Freshman Friday: Katie Barbee

Friday, April 29, 2011

Oklahoma State University is offering  a closer look into the lives of its freshmen students. Each Friday, one freshman will be highlighted on the OSU Facebook page as part of the "Freshman Friday" feature. The freshmen profiles will share students' first impressions and experiences at OSU and create a unique way for others to get to know first-year students.

 

Katie Barbee

Age: 19
Hometown: Inola, OK
Major: Biology and Zoology
Classification: Freshmen

Why did you choose to attend OSU?
For me, there really was no other option. My grandparents and my dad came to OSU, and my mom worked here for years. I grew up coming to Stillwater quite often because my grandparents live here and we walked around campus nearly every time we came to visit. Every year for as long as I can remember we came to Walkaround, and my parents would tell me stories about when my dad was here. Needless to say, I fell in love with OSU a long time ago. It was always understood that I would come here when I was ready to start college. My parents didn't even ask me when I applied. I was about to tell them when they said, "You just applied at OSU, didn't you?"

What has been your favorite experience so far?
My favorite experience is so hard to choose! I can't decide between Homecoming or just every home football game. I've always loved homecoming. The floats, the house decorations, the atmosphere of it all, but this year was the first year I ever made it to the game. In fact, this last season was the first time I've ever been to a football game!

What do you wish you would have known before coming to college?
I wish I had known more about the work and study load and how hard it was to stay awake in early morning classes! I went straight from being homeschooled my entire life to suddenly being in college taking 15 hours. Believe me it was a culture shock, and I wish I had been more prepared. I think I've finally gotten the hang of having to actually go to classes and all the studying.

What changes do you hope to see during your years at OSU?
I can't wait for the Student Union to be finished! I remember what it was like before, and I can't wait to compare those memories to the renovations. I'd also appreciate restrooms more convenient in ES than the ones on the second floor.

Where do you see yourself after graduation?
My future career is in herpetology, so naturally, I would love to see myself traveling the world studying reptiles. I am particularly interested in venomous reptiles, so I am hoping to work for a venom research lab. Someone has to go out and collect the venom, right? Why not me? I can do what I love and contribute to zoological and medical sciences.

What advice would you give to high school seniors who are thinking about coming to OSU?
Be as prepared as possible and don't procrastinate! My first semester, I was nowhere near prepared for all the work that was necessary. It cost me a good grade in one class and many stressful, sleepless nights. I forgot to do or just put off my homework for class, or I didn't realize I had more homework, thinking I had less than I really did. Don't be afraid to go for help either! There are some great tutors available here. Use them!