Ohio State students come together for convocation

“Enjoy new experiences but take care of one another.” That was the main message given to first- and second-year students celebrating convocation at The Ohio State University this morning.

Thousands of students ringed the Schottenstein Center for a welcome event to campus. It was the first in-person convocation event since 2019. Convocation is typically the only time prior to graduation that the entire class is gathered.

“All of these moments and experiences will piece together and become part of you, a part of you that you will take away with you when you receive your degree and depart Ohio State,” said Jacob Chang, Undergraduate Student Government president. “So savor it and don’t leave any regret.”

Chang was not alone in offering advice to the new Buckeyes. President Kristina M. Johnson delivered words of encouragement and guidance.

“The key to success is really simple in college: go to class,” she said. “I hope everybody is going to be super excited to get back in the classroom.”

Johnson said her first priority and the top priority for the university administration was making sure students were safe. She directed students to take advantage of the Ohio State Wellness app, the Peer Access Line and the university’s Counseling and Consultation Service.

“The Ohio State campus is a safe place, but we are in the heart of a large, growing city and crime does occur,” Johnson said. “We are working 24/7 to enhance our safety and security. Members of our community need to feel safe and be aware of the many resources we have to keep you safe.”

Some of the safety resources include:

• The Community Crime Patrol service.
• The Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State program offering discounted rides for students.
• Safety Spotlight videos that highlight available resources and ways to stay safe on campus.
• The free Rave Guardian app so students don’t walk alone at night.

Senior Vice President for Student Life Melissa Shivers told the convocation audience that becoming part of the Buckeye community was critical to student success in and out of the classroom. She said students who participate in co-curricular activities are three times more likely to have a satisfying experience at Ohio State.

“This is your university. We care about you and are here for you,” she said. “All I ask is that you, in turn, care about, and for, one another.”