Nestled in the rolling hills of Athens, Ohio, OU offers students a unique blend of academics, small-town charm, and a tight-knit community. Ohio University offers a wide range of degree programs, where you can pursue higher education in specialized fields from arts and culture to the sciences and engineering.
Aside from the quality of education, OU’s college town has a distinct openness to it. People who’ve attended OU and spent their undergraduate years in Athens feel a lot of nostalgia for the community. Studying at OU and living in Athens has become a fond memory for many alumni.
If you’re looking to attend the university and want a better glimpse of what college life would be like, we’ll be talking about what the student experience is like at OU and how you can get settled in Athens, Ohio.
Athens, Ohio, is a Place Where You Can Feel Right at Home
Athens isn’t just your average college town. It’s a place that’s dear to most Bobcats. Living in Athens means that you’ll never run out of friendly faces to meet. And, there are also many places and iconic events for you to explore while you’re studying at OU. Here are just a few iconic experiences you shouldn’t miss out on:
There’s always something going on in Court Street. The heart of uptown Athens is Court Street, where restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, and bars line the area. Living in an apartment on Court Street means you’ll never miss out, and you’re also just minutes away from campus green.
Explore local eats for food you’ll surely miss once you graduate. From local breweries, wineries, and restaurants, the food options in Athens are amazing. O’Betty’s, Casa Nueva, and Bagel Street Deli are just a few favorite local spots people always go back to as OU students. Don’t forget to check out the Athens Farmers Market to support local farmers and enjoy fresh produce.
Attend festivals and events to feel like you’re a part of the community. Throughout the year, you’ll find that there’s always an event or festival going on in Athens. From the famous Ohio Brew Week to the Halloween Block Party, each season offers you new experiences that you shouldn’t miss out on. Check out the Athens County website for any upcoming events and show up to them if you’re free. After all, college is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Go on an outdoor adventure in nearby nature spots. And, if you’re ever sick of spending hours in class, you can always head to Strouds Run State Park, Hocking Hills, or Burr Oak for a breathtaking nature getaway. Hocking Hills features stunning rock formations and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for a hike. Burr Oak, on the other hand, provides you plenty of opportunities to hike, boat, and even fish.
Life at Ohio University: Freshman Year and Beyond
For first-year students, OU housing and dorms provide you with a built-in community. Living in the dorms makes it easy for you to meet friends, get involved in campus events, and enjoy the convenience of living just steps away from classes. The energy on campus is always constant, especially during the fall semester when new students fill up campus green with their excitement.
But after freshman year, many students look beyond the dorms for more freedom and space. Typically, students can choose to move out and find an off-campus apartment that fits their budget and lifestyle. From space-efficient one-bedroom apartments in uptown Athens to spacious houses with a yard, there are countless options to choose from.
Just know that the best apartments in Athens are usually snapped up pretty quickly, since the competition for prime spots is fierce. If you’re looking to move out, you should prepare and have a lot of patience and luck on your side. Finding an apartment where you can live your best student life may not be simple, but with the right timing and knowledge, you’ll be able to score a place that you can transform into a home. As you start your off-campus apartment search, watch out for these red flags.
Creating a Great OU Student Experience in Athens Starts with the Right Off-Campus Housing
Ohio University’s academics are fantastic, but what students look back on when they graduate is the warm community and the people they’ve met. Whether it’s late-night study sessions in the library or coffee chats, Athens is a unique college town that makes people feel right at home.
Living off-campus near OU is also an experience that people treasure. Whether you decide to live alone or with friends, living outside the school dorms teaches you so many life skills, from budgeting to balancing chores with roommates.
The foundation of your student life starts with living in a place that makes you feel at peace. With Kleinpenny Rental’s available student apartments and cozy homes, you can make the most out of your years at OU. Each student rental is located near campus and a few minutes away from the vibrancy of uptown Athens.