Student Spotlight

Maria applied to the Honors College as an incoming first-year because she wanted a unique academic experience and a strong sense of community. “I was seeking a rigorous academic experience,” she says, “and I thought the Honors College would help me grow and connect with people who share similar goals.” Reflecting on her time in the program, Maria notes how the Honors College has helped her thrive. “The smaller classes have given me more attention and helped me learn the material better,” she says.

Esme Gonzalez, a third-year honors student and art major, traces her love for art back to fourth grade, when she watched a classmate create an animation. “I was a moth to a flame. I wanted to know everything about art — how, why and what was possible. I got involved in art communities online where seeing others’ work inspired me even more,” Esme says. “I think what I love most about art is the community aspect to it — where everyone builds on each other's ideas, creating something bigger together. It’s beautiful.”

For third-year psychology major Madalynn Hines, the Honors College and the Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and the Arts program have been instrumental in shaping her academic journey, providing a foundation for research, mentorship and personal growth.

For third-year mathematics major Hannah Dempsey, the Honors College has been a space to explore academic interests, connect with peers and prepare for what comes next. 

Experiential learning is a core part of the Honors College curriculum, and the small, discussion-based seminar courses unique to the college allow students opportunities to develop hands-on experience exploring topics from interdisciplinary perspectives. 

Oregon State University is home to one of the most highly regarded online learning programs in the country and one of the first to have an honors option. Since 2023, students pursuing degrees online – who make up a third of all Oregon State learners – have had the option to complete their major through the Honors College, offering new opportunities for research, faculty collaboration and academic distinction to students studying across the world. 

A vibrant social media presence across platforms like Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn, has become one of the main ways the Oregon State University Honors College develops community and opens a window into honors student life. Honors students Kaitlyn Scanlon and Frankie Ruppert —  the creative duo behind much of this content — are key to the success of this approach.