Buckeye Traditions
The Ohio State University has a rich history, which has inspired passion, pride and traditions. Some of the traditions that exist on campus today are the following:
“Carmen Ohio” – This song was written by The Ohio State University's four letter athlete and Glee Club singer, Fred Cornell. This song is sung multiple times throughout football game days, as well as different commencement events (i.e. Candlelight Ceremony and graduation). The title means “Ohio Song,” and continues to be one of the university’s oldest school songs and traditions.
“Buckeye Battle Cry” – This song is recognized as Ohio State’s fight song, which is performed by the acclaimed Ohio State University Marching Band (also known as TBDBITL – The Best Damn Band in the Land).
Script Ohio – This has become a trademark associated with OSU football. TBDBITL forms a looped “Ohio” script on the field. Another tradition tied to Script Ohio is Dotting the I. Each game a different fourth- year or fifth-year sousaphone player is selected to stand as the dot in the “I” of “Ohio.”
Homecoming – There are several homecoming events that celebrate OSU students past, present and future. The Homecoming Parade and Homecoming Pep Rally help kick-off the festivities, and throughout the weekend there are tailgates, football, and more!
Mirror Lake – The Ohio State University and University of Michigan athletic rivalry is one that has caught the attention of sports fans around the world. As a result, the week leading up to the OSU vs. Michigan game is referred to as “Beat Michigan Week.” One of the events that students participate in is known as the Mirror Lake jump. Mirror Lake is a man-made pond near the Oval (also known as the heart of campus), and students gather to jump into the lake the Tuesday night of Michigan Week. It may not be sanctioned by the University, but it’s a tradition that continues to build camaraderie amongst Buckeyes.
Commencement Week – This week is filled with celebratory events for graduating students, and one of the traditions within Commencement Week is the Commencement Eve Candlelight Ceremony. This is an event where undergraduate, graduate and professional students and their families and friends gather on the Oval on Commencement Eve. Guest speakers share remarks, and then attendees light a candle and sing “Carmen Ohio."
The Long Walk – Being a romantic, one of my favorite traditions is known as The Long Walk, which takes place on the Oval. It is said that if couples are able to walk the brick path from College Road to Thompson Library holding hands without interference or another crossing their path, then they are destined to be together forever.
These are just a few of the traditions that exist here at OSU, but there are many more. The traditions exist to bring people together, build community, and make memories.
Note: Since there are several references to TBDBITL, you can check them out at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAzzbrFgcUw