so proud and so excited. I am so thrilled at this point every year to see who decides to become a Buckeye and help them go through that orientation process so that they finally feel they are ready,” Kanney said.
Students left orientation with a scheduled academic advising appointment, where they’ll finalize their fall class schedules. The day also featured a resource fair, information sessions on financial aid, and opportunities to complete items on the Buckeye Link To-Do List — all essential steps before classes begin.
Fall classes at Ohio State Mansfield start Tuesday, Aug. 26, but there’s still time for students to apply.
The application process has been expedited for students who still want to start this semester. Interested students can apply online at mansfield.osu.edu/admissions or by calling 419-755-4300 to speak directly with an admissions counselor.
Students are encouraged to connect with the admissions office so that staff can properly support each student and prepare them to begin courses in just a few weeks.
