Enhancing Education at Ohio State University: Recommendations for Curriculum Improvement

Ohio State University, a prestigious institution with a rich history, has been at the forefront of academic excellence for decades. However, as with many established universities, there is always room for improvement. In my experience, there are several areas where Ohio State could focus on enhancing the educational experience.

Restoring Core Educational Values

First and foremost, the core principle of providing a solid college education should be reinstated. The university excels in certain fields like Engineering, Business School, and Sciences, which demonstrates its commitment to traditional academic pursuits. However, the excessive focus on "community engagement" seems to take precedence over these fundamental aspects. Supporting the community is undoubtedly important, but it should not overshadow the primary mission of a university: to impart knowledge and offer robust educational programs.

Academic Guidance and Curriculum Counseling

A second area that requires improvement is the training and education of curriculum counselors. While Ohio State has a talented faculty and resources, there are instances where these resources could be better utilized. Last year, I found myself in a situation that could have been avoided with better academic guidance. I had the opportunity to pursue a double degree in Occupational Therapy and Psychology, but I ended up with only the Occupational Therapy degree. The reason for this was a simple oversight in my curriculum counseling. My counselor did not inform me that I needed a course in foreign language to fulfill the Psychology degree requirements. This oversight was not just about a single requirement but also undermined the overall quality of my educational experience.

It would greatly benefit students if counselor training and education were enhanced. This includes ensuring that counselors are thoroughly informed about the specific requirements for various degree programs and the available resources for course substitutions or testing. Offering workshops or seminars on best practices for academic advising could also greatly improve the guidance provided to students.

Reflections on Sports and Finance

While Ohio State’s sports programs contribute significantly to the university's identity, it is important to maintain a balance between athletics and academics. The transformation of the sports program from an amateur affair in the early 1970s to a highly lucrative enterprise funded by football revenue is a testament to the commercialization of college sports. Coaches are now paid far more than what they were in the past, with some earning compensation at a level typically associated with CEOs of major corporations. While this change may have benefitted the university financially, it could also distract from the focus on academic success and overall student well-being.

It would be beneficial for Ohio State to periodically reassess the balance between academic and athletic programs. Ensuring that the sports program remains a complement to, rather than a primary focus of, the university could lead to a more holistic and enriching educational experience for all students.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ohio State University can enhance its educational experience by focusing on core academics, improving academic guidance, and maintaining a balanced approach to athletics. Strengthening these areas will not only elevate the quality of education but also ensure that students receive the best possible support and resources to achieve their academic goals.

By prioritizing these changes, Ohio State can continue to be a leader in higher education while ensuring that its mission remains true to the principles of academic excellence and student support.