Major: Communication (Personal & Professional) 

Email: eh17@geneseo.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? 

Most of my classes in my first year were within General Education requirements and did not directly relate to my major (although some did I changed my major halfway through fall of my sophomore year). I think Shen prepared me pretty well for college classes, especially the college level classes I took in high school such as Public Affairs & Developmental Psychology.

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

Within the communication department there are a lot of really great professors who are very supportive of the students. There are only 3 required courses for all Communication majors as well as 1 required course based on the track. The great thing about this is the rest of the major is electives within and outside of your chosen track which really allows you to take classes with professors you like and in subjects that interest you. All of the professors are very good about working with students to create a directed study, be a teaching assistant, or find an internship if you are interested in any of these things.

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

The unprecedented effects of COVID-19 did not make it easy for the college to make the switch over to remote learning. That being said I think that most professors (at least the ones I had) tried their best to be accommodating to students. This included extending time on assignments if you asked for it, providing other opportunities to students (whether it be due to lack of access, or inability to work within groups with other students), as well as recording lectures if met during class time so others could view this later on. Professors were also good about being available for questions or help if you needed to contact them. (Whether it be through email, an online form, weekly virtual office hours, or a virtual meeting through appointment).

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Questions about Student Life

 

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

I think when you attend any college it is important to attend the club fair so that you can see the wide range of student organizations you can join. Joining student organizations isn't just about joining what will help with your resume or major but also doing things that you enjoy doing and can help you relieve stress. I participated in Student Association through both the Inter-Residence Council and Campus Activities Board, as well as Greek Life, Orchesis (dance club), and for a short time Gestures: Organization For Deaf Association.

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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?

There are students who commute home on the weekends, but I think this is something that happens at every school that has some students that live nearby. When it comes to things to do on the weekends there is often a lot going on. For example Geneseo Late Knight hosts events on Thursday, Friday, & Saturday Nights these can range from a paint knight to escape rooms on campus. RAs also host events within the residence halls, often geared towards education and destress. Geneseo Campus Activities Board hosts concert trips, movie nights, siblings weekend, spring fest and a variety of other events. Upstate Escapes is run by student life and focuses on off campus trips such as Bills games and ropes courses. Also there tend to be many student performances by groups such as Acapella, Musical Theater Club, the music and theater departments and home athletic events. (Especially hockey it's kind of a big deal here)

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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 started working my Junior year for Campus Auxiliary Services (food service on campus). There are plenty of students who work on and off campus as well as students who do not. That is based on preference and need, it isn't too difficult to balance work and school. On campus jobs make it easier to balance the two because they usually require a lower minimum of work hours and work around your schedule (for example I am required to work a minimum of 2 shifts a week).

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Extra Questions

 

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

I would recommend visiting the schools you are interested in a second time if possible (once you are admitted). Also go with your own gut and attend a school that you want to and know you love this way you get the most out of your college experience. Also do not be afraid to ask questions, reach out to current students, and if you can reach out to Shen Alumni to visit them at the school and get a tour from a current student (this allows you to see more than just a walk around campus with the admissions department).

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What makes your college special to you?

The community of Geneseo is the best thing about it, it really is a great place to meet people and have fun. I love how much there is to be involved in on campus whether it be academic research, athletics, greek life, or other organizations. I truly think there is place for everyone.

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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?

I lived in corridor style residence hall my freshman year and had a randomly assigned roommate, this worked really well for me as she is not only one of my best friend but also is how I met some of my best friends. If you aren't about being randomly assigned students often communicate through the incoming class facebook page to talk to other incoming students and find a roommate (as well as suite mates if planning on living in a suite style hall).

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