Campus Life

Four Esports Sneak Peeks for 2024-25

Get your game on and join the Syracuse University Esports team! The organization has a ton of cool things in store for the 2024-25 school year, and, in the meantime, we have the inside scoop on some sneak peeks you can start looking forward to.

Gaming and Esports Center to Open at Schine

Starting this fall, the Gaming and Esports Center at the Schine Student Center will offer all students and the broader Syracuse community a state-of-the-art space to engage in all things gaming, from casual and recreational sessions to competitive tournaments.

This space will serve as a center of student engagement as well as a space to see official Syracuse Esports matches for our varsity and club teams on campus throughout the year. There will be opportunities to play familiar games you love with console and PC areas, as well as chances to try out new experiences through virtual reality, sim-racing and an expanded tabletop gaming area.

Join the Varsity Team

Heading into fall 2024, Syracuse Esports is planning on fielding varsity teams across a variety of multiplayer and battle royale games, including Call of Duty, Counter-Strike 2, Overwatch 2, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Valorant. Students interested in either competition or staff roles can apply through the respective forms found at the Syracuse Esports Linktree. Additionally, Esports plans to host open campus tryouts for walk-ons at the beginning of the fall semester.

Counter-Strike 2 Championship Watch Party

Get a taste of the excitement you can look forward to in the fall by cheering on the Varsity Esports team this Sunday, April 28, from 1:30-5 p.m. in the Barnes Center at The Arch’s esports gaming room! The team is competing in the national championship for Counter-Strike 2, a multiplayer tactical first-person shooter game. The watch party is totally free to attend, so stop by and see some pro gamers in action!

Stay Updated Through Social Media

Follow the action and stay up to date on everything Syracuse University Esports by following them on Instagram, Twitter and YouTube!

We hope you enjoyed these sneak peeks into Syracuse University Esports. If you’re interested in gaming at any level, we recommend you check out all the cool amenities the Barnes Center’s gaming room has to offer, and be sure to check out the new esports center next academic year!

Written By Madison Manczko ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

5 Realistic Ways to Manage Stress

April is Stress Awareness Month! With finals right around the corner, this is the perfect time to reflect on our mental health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stress is a state of worry and mental tension caused by a difficult situation.

While stress is completely natural and prompts us to deal with challenges, too much stress can cause a variety of issues, such as concentration issues, stomach pains, difficulty sleeping and more. Check out our tips to manage stress, and finish up the semester feeling confident and at ease!

Keep to a Regular Routine

Some of us love change, while others hate it. However, during stressful times, sticking to a daily routine can help you feel more in control. Build your routine around your sleep schedule to ensure you’re rested before starting other tasks. Then, schedule homework, chores, social activities and any other responsibilities you have. Sticking to your schedule will make you feel accomplished and disciplined while also helping with time management.

Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Body

Stress is often perpetuated by our own overthinking. We can often think ourselves into a negative spiral, turning a stressful situation into an unbearable one. If you notice your mind and heart racing, take as much time as you need to reconnect yourself to the present moment. Take a few deep breaths, do a quick body scan or engage in some low-intensity yoga. Simply moving your body a small amount can break you out of a negative thought pattern.

Resist the Urge to Isolate

If we’re feeling stressed out due to work or school obligations, we may feel guilty if we take a break from work to hang out with our friends and loved ones. However, improving our personal relationships and spending time with those close to us is a common stress management technique. According to WHO, “Connecting with others can lift our mood and help us feel less stressed.”

Be Mindful of Eating Habits

Stress can cause a variety of body issues, such as stomach issues and loss of appetite. This often results in eating too much or not eating enough. When we don’t feel well physically, it makes it even more difficult to take care of ourselves mentally. So, while it might feel difficult, it’s incredibly important to stick to a consistent eating schedule in times of stress. If possible, also try to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet during periods of stress.

Check Out Campus Resources

If you are having trouble managing stress on your own or just wish to practice stress management in a comfortable group environment, check out the many activities and classes offered by the Barnes Center at The Arch. Classes and activities great for stress management are meditation and mindfulness events, Pet Therapy and the Crowley Family MindSpa.

We hope these tips will help you handle stress during finals week and beyond. The Peel wishes you the best of luck on your finals and any other future endeavors!

Written By Madison Manczko ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

5 Ways to Live Sustainably as a College Student

April is Earth Month! This is the perfect opportunity to consider our relationship with the environment and what we can do as individuals to make the world a greener place. We may sometimes think, “I’m only one person—I can’t make a difference.” However, there are simple things every student can do to improve our campus, city and world.

Take Advantage of Public Transportation

Those of us who don’t have cars on campus may already be relying on public transportation or rideshare apps to get us where we need to go. However, as the weather gets warmer, there are even more sustainable ways to travel than hopping in an Uber. The Centro buses can take you almost anywhere you need to go around Syracuse, and if your destination is close enough, consider taking a Veo or walking.

Keep a Reusable Tote Bag With You

Many students around campus can be seen sporting tote bags, and for good reason. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also a great way to reduce plastic use. When you’re out shopping, especially grocery shopping, always carry a reusable bag with you to avoid having to receive plastic bags.

Go Thrifting When You Need New Clothes

Don’t rely on sketchy, unsustainable online stores when you need new, cheap clothes! There are great thrift and consignment stores around Syracuse where you can get great clothes at very affordable prices. My personal favorites are Cluttered Closet in Westcott and 3fifteen in Marshall Square Mall.

Dispose of Waste Responsibly

Did you know that a variety of organizations and services will take your furniture and food items at the end of the academic year? If you have food items, clothing or furniture that can be reused, it’s important to be mindful and donate them instead of contributing to landfill waste. Learn more about ways to donate on the Student Living website.

Be Mindful of Water Usage

An easy way to live more sustainably is to be mindful when using water. Simple things like turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth and only running the washer and dishwasher when they’re full can make a big difference. Also, be aware of the times when you can use cold water instead of hot. Now that the weather is warming up, your showers don’t have to be scolding hot!

Written By Madison Manczko ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

5 Ways to Celebrate the Total Eclipse

On Monday, April 8, the moon will completely block the sun, and Syracuse will experience a solar eclipse, falling into a narrow strip of North America called the path of totality. According to NASA’s Eclipse Explorer, Syracuse will experience a total solar eclipse for one minute and 26 seconds at 3:23 p.m.! You won’t want to miss this one, because the next time a total eclipse hits New York State will be in 2079. Here are some fun local activities to celebrate this rare occasion!

College of Arts and Sciences Eclipse Celebration

Since our campus will be squarely in the path of totality for the eclipse, the Department of Physics will host eclipse activities on the Quad from 2:30–4:30 p.m. Physics lab manager Sam Sempere and others will host educational stations and talk about the event! Some eclipse glasses will be available. A&S has also compiled an eclipse webpage full of helpful and interesting information to help you plan your eclipse experience.

Solar Eclipse Sound Bathing and Drumming

Join the Barnes Center at The Arch and Hendricks Chapel on the Quad from 2:30-4 p.m. for an immersive solar eclipse viewing event! The event will start with a unique sound bathing experience and short guided meditation led by Jimbo Talbot of DrumQuest and members of the Hendricks Chapel community, and will end with celebratory drumming. The event will pause to allow participants to give their full attention to viewing the total solar eclipse. Viewing glasses will be provided. In addition to sound bathing and drumming, the Buddhist chaplaincy will offer an opportunity to participate in an April 8 Buddha’s Birthday ritual. All are welcome to participate or just take it in and add to the positive vibrations!

2024 Solar Eclipse Festival at the MOST

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) is hosting a free outdoor festival on its east lawn in downtown Syracuse. There will be tabling activities, food trucks and free glasses (you’ll need those to keep your eyes safe!). Bring a blanket or towel and enjoy the eclipse at this museum-hosted festival!

Total Eclipse of the Park

The Syracuse Mets and Visit Syracuse are hosting the first-ever Total Eclipse of the Park at NBT Bank Stadium. Gates will open at 2 p.m. for fans to view the total solar eclipse, and the first 10,000 fans through the gates will receive commemorative eclipse glasses! Physicist Dr. Meredith Wills will be in attendance to educate about the event and eclipses. After the eclipse, stick around to watch the Syracuse Mets face the Worcester Red Sox for NBT Bank Stadium’s first ever Dollar Monday game! First pitch is at 5:05 p.m.

Solar Party on Solar Street

From 11 a.m.–6 p.m., there will be an outdoor party at the Syracuse Inner Harbor, 425 Solar Street. There will be drinks, food trucks, music and free eclipse glasses! The event offers free parking and free admission.

Where to Find Eclipse Glasses

No matter where you go or what you decide to do to view the solar eclipse, remember that you’ll be staring directly at the sun, and regular sunglasses aren’t going to cut it! The above events are offering specialized eclipse glasses for free while supplies last, but here are some places where you can guarantee yourself a pair:

  • Amazon
  • Wegmans
  • Warby Parker
  • Student Living will be distributing solar eclipse glasses through the campus residence halls with instructions on how to view the eclipse safely.

Stay safe and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event!

Written By Esteban Quiñones ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

4 Crafty Ways to Transform Your Living Space

Did you know that March is National Craft Month? Whether or not you consider yourself a crafty person, dedicating some time to a creative project can relieve depression and stress and improve self-esteem. Making some DIY home decor is also a great way to add some flair to your living space without breaking the bank. Celebrate National Craft Month by trying out some of these home decor crafts!

Crystal Suncatchers

DIY suncatchers are a fun and artsy way to add some brightness to your room, as they capture the sunlight and reflect it back onto your walls in beautiful patterns. You can make your suncatcher as simple or as involved as you want, depending on your confidence in your crafting abilities. If you believe in the healing power of crystals, you can use ones with specific properties, or you can just choose ones you think will look pretty! You won’t need many materials for a basic suncatcher—scissors, small pliers, super glue and a string or chain for hanging. Check out this suncatcher-making guide from AllCrystal for detailed instructions and more information.

Upcycled Painted Vases

Do you have a ton of glass bottles you don’t know what to do with? Upcycled painted vases are super easy, environmentally friendly and a creative way to display your plants! To prep your bottles, remove any stickers by using hot soapy water, white vinegar, rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover. When choosing paint, opt for acrylic enamel paint or regular acrylic paint, as these will stick to glass the best. There are also paint products specifically labeled for glass painting. Once you have a clean bottle and acrylic paint, let your imagination soar!

Crochet Accessory Holders

This craft, while incredibly versatile and creative, does require some prior crocheting knowledge. However, as far as difficulty level goes, this is a great way for beginners to practice their skills, as it only requires being able to crochet in the shape of a rectangle. Crochet accessory holders can hold anything from earrings to necklaces to sunglasses, and they add a touch of bohemian style to any room. Check out a beginner’s guide on how to crochet if you’d like to make some for your dorm or apartment!

Punch Needle Coasters

Punch needling is embroidery’s less complicated cousin, and is beloved by both  beginner crafters and experts alike. By learning just the basics, you can make anything from pillows to rugs. For punch needle coasters, or “mug rugs” as they’re creatively called, you’ll need fabric, a no-slip embroidery hoop, a punch needle tool, yarn and a template. From there, you can make coasters of any color and pattern. Be prepared to wow your guests whenever they want to set down their drinks! If you’d like to learn how to punch needle, check out a complete guide online.

We hope these ideas gave you some DIY home decor inspiration. Taking time out of your week to focus on a creative project is amazing for your mental health, and that’s why The Peel loves National Craft Month. Happy crafting!

Written By Madison Manczko ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

On-Campus Activities to Get Your Body Moving

As the weather gets warmer and the sun shines a little brighter, you might feel more energized and motivated. If you’re feeling a push to get some exercise but are not a fan of the typical gym environment, don’t be discouraged! There are plenty of fun classes and sessions offered through the Barnes Center at The Arch for everyone, from beginners to experienced gym rats.

Just Keep Spinning

Just Keep Spinning is a beginner-friendly spin class that targets strength and cardio in a single session. For the spring 2024 semester, classes are held Mondays from 11-11:50 a.m. and Wednesdays from 5-5:50 p.m. in the Flanagan Gym Cycle Studio. Registration for each class opens 24 hours before the session, and classes are completely free for students. Visit the Just Keep Spinning webpage for more information.

Aqua Body Strong

For all the water lovers out there, this unique class takes place on a floating yoga mat and uses both yoga and H.I.I.T. to provide a fun and intense workout. This class is taught at Sibley Pool in the Women’s Building on Thursdays from 5-5:50 p.m. during the spring 2024 semester. Students must be able to swim in order to take the class. Visit the class webpage for more information.

Hatha Yoga

In this relaxing and energy-centering class, you will target your physical and mental health through posture, breathing and meditation techniques. While Hatha means “force” in Sanskrit, it is typically taught at a slower pace than regular yoga. For the spring 2024 semester, sessions are held Tuesdays from 10-10:50 a.m., Wednesdays from 9-9:50 a.m., and Thursdays from 3-3:50 p.m. in 321 Barnes Center (Group Fitness Studio 3). Check out the Hatha Yoga page in the Wellness Portal for more information.

Zumba

This class is all about energy, and it’s a great way to work out your whole body while having a blast! It combines all elements of fitness—cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome each time you leave class. This semester, Zumba classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-7:20 p.m. in the Flanagan Gym Exercise Room. Visit the Zumba webpage for more information and to register.

Boxing 101

Boxing is a great workout option for those who want to build muscle and improve cardiovascular health. If you’re interested in boxing but don’t know where to start, this class is perfect for you! Participants in this class are encouraged to bring hand wraps and boxing gloves to strike soft targets as they learn the basics of boxing. For the spring 2024 semester, class is held on Mondays from 4-4:50 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5-5:50 p.m. in the Flanagan Gym Exercise Room. Check out the Boxing 101 page in the Wellness Portal for more information.

We hope this list sparks your interest and provides some fitness motivation because when our bodies are happy, our minds are happy. No matter how experienced you are in the world of fitness, you will definitely walk away from these classes feeling amazing. Now go sign up!

Written By Madison Manczko ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

What To Do if You’re Staying in Syracuse for Spring Break

Spring Break is our opportunity to take a big step back from the stress of the semester and indulge ourselves with some well-deserved relaxation. Taking a break and a deep breath is a state of mind, it doesn’t matter where you physically are! Even if you’re staying in Syracuse instead of flying to a magazine cover-worthy destination, take this as a sign to treat yourself to something fun.

Light the Yard Game Show

Join Orange After Dark on Friday, March 8, for a game show experience that connects Syracuse University students with the vibrant city of Syracuse. The lineup includes crowd-interactive games, media showcases and artistic performances. To attend, be sure to have your Syracuse University I.D. and RSVP on ‘Cuse Activities.

Syracuse Spotlight Event: Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Join Orange After Dark on Saturday, March 9, for a trip to the local zoo! The indoor experience features the following exhibits: USS Antiquities, Diversity of Birds, Adaptation of Animals and exhibits in the Social Building. The Rosamond Gifford Zoo even has a banquet hall where you can build your own taco and enjoy beverages and desserts. Have a fun evening with friends while you familiarize yourself with one of the City of Syracuse’s most popular attractions!

Work Out at the Barnes Center

The fitness center at the Barnes Center at The Arch will be open with adjusted hours during spring break! Get a workout in without the stress of having to go to class or do homework afterward. The Barnes Center pool, climbing wall, esports gaming room and the Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion will also be open for limited hours during spring break.

Downtown Syracuse Dining Weeks

Running from March 1-14, Downtown Syracuse Dining Weeks celebrates the restaurants that have made Syracuse into a culinary destination. Participating restaurants will offer two-course lunches for $15 or less, three-course dinner options for $40 or less and other snacks from participating businesses. Use some of the break to check out that restaurant downtown you’ve always wanted to try, or save some money by grabbing a meal at one of your favorite dinner spots.

Syracuse Crunch vs. Rochester Americans

Did you know that the City of Syracuse is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning’s affiliate team, the Syracuse Crunch? During Spring Break, you can enjoy a true Upstate New York hockey experience as The Crunch battles it out with the Rochester Americans at home in the Upstate Medical University Arena on Saturday, March 9, and Wednesday, March 13.

No matter where you spend your Spring Break, The Peel hopes you have a fun, safe week!

Written By Esteban Quiñones ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

3 Reasons to Check Out the Off-Campus Housing Search Website

Your off-campus housing hunt just got a serious upgrade with the launch of Syracuse University’s Off-Campus Housing Search Website. Say goodbye to the headaches of sketchy listings and roommate search problems—here’s why you need to check out this game-changing platform.

1. A University Team Vets Each Listing

No more sourcing the web for rentals only to be met with uncertainty. The University’s Apartment and Off-Campus Living team vets each listing before it goes live, ensuring transparency and reliability. To ensure each property is up to code,  the team checks with the City of Syracuse to confirm the property’s rental ability and that there are no pending code violations. The team also ensures that the property has had an internal and external inspection by the City of Syracuse Code Enforcement Office within the last three years.With the Off-Campus Housing Search Website, you can browse listings with confidence, knowing that every option meets Syracuse standards.

2. Find Roommates With Ease

The new site isn’t just about a place to crash; this platform also doubles as your personal roommate matchmaker! No more awkward flyers or blind searches—Syracuse University students have access to a resource dedicated to connecting with potential roommates. Swipe through profiles, find your perfect match and say hello to stress-free cohabitation!

3. It Offers a Lease Connection Space for Only Syracuse Students

Lease listings tailored to ‘Cuse students? Yes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio or a spacious townhouse, every option caters to the unique needs of the SU community. With just a few clicks, you can secure a spot that fits your student lifestyle seamlessly, and the perks don’t stop there.

The Off-Campus Housing Search Website isn’t just a directory—it’s a one-stop shop for all things off-campus living. Need tips on navigating the rental process? Looking for resources for first-time renters? Consider this your go-to guide for conquering adulting.

Whether you’re a seasoned renter or a first-time house hunter, this platform streamlines the housing search process and ensures a stress-free experience. Don’t’ miss your chance to find the perfect off-campus home—check out the Off-Campus Search Website today!

Written By Kalaya Sibley G’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

Relationship Resources Reminder

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it may be time to examine how we can strengthen our relationships with our significant others. Romantic relationships can be complicated and require lots of effort, communication and care to remain healthy. It may feel isolating when we don’t know where to turn to discuss our relationships, whether it be to discuss a specific problem or a general worry. Luckily, there are plenty of resources to help you empower your relationship with your significant other both on and off campus!

Couple’s Enrichment

The Barnes Center at The Arch offers multiple relationship support services to undergraduate and graduate Syracuse University students, the first being Couple’s Enrichment. This experience is different from Couple’s Counseling as it focuses on strengthening skills as opposed to targeting specific relationship issues. Enrichment is a great option for all couples at all stages of a romantic relationship, and it gives participants the ability to work on important skills like communication, conflict resolution, stress management and intimacy.

Couple’s Counseling

The second relationship support service the Barnes Center offers is Couple’s Counseling. Couple’s Counseling is designed to help couples process thoughts, behaviors and patterns that contribute to specific relationship issues. Counselors can help couples with issues such as adjusting to cohabitating, balancing a co-parenting relationship, creating and maintaining intimacy, healing after infidelity, resolving sexual issues and strengthening trust.

Relationshi* Happens Workshop

Relationshi* Happens is a free, in-person workshop offered by the Barnes Center that provides an engaging experience with your partner, friend or roommate to begin building an understanding of relational wellness. You will discuss everything from general relational wellness, communication, conflict management, family of origin/experience and other topics that would support student relational wellness! You can register for Relationshi* Happens sessions through the Wellness Portal.

The Couple and Family Therapy Center

The Couple and Family Therapy Center (CFTC) is Falk College’s therapy service located at Peck Hall on Genesee Street. CFTC offers confidential therapy services to families, couples and individuals who are struggling with life’s challenges. The most common issues addressed here include resolving relationship difficulties, easing communication struggles and affirming diverse gender experiences. CFTC offers a variety of treatment options, such as talk therapy, play therapy and sand tray interventions.

Cardinal Hope Couples Counseling

Cardinal Hope Counseling is a mental health counseling service located in downtown Syracuse. They focus on addressing trauma, anxiety and relationship issues through individual and couples therapy. Their expert couples therapy targets communication breakdowns, trust issues and reoccurring patterns of conflict to strengthen and repair relationships. Their goal is to help couples create fulfilling and harmonious relationships. If this sounds relevant to you and your partner, you can contact Cardinal Hope for a free consultation.

Syracuse Couples Events

If couples counseling doesn’t sound relevant to you and your partner, but you are still looking for opportunities to spend more time together, consider looking into events specifically for couples in the Syracuse area. For example, a “Love Day” Couples Painting Event is being held on Sunday, Feb. 11, in downtown Syracuse. There are many couples’ events and classes to check out, especially around Valentine’s Day. Visit an event site to see what’s happening near you.

Everyone deserves to feel happy, safe and loved in their relationship, but this is not always easy. No relationship is perfect, so sometimes it’s more than okay to ask for outside help. Whether there is a specific problem affecting your relationship or you’re just looking for ways to strengthen what’s already there, there are plenty of options all over Syracuse. You just need to find what’s right for you and your partner.

The Peel wishes you a happy Valentine’s Day!

Written By Madison Manczko ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

6 Benefits of Studying Abroad During the Fall Semester

Interested in studying abroad, but not sure whether you’d rather go in the fall or spring semester? Read on to discover six advantages to studying abroad during the fall!

Exclusive Fall Programs

Take advantage of Syracuse Abroad’s specialized programs like Exploring Central Europe exclusively available during the fall semester. Also, all students participating in the Fall 2024 program automatically receive a $1,500 location grant. Join a close group of students exploring the rich history of Central Europe with travels to Prague, Berlin, Krakow, Warsaw and more!

Finding a Subletter

It’s much easier to find a subletter for an off-campus lease in Syracuse during the fall! With many students choosing to study abroad in the spring, there will be a surplus of people looking to sublet from you during the fall semester. Contrarily, it can be challenging to find a sublet for the spring semester! The high demand for fall sublets provides a favorable situation for those studying abroad in the fall.

Customizable Housing Abroad

Along with an easy subletting process, there is much less competition for housing preferences when abroad during the fall. Housing type, roommate selection and the choice of where to live will be more flexible. With smaller numbers of students competing for housing, it will create a more tailored experience for you!

Holiday Celebrations

With the number of holidays and celebrations that happen during the fall semester, you will have the opportunity to take part in world-renowned festivities. Among these, Munich’s Oktoberfest stands out, attracting millions of people and, more specifically, study abroad students. Take part in the festival and enjoy the celebration in traditional dirndl dresses and lederhosen shorts! In addition to Oktoberfest, Strasbourg’s Christmas market is another attraction that draws in millions of visitors each year for its enchanting decor, shopping and delicious foods!

More Time

Embarking on a fall semester abroad not only grants you the abroad experience, but also allows for plenty of time to pursue academic goals when you return. This provides a unique timeframe to complete credits, or explore a second major or minor, all guided by the support offered on campus! This strategic planning maximizes the educational opportunities available to you while providing for an incredible time abroad.

Taking Advantage of New Interests

With studying abroad offering so many new opportunities and experiences, it’s likely that you may develop new interests. By studying in the fall, you would be able to capitalize on these interests when you return. In doing the Marine Ecology Seminar in Spain, for example, I developed an interest for both scuba diving and maritime law. At Syracuse, I can take a scuba diving course or international law course to further pursue these interests!

While studying abroad at any time in your college career will be amazing, be sure to consider spending a fall semester abroad!

Written By Callie Amill ’24, Martin J. Whitman School of Management, Syracuse Madrid Global Ambassador