by Ally at UWO
As a tour guide, I’m often asked: What are some of my favorite things about UWO? Great question! College life is amazing, and sometimes it’s the little things that matter as much as the big things. I’ve been loving my time at UWO, and here are some of my top reasons why.
Opportunities Are Everywhere!
You will never have this many opportunities at your fingertips ever again so it’s a good idea to take advantage of the fantastic opportunities available right outside your window (literally). The Writing Center, Career Services, tutoring, Reading and Study Skills Center, intramurals, clubs and organizations, on campus jobs, and so much more are waiting for you! My freshman year, I participated in the University Speech Competition and it was by far the highlight of my school year. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see where it takes you; you could end up discovering a passion that you never knew existed.
The View is Phenomenal
Who wouldn’t want to wake up to scenery as beautiful as this?! Whether you’re studying on the third floor balcony of Reeve or taking a walk by the river, the beauty of campus is endless. I love spending time by the river on sunny days when there are boats out on the water. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a kayak or paddleboard from the Rec and hang out on the water with some friends.
Buff Chix Wraps
The best thing known to humankind. Okay, maybe not humankind but definitely to UWO students. (It’s close though.) Located in Blackhawk 2 Go, these made-to-order wraps will leave your tastebuds tingling. Be careful though– once you start, you won’t be able to stop!
First-Year Student Residence Halls
If you have the option to live in a first-year student residence hall, I would highly recommend it. My experience living in Stewart Hall freshman year surrounded by other first-year students helped me with the transition into college life. I met my best friends and current roommates because of it!
Outdoor Adventures
Tucked away within the Rec, the Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) offers bikes, rollerblades, kayaks, paddleboards, camping equipment, ski and snowboarding equipment, and snowshoe rentals to name a few. This is the perfect way to not only see campus but the community of Oshkosh as well. Take a few friends, a pair of rollerblades, and head downtown to see what new cafes and restaurants there are to be discovered.
Endless Study Abroad Options
You can Study Abroad LITERALLY anywhere (except Antarctica– sorry penguin fans). You can go anywhere from a one-week period all the way up to a full year and earn transferable credits while you’re away! I plan to study abroad in Salamanca, Spain for a semester my first semester of my senior year. I’m a sophomore now and have already started getting information on the trip; it is never too early!
Dawn’s Famous Omelets
There is nothing quite so satisfying as one of Dawn’s made-to-order omelets in Blackhawk Commons. What’s even better? When she remembers your order! Put this on your UWO bucket list right away. There’s no better way to start your morning!
There’s a Home For Everyone!
Whether it’s the Women’s Center, first-year student halls, Multicultural Center, Greek life, or athletics, there is something for everyone. I have never felt more known and welcome than my time here at UWO. All it takes is a little dedication and self exploration to find where you fit best and feel most at home. There is a world of opportunity knocking at your door!
Everyone has their own highlights about college life here in Oshkosh, so feel free to share some of yours in the comments below! If you want to see for yourself why UWO is awesome, schedule a campus tour! I’d love to show you around! 🙂