College is the ideal time to find yourself and explore new opportunities. With this can also come stress and concern about academics. Academics in college can be difficult but this is because it’s supposed to challenge you and in the end – it’s worth it. The truth is, time management is everything. It is important that you join extracurriculars and explore opportunities to meet new people but it is also important to be managing your time effectively and getting your work done. As a senior, I have taken my fair share of classes and I’m here to provide you with some tips for success in academics during your time in college!

1. Utilize Resources:

On campus, there is the writing center and tutoring center that is available for students that are in need of help. Using these two resources is a great way to get an outside perspective on your paper or get some insight in a class that you’re struggling in. Another crucial resource held by professors are office hours. Office hours are a time where your professor is readily available to speak about anything that you may need such as a question about a paper that is due soon or even to express that you’re struggling and need some more assistance. Attending office hours can also help you form bonds with professors which is crucial during college.

2. Don’t procrastinate!

One thing that I’ve done all four years of college is use a planner. In the beginning of the semester I would input all due dates into my planner so that nothing is ever forgotten about. I am always sure to finish the assignment at least two days before it’s due (sometimes longer if it’s a big assignment) so that I’m not cramming at the last minute. I’ve utilized this method because I know my best work is not completed an hour before it’s due date and I’ve found that this is the case for many others as well!

3. Take time for yourself.

Mental health is extremely important and it is crucial that you are always making sure that your mental state is okay. Whether it may be spending time with friends, working out, putting on a face mask or watching your favorite show on Netflix, be sure to take time for yourself so that you’re able to do the best in your courses. After all, it’s college and it’s expected that you take some time to form bonds with others and to find yourself. 

4. Visit Penfield Library

The library is an awesome place to go if you need to get work done. Everyone in the library is generally there for the same reason and seeing everyone hard at work can give you motivation as well. The library and it’s employees also have various amounts of knowledge that can help you succeed in your courses. If you need a break, feel free to stop by Lake Effect Cafe and grab a snack and coffee to keep you on track.

Adjusting to college academics your first year may be a bit difficult but in time you’ll find ways that will help you succeed. Be sure to remember that it’s okay to have fun and meet friends but also know that the main reason you are here is because of academics so be sure to time manage! I hope these tips help you to reach success during your time at Oswego!

Hi Everyone!

Sorry it’s been a while since I’ve posted, I’ve been waiting to make this blog post and it finally actually feels like spring. Whether you attend SUNY Oswego now, or plan to in the future, I’m sure you’ve heard a thing or two about the weather. Our winters are absolutely crazy, but the time right before summer break and right after, is some of the most beautiful weather you will ever witness! Here is a list of things that you can do once the weather gets nice at SUNY Oswego.

1. Visit the lake/watch the sunset with friends: One huge perk on our campus is Lake Ontario. Luckily, our campus is situated right on the lake which allows you to see the best sunsets that I’m sure you’ll ever see. Chances are your social media will be taken over by the beautiful sunset every night. Students also commonly swim in the lake when the weather is really nice, this is a great way to cool off after a nice hot day or just spend the day there soaking up the rays with friends. 
2. Go to Rudys! Rudys is a drive-in restaurant known for their fish fry’s, fried food, burgers and awesome picnic-table-style seating right on the lake! This is a staple to being a student at Oswego and is one of the first places my friends and I visit once the weather gets nice. 
3. Go to Bevs! Conveniently, right next to Rudys is Bev’s Dairy Treat which is an awesome ice cream shop with an even better view. On the really nice days, the lines here are a bit long but it is definitely worth it. There’s no better way to end a beautiful day than with some ice cream from Bev’s! If you really want to treat yourself stop at Rudy’s for dinner then Bev’s afterwards for dessert!
4. Attend Laker Sporting Events: What’s a better way to support fellow classmates than attending their sporting events? During the nice weather here at Oswego, going to watch a game is a great way to be outside, but not force you to spend too much money! We all know being in college means having a tight budget so this is a great way to enjoy the weather without spending anything. Luckily, our turf field is just a short distance away from campus, with busses going to and from there often. The baseball and softball fields are there as well!
5. Go for a Walk/Run: Another great way to enjoy the weather on a low budget is to get outside with friends and take a walk or go for a jog around campus. This is a great way to take a break from the homework and de-stress yourself. You may even see a few dogs on your way if you’re lucky!

Joining a sorority at SUNY Oswego was one of the best things that I have done during my time here. I never had a sister before joining my sorority and these women quickly accepted me as one of their own. I have met my absolute best friends and my future bridesmaids and I have Delta Phi Epsilon to thank for that.

It really saddens me when greek life is talked about so negatively. I have been a sister of Delta Phi Epsilon for almost two years now and I have gained so many skills just from this organization. In my two years of being a sister I have been a leader in not only my chapter’s eyes but in the eyes of the entire greek community. Within the greek community here at SUNY Oswego, there are many minor councils and programs one being “Lettered Leaders.” Throughout this program, I learned what it takes to be a leader within the greek community. The following semester, I had the opportunity to be a facilitator for the program, where I taught newer members of our community on how to be a leader. I have also been an executive board member of G.A.M.M.A. (Greeks Advocating the Mature Management of Alcohol). During my time on this E-Board, I worked with members from other chapters to give the greek community a better reputation. Other than these councils and programs that help greeks gain leadership skills, my sorority has allowed me to network with others more than I have ever imagined. My sorority has over 70,000 sisters because it is an international sorority in both the United States and Canada. Having so many sisters has benefitted me in many ways, one being an interview that I had last week for a possible summer internship. If I was not a member of Delta Phi Epsilon I would not have had the opportunity to speak with someone regarding a field that I am so passionate about.

It is so unfortunate that greek life has a negative stigma attached to it. Don’t let others tell you something without doing research on it yourself. Talk to people in greek life and ask about the positives that comes along with being a part of something bigger than yourself. Without my sorority I would not be the woman that I am today. Thank you sisters. Thank you Delta Phi Epsilon.