Campus Life

Summer Activities in Syracuse

Spending the summer in Syracuse? In June, when the weather turns warm and we finally get some sunshine in CNY, there are plenty of fun ways to enjoy the outdoors. Although Syracuse may be your home during the school year, it has just as much to offer in the summer months when you’re out of class. Whether you’re here taking classes for the summer or just spending a summer away from home, it’s good to get away from campus and try some new activities!

Syracuse Mets

Syracuse is home to the Syracuse Mets minor league baseball team. With games happening nearly every day and fun deals on food and drinks, you can’t pick a bad day to go! Enjoy the fun atmosphere of a baseball game and grab a hot dog to enjoy while you watch.

St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview

Want to see some live music? The St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview has great concerts all summer long. With a fun outdoor venue and views of Onondaga Lake, you can’t beat a concert experience like this one. Enjoy artists from Tim McGraw, to John Mulaney, to the Syracuse Opera. This concert venue has something for everyone, and makes for a fun night out with some friends!

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Syracuse is home to its very own zoo with every animal you can imagine! Stop by and see the tigers, or check out the aquariums with all kinds of aquatic life. The Rosamond Gifford Zoo has so many attractions to offer and makes for a great day of exploration.

Green Lakes State Park

Although many already know about this special spot, Green Lakes State Park is the perfect place to take a swim or go for a walk. During the summer months, the beach at Green Lakes opens and there is so much fun to be had. If you’re not into swimming, you can rent a rowboat or kayak and explore the lake while staying dry. Or, if you’re feeling really ambitious, you can plan an overnight camping trip with some friends to immerse yourselves in the outdoors.

Drumlins Country Club

If you don’t want to stray too far from campus, Drumlins Country Club has a full 18-hole course, tennis courts, a pool and a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat after. 1926 Bistro has a great menu to choose from with everything from salads to pasta to burgers.

(P.S. Drumlins offers free tennis and golfing on their West course to SU and ESF students during the academic year!)

Crazy Daisies

Just a short drive away, you can find everything from greenhouse gardens, to delicious pizza, to live music. Crazy Daisies offers a fun environment to relax, spend time with friends and maybe even buy some plants to spice up your home for the summer! 

Big Don’s

Want to challenge some friends to a little friendly competition of mini-golf? Big Don’s has 18 holes to practice your swing, as well as mazes, a climbing wall, outdoor laser tag, and so much more.

Big Dip Ice Cream

The best way to cool off in the hot summer sun is with some cold ice cream. The Big Dip is a homemade, family-run ice cream shop just a few minutes away from the Syracuse campus. It’s not too bad for a quick photo-op with your friends either!

Finger Lakes Drive-in

Want to go to the movies but don’t want to be cooped up in a movie theater when the weather is so nice? Finger Lakes Drive-In lets you watch a movie from the comfort of your car. You can buy some snacks, set up some blankets and cozy up to your favorite movie with friends.

Whatever your interests are, Syracuse has so many fun activities to offer, even in the summer when school is out.

Written By Sophie Gomprecht ’22, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

 

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

10 Things I’ve Learned These Last 4 Years

When I committed to Syracuse University back in 2018, my parents and teachers kept telling me how quickly the next four years would go by. I just kept brushing it off thinking I had all the time in the world. I was wrong. These past four years have gone by extremely fast, but have been the best times of my life! Here are 10 things I’ve learned over my last four years at Syracuse University.

  1. How to create my own opportunities
    I’ve learned that college does not simply hand you opportunities. You need to put in a lot of effort to be as successful as you want. Jobs do not fall into your lap and ambitions do not materialize. You have to put in the effort and make things happen. Just do it! Reach out, chat to people, connect and network.
  2. Live life with no regrets
    Experience as much as possible because your four years at Syracuse University go by faster than you think! 
  3. Live in the present
    College can be a stressful time. I found I was always worrying about the future and dwelling on the past when I should have been more grateful for the opportunities and experiences I was dealing with in the present.
  4. Sometimes friendships change
    The friendships we have in our first year of college may be completely different from our fourth year of college, and this is completely normal. I’ve learned that people change, find new interests and, sometimes, naturally just grow apart.
  5. You do not need to know exactly what you want to do with your life
    There has been a stigma that you need to know exactly what you want to do with your life when you get into college. Let me tell you, this is not true. I got into Syracuse University as a neuroscience major and I am graduating with a communications degree. Your interests change as you experience college more. It is okay to change your major.  It is OK to graduate not knowing your desired career path.
  6. It’s okay to be alone or take a break
    College can be a really social place. Living with roommates, attending classes with lots of people, and taking on other social responsibilities we have as students. Although I loved every minute of it, I sometimes found myself crashing and needing a break and some alone time.
  7. How to balance
    You must strike a balance between your career, your family, your friends, your free time and a variety of other issues. It’s a lot more difficult than it appears, but coming to college and having a lot more responsibilities allowed me to practice and build my balancing skills.
  8. Take care of your mind and body
    This is one of the most important things I’ve learned over my college journey. If you don’t pay attention to your mental health and your body’s health it can really affect you. Be sure to exercise when you can, rest when you are sick and eat nutritious and filling meals.
  9. Don’t put limits on yourself
    With the stress of academics, social life and other commitments, it can sometimes seem unreasonable to join that club you are interested in or even plan a night to hang out with friends. What I’ve learned is to go for it! Life moves quickly, and if you don’t do the things you love and that make you happy, when will you ever have time?
  10. Who you really are
    Throughout your four years of college, you will learn a lot about yourself. You’ll learn how you deal with tasks under pressure, you will mature and you will really understand what you are passionate about. While these four years go by fast, the most important thing I have learned is to enjoy and embrace your time here. You’ll only be a college student once!

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

    Meet Haben Girma

    The University is hosting its inaugural Disability Pride Week from April 18-22. In celebration, the Disability Cultural Center is sponsoring a talk with Haben Girma, the first Deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School and a disability rights advocate.

    In advance of her virtual talk on April 21, at 7:30 p.m., here are three additional things to know about Haben:

    She’s an author.

    Haben’s recent memoir, “Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law,” details her experience traveling the world, including to Eritrea and Ethiopia where her parents are from, to search for the secret of belonging and connection. The book was named “New and Noteworthy” from the New York Times, a “Book of the Month” favorite by Oprah Magazine and a Publishers Weekly Bestseller.

    She’s been recognized for her disability rights advocacy work from Forbes to the White House.

    As a disability rights advocate, Haben has been recognized on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, as well as named a White House Champion of Change. Her expertise has been featured on BBC, NBC, Forbes, NPR, GOOD Magazine, the Washington Post and more.

    She defines disability as an opportunity for innovation.

    Haben witnessed advocates using the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to increase opportunities and access for people with disabilities, inspiring her to join them. She believes that disability is an opportunity for innovation and educates organizations of the benefits of prioritizing accessibility to improve the digital experience for both disabled and non-disabled users.

    Build A Lifelong Commitment to Self-Care

    Between classes, organizations, jobs, etc., where and how are we supposed to find time to breathe?! To get through these last 30 days of the semester, the Barnes Center at The Arch peer education teams have got you covered! Join us on the 30-Day Self-Care Challenge. Each day of the week will have a different theme, with peer educators providing you with a daily self-care activity. Keep reading to find out what each day of the week will entail and how YOU can get involved.

    Motivational Mondays

    Before you know it, the weekend is over and it’s the start of a new week. However, it can be hard to find the motivation to get back into the swing of things. To give you a boost, we will be providing you with affirmations, motivational quotes and other forms of encouragement.

    Studies show that practicing self-affirmation activates the reward centers in your brain, making you happier and encouraging a more positive state of mind (Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience). However, it can be hard to get into the practice, which is where we come in!

    Treat Yourself Tuesdays

    Self-care is a buzzword that has been used more often on social media. For many, the word is associated with images of bath bombs, eating chocolate and reading a good book. While it is also crucial to engage in forms of self-care that are non-cutesy, it is key to treat yo’self! Tune into “Treat Yourself Tuesdays” where we will provide you with ideas of activities you can engage in that make you feel good! Think pampering forms of self-care.

    Warm-Up Wednesdays

    For some of you, the gym may be your safe space—a place where you can put your troubles to rest. But, if you are anything like me, it may take you a little convincing before you head to Barnes for a workout. However, I always feel better afterward, and it’s backed by science! Your serotonin, stress hormones and endorphins change when you exercise (Better Health Channel). Join us on “Warm-Up Wednesdays” to learn about exercises for all abilities.

    Thoughtful Thursdays

    Now that you’ve already taken part in “Treat Yourself Tuesdays,” you know how indulging yourself boosts your mood. But acts of kindness towards others can also have a similar impact. On “Thoughtful Thursdays,” we’ll provide you with ideas on how to show others kindness! Whether it’s a family member or a friend, it’s always nice to show your loved ones that you appreciate them.

    De-Stressor Fridays

    Before you know it, the end of another bustling week has rolled around. You may find yourself tired, maybe a little burnt out. “De-Stressor Fridays” has got you. On these days, we’ll help you find ways to let your feelings out, whether that means writing them out, engaging in a mindfulness activity or vocalizing them in another way. In general, you will do something for yourself that is self-care-related, while also allowing you to decompress.

    Cheffing Saturdays

    Have you ever had a day where you were so busy you forgot to eat? Not only is this unhealthy, but it can also put a damper on your day, leading your mind to be ruled by thoughts of food. On “Cheffing Saturdays,” you’ll be reminded of ways to incorporate food into your self-care routine. Whether it’s a new one you’ve never tried or an old favorite from home or a favorite restaurant, it’s sure to add positivity to your day.

    Set-Up Sundays

    Getting your week off to a great start begins with preparation. Use time on Sundays to think about what’s ahead and plan accordingly. On this day, we’ll give you ideas on how to plan ahead for the week to come, whether that includes a clean-up, creating a plan or getting something ready for the week.

    Overall, we are looking forward to joining you on this 30-day self-care journey and setting you up to continue it as a life-long habit. Check us out on Instagram (@bewellsu) to see the daily updates on what activity YOU are doing today. See you soon!

    Written by Andrea Sanchez ’23, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

    Come to the International Festival

    The Center for International Services, in partnership with student organizations, is hosting the second International Festival on April 24. The festival will feature eight student organizations representing the following countries, regions and cultures: African Graduate Students’ Network (AGSN), Caribbean Student Association, Chinese Union, European Students Association, Filipino Student Association, La Société Francophone, Latin American Student Association and South Asian Student Association.

    We asked Ze Zeng ’22, who attended the inaugural festival, why students should come. Here’s what he shared!

    It is fun!

    International Festival gathers cultures and students on campus. Shows have been put together that you can enjoy. You are going to experience different backgrounds and you will meet interesting people there.

    You can eat a lot of food.

    All the organizations that come into this event will provide their own unique food from their culture. They all tasted very good! It is an upgrade. Let’s face it, everyone loves delicious food.

    Experience different cultures.

    International Festival is a platform for everyone on- and off-campus to learn about different cultures around the world and share their knowledge. This event is going to expand your view and learn more about different communities to make some new friends.

    Top 3 Reasons to Join the Goon Squad 2022

    The Goon Squad has an important role during move-in days as volunteers are located at each residence hall on campus with all hands on deck to help first-year and transfer students and their families. All students are eligible to volunteer and can apply now to be a member of the Goon Squad! Why apply? Check out my top three reasons as a former Goon Squad member myself.

    1. You have the opportunity to be a part of a long-standing Syracuse University tradition.

    Since 1944, the Goon Squad has been best known for welcoming incoming students and their families by helping with move-in. I chose to sign up as I wanted to immerse myself further in the campus community, while welcoming students with my own perspective. It is a great opportunity to volunteer and meet new people.

    2. Represent your Recognized Student Organization (RSO) to incoming students.

    As a member of the Goon Squad, you will have the chance to chat with incoming students about the organizations you are a part of on campus and how that has enhanced your student experience. This is a great way to bolster involvement, spread awareness of and recruit for your RSO. You will also have the chance to be invited to the Orange Blast! Involvement Fair.

    3. You get to showcase your Orange spirit!

    You will receive free Goon Squad swag upon signing-up to volunteer. Not to mention, this opportunity counts for volunteer hours and allows students to move into their dorms early. Showcase your Orange spirit to incoming students and tell them why you chose Syracuse University!

    Students will have the opportunity to choose which days they can volunteer, spanning across three days:

    • Tuesday, Aug. 23, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
    • Wednesday, Aug. 24, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
    • Thursday, Aug. 25, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

    Being a part of the Goon Squad is a rewarding experience as you get to help first-year and transfer students and their families during an important time where they will have many questions. Apply to be a Goon Squad member to take part in this Syracuse University tradition!

    • RSOs that register by June 10, with four or more members will be featured on the Goon Squad t-shirt.
    • RSOs that register by July 22, with four or more members will be invited to table at the Orange Blast! Involvement Fair on Aug. 26.
    • All individuals interested in volunteering for Goon Squad must register by July 22.

    Questions? Learn more on the Student Leadership webpage, contact welcome@syr.edu or call 315.443.9187.

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

    5 Things I Learned About UU

    University Union (UU) is the official student-run programming board at Syracuse University. You may have heard of UU for putting on concerts like Juice Jam during the fall semester and Block Party in the spring semester, but there’s a lot more to know about UU. The org has a long history of events and large name artists that I never knew about. Here are 5 things I learned about UU:

    1. University Union hosts a variety of different events.

    I am sure everyone is aware of the semesterly concerts that UU puts on every year like Juice Jam and Block Party. However, I was not aware that UU puts on more events than just concerts. They occasionally host comedy shows and lectures, and every weekend there are movie screenings in partnership with Orange After Dark. They have had Q&A panels with comedian Erik Andre and hosted movie premieres on the Quad. Be sure to check out their calendar for any upcoming events!

    (P.S. Block Party 2022 has been announced! Gunna, Baby Keem, 070 Shake and A-Trak are scheduled to perform on Friday, April 29.)

    2. UU has been putting on events since 1962.

    UU has been one of Syracuse’s main sources of entertainment since 1962. On Sunday, Sept. 29, 1968, the first major act, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, performed at the War Memorial during Orientation Week. Tickets were only $3! Over the course of the next five decades, UU continued to bring big name artists to the SU campus. Some notable performers include: The Police, Billy Joel, Destiny’s Child (including Beyonce), Kanye West, Diplo and Jack Harlow. UU will be hosting a 60th Anniversary Celebration on the Quad on Friday, April 29.

    3. The UU website features their own blog.

    Looking for pop culture and campus content? Check out the University Union Blog where new content is posted every week. My favorite posts are “10 Best Trader Joes Finds” and their “Current Favorite Tik Tok Trends” article.

    4. UU is entirely student run.

    University Union is known for bringing some of the most popular artists to perform on campus and it’s all entirely done by students! For events like Juice Jam that is held in September, the UU team begins planning the event all the way back in May! The process involves surveying the student population to gain awareness of what artist they want to see. Next, students will reach out to booking agents in order to understand pricing and availability of certain artists. Once an artist is being booked, UU students begin ordering and creating merchandise, planning stage design and working on ticketing and safety precautions. Once the new semester begins, the PR and marketing teams work together to promote the concert and design flyers and social media graphics to spread the word.

     5. There are over 9 different departments that you can be a part of!

    Interested in being part of University Union? You’re in luck because all Syracuse University and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry students are eligible to become a general member. No matter your major or your interest, UU offers it all. From web designers to social media assistants, they even have a position for a silent disco specialist. For more information about applying to be part of the e-board or a general member, you can visit their website or reach out to them via email.

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

    SoulTalk is Your Spot

    Looking for meaningful and engaging conversations that dig a little deeper? SoulTalk is your spot. Each Thursday from 6:30-7:30 p.m., students gather together to talk about life’s big questions. The conversation is led by a student facilitator with some opening questions, but from there, it’s really about organic conversation in a safe and respectful space.

    Here are the five topics we’ll cover for the rest of the semester. Interested in attending? Register in the Wellness Portal.

    March 31: Creating a Community

    April 7: Manifestation

    April 14: Forgiveness

    April 21: Regret

    April 28: Imposter Syndrome

    Finding Which Workout Works for You

    As Syracuse University students, we have so many options for recreation and activities, from group fitness, to rock climbing, to weekend adventure trips. Having lots of choices to explore is amazing, but for many students it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Whether you’re new to fitness and haven’t found an exercise that works for you, or you are new to the Wellness Portal and campus activities, here are some easy tips for getting started.

    Wellness Portal, ’Cuse Fit Chat and Fitness Center Orientations

    The Wellness Portal is the place to go to explore and browse all of your options if you’re interested in finding a new activity. Anyone looking to get some motivation, decide on wellness goals or find a way to manage stress and become healthier overall should consider registering for a ’Cuse Fit Chat. Register on the Wellness Portal to have a personalized 30 minute video meeting with experienced Barnes Center staff, completely free to Syracuse University/SUNY ESF campus community members.

    If you find yourself more intimidated by trying out equipment and becoming familiar with campus facilities and offerings, a great place to start is registering for the Fitness Center Orientation. This free orientation includes an hour-long introduction to all of the equipment and highlights of the Barnes Center with a qualified personal trainer, who can answer all your questions about the gym and help you feel more confident trying the facilities out on your own!

    Group Fitness, Personal Training and Adventure Trips

    You might have heard of yoga or kickboxing classes that are offered at the Barnes Center, but if you haven’t participated yet, try looking over all the types of workouts and specialty classes that you could be a part of. On the Wellness Portal, you can sign up for group fitness classes including cycling, bootcamp fitness, kickboxing and strength training (all free!). Check out the schedule here, and make sure to take a look at the specialty themed classes, which currently highlights the “Lift and EmpoWer: Women on Weights Series.”  Finding a class that fits your schedule is a great way to find a style of training that works for you, whether you love the group fitness environment or just need an instructor to show you the basics and inspire your own workouts.

    A personal trainer can be an incredibly valuable helper in your journey to become more active and learn what workout is good for you. After purchasing one of the personal training packages, you’ll fill out a form to be paired with a qualified trainer who will assess your goals and more. If using equipment, choosing exercises, practicing form or understanding training principles are things holding you back, a personal trainer is a great resource to consider.

    If exercising in the gym isn’t your thing, check out the “Adventure Trips” section of the Wellness Portal to sign up for a hike, try zip-lining, go rock climbing and more.

    Stop By the Barnes Center at The Arch

    A great way to take your first step toward participating in more activity is to start exploring gym facilities. Just walking through the fitness floors to see the equipment or hopping on an elliptical to try it out will let you become familiar with the gym setup and make it much easier to decide where you’d like to start. Check out the pool, weight room, climbing wall, indoor track or cardio machines whenever they’re open.

    Make the Most of Campus

    For some people, working out and getting more active is difficult because they don’t know where to start. For others, a busy schedule and not having time for a standard workout might be what’s holding them back. If this is something you struggle with, start by adding some small changes and making your normal day more active.

    Increasing your movement in any way can have big benefits; try walking to class instead of taking the bus, taking a few laps around the Quad while you have your coffee instead of sitting at a table, and try making a habit of stretching for a few minutes after class or when you’ve been hunched over your desk studying for a while. Even just standing instead of sitting for a few hours a day can make a difference in your health.

    Listen to Yourself

    Most importantly, the key to getting more active and finding a workout that works for you is listening to yourself. If you tried weightlifting and it wasn’t enjoyable for you, switch it up and give Zumba a try! If the treadmill isn’t your thing, try swimming a few laps instead. If going to a group fitness class isn’t something that sounds fun to you, add a 20-minute walk to your day after lunch. Discovering which workout works for you will happen by exploring your options, trying new things, and choosing a sustainable way to get more active that doesn’t feel like a chore. Start small, and go from there— Syracuse University has an activity that will work for you, you just have to find it!

    Written By Grace Tucker ’23, Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics

    Getting to Know Michelle Zauner

    The campus community is invited to a talk with Michelle Zauner as part of the University’s commemoration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. The event will take place on April 7, from 7-9 p.m. in Gifford Auditorium, HBC. This is an important opportunity to learn more about AAPI Heritage Month, as well as the talented Michelle Zauner. Before you attend the presentation, here are four facts that you may not know about Michelle!

    Michelle was born in South Korea

    On March 29, 1989, Michelle was born in Seoul, South Korea to her mother who is Korean and her father who is Jewish-American. She later moved to Eugene, Oregon with her family where she lived until attending Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania.

    She is best known for her music

    Michelle is the lead vocalist and songwriter for indie rock band, Japanese Breakfast. Her recent album, Jubilee (2021), earned her two GRAMMY nominations for Best New Artist and Best Alternative Music Album. Be sure to check out some of her music!

    She is a New York Times Bestselling Author

    Her first book Crying in H Mart was voted as a New York Times Bestseller. The story unravels a personal memoir about growing up Korean-American, discovering her identity and the impact of losing her mother at a young age. The book is planned to be adapted into a feature film for MGM’s Orion Pictures. A meet and greet book signing will follow the event!

    She’s a director

    Michelle has had her fair share of not only directing her band, Japanese Breakfast’s music videos, but she has also directed music videos for Jay Som’s single “The Bus Song” and for Phoebe Bridges and Conor Oberst.

    Mark your calendars for April 7 and come with questions! Check out the full AAPI Heritage Month calendar of events!

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