Two students are smiling, chatting with each other while walking outside of a building. Several students are laughing to their right, sitting on a bench.
LINKS Program
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LINKS Program

At Ohio University, we believe that every Bobcat deserves to feel supported. For more than 35 years, the LINKS program has helped students from diverse backgrounds transition to university life and succeed at OHIO. LINKS is a first-year support program, committed to attracting and retaining students who value building and living in an inclusive, supportive community. The LINKS program is highly successful, boasting a 91% fall to spring retention rate with an average 3.2 GPA, and a 79% retention rate from year 1 to year 2 of enrollment.

We are LINKS. We are all Bobcats, connecting and supporting each other.

Frequently Asked Questions 

 

LINKS at OHIO

At Ohio University, we believe that every Bobcat deserves to be supported. Hear what some of our current students have to say about the LINKS program.

Attend a Virtual Info Session!

Join us at an upcoming virtual information session to learn more about the LINKS experience from current Bobcats. You’ll hear from them about peer mentorship, academic support and social opportunities that help you connect with community.

  • Thursday, May 4 at 7 p.m.

    Join us for a virtual information session to learn more about the LINKS experience. This session will take place on Thursday, May 4 at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. 

    Sign Up Today!

Welcome Program

The LINKS Welcome Program is a 1-day event before the start of the fall semester to welcome LINKS students to campus, allowing them to move into their residence hall, get to know their peers, familiarize themselves with campus, and engage in an assortment of enrichment activities. Students will also get to meet relevant staff and campus administrators. 

A crowd of people wearing green and black matching shirts pose together for a group picture on Ohio University's College Green.
Two Ohio University students walk together on College Green in early spring

Peer Mentoring Support Program 

Every LINKS student is assigned a peer mentor who maintains weekly contact throughout the academic year individually, and in group activities, helping students find their sense of belonging on campus. LINKS peer mentors are successful upper-class students, who serve as role models to first year students, and provide academic, personal, and social support, as they transition from high school to college. 

Learn More About Being a Peer Mentor

Success Coaches

Each student is also assigned an OMSAR success coach for academic support and leadership advising. Students meet with the success coach as often as they want. Coaches ensure the student’s success on campus by reminding them of helpful resources. Additionally, success coaches encourage campus leadership and involvement, community engagement, and professional development in the student’s chosen field.

An Ohio University student meets with a LINKS Success Coach in her office
A group of students sit at desks in a classroom, with several students raising their hands to answer a professor's question

Academic Year Enrichment

LINKS students will have access to academic monitoring and tracking, academic and professional development workshops, leadership and workforce development, community service, and monthly enrichment sessions. Some session topics include time management, study skills, goal planning, career and leadership development, study abroad, multiculturalism, diversity, and more.