Supporting student on campus and beyond
On Ohio State’s campus, nearly 30,000 students commute. It can be more difficult for commuting students to get involved and feel connected on campus. Ohio State’s Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services (OCCSS) team looks to combat this, and to be a resource for all our commuting students. Brittany Coleman, a third year student here at Ohio State, works in the OCCSS office, and shared a bit about what it means to be a part of the commuter student community.
Can you give us a quick introduction?
I’m a third-year psychology major with a minor in dance. I came in as a dance major thinking I wanted to graduate, move to Los Angeles, and be a freelance choreographer. I ended up getting really sick and realized switching to another major may be a better option. I switched to psychology thinking I’d be interested in counseling or therapy, but I recently decided I want to go more into the business side of psychology with advertising.
What are you involved in here on campus?
I recently joined an organization called BASA, which is a student organization for African American students that helps students learn more about advertising, communications and business. I am also involved in TBOC, a Christian organization here on campus where I serve as a worship leader.
How did you get involved with OCCSS?
I was sitting at home in my bed, in my parents’ house, the summer of my sophomore year. I was wishing I had a job and couldn’t seem to find one anywhere. I hopped on Handshake and found the Commuter Services listing and sent in my application, and to be honest I wasn’t fully aware of what the service offered. In my interview, I learned more about the event planning that the job entails and that I’d be serving as a liaison for commuter students. I saw how passionate and supportive everyone working with Commuter Services really is, and the difference they can make it students’ lives. I think what they do is amazing.
What has being involved with OCCSS taught you?
I think initially it definitely showed me that there are students who crave a mentorship piece and connection with other students in their position that aren’t sure where to find it. Also, seeing how the events we put on provide a sense of ease when students realize there is a guiding force and there is an understanding that they aren’t alone, which I think is a vital piece for these students. I think it really helps new students to find their footing and feel at home, which is something that money really can’t buy.
Can you explain what the Commuter Mentoring Program is?
The Commuter Mentoring Program exists to provide students with campus resources for job opportunities, finding your path in and after school, and supporting non-traditional students. Whether a mother or a financially independent student, we are there to provide support and we value being students’ consistent mentor, and someone to lean on in college. Each mentor is readily available for their assigned student, where they schedule weekly support meetings. For example, if a student has a career fair coming up, mentors work together to prepare resumes, practice interview skills and will even walk them to the event.
Why did you choose to be a part of the program?
I started mentoring in my sophomore year. It is something that I really enjoy doing, although it can be intimidating at first when you realize you are the same age as the students you are being a mentor to. While I am in similar stages in life to my mentees, we each provide unique perspectives that aid in both personal growths for the mentor and mentee.
How has being a part of the Commuter Mentoring Program helped you as a student?
Firstly, it is teaching me how to advocate for those who otherwise would not have a voice. It is my responsibility to approach my boss when I see a thing that can be implemented to help various demographics of students. It has taught me to go beyond being empathetic, but now actually being equipped with the resources to help students.
What advice do you have for commuter students?
My first piece of advice would be not to be afraid to reach out. I know firsthand that it can be hard to transition and feel disconnected not living on campus. It is easy to feel like on-campus resources, organizations, and events don’t exist to you — this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Second, everything is going to be okay. There are lots of non-traditional students who support themselves and I can’t imagine how difficult this can be. At Commuter Services we care about your wellbeing above all else and we are here for you.
For more information about the Commuter Mentoring Program, visit the Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services website.
