Four students stand in the grass with their arms raised above their heads in the shape of O H I O

First-Year Experience

Start strong with CFAES.

Welcome to our college and The Ohio State University!

Starting college is exciting, and it can feel overwhelming. You're not expected to figure this all out on your own. From early arrival to your first week of classes and beyond, we're here to support you every step of the way. 

CFAES Early Arrival Program

Get comfortable on campus before classes begin. The Early Arrival Program gives you a realistic view of what to expect, introduces you to faculty and staff, and helps you meet classmates before the semester starts.

2026 Early Arrival details coming soon!

What students say about the Early Arrival Program

“The CFAES Early Arrival Program eased my apprehension about starting college classes. It gave me a realistic view of what to expect, and I got to meet the amazing faculty and professors in my department, as well as my future classmates.”

Ashley

“Attending the CFAES Early Arrival Program was an amazing experience. I met new people and was introduced to resources that helped me adjust to my new life at Ohio State. It helped me put myself out there.”

Jordan

Meet your Peer Mentor

You will be assigned a CFAES Peer Mentor — an upperclass student who has been in your shoes and wants to help you succeed. 

Your peer mentor will: 

  • Answer questions about campus, classes and student life
  • Help you understand policies and procedures like scheduling
  • Attend welcome events with you
  • Walk you to your classes
  • Show you dining halls and key campus locations
  • Attend FAES 1100 recitation sessions with you

Your mentor will reach out before you arrive. Be sure to connect with them before the semester begins. They’ll help guide you through welcome events and your first days on campus.

Learn more about the Peer Mentor Program

Your first week at Ohio State

First-week checklist

Set yourself up for success:

  • Review your class schedule
  • Walk campus to find your classrooms, including FAES 1100
  • Check CarmenCanvas for syllabi
  • Purchase required materials before class
  • Explore dining halls, recreation facilities and study spaces
  • Download the Ohio State app to access your schedule, bus routes and BuckID balances

Small steps now make your first week much smoother.

Resources to help you succeed

You have support across campus and within CFAES. If you’re unsure where to start, ask your peer mentor.

CFAES Counselor
Student Health Services
Dining Services
D-Tix

Welcome to Columbus, Ohio

Learn more about your new home for the next few years.
Learn about Columbus
City of Columbus