I completed my undergrad at OSU. Definitely possibly to find affordable/safe housing! Indianola Ave is not what I would consider dangerous at all. it's an area that a lot of undergrads live in. on the east side of campus I would say stay west of 4th ave, south of Hudson, and north of maybe 8th ave. You may be able to find some cheaper suburb areas (Grandview and Clintonville are some of the more expensive ones) and I would advise staying away from south east of Columbus. I currently live northwest of campus. TONS of good eating in Columbus. We're a bunch of foodies I'd say. Lots of quick options on High St and near campus. I would advise against a meal plan. I did mostly cooking during the week and will adventure out to places for food on the weekends.