The Appalachian Student Union (APSU) is a new group at Ohio University, and I want to make sure every teenager in Lawrence County thinking about attending Ohio University knows about it.

Sometimes transitioning to OU can be difficult, but we with the APSU would like to offer our support, friendship, and knowledge of campus resources.

Our programming includes a speakers series, movie nights, a mentorship program, and advocating for an Appalachian Studies Program at OU.

Each meeting, after we discuss these things, we put on the Avett Brothers or Metallica and tell stories. About getting cars stuck on back roads. About exploding methlabs. About coming to college from the middle of nowhere. About our grandparents. About mothmen and grassmen and the way people look at us when we say ‘y’all.’

Sometimes we do activities that we feel are culturally humorous, such as making glowing Mountain Dew lanterns. Always, we leave with smiles on our faces.

The Appalachian Student Union meets at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays in Ellis 103. We’re an inclusive cultural community, and we believe that together we can make a brighter tomorrow for our region.

Interested in getting involved? Stop by any meeting, or email APSU@ohio.edu today.

The Appalachian Student Union is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Questioning, and Allied friendly.

Shea Daniels

Athens