Major: Biomolecular Science

Email: valentg@clarkson.edu

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Questions about Academics and COVID-19

 

What were your classes like in your first year or in your major/concentration, especially transitioning from Shen? 

My classes were a little challenging, but most of it was review from my AP classes at Shen. Clarkson only accepts AP credits if you scored a 5 on the exam and I was informed that their Calculus courses are more difficult than AP Calc, so I was able to review a lot of information I learned at Shen and then be pushed a step or two further.

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What academic experiences have stood out to you at your college in either positive or negative ways?

The professors at Clarkson are always looking for students to join their research which was a huge influence in me choosing Clarkson. Professors are always happy to meet with students during/out of office hours to help with course material that they are struggling with. I, personally, have not had the time to study abroad, but the majority of our student body has been able to do so. For our business school, it is a requirement to have an abroad experience.

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How was your online learning experience at your college? What resources did your college provide you during this time?

All of my classes were over Zoom calls and at the same time and day as our in person class was, so I was able to maintain my schedule. Two of my classes changed the exams to open note, however, one of those professors made the exams extremely difficult due to the fact that it was open note/open book. All of my professors recorded and posted the Zoom lectures for students to refer back to at a later time.

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What did your college do well or poorly to support students and communities when COVID-19 first hit?

Everyone on campus had to go home and switch to online learning. Clarkson allowed students to stay on campus if they live in one of the hot spots at the time. For example, those that live in NYC were able to stay on campus where they were at a lower risk of getting COVID. They also allowed those that do not have access to WiFi at their home to stay on campus. Students that were living on campus and were on meal plan also got reimbursed at the end of the semester for the two months that they were not on campus.

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Questions about Student Life

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If students are interested in your major/concentration, what extracurricular activities do you recommend they do at your college?

There are many healthcare-based clubs such as Doctors Without Borders (which I’m a part of), CU EMS, and Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students. There is also a Biology Honor Society called Tri-Beta. Clarkson students that are involved in research have an opportunity to present at a research event known as Research and Project Showcase. Volunteer opportunities are available in town as well at the Potsdam Humane Society and at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

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What are common things to do on weekends? Do students commute back home for the weekend or are there events on campus?

Students that live close to home do take a trip home for the weekend occasionally. Usually, we do homework and hangout with our friends. Come hockey season, everyone tends to go to the hockey games on Friday and Saturday nights.

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Do you have a job during the school year, or is it common for students to have on-campus jobs? What is that experience like?

I do not have a job, but it is common for students to work on campus or at restaurants in town. From what I have seen, it allows students to become even more involved with the Clarkson community. I will be a TA this coming semester and have the option of getting paid for it. Being a TA is also fairly common among undergrads.

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Extra Questions

 

What advice would you give to current Shen students when applying to your college?

If you do decide to come to Clarkson, embrace all of the clubs and opportunities available to you. Expect to be challenged in your course work. Make sure to bring snow gear as it gets COLD.

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What makes your college special to you?

I have been able to grow as a person and student over my years at Clarkson. I can confidently say that all of my professors have a passion for what they teach and want what is best for their students. I have met life-long friends and have found what my passions are.

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Before COVID-19, what was the housing like at your college? What would you recommend to Shen seniors to find their roommates?

On campus housing for freshman is the “quad” which is four buildings with four floors of doubles. The fourth floors are all female floors. There is a groupchat on Facebook for incoming freshmen to meet each other which is the easiest way to find a roommate. I met mine at orientation and lived close enough to her where we were able to meet up over the summer. For sophomores, juniors, and seniors, there are more double-room options as well as suite-style housing and apartment-style housing. Clarkson is trying to become an Ivy League School and needs a certain amount of students on campus, so it is very difficult to get off campus housing.

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How is the financial aid situation at your college?

Financial aid is great. Clarkson is an expensive school, but they try to give out as much scholarship as possible. The average student is given $20,000-$30,000 off each year and can be given more depending on your financial background.

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