Campus Life

6 Reasons to Celebrate Forever Orange Week

Forever Orange Week is a celebration of Syracuse University—and a time for the University community to reflect on what it truly means to be a part of the Orange family. For the past 150 years, Syracuse has been making a positive impact not only in Central New York but around the country and across the globe. There are many reasons you should be proud to be Orange, but here’s a list of the top six reasons why you should be celebrating Forever Orange Week:

Community

What makes Syracuse University like no other are the people who embody the color Orange. The warm and welcoming members of the Orange family invite the University’s almost 23,000 students to call Syracuse University home. The Orange family is diverse, with students coming from all 50 states and 127 countries around the world. Every member of the University community brings a different background colored with varying experiences; however, we all share the same spirit and love for the Orange.

Students on their way to class

Sports/Spirit

Syracuse University is renowned for its excellence in both academics and athletics. The enthusiasm in support of the Orange is contagious. Students flock to games to cheer on their favorite teams. Excitement is palpable as fans of all ages eagerly snap photos and get autographs from everyone’s favorite citrus, Otto the Orange.

Friends pose together at a men's basketball game

Student Organizations

Syracuse University students are passionate. They love to be involved and become leaders within the community. With over 300 recognized student organizations, there’s a lot of students with varied interests doing a plethora of great things. From Greek letter organizations to the quidditch club, there’s a club for just about everything. And if there isn’t a club yet, you can even make your own!

A multicultural student organization poses together during a volunteer evetn

Alumni

Syracuse University has more than a quarter of a million alumni from 171 different countries. Since our founding in 1870, alumni have been making their mark on the world in the areas of athletics, arts, law, entertainment and so much more. Some of our alumni standouts include:

  • Betsey Johnson ’64, fashion designer
  • Donovan McNabb ’98, former professional football player
  • Vanessa L. Williams ’86, national recording artist and actress
  • Alice Sebold ’84

Innovations/Inventions

Syracuse University prides itself on creating an environment that fosters cutting-edge research, endless creativity and an abundance of shameless individuality for each member of the Orange Family to thrive in. Over the years, many members of the Orange community have made positive contributions to the world through renowned inventions and innovations sparked from their studies at Syracuse University—from foot measuring devices, created by alumnus Charles Brannock, to the first fully functioning artificial heart, created by alumnus Robert Jarvik. Syracuse University leads the way in groundbreaking innovations, as shown by alumni like Colonel Eileen Collins, the first woman to pilot and command a space shuttle. Syracuse University is the birthplace of great ideas in many fields.

Campus

With a mix of traditional and contemporary architecture, the University’s campus serves as the perfect backdrop for students, faculty and staff to create their own story. Sprawling greens, historic sculptures and sunsets beyond description make Syracuse more than just a place to live but a cornerstone for lifelong memories with unforgettable people.

A student excitedly poses in front of a snowy Hall of Languages

Written by Kyndall Ellis G’20 and Noah Lowy ’21

Orange After Dark: Behind the Scenes

Being part of the Orange After Dark (OAD) Event Board is more than just volunteering and getting attending every event for free. It’s watching Otto trying to fit into a circular tube and wet his bottom sliding down a steep snowy hill. It’s looking forward to a fun and food-filled event after all the hard work has been put into it.

As you can see, leading an off campus event is probably one of my favorite things of being an OAD Event Board member. It’s more exciting and less stressful than it seems. It is not as tedious as you don’t have to plan everything from top to bottom. It is more about assembling the team and leading them towards a successful night.

Being a Florida girl, I had no clue what snow tubing was, so being assigned to lead this event was interesting. It started off like every off campus event: I had to assemble my team of volunteers, first asking board members and then asking members of our volunteer squad. Usually, if we need a lot of volunteers and our board members and squad have not filled up those slots, we proceed to asking resident advisors. The next step is to come up with some catchy captions for social media posts to promote the event. One of the corny captions I came up with was “If you think sledding down Crouse is fun, come snow tubing in a larger snowy playground! ❄️”

After this, all that was left to do was lead the event! We usually have our volunteers meet us an hour before the event. Since Greek Peak is about an hour away, buses left college place at 9 p.m. so we asked volunteers to meet at 8 p.m.

As a lead, you need to arrive an hour-or-so before the volunteers to prepare for the meeting. I met with Jeffrey, program coordinator for the Office of Student Activities, at around 7 p.m. to prepare everything.

We prepared the bus bags with everything volunteers would need. This included a ticket scanner, student I.D. scanner, waivers to snow tube, pens, pencils and end of event surveys. After this I had to prepare the information I needed to give the volunteers during our meeting. This includes who is in charge of loading which buses, what needs to be done (scan tickets and ids), what the volunteers need to announce to the students and pass out (waivers) and the time we are leaving from the venue.

After all the talking, it was go time and the team assembled by the buses and we loaded them all as quickly and smoothly as possible. During this process I assured everything was going well, helped the volunteers with any problems they had, and told the volunteers when their buses were allowed to leave.

While at the event, Otto greeted us and skipped the line and personally delivered me a box of pizza (he is unpredictable). As you can see, once at the venue we all get to lay back, grub down, maybe scream while snow tubing down the steep hill (if anyone asks, was not me!) and just have a good time!

At the end we assure every student is in the bus and has a safe ride home. At the end of the night when I am finally under my warm covers, I feel content and thankful to be part of such a great team.

I love the rush of planning events, making decisions with the board, and just seeing how happy and thankful students are at the end of the day. If this sounds like something you would enjoy doing, apply to be an OAD board member today! Don’t miss out on the rest of the OAD events planned this semester!

My Tips for a Successful Event:

  • Prepare for your events ahead of time
  • Don’t be afraid to ask your colleagues for help and opinions!
  • Be professional but also show your personality!
  • Find creative ways to promote events
  • Plan events that appeal to your audience (college students)
  • Try not to stress and show positivity
  • Always smile! 🙂

Written by Maria Martin ’22, College of Arts and Sciences, Orange After Dark Event Board

Getting Off ‘The Hill’

We’re entering the final weeks of winter and as spring approaches, so does the urge to return outdoors and do something beyond hibernating in your room and waiting for the snow to pass. To give you a head start on planning your spring engagement activities, we have a few suggestions on ways to get off campus and into opportunities around the community.

Get involved in outdoor community service projects

It’s never a bad time to help someone in need and the spring is an even better time to do service that requires going outdoors. With the Chancellor’s revitalized challenge for 15,000 additional hours of community service from our campus, it’s the perfect time to do some research into opportunities to lend a hand locally. Stop by the Office of Community and Engagement to learn more about how you can get out and active off campus.

Sign up for an Exploring More opportunity

Exploring More is a new program to increase students’ accessibility and opportunity to engage in off-campus experiences. The program offers dynamic opportunities to sightsee, travel, shop and explore major cities and Outdoor Adventure opportunities. Exploring More programing is organized through a united effort of cross-campus partners including the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs, Barnes Center at The Arch, Office of Student Activities and the Center for International Services. Check out the Exploring More webpage to review new trip opportunities, details and contact information for questions and accommodations.

Be among the greats

For all you sports fans out there, did you know there is are two halls of fame nearby? The International Boxing Hall of Fame is located in Canastota, New York, roughly 30 minutes from campus. Visitors can stop through and learn about a number of boxing legends like Oscar De La Hoya and the late Muhammad Ali.

If boxing isn’t your thing, maybe baseball is? The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is just under two hours away in Cooperstown, New York. Visitors can browse through the history and evolution of America’s pastime while learning about individual players and their influence on the game of baseball.

Bring out your inner child at the Museum of Play

You’re never too old to have fun! Rochester’s Strong Museum of Play has roughly 100,000 square feet of engaging and interactive exhibits for all ages. From the butterfly gardens to their Peanuts and Play Display, the Strong Museum of Play is a space to simultaneously tap into your curiosity and playful sides. It’s also only 90 miles from campus in downtown Rochester, New York.

Visit the local Farmer’s Market

A classic favorite, the Central New York (CNY) Regional Market is open year-round. Located next to the Regional Transportation Center, the CNY Regional Market brings local produce and responsibly-raised animal product vendors together every weekend. Additionally, local artisans frequent the market to sell handmade crafts and goods. The CNY Regional Market is a perfect place to begin your off-campus adventures this spring!

Happy Birthday, Syracuse!

As we get closer to March, we get closer to a special time for our campus community, the University’s sesquicentennial.

Sesquicen-what-a-who?

Say it with us, “ses-qui-cen-ten-ni-al.”

If you haven’t Googled it yet, a sesquicentennial is a 150th anniversary or its celebration. Basically, it’s a really big word for a pretty big birthday.

So, Syracuse University is turning 150! With a full month of events to celebrate, reflect and look to the future, you won’t want to miss out on what’s planned, especially Forever Orange Week on Sunday, March 22 through Sunday, March 29! Here are some of the top events to look forward to:

Painting the Orange Stripe

Kick off Forever Orange Week with the most Orange Instagram Story you’ve ever created. A big, Orange stripe will be painted from the corner of Marshall Street up University Ave. Don’t miss your photo op and tag your photos using #SU150!

150th Celebration Photo

Be a part of history and get a free winter beanie! Meet on the Quad at 1:45 p.m. to form a ‘150’ and be part of a photo that’ll for sure go into the SU Archives.

Orange Extravaganza + Fireworks

Fireworks and birthday cake. Need we say more? After the Celebrating 150 Years of Impact program, you’re invited to the Life Sciences Complex for a reception complete with food, birthday cake and a fireworks show to follow!

Forever Orange Talent Showcase

Celebrate the talents of our campus community with a star-studded night of entertainment in Hendricks Chapel!

Stay tuned for more events and programs in the coming weeks!

Celebrate Winter Carnival

Do you want to build a snowman? Over the years, Syracuse University students have found ways to make the frigid winters a little more fun. One of the biggest ways is through Winter Carnival! Each winter, Traditions Commission upholds the long-standing tradition of Winter Carnival which consists of fun, free activities.

Now you may be wondering, what is Traditions Commission? Traditions Commission is a small student organization on campus with the purpose of carrying on the traditions of Syracuse University. Each winter, we organize Winter Carnival with different theme each year. This year the Winter Carnival theme is ‘S’Winter,’ as in summer in the winter. With a record number of snow days this winter, we thought it was necessary to bring a little sun to Syracuse! With a diverse list of activities and cross-campus partnerships to reach even more students, there should be an event that suits just about anyone’s interests. Check out this year’s Winter Carnival highlights:

Winter Carnival Days

S’Winter will kick off on Tuesday, Feb. 25, with free hot cocoa on the Quad from 9 to 11 a.m. Be sure to grab a cup on your way to class! After you warm up with some cocoa, get your free Winter Carnival swag, a caricature and free food during Winter Carnival Days on Tuesday, Feb. 25 and Wednesday, Feb. 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Life Sciences Atrium.

B’Ball and Bingo

Show off your ’Cuse spirit and win a prize! On Wednesday, Feb. 26, we’ll also be hosting a basketball and bingo event from 7 to 9 p.m. for your chance to win a prize and cheer on the men’s basketball team as they take on the Pittsburgh Panthers. There’ll be awesome prizes and a ton of free food!

THE Chili Cook Off

Ask anyone who’s experienced the Chili Cook Off before, and they’ll tell you it’s one of the best events on campus. So come by on Thursday, Feb. 27, as we host a chili cook off on the HBC patio. It’s a fun opportunity to taste test a variety of chili recipes submitted by the campus community and interact with our fabulous judges.

Cozy Capella

On Thursday, February 27, at 7 p.m., we will be partnering with the a capella council to host ‘Cozy Capella.’ This will be a free show with a ton of free food. Comfy pajamas are strongly encouraged!

Winter Sports Demo

New this year, we’ve partnered with the recreation team at Barnes Center at The Arch to host a winter sports demo on the Quad! They’ll be demonstrating the cross country ski and snowshoe opportunities we have on campus, and it’s all free! Stop by the Quad on Friday, Feb. 28, from noon to 2 p.m. and try out the equipment!

Much More

Don’t miss out on the rest of the week and even more free food (have you caught on to the trend here?) and prizes! Be sure to check out the Moonlight Snowshoe Hike, Paint Night, Glow Skate and Trivia Night!

I hope you all are as excited as we are, and I hope to see you all at the different Winter Carnival events! They are free and a fun way to get involved on campus, take a little study break and make some new friends. If you have any questions, please refer to the Winter Carnival website for more details. We are looking forward to bringing some sun to Syracuse University this S’Winter!

Written by Samantha Walters ’20, Whitman School of Management, Traditions Commission

Why Become an SEM 100 Peer Facilitator?

Applications to become a SEM 100 Peer Facilitators are open! If you’re interested in a unique and fulfilling opportunity to make an impact on campus and help create structural change by engaging first-year students in their transition to campus, you should apply. Learn more and find the application on the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs website. Applications are due by 11:55 p.m. on Friday, March 6.

Still not sure if becoming a peer facilitator is the right fit for you? Keep reading to learn what Cassandra Rodriguez ’22 and Kyle Rosenblum ‘ 20 have to say about their experiences as peer facilitators:

Cassandra Rodriguez ’22

Cassandra Rodriguez posing in front of a fully stocked bookshelf.

Why did you become a SEM 100 Peer Facilitator?

“I became a peer facilitator for SEM 100 because I wanted to be a part of real change on campus. After taking the course in my freshman year I knew that this course could be designed for so much more—where people weren’t simply teetering over real issues of diversity and inclusion on campus. Therefore, I decided to facilitate this course, as I wanted to help this class get deep into the roots of some of these major issues as they relate to our campus community. This class has now become something very unique where students can learn about themselves in relation to others and tackle issues of belonging on campus, race, gender and privilege.”

What was your most rewarding experience as a peer facilitator?

“My most rewarding experience as a Peer Facilitator was when I was able to get students to think about themselves and their privilege in very different ways than they were used to. In one activity during class, students were asked to fill out an identity wheel and were then told to share it with the rest of the class. In my own personal identity wheel, being a Latina woman filled up a large portion of my circle. A fellow student then proceeded to share theirs and take note that they often leave their privilege unchecked. He said that being a white male was not something which he thought of on a daily basis, as he is never oppressed based on his gender nor his race. After this course, he emailed me letting me know that he will strive to think of his privilege and check it in every circumstance. This was such a rewarding experience to me, as that was the main thing I wanted students to take away from this course—understanding their privilege and how they could use this privilege to fight for others whose voices often go unheard.”

Did you learn something new or gain any valuable skills?

“Being a SEM 100 facilitator, I have gained many valuable new skills. For one, my communication skills have significantly increased. I am now better at articulating my thoughts and ideas to a small group of people. Before becoming a peer facilitator, I found it very difficult to get up and do a presentation or even speak up in class. After my position as a facilitator, I have found myself to be more open to speaking up in class and sharing my true and honest thoughts with my peers and professors. Another skill I have gained is time management. As a facilitator, you need to find the time to read assignments, read the material for class the next day, and come prepared and knowledgeable on the subject matter. Finally, I have learned to be more open-minded. There are students from many diverse backgrounds who have never been exposed to the amount of diversity found on campus. Being a Latina from Miami, I was used to feeling safe and comfortable with people who looked, sounded and acted like me. White people from smaller towns also experienced these same feelings of safety within their own communities. Therefore, we all have a lot to learn and always have to place respect for others as a number one priority.”

Why should others become peer facilitators?

“Others should become peer facilitators as this is truly such a rewarding experience where you get to make students feel that sense of belonging on campus. I had always struggled with finding my place at SU away from my hometown, and other first-year students are going through similar feelings. SEM 100 is a great class to show students they belong on this campus as much as anyone else. This course also allows students to talk about issues they’re going through and often are surprised that other students are going through similar feelings. Become a peer facilitator so you can help others feel a sense of belonging, learn a lot about yourself in relation to others around you, and help facilitate meaningful conversations on campus.”

Kyle Rosenblum ’20

Kyle Rosenblum in his orientation leader polo

Why did you become an SEM 100 Peer Facilitator?

“I became a SEM 100 peer facilitator because I knew that the course is becoming an integral part of a Syracuse University education. Being only in its second year, SEM 100 still has a lot of room to evolve and improve as the feedback from each session is incorporated into the next. I wanted to be a part of this process—to help build a course that would be impactful to all Syracuse students and that would begin to create a better campus environment. I also deeply value being a part of transitions to campus for first-year students and love being able to be a resource for first-years, so being a peer facilitator was a very appealing opportunity.”

What was your most rewarding experience as a peer facilitator?

“Thus far, my most rewarding experience as a peer facilitator was seeing the monumental differences between the SEM 100 course from the fall semester of 2019 to the spring semester of 2020. It looks and feels like a completely different course, and it was exhilarating to see how student feedback was able to completely re-define the scope and content of the course. In my SEM 100 classes, I have gotten to know first-year students I never would have had the opportunity to meet otherwise and have formed bonds throughout our conversations about childhood experiences, adjusting to college and the transition to becoming part of the campus community.”

Did you learn something new or gain any valuable skills?

“I am constantly learning new things through my role in SEM 100. With the course content change, I found myself being challenged to reflect more deeply than I previously had on my childhood, the ways I have been socialized growing up and my own experiences on campus. More than that, I am constantly learning from the very students in my classes. Each student has brought their own unique perspective with them to class every day, and when they are willing to embrace discomfort and engage in meaningful conversation, it can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.”

Why should others become peer facilitators?

“Being a peer facilitator is as much a learning and growing experience as it is an opportunity to be a resource for first-year students transitioning to campus. You will experience personal growth in just having the opportunity to form a close relationship with your lead facilitator, go through training and facilitate discussions throughout the course of the semester. Through this role, I have reflected deeply on my own college experience and life leading up to it, and I have refined my skills in public speaking and discussion. As a bonus, it is a paid position—which means students don’t have to decide between applying to a role they are genuinely passionate about and working a job to pay for textbooks, meal plans and housing. I highly recommend all students interested in being a part of SEM 100 to learn more about what it entails and how to apply!”

Spring Break on a Budget

With the spring semester in full swing, many of us have started to look forward to our big departure from campus for spring break. After braving the bitter cold months in Syracuse, any chance to snatch up Vitamin D is enticing. As exciting as a getaway from Syracuse may be, spring break trips can be expensive, especially when planning on a college budget.

Whether you’re anticipating your already booked trip, or still deciding where to jet-off to, the following tips can serve as a guide for one of the most anticipated weeks of the year.

Planning?

If you have yet to decide where to go, start your decision making!

Spring break or not, any popular vacation times call for booking your trip as early as possible. Booking hotels, airfare and transportation early can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. The closer you get to departure, the more expensive hotels, and especially airfare will become. To help lower costs during crunch time, check out student travel discounts. Some major airlines, like American Airlines, offer discounted fares and vacation packages to enrolled college students. In addition, travel websites like Expedia have student discount programs which allow college students to receive hotel coupons and deals suited for a college budget. Booking with a group can also help to keep costs low, especially for hotels and lodging. Split the price of a four-person room with four people and pay a quarter of the price! A trip which once seemed un-affordable can become much more manageable with a larger group.

Already Booked?

If you already have your trip on the books, focus on how to save money for your trip so you’re not scrambling the week before to add hours to your work schedule to make extra cash, or looking for donations from family for spring break funds. One of the easiest and quickest ways to start saving today is to cut current spending habits. Although morning coffee and lunch at your favorite café are important daily routines, making coffee and lunch at home can save a significant amount of money each week. If one cup of coffee every weekday morning is $3 and lunch is $6, that is $9 per day, $45 per week, and roughly $180 per month. Saving even $45 one week can allow you to save for at least a day’s worth of meals over spring break! Actively cutting nonessential costs in your short-term spending can make a big difference once you take off for your trip.

If your trip is scheduled, make sure to have a plan before you arrive at your destination. Knowing some of the major attractions and activities you’ll participate in before you arrive will be your biggest ally in planning your budget and estimating how much money you might spend and need. As you cut your spending and save for the big trip, put your largest expenses first. You may already have your hotels and airfare booked, but consider day trips, guide tours, beach activities and going out to eat. Estimate how much you are looking to spend on each, and start saving towards those goals.

If you are nervous about spending the money you’re saving, consider creating a vacation account to prevent you from withdrawing from your vacation funds before the trip. It seems simple, but if the money is out of sight, out of mind, you are much less likely to dip into your vacation funds.

How About a Staycation?

If an elaborate getaway is too much for your budget, take a staycation! Explore a city near you, or take a road trip to another city area little further away. Once you decide where you would like to visit, decide how much you can spend. Be realistic! Go online and see what is exciting in the area you’ll be visiting. Interested in attending a concert? Musical? Eating at the best restaurant in town? Check out the prices as you plan. Choose what you want to do and make a list of expenses. Once you have narrowed down what you are interested, you can decide where you would like to spend your money and what fits in your budget. Setting a daily cash allowance may be helpful when planning meals and activities–it can help to avoid impulse purchases and ensure you’re still having fun while saving.

Lastly, always consider going with friends! If you are driving or you need a hotel room, you can always split the costs to make the trip more affordable.

Or Alternative Spring Break?

Alterative Spring Break trips are popular too – you save and gain all at the same time! Alternative Spring Break trips can include traveling for professional development or philanthropy. Each of these options still allows you to get away while saving on travel costs. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity and United Way offer immersive service projects across the country which give you the opportunity to give back and volunteer for a fulfilling break.

No matter where you go or what your plans are this spring break, have fun! Start your planning now so when you step on the plane or hit the road, you know what’s headed your way.

Not Just For First-Year Students

You might remember hearing about Living Learning Communities (LLC) when you were an incoming student applying for housing. Some of you might have even been part of an LLC as a first-year student! But you might not have known that there are LLCs open to upperclass students. With seven communities each with different themes, sophomores, juniors and seniors looking for a unique living experience have the chance to find their fit!

Applications are open to join an LLC as an upperclass student. Apply by Sunday, Feb. 16 for your chance to make connections and build your community.

Need to know more about the LLC experience? Here’s what a few students have to say about their experience:

“Being an upperclassman in a Living Learning Community was a fulfilling experience. As a transfer student, you miss out on the bond students create with their floor mates during freshman year. Living in a LLC allowed me to connect with people who specifically shared the same interest as me (in terms of the distinct LLC), and as a result, we shared a lot of other similar interests as well. Because you’re with people you can relate to, your living experience in the dorms will be that much better. Suddenly, communal bathrooms won’t seem so bad! I met my best friends on campus through my LLC, and I also created many opportunities for myself by connecting with those students.” –Ashley Velasquez, Life Theme Housing

“One of the benefits about living in an LLC as an upperclass student is seeing and befriending those who are in the same classes as you. I get to meet more people in my grade and in similar majors. Also, MORE in STEM planned a lot of bonding activities throughout the year which everyone can benefit from. You also live on either the ground or the first floor which I find to be very convenient.” –Can Chen, MORE in STEM

“There are so many opportunities and advantages that come with being in an LLC, especially as a sophomore, such as being in many of the same classes as the people you are living with. Because of this, it is easier to get homework done, and we are able to bond better because we all have things in common. There have been so many LLC bonding events, such as game nights and going to the zoo, that I may not have initiated or participated in on my own had it not be for the LLC. Of course, I could organize those things myself, but being able to attend an event that someone else organizes is so much easier, and the stress of planning it is taken away.”- Sewina Yu, MORE in STEM

 

Student Involvement Success

Explore your interests…

Want to get more involved on campus? Are you looking for more friends with common interests? Well, Syracuse University has what you’re looking for with over 300 student organizations full of opportunities. Take a chance and try something new! It’s always good to find a mix of your interests and try to find new ways to blend them into your campus experience. As parents say with vegetables, don’t knock it until you try it!

Now does getting involved sound more interesting? Wow, you could curb the enthusiasm a little bit. We didn’t know the vegetable comparison would get you that excited. You can get started on ’Cuse Activities, the one-stop shop for students to find clubs that interest them. Through ’Cuse Activities, students are able to browse through a database of different activities and organizations as well as events.

With so many options to choose from, here’s a few tips on being successful and being more involved as a student:

1) Make Connections

It’s easy as pie! Join a few solid organizations you would enjoy being in, and get to mingling! Once you find the place that’s right for you, you will be able to grow your personal community and find a firm foundation here.

Connections are not solely limited to students on campus as there are plenty of professional staff and off-campus organizations around the Syracuse area. Additionally, many community organizations have volunteer networks and provide a variety of opportunities to leave the Hill and get involved locally.

After establishing those connections, chances are you can make more friends by learning and meeting new people and bonding over common interests.

2) Take Responsibility

After spending time in an organization and making new friends along the way, you may feel like it will be a good idea to get involved in the gears and mechanisms of your organization. An organization is as good as its leadership, so if you feel you can make a better impact on an organization, then shoot for the stars and try joining the group’s executive board!

3) Don’t Over Commit

If you take 19 credits, have two labs, own a Beagle/German Shepherd mix puppy in your apartment on Clarendon and also are part of three different, time-intensive clubs, it’s going to be tough to make it through the year, let alone a semester. So let’s remember this: know your limits! Life is full of time commitments, but it is your job to get a sense of what is the most important to you.

Here are a few tips within a tip that might help with this:

  • Take responsibility for what you feel is the most impactful in your life. If yoga club is somehow stressing you out, drop it. Don’t overextend yourself. Having more open time is better than having no time.
  • Prioritize what is important to you. If your personal life is more important to you than your extracurriculars, drop what’s excessive. Try creating a list and writing what is most important in your life from top to bottom. If something isn’t worth it, leave it. And as always, be sure to prioritize your academics.

4) Know the Resources

As with ’Cuse Activities, there are an abundance of ways to get involved on and off-campus that you can find using the right resources. Each student organization has an advisor in the Office of Student Activities that assists members with navigating running their organization. Check in with them to see where you can find an opportunity to expand your horizons. Also, the office offers workshops periodically for students to help their organization succeed. Stay tuned for upcoming workshops!

Part of a Greek organization? Don’t forget the Fraternity and Sorority Affairs for more information and support.

In the end, it is about finding the organizations that will give you the biggest impact and change the way you see things. We wish you luck!

Written by Christopher Scarglato ’23, S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

Winter Activities

If you’re bored of creating snowmen, praising a crane, or sledding down the Setnor hill on a piece of cardboard that you scraped up from one of your mass-produced ramen boxes, there’s actually much more that you can do besides being rocked into a constant stream of Netflix nights that can spiral into a constant sense of boredom.

Uh, sorry about that, got a little bit philosophical there. Here are a few things you can do to ease the cold at Cuse.

Cross country ski or snowshoe.

It snows an average of eight feet or more in Syracuse annually. That’s like a foot and a half taller than Elijah Hughes.

So if you want to try cross country skiing or snowshoeing on huge blanket of snow, then try going to Drumlins. It’s free to all SU and SUNY ESF students. Hours run as follows…

Friday: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

You can rent everything for FREE. That includes ski equipment and snowshoes. Just be sure to wear weather appropriate clothes and boots. Also, all trails are mapped and marked. That’s pretty crucial and helpful. Unless you want to Rambo it, but that’s your choice.

Don’t miss out on upcoming Moonlight Snowshoe hikes! They’re free and a great opportunity to experience something new. Register on the Wellness Portal!

snow blankets drumlins country club and a display of skis at the cross country ski and snowshoe center

Tennity Ice Pavilion: For more than just ice skating.

You want to talk ironic? Talk about Syracuse, one of the coldest places on earth (sort of), having an ice skating rink inside.

Despite a seemingly non-existent temperature change, Tennity Ice Pavilion offers activities from curling (you know, that sport where they sweep a large stone across the ice), hockey and even skating.

Tennity also hosts Late Night at the Rink from 9 p.m. to midnight. All you need is your SU/ESF I.D., and you can skate your heart out with your friends. Best part about it… it’s free and they have those skater helpers (a.k.a. sleds) if you don’t know how to skate.

And here’s a pro tip! If you’ve been skating and think you’re terrible because your ankles keep giving out, your laces aren’t tied tight enough. (We are telling you this because we cringe every time we see skates not tied correctly.)

curling stones lined up on the ice at Tennity

Hate the snow?

There’s a lot of activities to solve your winter blues. Activities can be sought out of the Barnes Center at The Arch. From rock climbing to swimming, if you hate the snow, the Barnes Center is the perfect, centrally heated, place for you.

Orange After Dark will also host a plethora of events all winter during the weekends. Events include a trip to the amusement park WonderWorks on Thursday, Feb. 13. There’s also Grocery Bingo at Grant Auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 15. Be sure to check out this semester’s events, get your ticket and bring your SU/ESF I.D. with you, too. With all these events, there’s no excuse for you to watch “The Office” for the seventh time in a row.

Wait a minute, there’s more? Traditions Commission in collaboration with Student Activities will be hosting the 2020 Winter Carnival from Tuesday, Feb. 25 to Saturday, Feb. 29. Events include a chili cook-off on the HBC patio at 11 a.m. and Cozy Capella, presented by the A Capella Council at 8 p.m. in Goldstein Auditorium in the Schine Student Center. Both events take place on Thursday, Feb 27 and are free.

Despite it being named carnival, don’t worry, there will be no clowns involved. Otto may show up though.

Written by Christopher Scarglato ’23, S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications