No matter how critical Oberlin students tend to be, they rarely deny the quality of education they receive. In fact, most students are more than appreciative of the unique academic and cultural opportunities Oberlin offers, and are hard pressed to think of a school they’d rather be at. Students who are frustrated with their experience often complain about the small, insular environment, long, cold winters, and the heavy workload. Those who thrive with Oberlin’s stimulating academics and interesting student body are those willing to accept the challenges inherent to attending a small, liberal arts institution. Here you won’t experience the aspects of a state university education, such as Greek life, large sports, a lot of hotties, or packed classes. But that is the point--Oberlin prides itself in being everything that a state university is not.
Many students take for granted the fact that Oberlin, for an undergraduate institution of its size, has one of the most impressive library and art collections in the country, and that the Conservatory provides students with a constant repertoire of world-class music. The opportunities you will receive at Oberlin are countless, but it is up to you to find your place within the mosaic of different beliefs, interests, and passions, and to take advantage of all the available resources. Oberlin provides students with all the tools necessary for a unique and challenging experience, and can affect you to the point you realize the old Oberlin adage is true—once an Obie, always an Obie.