The beginning of every academic year at Ohio University is a time to celebrate new bonds and reunite with lifelong friends. It is also a time to acclimate to a new environment. For newcomers, here’s a guide to some of the lingo and traditions that define Bobcat culture.
The “where’s” to know
During move in, most students become familiar with at least one of the five “Greens” that make up campus: South Green, East Green, West Green, Union Green and College Green.
Many first-year students live on East Green, which is located at the bottom of two of the most infamous hills on campus, Jeff Hill and Morton Hill. Depending on perspective, it’s either the most convenient spot on campus or the bane of one’s existence.
Students in the honors or Substance-Free Housing, likely live on East Green. One of the closest dining options is Earl’s Coop, OU’s go-to chicken spot.
Also on East Green is Jefferson Market, affectionately known as “Jeff Market,” a university-run grocery that accepts Bobcat Cash and meal swipes to buy snacks, produce and meals. It also houses one of the two campus locations of Brick City Deli, a university-provided sub shop.
During Welcome Week, students are introduced to The Convo, located on West Green. It is our basketball stadium and one of the largest venues on campus. For West Green residents, Boyd Dining Hall is the most convenient food stop. West Green is also close to Baker University Center, OU’s student union.
Court Street is the talk of the town. This is the heart of Uptown Athens, home to restaurants, bars, boutiques, bookstores and shops for all things OU. Notable spots include the College Bookstore and Little Professor, both of which carry textbooks and supplies.
Bars like The Union are staples on Court Street, known for live music, themed nights and a strong local music scene.
After a night out, it’s not unusual to see students carrying pizza boxes from Court Street favorites such as Courtside Pizza and Goodfella’s, longstanding staples for late-night eats.
One of the most talked-about places at OU is The Ridges, formerly a psychiatric hospital and now home to OUPD, classroom spaces and research labs. Although parts of The Ridges have been renovated, others remain untouched and are the subject of countless ghost stories.
The “what’s” and “who’s” to know
OU might seem small prior to arrival, but once on-campus, it’s easy to see how big and layered its culture is.
Students starting this fall have already attended Bobcat Student Orientation. Another key Welcome Week event is the Campus Involvement Fair, where students explore hundreds of student organizations.
Other traditions during Welcome Week include the freshman class photo on the football field, a pep rally in The Convo and the parade where the Marching 110, OU’s world-renowned band, leads first-year students to the involvement fair.
OU is known nationwide for its Halloween celebration, affectionately called “HallOUween.” This massive costume party sees students dressed as everything from monsters and memes to pop culture icons. It's a time to let your “freak flag fly.”
Close behind in popularity is Green Beer Day on St. Patrick’s Day.
Family weekends are also a big deal on campus. Mom’s Weekend, Dad’s Weekend and Sib’s Weekend feature magic shows, comedy acts, concerts, pop-up shops and more. Mom’s Weekend often coincides with Fest Season, a series of neighborhood block parties that highlight campus streets each weekend in spring.
For those 21 or older, “Thirsty Thursday” is a familiar phrase. It’s tradition for many students to head to Court Street bars to kick off the weekend a little early.
Although OU’s party-school ranking has dipped in recent years, now No. 15 nationally, nightlife and social life remain strong. Summers are quieter, but nearby events like the Nelsonville Music Festival help keep the community spirit alive.
There is so much more to discover at OU, but this guide offers a solid start. From haunted hills to hillside dorms, from Block Party Saturdays to Court Street Thursdays, Bobcat culture is like no other. Welcome to your new home.
