Signing up for Random Roommates

When I was an incoming freshman to SU, I searched tirelessly on the “Class of 2017” Facebook pages, trying to sell myself to potential roommates. Somewhat unsure exactly what type of a roommate I was looking for, I announced to the group that I was seeking “anyone who likes to have a good time but focuses on academics as well.” All I was sure of was that I wanted a roommate whom I was able to research on social media first before committing to live with them. I had heard a few roommate horror stories and did not want to sign up for the arbitrary roommate algorithm. However, as the deadline for roommate selection approached, I still was not able to find the right fit and even turned down several options.

I took this as a sign that my roommate search was not meant to be, so I decided to just let the system determine my fate. I received my roommate assignment and was put in a quad, which meant I had three random roommates. This was a pleasant surprise because I was able to share a living room with my roommates in addition to two bedrooms in the space. Though I was pleased with the outcome of my dorm, I was still unsure about the roommates I was going to live with.

My roommates came from different backgrounds and all different parts of the country. One of them was from Atlanta, another from New York City, and the third from Los Angeles. To my pleasant surprise,  I made three new friends right off the bat. I learned about different parts of the country that I had never visited and gained insight into the different cultures of each person’s diverse background.

While we were all a bit apprehensive at first, we soon started hanging out together more and more. We bonded over shared TV shows, made plans to go to the dining hall, and explored the campus together. I especially got along with one of my roommates, Adam, who is also from California. We found out that we actually shared some mutual friends and talked endlessly about our California roots. It was really nice to meet someone who understood exactly what I was going through as a West Coast native living on the other coast for the first time. We also branched out and got to know our whole floor, eventually becoming friends with everyone on floor five. Brewster fifth floor became a really close-knit family and I finally felt that SU was my home away from home. That sense of belonging was something I had longed for and being able to experience it encouraged me and gave me the confidence I needed to make even more friends.

Getting out of my comfort zone and looking at this as an opportunity to meet new people ended up being far better than playing it safe and picking my own roommate. Sure, random roommates can be a hit or miss situation, but you’ll be amazed how taking that chance is sure to be rewarding in the end.

 

Eric Chuang ’17, is a  Public Relations major at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications with a minor in English & Textual Studies. Additionally, he is part of the Fashion & Beauty Communications Milestone Program. Eric is a California native, dog enthusiast, fervent traveler, and sushi connoisseur. When not taking Buzzfeed quizzes or coming up with clever Instagram captions, he can most likely be found jamming to Taylor Swift’s “1989” album. More blogs from Eric Chuang.

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No Car, No Problem

There is plenty to do on and off campus at Syracuse. Some activities however, are further away and require the use of a car. The university does not allow freshmen to have cars on-campus, and many upperclassmen, especially those whose hometowns are far away (like me), are also carless. Luckily, there are plenty of alternative forms of transportation available to students so that we do not miss out on fun opportunities. These are the ones I use most frequently:

Free Shuttle to Destiny USA

Destiny USA is the sixth largest shopping center in the nation with six stories of retail stores, restaurants, entertainment complexes and outlets, making it a popular destination among SU students. A 20 minute bus ride from campus, the free, roundtrip shuttle runs from College Place, right on main campus on Fridays and Saturdays. The first bus leaves at 6 p.m. and comes every thirty minutes. The bus also stops at the Archbold Gym, Sadler Hall and BBB bus stops. 

Free Shuttle to Downtown Syracuse

Take the free Connective Corridor Route 443 bus from College Place to the Warehouse, located at the heart of downtown. The bus ride is 20 minutes and takes you right into Armory Square–where there are plenty of great restaurants. Downtown Syracuse also offers fashionistas a number of trendy stores and an Urban Outfitters. The full schedule can be found here.

Discounted Buses For Thanksgiving

Every year, the Student Association (SA) provides charter buses for SU students to five different cities: New York City, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, and Rockaway, New Jersey. The buses are for SU students only at the round-trip price of just $99. I spoke to Keelan Erhard, the Chair of Student Life at SA, and he expressed that this is one of many initiatives SU is committed to, “We have ambassadors that ride the bus and they are the ones with the roster of students who purchased tickets,” said Erhard. “They’re in charge of making sure everyone is on the bus, and if they aren’t, they are tasked with contacting the person to see where they are so that the bus doesn’t leave without them.” SA provides the same service for spring break.

Free Shuttle to Wegman’s and Target

In addition to the buses for Thanksgiving, SA also offers a free shuttle service that takes students grocery shopping at Wegman’s and Target on a biweekly basis. The buses leave College Place every hour starting at noon on the designated dates. The full schedule can be found here.

Zipcar

If you want to be able to drive whenever you want, then renting a Zipcar is your best bet. SU has designated parking spots reserved for Zipcars all around campus. After you have applied for your Zipcar, you can reserve a car for however long you want just so long as you return the car at your agreed time. The late fee is quite hefty so be sure to extend your reservation if you feel like you may be late. The best thing about renting a Zipcar is that you can cater your usage to your schedule. You can apply for a Zipcar here.

SU’s transportation options benefit and enrich the student experience on campus. Not having a car does not mean you cannot get off of campus. Take advantage of those services and enjoy the area!

 

Eric Chuang ’17, is a  Public Relations major at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications with a minor in English & Textual Studies. Additionally, he is part of the Fashion & Beauty Communications Milestone Program. Eric is a California native, dog enthusiast, fervent traveler, and sushi connoisseur. When not taking Buzzfeed quizzes or coming up with clever Instagram captions, he can most likely be found jamming to Taylor Swift’s “1989” album. More blogs from Eric Chuang.

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A New York Times Article, a Phone Call, a Wish, and Four Years Later

There is one wish I made a few years back that, as of late, has bothered me above all others. It was an excruciatingly hot day in the middle of August 2012. The sun was blaring as my dad, stepmom, and I waited in the line of cars swerved around the parking lot adjacent to BBB Halls. Cramped on one side of the car and surrounded by an excessive amount of clothing and Pinterest-inspired dorm décor, I was a mess. I was nervous. I was anxious. I was scared to be left alone. On that day, my first day on the Syracuse University campus, I silently wished that the four years ahead would go by quickly.

Now past the finish line and officially an alumna, I can’t help but cringe at this wish. Not making it wouldn’t have made time go any faster or slower, but it would have been helpful to know then, on that hot summer day, that: those nerves were worth dealing with, the discomfort was worth working through, and those personal barriers were worth breaking down. I wish I knew then that I would become a stronger, more open minded, and more driven person thanks to the many differing and challenging opportunities Syracuse University would put within my path and equip me to face.

My first glimpse into the depth of the pride of Orange Nation occurred before I arrived on campus. Many welcoming and encouraging students, faculty, staff, and alumni commented and sent messages of congratulations following the publication of my article in The New York Times. Enthusiastically writing about my dream acceptance to Syracuse University, I painted a vision of what I hoped to achieve, including mixing my two academic passions, writing for the Daily Orange, and traveling abroad. I described the university as a place that fit me – a fosterer of education that would not force me to alter myself to attend. At that time, that description rang true, for everything I sought, SU offered.

No more than a few days after the article’s publication, I abruptly hid in a supply closet in the forensics classroom at my high school to take a call from Erin Martin Kane, SU’s then associate vice president for public relations. To my surprise, she offered me a position at SU’s Office of News Services. In that moment, I was undoubtedly excited and grateful, but I had no perception of how much that phone call would impact my experience at SU and the immeasurable amount of opportunity that would come with it.

An article, a phone call, a few months, and a nervous move-in day later, and my undergraduate career had launched. Over the course of the four years that encapsulated it, many memories were created, some of which I accurately predicted in my article – such as studying abroad and pursuing two majors – and most I had not, but all were more dynamic than originally expected.

As a dual major in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and the College of Arts and Sciences, my academic experience was diverse, yet cohesive. I learned from authors, prosecutors, communication directors, veterans, photographers, graphic designers, entrepreneurs, and movie producers. I pursued subjects I am passionate about and subjects I was hesitant toward, gaining valuable skills from each class and appreciating exposure to topics of unknown territory. My academic experience was thought-provoking. It was strenuous. It was worthwhile. It was enjoyable.

As a founding member, recruitment chair, vice president of academics, and then president of Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority – a sorority being something I never thought I would join ­­– my longstanding shell of shyness disappeared and an indescribable support system emerged. I built memories with future lawyers, teachers, IT specialists, occupational therapists, communication professionals, dentists, talent agents, and accountants. I handled situations I was trained for and situations that could not have been predicted. I learned the importance of leadership, communication, prioritization, and inclusiveness as we attended academic conferences, planned campus-wide events, raised money for charities, promoted positive body image, welcomed new members, hosted a reception with Chancellor Syverud, and inducted a brave 15-year-old young lady with Cystic Fibrosis as an honorary sister. I celebrated as our young organization strengthened its bonds and successes. I was honored as we were awarded SU’s Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs’ highest award for 2015-2016 and as I was named chapter president of the year. My Greek experience was exciting. It was demanding. It was uplifting. It was empowering.

As a member of #44Social, SU’s student social media team, I worked creatively and served as a voice for the university. Though designer’s block and 140 character limit struggles were frequent occurrences, nothing compared to knowing a project brought smiles to the many faces in our community.

As a student abroad, my sense of independence and enthusiasm toward learning about other cultures and practices were invigorated. I survived the times of sleeping on a staircase after missing the last train in Cinque Terre, getting locked in an apartment in Seville, and saying goodbye to my host family, yet nothing will beat the enjoyment I had while traveling with good friends and sampling good food.

As a peer advisor and Student Affairs Advisory Board member and through the many Juice Jam concerts, Mayfest celebrations, comedy shows, philanthropy events, bus rides, Marshall Street runs, basketball games, and late nights at Bird Library, I met incredible people who influenced me in one way or another and made my four years unforgettable.

And, as an intern at SU’s Office of News Services, I wrote articles and press releases, designed infographics and media passes, photographed events, delivered broadcast reports, shook Oprah’s hand, documented a Commencement, attended a chancellor’s inauguration, witnessed the Dalai Lama rock an SU hat, live-tweeted the Mirror Awards, met SU alumnus Prince Sultan bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, shadowed amazing people, and gained the foundation to succeed in internships and my future career.

Now, a phone call, a wish, and four years later, it is clear that my original depiction of Syracuse University no longer suits me. I had not anticipated how inaccurate my description would become as I became more adept to varied situations through interactions with thousands of different people with different views of life. I learned to abandon any preconceived notions, take advantage of all situations, develop a better understanding of differing social and comparative perspectives, and become a member of a diverse community of undeniable pride and collaboration. I did alter myself at Syracuse, and in fact, it was for the better.

Now, my foundation remains the same, but my aspirations, priorities, and appreciation for the world have all evolved. Now I’m no longer nervous. Now I’m ready. I am a Syracuse University alumna, Class of 2016.

None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary people who have supported me along the way. Thank you to:

  • Paula McKinnon – for encouraging me to write for The New York Times, guiding me through my last year at Brooklyn Technical High School, and for being such a genuine, kindhearted person
  • Erin Martin Kane – for making that phone call, being the best mentor with the kindest soul, and drastically changing my experience at SU in more ways than I could have ever imagined
  • Maren Guse – for trusting me, offering advice, and giving me so many opportunities
  • Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz – for serving as an incredible role model and doing so much good for SU
  • Justina DeMott – for helping me remember to take care of myself, consistently encouraging me no matter the situation, and for being an unbelievably courageous person
  • Claudia Strong – for always pushing me to be creative and challenging me to produce my best work
  • Bill Jasso – for helping me fall back in love with writing and always making me laugh
  • My professors – for teaching me to be a stronger thinker, communicator, and person
  • My friends – for exploring all of the ridiculous adventures with me
  • My family – for loving me unconditionally
  • My dad – for everything. I love you bigger than a watermelon

 

Cassie Dagostino is a recent graduate of Syracuse University’s Newhouse School and Maxwell School with a BA in Public Relations and Political Science. she is currently the Global Communications Coordinator at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City.

My Friend, Otto

It’s not often that the most “popular” person on campus is actually liked by everyone. It’s not often that someone with the responsibility of representing an entire school still makes time to hang with its students. And it’s not often that someone shaped like a circle can dance like the next Michael Jackson. These are just some of the things that make Otto the Orange so special. 

I first met Otto even before I was officially a Syracuse student at “Own the Dome.” I was just a high school kid, trying to make a good first impression with my future classmates, so I tried my best to play it cool. Of course seeing Otto, I had to ask for a picture. I remember saying something like “What’s up Otto, you tryna take a flick?”, as I worked to mask the excitement bubbling inside of me. He didn’t say yes, Otto can’t talk, but he extended his hand and we posed in the typical “just-met-a-celebrity-don’t-want-to-look-star-struck” kind of pose. I never did tell anyone how happy that moment made me… but that picture was my phone background for a solid three months so it wasn’t that hard to tell. 

Fast forward to SummerStart. It was an especially hot day, I had just left the basketball court after losing to an upperclassman in a one-on-one game. I was annoyed, I was hot, I was a little bit sad and I just wanted to go back to my dorm and sleep. And then it happened. I glanced around the quad in front of me, and out of the corner of my eye, I saw the most beautiful hue of orange. Yes, it was Otto. He was riding through the quad on a scooter trying to spread love and good cheer. Perfect timing.

The third time I saw Otto was different, I had grown out of my “cool” phase. So much so that I ran full speed across the quad screaming “Otttooooo!!!” When I caught up with him, I gave him one of the strongest hugs I’ve ever given. We took a picture (which also became my background) and I went through the rest of my day with the happiness only an Otto the Orange sighting could give you.

Now, I see Otto on a weekly basis, walking through the quad, or jumping around with the marching band at their practices or even sometimes driving around in a car. Wherever he is, though, I know he’s spreading happiness and joy to the students at Syracuse University. Each time I see him I feel the same excitement as I did that first day at Own the Dome. And I’d imagine that many students feel the exact same way.

 

Jalen Nash ’20 is studying pyschology in the College of Arts & Sciences. He was raised in Flatbush, New York and attended high school in New Jersey. In his free time, Jalen enjoys playing football and basketball, listening to music, reading, and writing. Jalen hopes to make a living, and be remembered, for his writing. More blogs from Jalen Nash.

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Maybe I am a Typical Sorority Girl

To be honest, Greek life was never on my radar when I was applying to colleges. My cousin was in a sorority, but besides that, I had no connection to Greek life nor any desire to join. I used to even poke fun at sororities and believed every generalization made about sorority girls. In my eyes, sorority girls wore dresses and pearls, loved shopping, and never wore sweatpants. None of these are bad, but they definitely aren’t me.

Fast forward to the end of my first semester freshman year. I was on the fence about participating in recruitment. My roommate had been looking forward to signing up since September, but I almost backed out. I didn’t want to be someone I wasn’t. I didn’t want my friends at home to say I’d changed because I joined a sorority. The night before the deadline for signing up, my friend on the club lacrosse team, who is not in a sorority, convinced me to try recruitment. She said even though she personally didn’t like it, there was no harm in trying it out.

I still think about how thankful I am for her advice. I ended up going through recruitment and joining a house that was filled with amazing women from all walks of life. I’ve met some of my best friends through my sorority. They’re people who I can laugh with, people I can talk to, and people who inspire me to be my best self. It’s like being in seven different clubs, while only actually being in one. I love sports, I love volunteering, and I care about my grades. And these are all passions I have been able to pursue and enjoy while being in a sorority.

On weekends I participate in fun philanthropy events with my friends—everything from pancake eating contests to dodgeball tournaments, all while knowing the profits are going to a good cause, as each sorority and fraternity are involved with a specific charitable organization. On Halloween, my friends and I handed out candy to local youth students in the Boys and Girls Club who trick-or-treated on Walnut Avenue near campus. We have parties every weekend with hilarious themes, and I have never felt pressure to look, dress up, wear makeup, or act a certain way.

I now realize that my original perception of a “typical sorority girl” was based on looks alone. I now think a typical sorority girl is a positive way to describe any young woman who has found a home away from home in her Greek life.

 

Samantha Trombley ’18, is public relations and policy studies major. She is originally from Franklin, CT. Sam is a member of Hill Communications, the on-campus public relations firm. She is also a member of the Girl Code Movement, the women’s club lacrosse team, and the Kappa Alpha Theta women’s fraternity. In her free time she enjoys hiking, volunteering, traveling, and spending time with friends. More blogs from Samantha Trombley.

 

Do the Dorms Right

I can’t believe that last semester was my last semester living in the ‘Cuse dorms. I’m very excited to have a place off campus this fall, but dorm life is a such a great experience. You’re close to everything, constantly surrounded by friends, and you don’t have to worry about cooking for yourself or cleaning the bathroom. While ultra-convenient, living in a dorm still requires some planning and thought. Here I’ve listed my top five dorm room essentials, based on my on-campus housing experience:  

1. First Aid Kit/ Health Supplies box: Unfortunately, most people are bound to catch a cold at least once a semester (or three times, if you’re like me). It’s always good to have some cough drops or EmergenC on hand, especially during exams when it’s hard to find time to go to CVS.

2. Extra paper towels: Picture yourself lying in bed, studying (or watching Netflix.) You reach over to grab your cup of coffee without looking and spill it all over your desk. I find myself in this situation all too often. Trust me, toilet paper doesn’t get the job done. Keep a couple rolls of paper towels in your room so you don’t have to ask your neighbors for some or use your bath towel to wipe up your latest mess.

3. Doormat: Okay, this might not seem necessary, but trust me, it helps in a place like Syracuse. Coming home with muddy, snowy, wet boots at the end of a winter day and soaking the floor is not a fun way to end a long day of classes. Put your shoes on a small doormat right at the entrance. Not only will you keep the floor dry, but you’re also less likely to misplace your shoes and have to frantically search for them five minutes before class.

4. Bins for storage: Storage for clothes can be tricky, especially if you don’t plan on going home until the end of the semester. Syracuse weather changes very quickly, so even though it seems unnecessary when you move in August to pack a winter jacket, it’s not a bad idea. That being said, you don’t want to be rummaging through your winter hats and sweaters in September when it’s 60 degrees out. Stack storage bins under your bed to keep your clothes organized, easily accessible, but still out of the way.

5. Extra quarters/small bill for laundry: The laundry machines can be a bit temperamental. I’ve been stuck with a pile of wet clothes more than once when the card reader (which you can use to pay for laundry from money on your SuperCard account) wasn’t working. And it’s tougher than you’d think to find someone in the dorms with a spare quarter, so having a few bucks on hand can help you avoid air-drying clothes in your room or exchanging a $20 for 80 quarters.

There ya have it! Pack up these five extra things as you are getting ready to head to the hill and you are ready-made for an even smoother dorm experience.

 

Samantha Trombley ’18, is public relations and policy studies major. She is originally from Franklin, CT. Sam is a member of Hill Communications, the on-campus public relations firm. She is also a member of the Girl Code Movement, the women’s club lacrosse team, and the Kappa Alpha Theta women’s fraternity. In her free time she enjoys hiking, volunteering, traveling, and spending time with friends. More blogs from Samantha Trombley.

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Early Decision Student Stories

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Sam Walters, second from left, with some fellow students

 

Matthew DeMattia ’19, Dual Political Science and Television, Radio, and Film major

Why did you apply ED?

I applied ED to Syracuse because I knew, without a doubt, that Syracuse was the school that I wanted to attend. It took me two visits, about 10 hours of driving, and weeks of online research, but I had come to the conclusion that SU was my dream school and that if I wanted to maximize my chance of getting in, I needed to commit by applying ED.

What was the best part about applying ED?

The best part about applying ED is certainly finding out early. I remember receiving my acceptance to Syracuse in mid-December, and that gave me the ability to relax and enjoy the second half of my senior year of high school. While all my peers were frantically trying to finish their applications and anxiously awaiting their decisions, I was simply able to enjoy my last few months of high school, which was absolutely awesome.

What would you say to students who applied ED this year?

I would tell students who applied ED that they made a fantastic decision.

 

Megan Hart ’17- Communication Sciences and Disorders major

Why did you apply ED?

After setting foot on the Syracuse campus, I knew I had to apply ED. Any person I talked to who was affiliated with the university- whether it be a professor, student, alum, etc.- was so incredibly passionate about the university and it was infectious. I know I’ll be 80 years old and tell my grandkids, “I went to Syracuse 60 years ago and am still really excited and proud to have been a part of that.” The alumni network was also a huge draw for me. To know there are thousands upon thousands of people who have graduated and moved on from SU, yet are willing to reach back and help us make the most of our experience, was a huge plus to me.

What was the best part about applying ED?

Aside from the relief of knowing where I was going to college before Christmas of my senior year of high school, I had lots more time than some of my friends to start preparing for college in all sorts of ways. I was able to start prepping physical belongings for my dorm with the weight of the decision lifted off of my shoulders, but I was also able to get on to mentally preparing and being excited about the journey I was going to embark on.

What would you say to students who applied ED this year?

It makes me so happy to hear when students applied early decision! I’m so excited that you’re already living up to the enthusiasm and drive that is the embodiment of Orange Pride. Make this process your own and let your belief in yourself run wild. Some pretty amazing things will happen when you do.

 

Hope Meltser ’18, Dual Graphic Design and Selected Studies in Education major

Why did you apply ED?

I applied early decision because as soon as I came onto campus I knew that Syracuse was the place for me. None of the other colleges I visited had the same feel or reaction. On a less poetic note, I was also extremely stressed out by the idea of choosing a college and the idea of having it done as soon as possible at a school I loved was too good to pass up.

What was the best part about applying ED?

I heard about my admission to Syracuse on December 9, 2013 at 5:00 p.m. and from that point forward I was done! Since I applied ED, Syracuse was the only college application that I had to submit because I heard back early enough that I didn’t have to finish (or submit and pay for) any of the other applications I had started. So, while all my other friends were still having minor breakdowns I was done, happy, and ready to finish out my senior year.

What would you say to students who applied ED this year?

Smart decision everyone!

 

Ankita Varman ’19, Dual Public Relations and Management major

Why did you apply ED?

I applied ED because I knew Syracuse was the place I wanted to be. I heard about the school when I was searching for a school strong in both public relations and business. Then, I heard about the Posse scholarship in Atlanta (I am originally from Johns Creek, GA) and applied through that.

What was the best part about applying ED?

Being secure in my choice and finding out early about my future. I avoided the stress that comes with figuring out college plans second semester of senior year in high school.

What would you say to students who applied ED this year?

Be confident in your choice! You made it because you loved it, and no matter what happens, trust that choice that you made.

 

Samantha “Sam” Walters ’20, Undeclared

Why did you apply ED?

I applied early decision because as soon as I stepped foot on campus at Syracuse, I knew that this was the school for me. I absolutely fell in love with everything about the school, especially the welcoming spirit of the Orange. I also applied early decision because not only was Syracuse my number one choice but I wanted to hear back sooner.

What was the best part about applying ED?

The best part was knowing where I was going to college before I even went on winter break during my senior year of high school. I also liked that I only ended up applying to one college, which was Syracuse, so I never stressed too much about the college application process.

What would you say to students who applied ED this year?

I would hope that they are as happy with their decision as I am and welcome to the Orange family!

 

Learn more about applying Early Decision.

Making an Impact on Campus

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The Student Association (SA) at Syracuse University was created in 1944 to serve as the liaison between the student body and the university. Each year, SA rolls out a variety of leadership initiatives that confront and improve the student experience at SU. Having been at SU for almost four full years now, I have noticed some drastic changes that have gone a long way in fostering a safe and inclusive environment for students. Here are some recent initiatives SA has taken on:

Heat lamps in bus stops

This initiative was introduced last year and has since been fully rolled out. The newly installed heat lamps at major campus bus stops, keep students warm while waiting for the campus shuttles and make the cold temperatures much more bearable.

Bike Share Program

Although the program only kicked off this semester, it has been a long time coming for SU students. According to Jane Hong, recent SU graduate and former SA Vice President, “We have a fairly large population of students that bike around campus and the local community. We knew that a program like this would quite literally mobilize students to explore the surrounding area, and get out of the orange bubble.”

The program encourages students to immerse themselves in what’s beyond the university campus and explore the city of Syracuse. Hong also expressed that “what impresses me the most about the Bike Share Program is thinking about how many students actually contributed to this initiative — all because they wanted this to be a reality for future students.”

The bikes are available by reservation with a signed liability waiver. The reservations are free to make and bikes can be picked up and returned at the rack outside Schine Student Center.

Free feminine products on campus

One of SA’s many student life initiatives is to provide menstrual products in all non-residential buildings, starting Oct. 28. With this new initiative, students will have access to free tampons and pads in every bathroom on campus. This campus-wide plan will change the taboo topic of female menstruation; by projecting a positive light on this unspoken issue, SA is taking a stance for inclusiveness in a college campus.

Adding new minors

SA is a major advocate of students declaring new minors. This significant change in the traditional structure and its curriculums was mobilized to fulfill students’ diverse passions.

“My freshman or sophomore year, one of our assembly representatives successfully advocated for a minor in Arabic,” Hong recalled. “He was an Arabic major, and he knew there was so much for students to gain from being able to minor in a Middle Eastern language. The university and the office of academic affairs agreed, and now students have the opportunity to minor in an extremely important global language like Arabic.” Students can speak to their academic advisors regarding the new minors and the process of declaring one. View a list of SU’s current minors.

Chat and Dine

In  an effort to encourage relationship-building and networking between students and faculty, SA kicked off the ‘Chat and Dine’ initiative two years ago and has since proven to be a student favorite. The program offers free lunch at Goldstein Alumni & Faculty Center for small groups of students and staff or faculty members.The program serves as an alternative to office hours, with many students opting to talk about career goals and academic advice. Students can apply here to be considered for the program. Students just have to provide detail on the reason for the meeting and SA arranges the rest.

In recent years, SA has been pushing further to accomplish initiatives that will benefit students and faculty as a whole. With the implementation of new amenities and programs, SA has consistently provided concrete solutions to many of the university’s issues. For more information on SA and how to join, visit their website and follow them on Twitter.

 

Eric Chuang ’17, is a  Public Relations major at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications with a minor in English & Textual Studies. Additionally, he is part of the Fashion & Beauty Communications Milestone Program. Eric is a California native, dog enthusiast, fervent traveler, and sushi connoisseur. When not taking Buzzfeed quizzes or coming up with clever Instagram captions, he can most likely be found jamming to Taylor Swift’s “1989” album. More blogs from Eric Chuang.

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SU (Abroad) Students Give Thanks

A year ago, one of my first published blogs for Syracuse Admissions focused on a seemingly simple question: What are Syracuse students thankful for? This was one of my favorite blogs to write. In the midst of busy college life, it was great to just sit and talk with people about what makes us happy, about the people in our lives who bring us joy. This year, I’m excited to share the 2016, second annual edition of what SU students are thankful for. This year, all of us are abroad and celebrating away from home but still as grateful as ever.

“I’m thankful for another year of life. Another year to grow and experience new things with my friends and family.” — Obi Afriyie, Junior, studying in Dublin, Cultural Foundations of Education and History Major, Member of Student Association, Founder of Syracuse Students Teaching Healthy Habits

“I am so thankful my parents pushed me to move to Italy and travel the world. I’ve realized how great a gift it is to be able to travel and see the world at 18 and I’m so happy I got that chance.”– Jessica Hume, Freshman, Discovery Florence

“I’m thankful for all the opportunities SU provides to its students. Whether it’s class, clubs, communities, or the chance to meet people different than you, I think it’s a university with truly something for everyone.”– Joey Dawson, Junior, studying in Strasbourg, Policy Studies and Information Management Major, Member of SU Kumquat and the Academic Integrity Student Panel

“Since being abroad I’ve realized the things I’m most thankful for. I’m most thankful for my family and friends because their support and love is what motivates and encourages me to do my best. I’m also thankful for the small experiences that I’ve been lucky enough to have and share with those I love. I will have these moments to cherish for the rest of my life and they have helped to shape who I am today.”– Alex Dorn, Junior, studying in Florence, Public Relations Major and Political Science Minor, Member of Public Relations Student Society of America and Hill Communications

 

Samantha Trombley ’18, is public relations and policy studies major. She is originally from Franklin, CT. Sam is a member of Hill Communications, the on-campus public relations firm. She is also a member of the Girl Code Movement, the women’s club lacrosse team, and the Kappa Alpha Theta women’s fraternity. In her free time she enjoys hiking, volunteering, traveling, and spending time with friends. More blogs from Samantha Trombley.

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Embracing Abroad

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I am currently studying abroad in Florence, Italy, with the Syracuse University Abroad program. This is my first trip outside of the United States — I’ve never even been to Canada. As this is my first time leaving the country, I naturally want to do anything and everything. When I was planning my weekend trips over the summer, I had every weekend booked. I wanted to visit all of the places I had only seen in movies or read about it books. In my mind, this was my once-in-a-lifetime experience, my chance to see the world.

When I got to Florence, the reality of time sunk in. Sure, three months sounds like a long time, but trying to squeeze in everything I wanted to do was impossible. On top of that, most of my friends who I am traveling with have already been to Europe, so some of the top places I wanted to go were places that they had already seen. I had a very specific vision of what I wanted my abroad experience to be, and when it didn’t go exactly as planned, I started obsessing about it. For most of September and the beginning of October, I was constantly online searching for places to travel to, trying to find the cheapest flights, texting friends trying to convince them to travel with me for the fourth weekend in a row.

A few days ago, I was sitting in a piazza near the SU Florence campus, using an app on my phone to search cheap flights. I realized I had been sitting there for 45 minutes, completely oblivious to everything going on around me. I did not see the beautiful street art two feet away from me, or the man playing the violin in the center of the piazza, or the brilliant hues of yellow and red in the changing leaves. When I looked up and took it all in, it hit me: I was spending so much time obsessing about seeing everything that I wasn’t really seeing anything.

I’ve been trying too hard to make this experience perfect. Studying abroad is an opportunity to discover your passions, see new things, and embrace cultures different from your own. It’s not about getting the most stamps on your passport. It’s about seeing what you can, living in the moment, and stepping out of your comfort zone. I closed most of those tabs a few days ago. I’m ready to see where the rest of the semester takes me, and hopefully I will be more open to the beauty right in front of me.

 

Samantha Trombley ’18, is public relations and policy studies major. She is originally from Franklin, CT. Sam is a member of Hill Communications, the on-campus public relations firm. She is also a member of the Girl Code Movement, the women’s club lacrosse team, and the Kappa Alpha Theta women’s fraternity. In her free time she enjoys hiking, volunteering, traveling, and spending time with friends. More blogs from Samantha Trombley.

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