Major: Mechanical Engineering 

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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? 

Shen actually did a great job of preparing me for college. I took physics, chemistry, calc, etc (intro courses), all of which being classes that I had a good base on from learning at Shen. None of my freshman courses were much harder than an AP course

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

Get into research as soon as possible. Other clubs and activities are way more fun, but there is no better way to get experience and get to know a professor. This makes securing internships and grad school so much easier

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

More office hours, no changed deadlines. Online school isn't great for anyone, especially in a hands on major, but UB did well to adapt.

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

Anyone will accessibility issues (ie no laptop or wifi) were in a tough spot. Also the short term notice of getting kicked off campus living may have been hard for some.

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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?

My advice is join one academic club (society of 'insert major' or research) and one fun club (club sport, dance, language club, etc). This will progress you professionally and socially and make it easy to schedule your time and meet people.

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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?

Events on campus very often (not sure though with the whole covid thing). There are tons of social events constantly both organized by students and the school, but this doesn't mean that you can't go home for a weekend or decide what you want to do outside of stuff at your school. People go to sports games, study, play video games, really anything.

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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 was a TA for a freshman class. Many students have jobs - it can be hard to manage on top of work, but if you are smart about it then it can be super helpful for paying for school

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Extra Questions

 

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

Apply to honors if you think you would be a good fit. Also, it is a really good idea to visit - just seeing the atmosphere was a big indicator of if I'd be happy at a school.

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What makes your college special to you?

The people you meet and the program you attend. Social relationships and professional development are the two main pillars of school and life.

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What do you wish you knew about your college when you were a senior at Shen?

Everything works out. UB was by far not my first choice, but ended up being spectacular for me.

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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 did random, which I would suggest. Riskier, but can be a great experience.