Essential Tips and Hacks for New Freshmen at SUNY - Empire State College

As a recent graduate of SUNY - Empire State College, I want to share some valuable tips and hacks that will help you navigate your academic journey successfully. Whether you're a remote learner or on campus, these insights will guide you to make the most of your education and experience.

Utilizing Your Mentor

One of the most important aspects of your academic journey is to listen to and utilize your mentor. Your mentor can provide invaluable guidance, support, and feedback. Additionally, attending a class on campus once a month can help you feel connected to other students and receive firsthand information. Engaging in active discussions is also crucial; your professors will carefully evaluate your participation in class discussions. Prior to selecting courses, do a quick Google search to see how other students have rated the professors. This simple but effective step can save you a lot of trouble.

Getting Outside Help

Seeking outside help can be a tremendous asset during your college journey. Consider using platforms like Chegg and CourseHero to assist you in understanding the various online courses you will be taking. Properly citing sources can be challenging, but a website like Citation Machine can make the process much easier. It has transformed the way I handle citations and ensured that my work is properly cited.

Understanding the Pricing and Transfer Policies

The cost and transfer policies at SUNY - Empire State College can vary widely depending on your background and previous credits. If you are transferring from another SUNY college, your credits will transfer seamlessly. However, if you are transferring from a non-SUNY school, you may lose some credits. Be wary of the advising you receive, especially if it is not from an official student adviser. A false estimate of the completion time and accepted credits can lead to changes in your degree program. Utilize your academic adviser by asking as many questions as possible when they are available.

SUNY Empire State College offers a unique and flexible learning environment. They allow you to design your own degree program, receive college credit for prior learning, and offer various perks such as a free flu shot, an Empire State job portal, student clubs, art contests, and a student affairs portal. Additionally, the college provides five free counseling sessions via "Talk One-2-One. These resources ensure a well-rounded and enriching experience.

Book Buying and Campus Life

Ebooks and used textbooks can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying new textbooks from the college store. Stay alert to ISBN numbers when purchasing textbooks, as using the wrong edition can lead to a lower grade. While the college encourages you to buy textbooks from their store, you can often find 99.9% of the required texts on eBay for a fraction of the cost. Consider taking your major online to save money and avoid the physical campus fees. You can still visit the campus later for a social experience without the financial burden.

Planning Your College Schedule

Effective planning is essential to reduce stress and avoid missing assignments. Marking down due dates in a planner or using a digital tool can help you stay organized and on track. Proper planning ensures you don't miss important deadlines and can help you maintain a good grade point average.

Additional Tips

Be Open-Minded: Do not feel inferior if you are from a different part of the state or country. Students at SUNY - Empire State College are from diverse backgrounds, and they are eager to help and share their experiences. Take Advantage of Perks: Utilize the free flu shots, job portal, and other services offered to students at SUNY - Empire State College. Seek Academic Support: If you need additional help, don't hesitate to reach out to your professors, the library, or student support services. Stay Engaged: Participate actively in class discussions, and engage with your peers and professors outside of class.

At the end of the day, hard work and open communication are key. Work diligently, reach out when needed, and communicate openly with your professors and fellow students. Good luck on your academic journey at SUNY - Empire State College!