Ouachita Stories

Finally! You’re packed! You look around your room at the neatly organized, labeled (name, residence hall and room number!) boxes holding all the stuff your mom, older sister and Buzzfeed said you can’t live without in college. While I’m sure you weren’t misinformed and could really use a water filter with USB charging ports, here are a few things that OBU students in the know recommend:

• “Make sure to purchase a planner of some kind! In the early stages of college you will have a lot of activities and events thrown at you at once. Having a planner helped me organize my freshman schedule and make time each day for homework, extra-curriculars and free time.” –Evan Wheatley, senior


• “Headphones for music are always a good idea. It seems like something simple, but you will grow to be super thankful for them. You can listen to music when you exercise, study or when you are in your room and you won’t disturb the people around you.” –Abby Root, senior


• “Make sure you have your purple and gold. You’ll want to show your Tiger pride at all the many sporting events and just around campus! This will help you start becoming a Tiger4Life!” –Jamie Flowers, junior


• “Something outdoorsy! Whether it’s a hammock, bike or sports equipment, you’ll want to bring it. A lot of the fun in the ’Delph is outdoors and they make for easy ways to hang out with people and make new friends.” –McKenzie Wells, senior


• “Cleaning supplies is a must. Until college you probably never knew how messy a small space can get. Clorox wipes can be a life saver when it comes to last-minute cleaning for room checks, and maybe you’ll be able to win the golden plunger!” –Candee Jo Bloxom, junior


• “A good attitude. College can be stressful and incredibly awkward. So have a good attitude as you enter college. Embrace the awkward, find joy in the stress and learn how to laugh at yourself a little. Because at the end of the day, your attitude is what will affect your Ouachita experience the most.” –Alec Edmonds, sophomore

The truth is, you’ll be fine with whatever you bring or don’t bring. There’s no checklist that will guarantee you a successful semester. Yes, you should prepare. Faculty and staff have spent countless hours preparing for your arrival and classes. Match their effort and you will do well.

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

 

Tim Harrell, a 2000 Ouachita graduate, serves as OBU’s director of student life

 

 

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