At Ohio University, we believe that every Bobcat deserves to feel supported. 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 from across culturally, socially, and geographically diverse backgrounds. 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. Many of our LINKS students go on to become leaders in the Multicultural Center and across the greater university campus community.
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 at OHIO
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 meet LINKS affiliated staff and campus administrators.
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 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 assigned a success coach for academic support and leadership advising. Students meet with the success coach as often as they want. Coaches connect students to resources, experiences, and people that help ensure their success inside and outside of the classroom. Additionally, success coaches encourage campus leadership and involvement, community engagement, and professional development in the student’s chosen field.
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.
Ohio University is committed to upholding practices of equal access and equal opportunity for all. Participation in the LINKS program is open to any student who actively contributes to the goals and objectives of the program.
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 equity@ohio.edu .