The OU Pledge


Prepare for success with meaningful internships and experience-based learning


Watch Josue's graphic design internship journey in this video.

Your future is golden at Oakland University

From day one, you’re empowered to take risks, believe in yourself and contribute to the community as an innovator, creative or caregiver. Through easy-to-access resources, customized support and mentorship from your advisers, faculty and the OU Career and Life Design Center, you’ll shine as you shape your future on our inclusive, close-knit campus that pulsates with possibility.

With sharpened skills and newfound expertise, you’ll step confidently into your career, distinguishing yourself in a competitive job market and drawing on OU's strength as a regional economic power.

#1 in Michigan

Oakland ranks as the highest and the best value for investment among our peer institutions in Michigan.

#1 in Michigan

Oakland ranks first among public universities in the state for enhancing students’ social mobility, and second after only UM-Ann Arbor for preparing students for careers.

#2 in Michigan

Oakland graduates repay their tuition in only one year and seven months, the second-fastest among all public universities in Michigan.

Image of Connor Bowyer at the OU help desk


Eyeing a career as a developer or system administrator, CONNOR BOWYER’s work with OU’s IT Help Desk combines his love for technology with customer service. Through hands-on interactions with OU faculty and staff, he ensures smooth network operations and a seamless user experience. As a team leader, Connor continually expands his golden knowledge by stepping outside his comfort zone — and challenges others to do the same.

Image of Ashley Perry next to hospital bed and film equipment


Captivated by the creative process, ASHLEY PERRY views the world through a lens of possibility. Having chosen OU for its connected community and golden faculty guidance, the graphic design major shines in her club and internship roles on campus, broadening her perspective and contributing to career opportunities.

Image of Mariella Simocini talking to a person


Participating in team case competitions with the SBA Business Scholars Program took MARIELLA SIMONCINI’s business education to the next level. The golden support of OU program director and mentor Joy Jiang, Ph.D., sharpened Mariella’s ability to problem solve under pressure and facilitated opportunities in the real world, such as a summer internship with PwC that resulted in a full-time job.


AT OU, THE PATH TO A GOLDEN FUTURE IS PAVED WITH EXPERIENCE-BASED LEARNING