Jet: We approached college a little differently than most. We started with a map of the United States and divided it into four quadrants. We talked about the weather in each of these quadrants. Because of this, she chose the southern part of the US. From there, we talked about the college experience, and what she was looking for. Gigi wanted a beautiful campus, Greek life, a big-time college, and a small-town feel.
Jet: We were searching for academic rigor, health and safety, and the things she loves—like athletics. Academic majors and their possibilities were high on our list, we wanted to make sure Gigi had access to a major she would enjoy. If you study something you love, it becomes easy to enjoy your overall college experience. And that's what we wanted most, for her to have a life-changing and positive journey as a college student.
Jet: Being from California, one might think OU is a million miles away. We had a family member who attended OU. He loved it, and to this day, he is an active alumni member and donor. He recommended we visit the campus. Once we did, we met so many people from the OU community, all of who were just as excited and passionate as he was about the possibilities at OU.
Although Gigi was accepted to several universities, the combination of athletics, school spirit, academic excellence and rigor, Greek life, living accommodations, and the charm of Norman put OU at her top spot.
Jet: We have been on at least three OU campus tours. OU's campus is home to a rich history and more than 170 majors. I recommend visiting—the worst thing your student can do is not visit a university, accept a spot, and realize it did not meet their needs. OU met our requirements and more. Take a tour. Talk with an admissions counselor. Connect with a professor from a major your student wants to explore. It's way worth it, and the best part is that the OU community wants to connect with you, too.
Jet: The admissions experience at OU was virtually painless, as the website is straightforward and thorough with details of the application process. In addition, Gigi had access to an internal admission site to help her keep on track with her application and with the next steps after acceptance. OU thought of everything to make it easy. We were happy with how quickly we learned of Gigi’s acceptance. We began preparing as soon as we received the news!
Jet: It has been a whirlwind. Gigi is busy with class, Greek life, and her spirit squad duties. Through her spirit squad duties, she's on the football field during home games, and outside of gamedays, she's completing community service. She is having the college experience of her dreams at OU. Sometimes, it can feel like a little much, but she is constantly finding new ways to have fun, explore her interests and career, and make friends while doing it. She's having the time of her life as an OU student.
Jet: My advice to other families going through the college search process is to remember that at the end of the day, this is their student's choice. Make sure your family visits each campus. We completed 22 campus visits, and each of my daughters knew immediately where they wanted to attend after their first visit. It is important to be supportive of your student's decision and to guide them only with a listening ear and constructive advice. This is their four years and their time to create their future.
