Keeping Bobcats Informed, Oct. 25, 2023

Bobcat Parents and Families,

Last week we got to officially welcome Ohio University President Lori Gonzalez through a historic celebration (opens in a new window) of OHIO's past, present and future. And with that, we are nearly to the end of October and the halfway point of the semester. 

As Halloween weekend approaches, I want to provide you with some important reminders and guidance to ensure your student's safety and well-being. Students should review visitor rules if they live on campus (opens in a new window), be aware of parking updates (opens in a new window), and be respectful (opens in a new window) as they're planning their costumes.

There are also a variety of fun events listed below! Please encourage them to plan ahead and make safe choices. We all have a shared responsibility for upholding the standards of Ohio University and respecting the City of Athens and our neighbors who call our community home. More resources for a safe and enjoyable weekend can be found in the letter I sent out yesterday. (opens in a new window) 

As we reach this point in the semester, your student might be experiencing feelings of homesickness. This is totally normal, especially if this is their first semester on campus. It's important to reassure them that these feelings are entirely valid. We encourage them to seek support (opens in a new window) if needed, and students and their families can always reach out to me to chat. And if they are missing their families, we welcome the opportunity to reconnect during Dads Weekend! (opens in a new window)

Kathy A Fahl, MSW
Dean of Students

Spooky season is here

Looking to get in the Halloween spirit? There are plenty of events happening around campus and town. Paint Halloween-themed wood crafts at Marti & Stewie (opens in a new window) on Thursday, catch a double feature of spooky movies (opens in a new window) on the rooftop of the Athens City parking garage Thursday night, have a spooky-themed meal at Nelson (opens in a new window), or grab a good spot to watch the Honey for the Heart parade uptown Saturday.

Make Respect Visible when choosing costumes

While you're planning your Halloween costume, it is important to think about how your choice may impact other people, particularly if you are attempting to adopt an identity that is not your own. Though you may think you are harmlessly dressing up for one night, portraying these stereotypes can be hurtful toward others. Be respectful this Halloween and always and seek out more resources if you're not sure if your costume is harmful.

More resources (opens in a new window)

Get help with your job search

Need help writing your resume? Not sure how to start your internship or job search? Preparing for an upcoming interview? Meet with a career coach!

The Career Network offers career coaching for all students, no matter your campus, year or major. Make an appointment on Handshake (opens in a new window) or email career@ohio.edu.

Resources here when you need them

Basic needs resources are here to help, whether you use them one time or for as long as you need. Cats' Cupboard (opens in a new window) is open to any student facing a crunch for your next meal or seeking long-term assistance.

You can find guidance for housing (opens in a new window) help, borrow a cap and gown (opens in a new window) for the big day, and apply for emergency microgrants (opens in a new window) for financial difficulties too.

Got design skills? 

Student Affairs is looking for a student design assistant to help create content for this newsletter, as well as other Division outlets. The preferred candidate should have experience working with email marketing or digital design, feel connected to campus life, and demonstrate passion for Ohio University. Sound like you? Apply now (opens in a new window) or email sacm-content@ohio.edu with questions. 

Upcoming events

Coping Cafés

Wednesdays through Nov. 15

Counseling & Psychological Services is hosting Coping Café on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. in Lindley Hall 052. Coping Café is a space where you can drop in to learn a stress management strategy and connect with peers. You do not have to be a CPS client to attend. 

More about Coping Cafés (opens in a new window)

Dads Weekend

Nov. 3-5

From student organization-hosted events to day hikes at Conkle's Hollow to casino night, the time will be easy to fill. You can even enjoy pancakes with the President (opens in a new window) on Sunday morning!

Dads Weekend events (opens in a new window)

Quick links

Survivor Advocacy Program (opens in a new window) - A resource for survivors regardless of when or where an incident occurred
 
Campus Care (opens in a new window) - Urgent care, primary care, pharmacy, student health insurance, MyChart
 
Ohio University Police Department (opens in a new window) - available 24/7 to help students in all types of emergencies

Sign up for the Parents and Family Newsletter

If you're a Bobcat family member and would like to stay in the loop and keep in touch with the dean of students, you can subscribe to the Keeping Bobcats Informed newsletter at this link. (opens in a new window)