Campus Life

Interfaith Exploration Week

“Interfaith exploration is a profound experience that I have been lucky to have at Syracuse University. Now, you have the chance to experience it, too.”

Hendricks Chapel and the Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders (SAIL) invite the Syracuse University community to Interfaith Exploration Week from March 3 to March 10. This event will give us the opportunity to explore both our own faiths and faiths other than our own, while also learning more about the cultures and communities that exist within these faiths and traditions. Through interfaith exploration, we are able to understand both ourselves and those we live with. It opens us up to new possibilities in the world, broadens our sense of self and community, and helps us accept each other for who we are. This effort to learn and grow enables us to be global citizens and create stronger connections to cultures throughout the world.

Members of SAIL had the idea to welcome other students into this journey in the fall, and in unison with Hendricks Chapel, decided to move forward with a week of programs dedicated to interfaith exploration and cultural expansion. This event embodies the mission of SAIL: creating a stronger interfaith community on campus that is more aware of its diverse roots. SAIL, which aims to represent all faiths on campus, developed Interfaith Exploration Week to enable people of all faiths to come together in interfaith harmony, to learn and grow from one another, and create a space where people can explore their faith and beliefs.

For me, SAIL has provided an opportunity to understand how I, in my faith, can relate to others of different faiths. I am consistently fascinated by the strong relation between my Jewish heritage, and the heritage of my Muslim peers. It’s incredible to see how we are more alike than we are different, especially in a world that tells us how different we are supposed to be. In addition to being a multifaith group, SAIL is also a multinational group, adding an extra layer to our understanding of faith and religion. Rather than seeing only an American perspective, we get to learn from people born and raised all over the world. This unique experience provides opportunities to explore my perspective in faith not just as a Jew, but as an American, and gives me a better understanding of how our world works. Without this work exploring my own faith and culture through SAIL, I would not know how to connect as well with people who seem so distant and different from me. Interfaith Exploration Week grants all students on campus the opportunity to explore themselves and learn from others’  faith and culture as I have through SAIL.

If you are interested in participating in any of the events during the Interfaith Exploration Week, a full schedule is available on the Hendricks Chapel website.  If you are interested in joining SAIL, we meet every other Sunday at 5 p.m. in the Chaplains’ Suite of Hendricks Chapel, located in the lower level, and our next meeting is March 6. Please email me if you have any questions.

Written By Ethan Smith ’20 G’22, Falk College, 2020-22 Convener of SAIL

9 LLC Options to Check Out

With the housing room selection process underway, you may be thinking about changing up your living space next year. Living Learning Communities (LLCs) are one option that give you a chance to live with people who share your major, interests and/or passions. Here’s the rundown of which LLC options are open to current students for next year:

Honors Sophomore Experience (rising sophomores in the Honors Program)

The Honors Sophomore Experience gives second-year Honors students the chance to live and learn alongside other second-year Honors Program students from all nine undergraduate schools and colleges. You will participate in academic enrichment, research and career awareness opportunities and develop an individualized community engagement plans that align with your potential thesis/career interests.

Indigenous LLC (rising sophomores, juniors and seniors)

The Indigenous LLC is open to students interested in exploring Indigenous culture and contemporary Indigenous issues. You will connect with Indigenous faculty and staff at Syracuse University, be immersed in Haudenosaunee country and visit places like the Skä·noñh Great Law of Peace Center and take NAT 105: Introduction to Native American Studies with fellow LLC residents.

International LLC (rising sophomores, juniors and seniors)

Open to any current undergraduate students interested in exploring a variety of cultures and global citizenship, the International LLC connects residents with faculty and staff committed to internationalization of the student experience, explores intercultural communication skills and helps to build understanding and appreciation across differences as part of a diverse global society.

LGBTQ+ LLC (rising sophomores, juniors and seniors)

The LGBTQ+ LLC is open to current undergraduates interested in examining contemporary LGBTQ+ issues and creating an inclusive collegiate experience. As part of this experience, you will connect with faculty and staff across campus and in the LGBT Studies academic minor, while creating a supportive LGBTQ+ and Ally network. Plus, attend events such as the Pride Union Drag Show, identity-based discussion groups and LGBTQ+ History Month events with your fellow LLC residents. Students in the LGBTQ+ LLC will take QSX 111: Queer Histories, Communities, and Politics together.

MORE in Architecture (rising second-year Architecture students)

Second-year Architecture students in the MORE in Architecture LLC engage with members of the Architecture Leadership team and explore professional networking opportunities as well as social and cultural community engagement. You will participate in Architecture workshops, lectures and team building activities while living with other second-year Architecture students.

MORE in STEM (rising sophomores in STEM disciplines)

If you are a second-year student studying a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) discipline, this LLC gives you an opportunity to engage with STEM faculty around research, internships and career opportunities, while also visiting local industry partners to learn about STEM-related fields. You will connect and build your social and professional network and engage in social activities with peers designed to enhance learning outside the classroom.

Substance Free Housing (rising sophomores)

Substance free themed housing is for rising sophomores looking to live in a community free from alcohol and drugs. This is a lively and active community where residents are encouraged by their community members to participate in social events together and commit to a substance-free residential experience.

Upperclass Multicultural LLC (rising sophomores, juniors and seniors)

The Upperclass Multicultural LLC is open to current students interested in exploring multicultural education. You will engage with faculty and staff across the University who advance multicultural education, while participating in teach-ins and working with peers, resident advisors and faculty sponsors to develop programming that promotes inclusion and equity across the campus community. You will be part of a community that challenges one another to think differently about issues regarding race, gender, sexuality, class, ability, policing and justice, and promotes affirmative and intentional citizenship with an emphasis on social justice, critical multicultural education, self-awareness, cross-cultural dialogue and community activism/engagement across cultures and backgrounds.

Whitman Leadership (rising sophomores who are Whitman Leadership Scholars)

If you are a current Whitman Leadership Scholar, this LLC will give you an opportunity to connect with Whitman faculty and staff who can further enhance your college experience and expand your professional network. You will visit industry partners that prioritize professional development for their leaders in business and connect with fellow Whitman Leadership Scholars in fun and engaging activities.

Have we piqued your interest in trying a new living environment? Visit the Living Learning Communities website for more information. You start the process by completing the housing contract by March 17. Then, you’ll select your roommate(s), room and hall during the LLC Round of Room Selection on Wednesday, March 23.

Avoiding Mid-Semester Burnout

Let’s face it, going to class everyday and having assignments pile up can be both repetitive and tiring. So how do you avoid mid-semester burnout? Here are a few tips and tricks that I find helpful with getting back on track and finishing midterms strong!

Change up your routine

Falling into a routine is a good thing and can make your days much more productive. However, after a while these routines can start feeling repetitive and may drag on. Try switching your routine up every now and then. If you wake up at the same time every week, wake up earlier and go to the gym or on a walk. You can try changing up the simplest things and it can still make a dramatic difference in your day! If you take the same route to class everyday, try taking a different one!

Take a day off 

Schedule a weekend to dedicate to relaxation. Instead of spending your day finding a summer internship or getting a head start on your week of assignments, take time to focus on yourself and practice self care. This can include starting that show that you have been meaning to watch, cooking your favorite meal, or even taking a little trip off campus. Try out the Crowley Family MindSpa or visit the Pet Therapy room for a break.

Schedule time throughout the week to do things that make you happy

Taking time out of your busy schedule to relax and focus on yourself can make the days a little more interesting and rewarding. Whenever my schedule is packed with important tasks and classes to attend, my favorite things to do when winding down are scrolling through Tik Tok, watching my favorite show and taking time to do some self-care. What’s your favorite pastime?

Get outside

As a busy college student I spend most  of my days inside attending classes or studying in my apartment or the library. Some times I feel stuck inside or get tired of staring at the same walls. I love taking walks around campus or sitting outside on the Einhorn Family Walk when the weather is nice. Even when it is snowing, put on a few extra layers and get some fresh air!

Take advantage of campus resources

There are many resources on campus that can help you get out of that funk! Grab a gym buddy and take some time to workout and release some of that stress at the Barnes Center at The Arch! If you can’t find time during the days to rewind, Orange After Dark has tons of activities such as movie nights, ice skating and laser tag!

Remember why you are here

Whenever I am feeling super unmotivated I like to take a step back and remember why I am here. Remember the reason why you went to college and are studying what you are studying. Think about how it will feel when you get an ‘A’ in a certain class or graduate with your dream job!

I hope you found these tips helpful and motivating to get through midterms (and finish the semester) strong!

Written by Haley Mykytka’ 22, College of Visual and Performing Arts

Student Association: Your Voice

What we now know officially as Student Association was established in 1957, but did you know records of a student governing body at Syracuse University date back to as early as 1878?!  The Student Association has a longstanding history of making the student voice heard. With the 66th session approaching, you can make an impact on Syracuse University by getting involved as an assembly member or officer!

Assembly Representative

Members of the assembly represent their peers as at-large representatives, as well as representatives from each school or college. They vote on all pieces of legislation, and bills which finance student organizations on campus.

President and Vice President

The president and vice president work closely together, and with all members of Student Association, to represent the needs and wants of the undergraduate student population. They serve as representatives on campus, meet with stakeholders and monitor and support initiatives to ensure they are successful.

Comptroller

The comptroller oversees the Finance Board. The Finance Board proposes financial decisions then sent to the assembly for approval, and budgets and allocates the Student Activity Fee.

Petitions to seek office, assembly seats or referenda are due Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at noon. Save the date for elections April 4-8!

Winter Carnival Preview

One of the best parts of being a student here at Syracuse University is the rich history of the University that has preceded our time here. There is so much character and school spirit in the air when you walk through this campus. It is  so important that we don’t forget the history and traditions that have made our campus what it is today, and it is an honor to serve as president of the organization that does just that, Traditions Commission.

One of my favorite parts about my time at Syracuse these past four years is no doubt getting involved in Traditions Commission and getting the chance to uphold some of the many traditional parts of our history. Which is exactly one of the things that makes Winter Carnival so special as it is one Syracuse’s longest standing traditions dating back to 1933, which has evolved over the year, but for the past decade many traditions have remained tried and true.  

We are really looking forward to this year’s line-up which includes some of our best traditions: the annual chili cook off, Cozy Capella, which is hosted with the A Cappella Council, and a skate night. I am most excited for the Carnival itself that we rolled out last year in 2020 for the first time with the hopes of making it a new tradition. We are planning it yet again this year with the intention of making it even bigger and better with more food, carnival games, activities, giveaways and more! All week long the events will be jam-packed with fun, food and giveaways as well. I encourage everyone to check Winter Carnival out and get the chance to have some fun while also becoming a part of our SU history!

Winter Carnival 2022

Monday, Feb. 21 – Schine Take Over
4-6 p.m., Schine Student Center
Visit us in the upperlevel atrium of Schine Student Center for shirt giveaways!

Tuesday, Feb. 22 – Carnival
6-10 p.m., Goldstein Auditorium, Schine
Goldstein Auditorium will transform into a full carnival with games, activities, food and giveaways.

Wednesday, Feb.  23 – Basketball and Bingo
Game Time TBA, Goldstein Auditorium, Schine
Play traditional bingo with prizes and then a game center bingo board to use during the basketball game. Food, prizes and giveaways!

Thursday, Feb. 24 – Chili Cook-Off
11 a.m. – 2 p.m., HBC Patio
One of the Winter Carnival’s oldest traditions! Students, faculty and staff have submitted their favorite chili recipes. Food Services will reproduce the selected recipes for the ‘chili’-est taste test competition to see which the student body thinks is best.

Thursday, Feb. 24 – Cozy Cappella
7-9 p.m., Goldstein Auditorium, Schine
Join us for the annual a cappella show where all the student groups will perform.

Friday, Feb. 25 – Glow in the Dark Ice Night
8-11 p.m., Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion
In collaboration with Orange After Dark and the Disability Cultural Center, join us for glow-in-the-dark, silent disco ice skating. Glow items, food and desserts included!

Written by Catherine Bannon ’22, College of Arts and Sciences

6 Campus Traditions to Embrace and Enjoy

Traditions on campus are at the core of student experience here at Syracuse University. From embracing the winter weather to enjoying time in the stadium, the campus continues to uphold traditions for all students. Not to mention, many of these traditions can be practiced on a daily basis for those looking to showcase their Syracuse University spirit. As a senior, I recommend taking part in these traditions to embrace the student experience.

1. Head to the stadium to “dome stomp”

As a Syracuse University student, “dome stomping” is encouraged from your first year to your senior year. To experience the traditional “stomp” yourself, grab a friend and step up against the wall outside the stadium between two concrete pillars. While standing in the midst of the pillars, jump up and down or enthusiastically “stomp” to hear the echo. I remember my first time on campus learning about this tradition and I plan on taking a photo “dome stomping” on graduation day.

2. Coming together at the end of a game

At the end of a football or basketball game in the dome, students come together and sway back and forth to Syracuse University’s Alma Mater. The school spirit is showcased as fans stand beside one another after a game of cheering for the team. It commences the game in the best way possible. From the student section, you are able to see the Syracuse alumni also partaking in swaying to the song—a tradition that lives on.

3. Taking a photo with Otto

During your time at Syracuse University, it is essential to get a picture with our mascot Otto. You can find Otto strolling on the family walk during a typical week on campus or cheering on a sports team while giving out high-fives. Otto is always open to photos!

4. Sledding down Crouse hill

To fully embrace the Syracuse snow, grab a sled and head to Crouse College. You will find other students alongside you on a snowy day enjoying the go-to snow day destination. This hill has remained a favorite of students for years as you coast down Crouse hill.

5.  Attending on-campus activities

Student Activities and the Traditions Commission work to put on events that bring the campus community together, such as Winter Carnival (coming up next week!). Whether you are stopping by to grab some yummy food or participating in activities such as “Glow Skate” with friends, these events that happen each year continue to be enjoyed by all of campus. These events also include Orange Central, our homecoming event and reunion for Syracuse alumni to reconnect with the campus through various activities. There are many events that will become traditions to you on campus dependent on your interest and involvement in the many clubs and organizations that exist on campus, too. Attending the annual Danceworks showcase, playing in a club sports game, or participating in a production put on by the entirely student-run theater organization First Year Players, all shape traditions for each of us.

6. Getting a solo shot in front of the Hall of Languages

From your first visit on campus to graduation day in your cap and gown, you are bound to have at least one picture outside of the scenic Hall of Languages. Prospective Syracuse University students are often found taking pictures in front of this building alongside the engraved Syracuse University sign. As one of the most historical and picture-perfect places on campus, it is a great place to have an individual photo taken to celebrate and remember your time at Syracuse.

As a student, it is important to immerse yourself in campus traditions. Your connectedness to Syracuse University will only grow as you participate in various activities and make memories with your classmates. Before you know it—you will be graduating Syracuse University and will be returning to these traditions as an alum.

Written by Isabella Podgorski ’22, College of Visual and Performing Arts

Why Join the University Conduct Board

The University Conduct Board (UCB) is a formal hearing body composed of students, tasked with hearing and resolving disputes. The UCB hears cases relating to alleged violations of the Syracuse University Code of Student Conduct. It may sound intimidating, so why join?

1. The chance to make an impact on our campus

As part of resolving disputes, the UCB strives to promote civility and citizenship throughout our campus by upholding the Code of Student Conduct. This work ultimately helps to foster a more positive and healthier campus environment for all students.

 2. The ability to develp key skills

As a UCB member, you will have the opportunity to develop key skills, such as dispute resolution, collaboration, research, and leadership, communication, and critical thinking. These are valuable skills that can be useful throughout life, especially for future lawyers!

3. There’s a stipend

While money is certainly not the objective or main goal with the UCB, it certainly helps! As part of their work on the UCB, students receive a stipend each semester to compensate them for their work. This allows members to focus on the importance of this role and their dedication to campus as well as balance their financial needs.

4. Try something new while in a supportive environment

No matter your career goals, joining the UCB is a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else on campus. This role allows students to hold their peers accountable and set the tone for the campus community on standards and expectations. No other student group has such a responsibility. This role also allows members to have a direct impact and voice when it comes to policy and process at the University. As UCB members, we get to work alongside fellow undergraduate, graduate and law students, as well as faculty and staff in a safe, supportive and tight-knit environment.

With that said, consider applying this spring to join the University Conduct Board! Applications are open now for next academic year. For any questions, reach out to Community Standards.

Written by UCB members Mariana Perez Lugo ’24, Falk College, and Otto Sutton ’24, College of Arts and Sciences and  Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

Black History Month Begins

Yesterday marked the opening of the Black History Month (BHM) celebration on campus. This year’s theme focuses on Black Health and Wellness, which is the theme for the national Black History Month celebration, too. Across campus, student organizations and University offices are hosting more than 20 events to celebrate the month.

With more than 20 events happening, there are different ways for students to get involved, whether you are interested in art, fitness, performance or topics such as mental health, relationships, climate change and much more.

Darnelle Stinfort ’22, vice president of Student Association, which is also one of the sponsors of BHM events, shared what she’s looking forward to most and what the celebration means to her:

“Black History Month has to definitely be one of the best times of the year for me. I felt that it was important for Student Association to be involved in two of the most exciting events, which are the Black History Month Kickoff and the Black Excellence Celebration to end Black History Month festivities. It was truly exciting to see all of the amazing student performances at the Black History Month Kickoff yesterday! Going to a PWI may feel isolating at times, but Black History Month is one of the few times where Black students are the majority in these celebrated spaces.”

Check out the full BHM calendar here and we hope to see you at the events this month!

5 Things You May Not Know About Peer Education

As we start the spring semester, many students are coming back to campus looking forward to joining new organizations, clubs and jobs. If you’re looking to interact with the Syracuse University community and get paid, why not join the peer education team? There are three peer education teams on campus that help provide health and wellness education through interactive programming and initiatives. Substance use education and harm reduction (Be Wise), sexuality and healthy relationships (Peer Educators Encouraging Healthy Relationships and Sexuality) and mental health (Students Advocating Mental Health Empowerment) are the teams students are able to be a part of and connect with their peers.

Here is what you may not know about peer education:

1. It’s paid

This is a paid position, meaning any event or thing associated with peer education is compensated! This includes meetings with your teams (which are only about an hour long), Syracuse University events and some time to participate in ANY Barnes Center at The Arch event/programming. After a long day of classes who wouldn’t enjoy being able to clock in and sit in on meditation and mindfulness activities or a workshop such as Sexy Bingo or Soul Talk. Not to mention Pet Therapy and the massage chairs in the Crowley Family MindSpa!

2. You can be featured on @BeWellSU

Who doesn’t like getting featured on their school’s Instagram. Peer education always has several opportunities for peer educators to get featured on the @BeWellSU main page! You may have seen some of your friends on Instagram Reels or pictures showing off health promotion swag. Some may even be featured on our virtual Health Hubs (which is a fun way to learn about a new topic and get a prize). If you miss our virtual Health Hubs, you can also see your friends promoting in-person Health Hubs or driving our Mobile Health Hub. Regardless, there’s always a fun way to get involved.

3. You get SWAG

Being able to show off the new peer education swag is a really great perk. Peer educators are able to represent their teams through comfortable t-shirts and stickers. Not to mention, the Health Hub shirts, crewnecks, brain teasers and tote bags. Graduating seniors get a stole for their hard work as a peer educator, which is something to show off proudly at graduation!

4. Professional and education oppportunities

Syracuse University has many resources to offer, but not all students may be aware of them. Many offices on campus such as Multicultural Affairs, LGBTQ Resource Center, Hendricks Chapel, Center for International Services, Student Outreach and Retention, along with others, come into our annual fall training and talk about what they have to offer. Peer educators can sit in their rich presentations and ask questions (yes, training is also paid). We also get bystander training and Title IX, sexual and relationship violence prevention training. Not to mention, we learn how to facilitate and prepare for anti-hazing presentations. With the knowledge and facilitation skills that we develop, we can direct our fellow peers to the resources they need and inform them what the offices have to offer. We can also use the offices on our own time and become aware of what the University has to offer.

5. You become a family

Peer educators work with each other and get to know one another on a weekly basis. We all share the Peer Education Suite at the Barnes Center, which is the space we use for work. We can grab snacks, help each other practice presentations and catch up with each other. Even if it’s through Zoom or in-person, we still manage to help each other, laugh and share memories because it’s an immediate connection. Seeing a friendly face on the Quad or in Schine is great because we build our bond. We also get to know the staff  because they allow themselves to open up and help us with anything that we need. Many have found their work best friends or even their housemates because of peer education. Not to mention their holiday celebrations that many peer educators and staff love participating in.

If you’re eager to learn about health and wellness and connect with fellow Syracuse University peers, don’t hesitate and apply to become a Peer Educator for the 2022-2023 school year! If you would like to learn more, attend our virtual interest sessions on Feb. 4, at 3 p.m., Feb. 10 at 5:30 p.m., and Feb. 15 at 11 a.m. Applications are due Thursday, Feb. 17 at 8 p.m.

Written by Yhanelly Ruiz ’23, College of Arts and Sciences, SAMHE Peer Educator

Become an Orientation Leader

You remember them from your first days on campus. The energetic, welcoming crew of students rocking the signature polo—our Orientation Leaders (OL).

New Student and Family Programs is recruiting new OLs for next year. Spencer Watt ’22 shares reasons why you should join the OL team.

1. You’re a student’s first welcome

“As an Orientation Leader, you are a first-year or transfer student’s first introduction to Syracuse University. We are their first welcome, mentoring them the moment they step foot into their residence hall as they begin this new phase in their life.”

2. Making an impact

“Once they have found their home here, nothing is better than seeing them on campus in the days, weeks and months after Syracuse Welcome or Winter Welcome. It’s even more gratifying when they come up to you, gushing about all of the amazing opportunities they have had since the last time they saw you.”

3. The polo and what it means

“There is an inside joke between Orientation Leaders that we never take the polo off, that this role follows us throughout our time at Syracuse. The excitement we feel when watching our students thrive in their passions is proof of that.”

4. Orange Pride

“There’s a sense of pride in being an Orientation Leader, but it isn’t pride in yourself―it’s pride in the students you connected with.”

Interested in learning more and applying? Visit the Orientation Leaders webpage or attend one of the virtual information sessions happening Feb. 2, Feb. 3, Feb. 11 and Feb. 13. Applications are due Friday, Feb. 18.