Family Support
Supporting your student’s journey
Choosing a college is a big decision for your student and you. We’re here to provide support and clear information every step of the way.
Together, we’ll help your student find the right path, on a campus where they feel known, challenged and supported.
Your role matters
You’re an important part of this decision, too. You know your student better than anyone and even though they might not say it, they value your input. At CFAES, we see families and supporters as partners in this process.
College is a major investment. CFAES helps families plan with transparent costs, generous scholarship options and access to financial aid experts. We’ll work with you to explore every option so cost doesn’t stand in the way of a great education.
You want to know your student will graduate ready for what comes next. CFAES majors connect directly to in-demand careers in food, agriculture, the environment, business and beyond. Our students gain real experience, build strong résumés and step into jobs or graduate programs with confidence. Our Career Development office offers resources and career fairs to connect students to job opportunities.
Students learn best when they feel safe, supported and like they belong. At CFAES, your student joins a close-knit community within a world-class university. They’ll find caring advisors, small program communities and many ways to build friendships and feel at home.
What makes our college different?
CFAES is Ohio State’s cornerstone college for food, agriculture and environmental sciences. Our purpose is simple: We Sustain Life — through teaching, research, outreach and workforce development that make everyday life better in Ohio and around the world.
- Hands-on, applied learning from day one
- Career-connected programs and fairs to get students in front of employers
- Supportive community and resources to support students every step of the way
- Multiple pathways to success in on the Columbus campus, ATI in Wooster and other regional campuses
Real-world experience
Graduate and professional school paths
Supporting the whole student
Understanding the investment
We know cost is one of the biggest questions families have. Our team will help you understand tuition and fees, scholarship opportunities, financial aid, and payment options so you can make a plan that works for your family. You’ll find scholarships, work-study programs, and other resources to help keep a high-quality education within reach.
How you can help
Your encouragement and guidance matter at every step. Here are a few simple ways to support your student as they explore CFAES and Ohio State.
Talk with your student about their interests, strengths and concerns. Help them write down questions to ask during campus visits, informational sessions and advising meetings.
A campus visit can make the college decision feel more real. Help your student picture themselves here. Walk around, meet with students and faculty, and see the classrooms and facilities that will become part of their experience.
Look at majors, student organizations and hands-on opportunities side by side. This exercise can open up new ideas and show your students how their passions can connect to a purpose.
It’s OK if your student doesn’t have everything figured out yet. Encourage them to stay curious, try new experiences and adjust your plans as they learn more.