Being a student at College of the Ozarks, I hear bizarre questions and assumptions about C of O from multiple people. I would like to debunk and rationalize some of the misconceptions people have thought or think about the wonderful College of the Ozarks.

I have heard some people call College of the Ozarks a “prison” because they track who comes and goes on campus, and because of the gates that close at 6 p.m. First off, I appreciate the security provided on campus because it helps me feel safe. Secondly, after the gates, close people can still come and go as they wish. Students simply have to be back in their dorms by 1 a.m., the curfew time.

I have also seen comments on Facebook stating that College of the Ozarks babysits their students. Whatever their reasoning may be behind this statement, I have no clue. It may be because of the curfew I mentioned previously. However, the curfew is for the well-being of the students--we have all heard our parents say, “Nothing good happens after midnight.” All jokes aside, though, having a curfew keeps students from staying out too late and helps prevent the temptation of partying.

Another reason why people may believe that C of O “babysits” their students is because we have a dress code. In all reality, most workplaces require their employees to dress a certain way. Therefore, having a dress code to abide by prepares us for the future. And quite frankly, I find it refreshing to go to a college that has standards. C of O is a major tourism spot, and this is a great way to emphasize the values of the college in which most of the tourists appreciate seeing.

Most people, including myself, are at first somewhat apprehensive toward the rule that freshman at C of O could not access their vehicle from Monday morning at 1 a.m. until Friday at noon. In my new life as an incoming freshman, I soon discovered that between work, class, on campus activities, studying, spending time with new found friends, and finding time for three meals a day, consumed my days so much that I did not even miss having my car. There are an ample amount of activities and places on campus to spend some down time at, eliminating the need to go off campus for entertainment.

In addition, the 15 required convocation and chapel attendances seemed cumbersome at first, and may seem so to others. However, going to convocations exposed me to cultures that I would not have exposed myself to, and I am grateful for that. While chapel services were different from what I was accustomed to, by bringing an open mind and open heart I was able to appreciate other forms of worship and have found encouragement in the sermons and felt the presence of God.

God blessed me with the opportunity to attend College of the Ozarks. Although C of O may not suit some, to others it is a magnificent place to grow academically and spiritually.