Hi! My name is Lauren Clippard, and I’m a senior studying Finance in the Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University. I was a member of the Ohio State swim team before medically retiring due to injuries, and I now work with the Nike Ohio State Partnership, helping create engaging experiences for students across campus. I also previously gave campus tours to prospective student-athletes, so I know Ohio State really well and have loved my time here. I can share insights on academics, campus life, organizations to get involved in, and all the little things that make the college experience so special. I’ve also had the opportunity to study abroad in Taiwan and have built strong relationships with professors and mentors across campus. I’d love to show you around, share my experiences, and answer any questions you have about Ohio State!

Hometown

Cincinnati, Ohio

Major(s)

Finance

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Crossports, Mortarboard, Younglife, Nike UMove, and study abroad in Taiwan.

Describe your college experience

One of the questions I get asked the most is, “Is Ohio State too big?” Honestly, that was one of my concerns before coming here too. But what I’ve learned is that while the campus is huge, it quickly starts to feel like home once you get involved. For me, getting involved completely changed my college experience. Whether it was being on the swim team, working with the Nike Ohio State Partnership, leading Bible studies, or joining other organizations, I found communities that made such a big campus feel small. You’ll find people who share your interests and become your support system. The people here have made all the difference. I’ve had professors who genuinely cared about my success, took the time to mentor me, and even helped connect me with career opportunities. Those relationships have been just as valuable as what I’ve learned in the classroom. And then there are the traditions. Nothing compares to Saturdays in the fall. The energy on game day, walking across campus with everyone dressed in scarlet and gray, and being in the stadium for Buckeye football is something you really have to experience to understand. It’s one of those moments that reminds you you’re part of something so much bigger than yourself. I’m most grateful for the people I’ve met. I’ve made friendships that I know will last long after graduation, and I’ve had opportunities I never imagined when I first stepped on campus. Ohio State has challenged me, helped me grow, and given me experiences that have shaped who I am today.

Tip for future students

My biggest piece of advice is to say yes to opportunities. Go to the involvement fair, join clubs, introduce yourself to your professors, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. College is what you make of it, and if you put yourself out there, Ohio State has so much to offer.

Favorite class

My favorite class at Ohio State has been Elevate 360, taught by Andrew Piletz and Ty Shepher. It’s unlike any other class I’ve taken because instead of focusing only on what you’ll learn in college, it prepares you for everything that comes after graduation. The idea behind the course is to equip students with the practical skills needed for career and life success. We talked about topics like purpose, leadership, relationships, communication, personal branding, and building a meaningful life not just finding a job. One of the most impactful things I took away from the class was writing my personal purpose statement. It’s something I still use today to guide the decisions I make and the way I want to live my life. What also made the class so special was Professor Andrew Piletz. He is intentional about getting to know every student by name, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued. He brings so much energy to every class, making it a place you look forward to attending each week.

Career goals

After college I hope to move to Oregon and work at Nike headquarters full time. Through my work I’ve done with the company at Ohio State, I have become passionate about marketing. I hope work in a related role at headquarters.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night starts with grabbing dinner in the Short North with friends. There are so many great restaurants to try, and no night is complete without stopping for Jeni’s Ice Cream afterward. If it’s one of our game nights, which I host every other week at my apartment, we’ll head back, make some snacks, and play our favorite game, Codenames. A simple nights with good friends are some of my favorite college memories and a big part of what has made my Ohio State experience so special.

High school or secondary school

Colerain High School in Cincinnati, Ohio