Hailey Jones: Discovering the ‘whole package’ at Ohio State Newark
Hailey, a fourth‑year student at Ohio State Newark, is proudly following in her father’s footsteps as a Buckeye. Her decision to start and stay on a regional campus has shaped a college experience rooted in community, connection, and opportunity—one uniquely her own.
Question:Why did you choose to come to Ohio State — and why a regional campus specifically?
I decided I wanted to come to Ohio State because my dad was an Ohio State alumnus. I went to a high school near my regional campus, and the lower tuition, staying at home, and being closer to my family were the right decisions for me.
Question:Was there a moment when you knew you made the right choice?
One of the first classes I took was Intro to English. My professor talked about the same experiences I was having at my regional campus. He loved the smaller class sizes and the homey environment. Listening to him really cemented that I made the right decision.
“Ohio State's regional campuses offer the whole package.”Hailey JonesOhio State business management majorQuestion:What's something people don't expect about a regional campus?
People don’t expect the social opportunities you have. There’s a misconception that Columbus is easier to get involved in because it’s bigger, but we have the same opportunities to join clubs, get a social circle, form study groups and hang out with friends.
Question:How did you get involved in student life on a regional campus?
I’ve taken the time to be involved in lots of different things. I’ve worked in several departments, worked in admissions, supported first-year orientation, started my own club and was in the homecoming court. I have gotten involved in different extracurricular activities, as well.
Question:How has your personal academic experience been within your major?
The faculty make themselves available and easy to contact. I’m consistently taking classes with a lot of the same people. I see the same people around campus. Classmates have clear goals, and I think they're getting enough resources, just as I do.
Question:What kinds of facilities or study spaces are available on your regional campus?
We have study spaces in pretty much every building on campus. We do have study rooms available in the library as well that you can reserve ahead of time. Our library building is our Student Center of sorts — you can go in for dining services, lounge spaces and a cafeteria area for you to sit down and hang out with your friends.