Starting college can be both exciting and overwhelming. To help new students adjust, we asked orientation leaders to share their advice on everything from dorm essentials to making friends. Here's what they wish they knew during their first year.
Our Experts
- Isabella Berard ’28, biology major, College of Arts and Sciences
- Justin Gomez ’28, English and textual studies major, College of Arts and Sciences
- Lauren Newman ’27, political science major, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
- Julia Rodenberger ’28, illustration major, College of Visual and Performing Arts
- Sydney Trapp ’26, human development and family science major, College of Arts and Sciences
Getting Started: First Week, Dorm Life and Making Friends
Orientation leader Julia Rodenberger ’28 (left) helps welcome new students to campus.
Reflecting on your first week, what advice would you give new students?
“Knock on your neighbor’s doors. Ask them to go to the Welcome Week events with you! Go in with an open mindset and tell yourself you are an extrovert, even if you’re not.” — Isabella Berard
“Use Welcome Week to explore campus, learn your schedule and find comfortable spaces on campus.” — Sydney Trapp
“Taking the time during your first week to look through Blackboard and create a calendar based on your assignments will help you later in the semester.” — Julia Rodenberger
Lauren Newman ’27 (center) encourages new students to attend a football game at the JMA Wireless Dome. “It’s so much fun, and you’re sure to connect with others over your shared love for Syracuse!”
What’s something you’re glad you brought to campus?
“A mattress topper! It helped me become more comfortable with change, even if it was something small, like having a comfortable bed.” — Isabella Berard
“A fan and decorations to make my room feel homier.”— Justin Gomez
“I brought an everyday pair of boots that helped me avoid slipping on ice and snow throughout the winter. With the right clothes, the weather in Syracuse can be super fun!” — Julia Rodenberger
“You’re going to change and grow and that’s OK! This is the time for you to do exactly that and figure out who you are and want to be,” says Isabella Berard ’28 (right).
How do you build meaningful connections in your first weeks?
“Hang out in social spots, ask to sit with others in dining halls and study with classmates. Most people are eager to make new friends.” — Isabella Berard
“As a transfer and commuter student, it was difficult in the beginning. My best advice is to go to the events you’re most interested in and put yourself out there.” — Lauren Newman
“Finding people who have similar values and interests as you is very important—join a club or organization!” — Sydney Trapp
Getting Involved: Clubs and Campus Life
Sydney Trapp ’26 (center) and Justin Gomez ’28 (right) are both very involved in campus life but advise students not to do too much too fast. “It’s OK to take your time to adjust,” says Trapp.
How do you find clubs that fit your interests?
“I scrolled through every organization on ’Cuse Activities and created a short list. That way, when I went to the Involvement Fair, I could keep an eye out for these clubs.” — Sydney Trapp
“Check out OrangeSeeds, which is a leadership and professional development program for first-years that emphasizes community service. For me, it was a great way to meet people outside of my major and develop a strong support network.” — Julia Rodenberger
What are some can’t-miss events or things to do?
“Citrus in the City and the New York State Fair were two of my fondest Welcome Week memories.” — Isabella Berard
“On game days, deck yourself out in orange and cheer in the Loud House with the rest of the community. Also, you can never go wrong with a Dome Dog!” — Justin Gomez
“Try the outdoor adventures offered through the Barnes Center. They are a great way to meet other students and explore Central New York beyond Syracuse.” — Julia Rodenberger
“Sled down Crouse hill at least once! And go to Block Party and Juice Jam, even if you don’t know the artists.” — Sydney Trapp
Exploring Campus: Study Spots, Food and Weekend Fun
“Be prepared for Otto the Orange to pop up randomly around campus!” says Rodenberger.
Favorite places to study or relax on campus?
“I love studying in Dineen Hall and Newhouse’s cafe—such cute little spots!” — Isabella Berard
“Bird Library quiet rooms and Eggers’ cafe are my top two study spots on campus.” —Lauren Newman
“My favorite scenic spot is the Panasci Lounge in Schine Student Center where you can sit in front of the big glass windows and watch the sunset.” — Justin Gomez
What are your go-to food spots?
“Bird Library breakfast sandwiches are heavenly. I also recommend going to places like Mr. Noodle and Ms. Dumpling, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Bleu Monkey Cafe and Pastabilities!” — Isabella Berard
“I used almost all my dining dollars at Panda Express. I also enjoy Poke Bowl Place, Froyo Place and Bubble Hut on Marshall Street.” — Justin Gomez
“Taichi for sushi burritos and Recess Coffee for sandwiches. On campus, I like Orange Hall— the food is always fresh and delicious.” — Julia Rodenberger
“My absolute favorite place on campus is Halal Shack in Schine. Falk Cafe has a wide variety of options.” — Sydney Trapp
More than 170 parks and natural areas surround Syracuse, including Green Lakes State Park—just a 20-minute drive from campus.
How do you recommend spending your weekends on and off campus?
“Relax and hang out with friends around campus or at Orange After Dark events.” — Isabella Berard
“Plan a day at Green Lakes when it’s warm! It is so beautiful and the perfect place to camp, kayak and hang out with friends. Whenever I have free time on campus during the weekends, I go to Barnes and work out or go rock climbing.” — Lauren Newman
Academic Success: Study Tips and Support Resources
“Syracuse is such a special school and if you have somebody there to help you, you can really be successful,” says Lauren Newman ’27.
What services or opportunities should every student take advantage of?
“Use the Center for Learning and Student Success free tutoring vouchers—especially for STEM classes.” — Lauren Newman
“Never be shy about reaching out to advisors or going to office hours with professors.” — Julia Rodenberger
“Studying abroad is an amazing thing to add to your college experience!” — Isabella Berard
“Take advantage of professional opportunities offered through your major. Both of my internships turned into job offers!” — Sydney Trapp
