Embracing Graduate Life Beyond Academics

I started my spring semester with a resolve to embrace the holistic graduate experience. I wanted to step outside my routine, expose myself to new experiences, and actively participate in the social and cultural events on campus. 

This blog is a testament to pushing myself to try something new. Recently, I attended an Instructional Kitchen session hosted at the Ohio Union, where students get the opportunity to learn how to cook a full meal under the guidance of the Union’s professional chef, Chef Ben. Here are three reasons that made this experience truly memorable for me: 

First, I had the chance to prepare a three-course vegetarian meal that not only looked impressive but was thoughtfully designed around sustainability, the theme of the evening. The ingredients were fresh, readily available, and cost-effective, reinforcing the idea that sustainable cooking can also be practical and accessible.

Second, learning from Chef Ben, who is both knowledgeable and an excellent teacher, was a delight. The session focused not just on preparing the meal, but also on understanding cooking techniques and the importance of sourcing seasonal produce. As a student who regularly meal preps, these lessons felt especially relevant and immediately applicable.

Lastly, the experience became even more meaningful because I shared it with a friend. Attending the session together gave us a chance to step away from our daily schedules and connect outside the classroom through the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal. 

Overall, this experience reinforced the importance of intentionally seeking out new opportunities and building community beyond academics. Experiences like this are what truly enrich student life, and I look forward to embracing many more during my time at OSU.