If you are a current Ohio Northern student, then you got the intended pun in my article title; if you aren't well, you should be because you are missing out! I'm sure everyone has their reasons as to why you should attend their university; but today, I am here to provide you with 10 fun facts that makes Ohio Northern University unique. Hopefully, those of you who attend will find some of these to be funny, and for those of you who aren't students will learn a little bit about the ONU culture!
Trees, Trees, and MORE Trees
Whether you're running on the green monster or walking to Cosi for an afternoon snack, you are more likely to run into a tree or two. Depending on the situation, trees can be your best friend or worst enemy! These trees are great if you are looking for somewhere to hang your hammock, or if you want to study on the Tundra! However, trees are not your bike's friend! I know all my polar bears can relate to me when I say that there have been plenty of Saturday morning walks to the library where our trees are decorated in bikes. Literally! So if you decide to bring a bike to campus, which I highly recommend, be prepared to invest in a bike lock, unless you would like to spend your Saturday climbing a tree to fetch your bike.
Squabbit
If you are having one of those mornings where you forgot to set your alarm and now you are late for your 8:00 a.m. and there's an exam today, then spotting of the "squabbit" is likely to lift your spirits! If you aren't a student than you are probably asking yourself what exactly is a "squabbit." Let me explain. It's a rare hybrid between an inappropriate relationship between a squirrel and rabbit, kind of like Kim K. and Kanye, but the hybrid has more entertainment to offer! Just kidding, slightly, it's just a squirrel that has nub for a tail, and hops around campus burying nuts! If you do have the honor of spotting this rare beauty, make sure to capture it on Snapchat and bless all of your followers "Recent Updates"
The “not so average” Tundra
Similar to the trees, the Tundra is your best friend and your worst enemy. The Tundra is a great place to tan, read a textbook or two, or even just stroll through on cool autumn day! However, in the winter the Tundra goes from the best frisbee field to a slippery ice rink in a matter of two weeks. If you are a student, you know to allow yourself an extra five minutes to get to class if you want to make it on time. You also know that Uggs are seriously the worst shoes in the world to wear unless you want to focus on catching yourself after every step you take.
Student Involvement
Being that ONU has over 200 student organizations and less than 4,000 students, it's likely to find yourself involved, or as our students would say, "over involved". We as students strive to give back to our community, which is why the majority of us are involved with at least one of more social and professional organization! It is also not uncommon to find yourself involved in several organizations with the same people! Personally, this is one of my favorite things about be involved on a small campus, you always know someone wherever you go!
Professors
Just as our students strive to give back, so do our professors! At ONU, it's normal to find your professor advising your PRSSA club or coaching your volleyball team. This is one of the things I appreciate other than the fact that their office hours include any free time they have to breathe. No matter the time of day, your professor will prepared to respond to your email about your anxiety for your next test or scheduling a meeting to help you find your next internship! Our professors aren't just here to spit out facts and get paid, they truly care about the well being and success of all their students, even those who frequently "miss class because they are sick."
Orange and Black Becomes your wardrobe
Other than seeing students walk around in shirts that support his or her organization, you are likely to see your peers in Orange and Black. This doesn't go away after freshman year...it actually gets worse. Other than spending your textbook money on the latest ONU gear, you also find yourself by other clothes, hats, shoes, and decorations that coordinate with ONU's school’s colors. Basically you're ready for Halloween at any given time of the year!
Mac Attack
If you are a student, you know exactly what I am referring to! If you aren't, then try our campus food and in approximately 30 minutes you too will know what the reference "Mac Attack" means...Hey I never said we were known for our cafeterias!
Pizza
Because The Princeton Review continuously reviews ONU as "Worst Campus Food," you get accustomed to eating pizza, and lots of it. Pretty much by the end of your first semester, you will have all seven digits to Padrones memorized. Pizza is given out at pretty much every event that goes on here, and pairs well with any episode of American Horror Story!
Social Media
Social Media at ONU is like a snowflake, no two are the same! From Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, to Yik Yak and Snapchat, all of these social browsers contain several different things to keep you updated on campus activities, and the location on the Squabbit!
Polar Bear Up
Other than the endless tweets about all of our student’s success, we as a campus are a family. Our polar bears strive to help each other inside and outside the classroom, which is something that separates us from the rest. From cheering at our football games to pulling an all nighter for your OChem exam, we are here to help one another succeed. With the help of our faculty, staff, and alumni we continue to strive academically, break new records and help create a better Northern one furry Step at a Time!
