LINKS Program
LINKS Program
LINKS
At Ohio University, we believe that every Bobcat deserves to feel supported.
The LINKS program emphasizes exploration and discovery, helping students build meaningful connections with peers while engaging more deeply with their academic interests and potential career pathways. Through a focus on well-being, campus engagement, and personal development, the program supports students in navigating their transition to Ohio University and developing a sense of belonging within the broader Bobcat community. Participants receive individualized peer mentoring, along with specialized sessions that introduce students to opportunities for scholarship, experiential learning, and professional growth—both on Ohio University’s Athens campus and beyond—connecting them to a wide range of possibilities for their future.
We are LINKS. We are all Bobcats, connecting and supporting each other. Any incoming, first year Ohio University student is eligible and invited to sign up to participate.
LINKS Welcome Program
The LINKS Welcome Program is a one-day event held before the start of the fall semester to welcome LINKS students to campus. Students who plan to live on campus will move into their residence halls a day before the program, providing an opportunity to settle in and begin connecting with peers. The program continues with enrichment activities that help students familiarize themselves with campus resources, meet LINKS-affiliated staff and campus administrators.
If you will be a first-year student in 2026/2027 academic year and you are interested in joining LINKS information on how to join LINKS will be posted soon.
If you are a currently enrolled 2025/2026 first-year student and you would like to join the LINKS program, kindly email the LINKS Assistant Director Crystal Asimenu: asimenu@ohio.edu
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 community, connection, and sense of belonging on campus. LINKS peer mentors are successful returning 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.
LINKS Student Testimonials
“I am so grateful to have had this experience because the program helped me a lot during my transition from high school into college. Which was why I gave back by being a Peer mentor and served alongside such sweet people” Hai Lan
LINKS Student Testimonials
"LINKS gave me the sense of community I didn’t know I needed my freshman year. I was going through a really hard time and having a mentor who genuinely cared made all the difference. My LINKS mentor supported me when I felt alone, and we’re still friends to this day." Kayla
Academic Year Enrichment
LINKS students will have access to academic and professional development workshops, leadership and workforce development, community service, and regular enrichment sessions. Some session topics include time management, study skills, goal planning, career and leadership development, study abroad, and more.
Ohio University is committed to upholding practices of equal access and equal opportunity for all. Participation in the LINKS program is open to all students.
Ohio University prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, ethnicity, national origin, national ancestry, sex, status as a parent during pregnancy and immediately after the birth of a child, status as a parent of a young child, status as a foster parent, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, military service, veteran status, mental or physical disability, or genetic information in its programs, activities, and admission.
If you believe our program has violated our non-discrimination policy, please contact civilrights@ohio.edu.
91% fall to spring retention
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. Many of our LINKS students go on to become leaders across the greater university ca
40 years
For more than 40 years, the LINKS program has helped students transition to university life and succeed at OHIO. LINKS seeks to foster and support the academic, social, and personal success of students. LINKS is a first-year support program.
LINKS & SAE
The LINKS program is housed under the Office of Signature Academic Experiences, Chubb Hall 060.