Julieta Ibarra
Admissions Counselor
Connection & Student Engagement
What should students know before they set out on the college search journey with OU?
Take time to explore OU’s resources, understand what you want from your college experience, and make sure to befriend your admissions counselor! OU has a strong sense of community, so get involved early by attending OU events and connecting with people on campus! More importantly, I would say to establish your support system before getting to college whether that’s your family, friends, or even your admissions counselor. Make sure to ask questions, research financial aid options, and stay open to new experiences. College is about finding the right environment for both academic and personal growth.
What sets OU apart from other universities?
OU has a lot to offer its students and some of those things include family and community. OU has always done a fantastic job at providing opportunities and spaces for students to cultivate their own experiences and gain a sense of who they are. I believe it’s guaranteed that there is a space for all of our students here to find their home away from home and truly become a part of the OU Family.
What was your experience like as an undergraduate at OU?
I truly enjoyed my experience as an undergraduate at OU. I was able to build connections and lifelong friendships with many people. Once I found my community and support system at OU, it made every experience worthwhile, even the toughest moments, because I had a village behind me. I also enjoyed being part of the organizations I was in and leaving my mark on campus in that way.
To you, what are some of the most significant contributions students from various backgrounds have made to OU's vibrant campus life and academic environment?
In my opinion, the students themselves are the main contributors to the vibrancy on OU's campus. Their unique perspectives and experiences enrich our community, creating a community of belonging and innovation. One of the most significant ways these students give back is through active participation in student organizations.
Student organizations such as Latinos Without Borders, Miracle Mindset, and more engage in community service initiatives that directly benefit the surrounding area, from organizing food drives to volunteering at local schools. OU students often engage in cutting-edge research and excel in leading academic programs. They not only advance their own knowledge but also share their insights with others, showcasing the value of their experiences.
What challenges can students encounter during their college search? How do on-campus resources and community support meet those challenges?
Many students often come from first-generation backgrounds, making them the first person in their family to experience higher education and a college search journey. They can often struggle with culture shock, lack of knowledge on applying to college, and grappling with imposter syndrome. This can lead to issues of belonging on campus, feelings of isolation, and making it harder for them to envision themselves in a college environment.
Supporting these students and providing a sense of community can be present in the form of advising tailored to the needs of these students, which can help them understand the admissions process and explore suitable colleges. Community support is equally important through student organizations, which can create opportunities for students to envision themselves in these spaces. Workshops focused on college preparation, financial literacy, and college acclimation can also empower students, making the transition smoother.
How can the office of Connection and Student Engagement (CSE) support students?
CSE is unique in the way we’re designed to support all students. We support underserved and first-generation students and their families in the admissions process through resources such as scholarships and community programs. We are very intentional with the experiences we provide students with and ensure we meet each student's needs and promote student success. In my job capacity, I make sure students are heard and personalize resources to their academic interests. I think the important thing is letting them know that they have a voice and an advocate at OU as well.
What would you say to a student who is hesitant to reach out to their admissions counselor?
The best part of our job is helping students who need it and we’re always eager to support and help students kick start their college journey. We have heard all the questions so do not be afraid to ask us anything! Your admissions counselor will be the best resource during your college admissions process, make sure to utilize us. Every student is assigned an OU admissions counselor and they can connect with us by filling out a quick form.
