Bill Patterson '82

Oklahoma State University can simply be described as a school full of passion. I think I give because of the passion and friendliness that abound at the school.

I have friends at home that don’t understand why I’m so passionate about my school, why I follow the athletic programs and why I constantly promote the University.

I tell them it’s simple.  When I first decided to look at OSU I really had no idea about the school, I was a Texan. I had never been to Stillwater, never followed any of the athletic programs and wasn’t really sure why I was looking at possibly attending.  The one thing I did know, was that the family friend at home who suggested I look at OSU was nothing short of passionate about his experience when he attended.

I took my chance.  I had always planned to go to the University of Texas. My parents went there and I grew up going to UT football games.  As a high school senior I decided UT was too big for me.  I really didn’t know where else I wanted to attend, but decided, since our family friend was so passionate about OSU that it was worth a look.

When I went for my visit, the high school and college relation’s representative was Jerry Gill (who went on to lead the Alumni Association).  He spent an entire day with my family, showing us every piece of the campus and ultimately getting me in with the Dean of the Journalism School.

I was very impressed with the friendliness of everyone I met, how they took the time to introduce themselves and how they cared about me as a person and potential student. At OSU you are not just a number.

My experience in college was fantastic. I went to school not knowing anyone and have met many lifelong friends.  We all continue to stay in touch, tailgate at football games and support our school. 

I began taking my children to football games at an early age.  They too fell in love with Stillwater and the school. They are now freshman and have both said how comfortable they feel in Stillwater, how it feels like a second home and how everyone has been so friendly toward them.

We are a brighter orange and the passion shows through the students, faculty, staff, alums and friends. 

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