Providing students with growth opportunities and transformational experiences is an expectation at most top tier colleges and universities across the country. Ohio State is no exception. Because of the breadth and depth of opportunity at Ohio State, students are able to take part in first year experience programs to help make the transition to college smoother, research, internships, co-ops, volunteerism, and travel abroad.
One of the newest and most vibrant programs is the Second-Year Transformational Experience Program or STEP for short.
STEP is an extension of Ohio State’s commitment to the student experience and provides an opportunity for education beyond the classroom. Students participating in STEP can submit a proposal for a fellowship of up to $2,000 to use towards a STEP Signature Project. Second year students work weekly with a faculty mentor and student cohort throughout autumn semester to develop and implement a project that is personal and impactful to them.
For Ohio State Marion junior aerospace engineering major Jackson Crawford, his experience with STEP led to a paid trip to Switzerland working with drones. A trip that, according to Crawford, has left an indelible impression.
Crawford shared that his first involvement with STEP was in autumn 2021. The following academic year, he applied for a study abroad trip in spring 2023. Once he gives a presentation for STEP on the Columbus campus during the autumn semester 2023, he will complete his involvement with STEP after being part of it for two years.
Crawford spent ten days on a study abroad trip with The Ohio State University in Switzerland exploring their drone and UAS technology. His group visited several companies including Wingtra, Matternet, Pix4D, and Flyability.
"I enjoyed each visit as it expanded my understanding of drone technology and allowed me to begin brainstorming possible research projects and/or business opportunities with drones," said Crawford.
Beyond linking the experience to his future career, Crawford found a new passion for travel.
"Switzerland is an amazing country and I cannot wait to visit again," he said.
"This was my first time traveling overseas and reflecting on my experience, I plan to travel overseas many more times throughout my life," Crawford added. "Seeing a different culture and part of the world is an unforgettable experience and I want to see and experience as much of the world as I can."
"Personally," said Crawford, "the trip impacted me positively because it was a step outside of my comfort zone. I had never traveled overseas before, and I did not know anyone on the trip. The trip allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and make new friends while being in a new place.
"Professionally, the trip allowed me to meet with industry professionally and tour leading companies," he said. "Making these connections is an invaluable tool that will aid me in the future."
Two years after beginning the program Crawford felt this opportunity created an unforgettable life experience that will greatly impact his personal and professional goals.
"Using the STEP fellowship, you can get an internship, conduct research, study abroad, take part in service learning, or something else. It is a great opportunity that students should take part in to advance their future," Crawford shared.
"It has ignited a passion for traveling the world and experiencing every part of the world. In my career, I will be able to use the connections I made to further my resources and advance towards my career goals," Crawford added.
Second year students who wish to learn more about the STEP program at Ohio State Marion at https://osumarion.osu.edu/current-students/step-program or email: mckinniss.31@osu.edu or schul.1@osu.edu. The 2023 program cohort is now forming.