Summer has come to an end, and the academic year has just begun. You’re nervous, excited and anxious to embark on your new college life at SUNY Oswego. You begin to wonder: is the weather really as bad as they say? Will I have trouble keeping up with my classes? Can I have fun and still be academically successful?
Here are ten things you should know as an Oswego Freshman in order to have a fun and successful first year.
10) The wind is completely normal! – Although it may seem shocking that there are no hurricane warnings seven days of the week, the strong gusts and winds are an everyday occurrence at SUNY Oswego. Don’t worry, you won’t blow away!
9) Know the location of every academic hall – SUNY Oswego is not the biggest campus, but it is important for you to know where your classes are located. You may want to take a small tour to begin to become familiar with the campus; that way when you begin classes for future semesters, you will know where to go.
8) Blue Route, Green Route. What’s the difference?– The blue route and green route buses are designed to help you get to your classes during the winter; therefore you must know which bus will get you to your destination more efficiently. The blue route departs from the CampusCenterevery 20 minutes traveling to different locations around campus, and the green route travels from the CampusCenterto lot EC-7 and Laker Hall and back to the CampusCentercontinuously from 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Bus routes run Monday-Friday. The schedules are posted at the CampusCenterand at every bus stop.
7) Warmth or fashion? – Oswegois infamous for its lake effect snow and low temperatures, so it’s important to pick out coats that will keep you warm. In the midst of the windy cold weather and heavy blizzards, looking good can be an option, but by the second blizzard, keeping warm is definitely more important.
6) Frats, Frats, Frats! – All work and no play makes for a very boring college experience. Oswego, like any other school, has its fair share of frat parties almost every night. It’s all right to let loose and have fun on the weekends, but remember not to get too carried away!
5) So many clubs! – Oswegohas an immense list of academic clubs that are created by students on campus. They range from religion to music to art. Students are also allowed to create their own clubs, so start looking!
4) Registration – Registering for classes the first time wasn’t the easiest thing, but registering on your own for second semester is a lot tougher. Make sure you plan out which classes you want to take, and have alternative classes in case your primary choices are full.
3) Hockey games are kind of a big deal – SUNY Oswego is best known for having an excellent hockey team. The CampusCenterhouses a hockey arena, which is often packed with students and parents rooting for Oswego. So spend a Friday night at a game, wear green and gold, and root for the boys!
2) Beware of the Freshman 15! – As a freshman living on campus, you are required to have a full board meal plan which includes unlimited access to the dining halls. Beware of this power! You may want to eat in moderation if you want to stay healthy.
1) Dorms! – As a freshman, your goal is to get the full college experience, which includes dorming on campus. All of Oswego’s residential halls have fun activities for freshmen and other students to participate in. Remember to socialize with your floor, get to know your roommate, and get ready for a crazy and fun dorming experience!