Live Here, Learn Here: Earn a Degree in Licking County

Denison University

Choosing where to attend college can be one of the most difficult decisions a young person can make. Affordability, diverse academic offerings and campus culture are often major considerations. But also among the deciding factors is location. 

Boasting a blend of urban amenities and rural landscapes, Licking County promises students a well-rounded college experience. The community is known for its welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds, scenic outdoor recreational opportunities, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Plus, a thriving job market – made up of corporate giants, such as The Boeing Company, Google and the largest economic development project in Ohio still under construction, Intel – gives the region a competitive advantage for retaining graduates.

Here’s a look at the colleges and universities in Licking County and the people who have been positively impacted by them.

Buckeye for Life 

Brooklyn Marshall has always wanted to be a Buckeye. After all, both her mother and grandmother attended Ohio State University. But when it came time to choose where she would spend her college years, Marshall decided on Ohio State University at Newark. 

“My mom and grandma attended Ohio State University, so I wanted to continue the tradition,” says Marshall who plans to graduate with a degree in primary education in 2024. “I chose the Newark campus because it is more affordable, and I’m able to complete my major here.” 

The Newark campus offers eight on-campus degree programs, but students can begin at any of OSU’s more than 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and then transfer to the nearby Columbus campus. The connection to the Columbus campus is one of the things Marshall says she appreciates most about Ohio State University at Newark. Even though the cost is more affordable, students still have access to all OSU amenities, such as discounted tickets to sporting events. 

Big-Screen Dreams 

With an impressive roster of alumni that includes the likes of actors Steve Carell, Jennifer Garner and the late Hal Holbrook, it’s easy to understand Denison University’s attraction. The private liberal arts institution in Granville hosts a little more than 2,000 students, offers some 65 degree programs and boasts a 9-1 student-instructor ratio. The small student population can make peers feel more like family, especially since almost all students live on campus while enrolled. 

Denison’s small size doesn’t mean it’s lacking in major opportunities for students, particularly when it comes to career preparation – 92% of graduates are employed six months after earning their degree. 

For example, the lauded cinema program offers a wealth of hands-on learning, including field trips to Los Angeles to see how films get made and meet Denison alumni working in the industry. 

“There are a ton of graduates from the program working in the industry. Getting a sense of how they got to where they are today is inspiring, informative and important for us when planning the trajectory of our careers,” says Meshach Malley, a cinema major who made the trip in 2022. “I learned that it is possible to make a living by making movies. That does not mean it is easy or it is a normal career path, but it can be done. If you really want to make movies, you can do it!” 

A Career Jumpstart 

Ben Anyigbavor, a Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) student working toward a degree in radiologic science technology, followed in his wife’s footsteps; she received her registered nursing degree from COTC. He spent 10 years as a land surveyor in his home country of Ghana before immigrating to the United States. Pursuing a second career, he says radiologic science was a natural fit for him because it uses many of the same skills as an engineer. 

“You have to operate equipment and machinery to get good images of the patient, and I felt inclined to that area because I have an engineering background,” Anyigbavor says. “So, I thought that I could relate well with that kind of environment.” 

COTC offers more than 50 degree and certificate programs in high-demand fields, such as health care, engineering and IT, social work and public safety. Flexible class schedules allow students such as Anyignavor to have work-life balance. 

“I wanted something more flexible, with more job security, but also more opportunities,” he says. “It’s been terrific. I think my instructors are the best I’ve ever had. They give you the opportunity to excel.” 

Q&A: Denison Alumnus and Mayor of Hebron

In November 2023, Dr. Valerie Mockus was elected mayor of Hebron. Along with being a public official, she is also president of Hebron-based Apple Pi Consulting, which provides 200+ U.S. colleges and universities with financial aid management support services. 

What are your ties to Hebron? 
My family arrived in Hebron back in 1905, and I’m a graduate of Denison University in nearby Granville. I also earned my master’s degree and doctorate in business. 

How did your studies at Denison University prepare you for your career and role as mayor? 
I was the first women’s studies major to graduate from Denison, and I also studied physics to help solidify my love of logic. When I switched to a liberal arts program in my junior year, I was able to spend time exploring the narrative of a wide range of voices, not just the voices of those in mainstream media and pop culture. 

I then went on to complete two degrees in business that helped me launch a successful consulting practice in software. Ultimately, these academic disciplines and business experiences help me approach resident concerns and ideas with a curiosity, an openness and fiscal sensibilities that I hope will serve our community well. 

Who was a big influence in your life? 
My grandmother, Betty, always made sure I was involved in church, band and community efforts. I got the gift of gab from her, but she also taught me to listen to people. 

What got you into politics? 
People in this community started talking to me about service and getting involved, and I agreed. I want to give back to Hebron. 

Now as mayor, do you hope to hear from Hebron residents on various issues? 
Yes, absolutely. I want residents to talk with me about any of their concerns or questions. I want to hear from everyone, which is why I think voters elected me.

– Kevin Litwin contributed to this article.