How Does the Exploration Program Work?

There are 3 key components that make the Exploration Program work:

  • Individualized attention through one-on-one appointments
  • University Survey course
  • Quarterly Outreach

Individualized Attention

Upon entry into the Exploration Program you are assigned an individual advisor. You will meet your advisor during Orientation the summer before classes begin and your advisor will teach your University Survey class which you take during your first quarter at Ohio State.

Your advisor’s goal is to get to know you – your interests, goals, dreams – and to share information and new ideas about academic possibilities at Ohio State.

There is no limit to individualized advising appointments – you can meet with your advisor every day, every week, every month, or every quarter. We strongly encourage students to meet with their academic advisor at least once each quarter.

Once you have chosen your academic direction, your EXP advisor will provide you with step-by-step instructions to enter your degree-granting college.

University Survey class

All new students entering Ohio State must enroll in a University Survey course. One of the goals of this course is to help students learn the “nuts and bolts” of success at Ohio State. The Exploration Program Survey has an added, unique feature of helping you:

  • Examine up to 170 majors at Ohio State through college-sponsored events, PowerPoint presentations, and web research
  • Reflect upon your interests, abilities, and goals through computerized assessment instruments, conversations with faculty and staff, and advisor feedback
  • Narrow your choices of majors of interest
  • Create "next steps" as you continue to explore options beyond your first quarter

Quarterly Outreach

One of the main differences between high school and college life is students need to take initiative rather than wait for others to reach out. The Exploration Program strives to find an effective balance.

While we strongly encourage all of our students to contact us as often as possible, we also reach out to you by:

  • Reviewing your academic performance each quarter
  • Analyzing your academic choices on a quarterly basis
  • Sending you an e-mail with observations or questions about your academic record
  • Inviting you to meet with an academic advisor each quarter
  • All of the advisors in EXP hold Master's Degrees in a variety of academic fields.
  • Through extensive, on-going training, EXP advisors know the basics of every major on campus and can help you determine the "best fit" for you.

Your survey course, a one-credit course which counts toward your graduation requirements, is taught by your academic advisor. This is a great way for you to make a connection early in your academic career.