Summer Orientation 2008

Kyle Amendola

Hi everyone! I am from Cheektowaga, NY and I am a Finance Major. I currently am a senior here and I am involved in many things on campus. I serve as Treasurer of the Brockport Student Government where I get to be involved in many activities and committees around campus. I also sit as the Treasurer of the BASC Board of Directors where we discuss Dining Services, Parking Services, Laundry and the Bookstore. This past year I also sat on the Brockport Intercollegiate Athletic Board where we discuss the athletic program here at Brockport, Go Eagles! I sit on the Student Travel Grant committee which decides how much money to give to students traveling for conferences and programs in their field of study. As a student in the Business Administration Department, I sit on the Council of Students that discusses the Business Program and how to further promote student success here at Brockport. I am also an intern at M&T Securities in Buffalo, NY. I also enjoy playing football, basketball and working out at the gym. I urge everyone to try and get involved outside the classroom in extra- curricular activities!

I enjoy the people that are here at Brockport! Everyone is so friendly and caring for one another. The Brockport Community is one that is not small but isn’t too large, it’s just right. You will get to see many familiar faces around campus whether they’re in your classes or you see them in the dining hall, you make friends very easy as you see them frequently. I also enjoy the campus as it is set-up very good for student life. There is a lot of space to play football and throw the Frisbee but it isn’t so large that walking to class is terrible. I love the atmosphere.

My biggest fear was that I wasn’t going to be able to meet people. When I came to Brockport, I quickly learned it was very easy to make new friends. In the residence halls, you get to engage in activities that let you become friends with many other students. It was easy to meet new people by getting involved in clubs and organizations through the Brockport Student Government and my classes.

Jessica Barlow

Hey everyone, my name is Jessica, and I am going to be a junior here at the College at Brockport in the fall of 2008. I travel about two hours and 30 minutes from my hometown of Groton in Central New York to attend Brockport. I am a Political Science and Communication Double major with a minor in Psychology. I am employed by the Office of Residential Life as a Resident Assistant and this will be my second summer as an OSA. Here on campus I am an active volunteer for the Brockport Student Government and also serve as a member of the Student Conduct Board. I am a member of the Psychology Club and part of the Brockport chapter of EuroSim.

I love all the opportunities that are available to me on the Brockport campus. I never have a dull moment and am never without something to do. New students here have so many options and different paths to take as they begin their college career. Brockport is the perfect size campus to help a student adjust and provide them with numerous possibilities.

I know that when I first came to college, I was nervous about the transition. I found so much support in my peers and the college resources that I was soon able to overcome my anxiousness and really learn to love Brockport as my second home.

Elena Chmielowiec

My name is Elena Chmielowiec and I’m a sophomore. I’m from Batavia, NY. My major is earth science, and I would like to eventually teach middle school or high school students. I am a teaching assistant on campus for chemistry. I have also participated on the dance team and in Circle K.

What I like most about being a student at Brockport is the size of the school, as well as the people. It isn’t too big here, yet it isn’t too small either. Coming from a smaller high school, I am used to a small class size, which is what makes me feel so comfortable. You really aren’t “just a number.” The professors care about your knowledge of the material and your well being, and taking extra care of those students who are new to college. The students are also very willing to help with anything they can, and most are active in some type of activity on campus. There is a niche here for everyone, whether it is through Brockport’s many organizations, clubs, and/or athletics.

When first coming to Brockport, my biggest fear was moving away from home. The thought of having to live with a complete stranger in a small room, whom I had to get along with, made me a bit anxious. It is a big change, but it is definitely worth it. As well as meeting many people, a majority of the college experience includes the lessons you learn while living in the dorms on campus. I actually overcame this fear during orientation, which was a small preview of what to expect in the following school year. Being put into the dorm situation eliminated my fear, and turned it into excitement.

Sarah Gee

My name is Sarah Gee and I am from Lyndonville, NY. I am a sophomore, and my major is Health Science. Currently, I work as an RA in Thompson Hall with the 2011 freshmen class.

The things I like best about being a student here at The College at Brockport are the people that I have met in class and living in the dorms. Another great thing about this college is the fantastic learning environment created in every classroom. It’s good to know that your professors are readily available and willing to lend a hand and help you get the most out of your education.

My biggest fear about coming here as a freshman was that I would not being able to distance myself from my friends and family back home. I don’t live far away from Brockport, but not having your best friends right around the corner can be quite the adjustment. I overcame this obstacle by doing my best to keep in touch through emails, IM’s, letters or the phone; and I also had to learn to open myself up to new people and the many new ideas they can present. It’s not something that happened quickly, I’m still learning but everyday it gets easier. With that I am building a new confidence in myself and growing interest in those around me.

Raleigh Hicks

Hello all incoming Brockport students, my name is Raleigh Hicks and I am from Greece, NY. I am a senior at Brockport and I am majoring in History with a minor in Political Science. I am a resident assistant in Bramley Hall this year, and I participated in the Orientation for last year’s incoming freshman. Along with being an OSA, I am also a Tour guide and a Peer Mentor for the College at Brockport.

The best thing about being a Brockport student is the balance between opportunities to learn, and have fun. The Student Learning Center and Drake memorial library are excellent tools that helped me excel in the classroom. At the College at Brockport there are excellent opportunities to have a great time, from programs in the residence hall, to weekend getaways through Campus Life. There are also sporting events and some great concerts. Brockport provided me a great balance between scholastics and just having a good time.

The biggest fear that I had as an incoming freshman was meeting new people, and keeping busy. There were a few people from my high school that were attending Brockport, but overall I did not know that many people. I overcame this by attending Residence Hall programs and joining an intramural sports team. In all, I found that Brockport was a great environment for me both socially and academically.

Allison Kowalski

Hi! My name is Allison Kowalski and I will be a senior this fall and I am a double major in Journalism and English Literature. I am from Lakeland, NY, a small town right outside of Syracuse. I am a student assistant in the Graduate Studies office and I am on the editorial board for the Stylus, the student-run newspaper on campus.

The thing I like best about being a student at Brockport is the high number of opportunities they offer. In my majors alone, I have a variety of classes to choose from that are taught by great professors. There are so many internships that are available in my major departments that you gain experience that will help you after graduation. Since there are more than 100 clubs and organizations on campus there nearly something for everybody. If there isn’t, it is easy to start your own club. There are great events on campus to attend as well as a study abroad office with numerous programs.

The scariest thing about coming to Brockport as a freshman was leaving my home behind and coming somewhere where no one knew me and I did not know anyone. It was my first time away from home for a long time and I was nervous. However, instead of being scared I took advantage of the opportunity of a new start. I got involved with the Stylus and found majors I loved. Though I was nervous about joining clubs and meeting new people, it was a positive experience for me because I am so happy at Brockport right now and can’t believe this is my last year. When I first came to Brockport, everyone seemed so confident, but I soon realized that everyone was as nervous as I was and this made me feel better. The first few weeks can be scary, but as you get to know more people, become involved in organizations and go to classes, you fall into a routine and will begin to feel at home in Brockport.

Emily Masi

Hi everyone! My name is Emily Masi and I will be a sophomore in Fall 2008. My hometown is Utica, New York. I am double majoring in Communications and Psychology with the hopes of going into Higher Education. I am a tour guide here at Brockport, and am I involved in Public Relations Club, Circle K and BASIC.

The greatest thing about Brockport College is all the opportunities there are! There is an Honors Program, Delta College and Honor Society. There are also numerous clubs, so you are guaranteed to find one that you like. Also, the college hosts internship and job fairs every semester. There are concerts, speakers and activities on campus as well. The best advice that I have to give is to just get involved, so you can find your niche here at Brockport.

My biggest fear as an incoming freshman was that I wouldn’t make as good as friends as the ones I had in high school. I overcame this by getting involved and joining clubs. My closest friends now are the people that I met through a club on campus called BASIC. So just get involved! There are posters all over campus about activities and clubs you can join. Welcome to Brockport, freshmen! I look forward to meeting you over the summer!

Alex Matiash

What’s up world! My name is Deuce. Ok, my real name is Alex Matiash, but don’t even bother remembering that because no one calls me that (except my supervisors). If you’re reading this before June 15, then I am living it up down under. I’m currently studying abroad in Melbourne Australia at Swinburne University. Back here at Brockport, I’m an RA on campus and will be a townhome assistant for the upcoming year. I’ve worked in the radio station on campus, was the captain of my intramural volleyball team, was an OSA for summer 2006 and I’m an alum of the DELTA college program. This is by far one of the best experiences you’ll have at Brockport so don’t pass it up. Let me tell you, I didn’t have a freshman orientation and I wish I did. I also plan on getting involved with our campus Student Conduct Board.

The best part about being a student at The College at Brockport is the balance between academic success and social activities. Teachers are always willing to help you move forward. Their goal is to make you work harder and do better work. They succeed all the time. As far as social activities, there’s always something to do on campus. Mat Kearney and Augusta came to Brockport Fall 2007, Wanda Sykes, a Las Vegas magician and so much more. There’s always something to do on campus.

My biggest fear coming to Brockport was having a roommate that wouldn’t mesh well with me. The good news is that Brockport is very good at placing people together that are compatible. You fill out a questionnaire to make sure you’re placed with someone you can get along with. Plus, if you meet someone at orientation that you think would make a good roommate, you can room with them. I lucked out and didn’t have any problems with my roommate. With my time as an RA, I’ve also noticed that there are very few roommate conflicts. So don’t be too scared about getting a “crazy” roommate. For the most part, it doesn’t happen. Enjoy your summer before college and I look forward to meeting you at orientation!

Kaylei Miller

My name is Kaylei Miller. My hometown is Darien Center, NY. I graduated in 2007 from Alexander Central School as well as from Genesee Valley BOCES for Cosmetology. At the College at Brockport, I have intent to major in social work major and to one day become a high school guidance counselor and possibly having a private practice. This past year was my first at Brockport, and as a freshman I became actively involved in Residence Council. Recently, I have joined Colleges Against Cancer.

SUNY Brockport is an incredible school with so much to offer. I couldn’t pick just one thing I like best about it, because I enjoy so much here. It has given me a great opportunity to meet new people and gain lifelong friendships. There is never a dull moment on campus with all of the ongoing activities and programs available for students to participate in. I also really like the program I am in, and there are so many mentors willing to help if I ever needed it. Brockport is truly my home away from home, and that is probably the thing I like most about it.

My biggest fear coming to Brockport was living away from home. It is a huge step for recent high school graduates to move into college and a place that is unfamiliar to them. I was extremely nervous anticipating my arrival at Brockport. The only way to overcome that fear and anxiousness is to take things one step at a time. Orientation is a huge step, and it allowed me to feel more comfortable with the idea of coming to college and moving in. It provides incoming students with the opportunity to meet other students that are going through the same frightening transition process. After orientation, moving in becomes a lot more simple and relieves some of the fear. My fear went away very soon after I arrived at Brockport when I quickly made a lot of new friends.

Marie Mulrain

My name is Marie Mulrain, I am currently a freshman, and I am a  Psychology major. I live off campus in my hometown, Albion. It is about a twenty minute commute.

I feel that the best part of being a student at Brockport is that it feels like home to me. Everyone is very friendly and the teachers are great and they are available to the students for extra help whenever you need it. I was very leery about the school when I first started but then after my first semester I realized that it was the best choice I could have made. When I got to the school my expectations were met and exceeded.

Everyone gets first-day jitters and the best way to get rid of them is to walk into the campus with an open mind. I was afraid of not knowing anyone and I was afraid that I made the wrong choice. Getting to know people in college is really not as hard as it seems, because everyone else is in the same boat and wants to meet new people too.

Ashley Randall

My name is Ashley Randall and I am from Watertown, NY. I’m a psychology major currently entering my sophomore year. I lived in Thompson Hall this year where I was the Secretary for my residence council. I am also a member of the newly re-established Psychology Club and have volunteered for various Brockport Student Government events on campus.

The best part about being a student at SUNY Brockport is that the closeness of the campus makes it feel much like a second home. You really feel like you know everyone around you.

My biggest fear coming in as a freshman last fall was something happening to my car. My dad always fixed my car and now he’d be three hours away! I overcame this when one of my friends told me she knows a place that would fix it really cheap for me. That made me feel better knowing I could tell him he doesn’t have to drive down here to fix it (even though he probably would anyway).

Patricia Rukeme Agbamu

My name is Patricia Rukeme Agbamu and I am a 25-year-old female nursing intent student. I am from Nigeria, which is one of many western countries in Africa. I have had the opportunity to live to London, which was where I gained my high school and college education. At present, I am in my sophomore year and will be a junior in fall 2008.

I am a member of the Library Search Committee, a Night Desk Attendant (NDA) in McLean Hall, a Sacristan in the Newman Campus Church and lastly, a member of the International Student Organization (ISO).

SUNY Brockport has felt like a wonderful place to be since I have been here and what I love most is the sense of belonging I feel. For me there is no place like home, but I must say that the students, faculty, and members of the community of Brockport are always there for you, academically, socially and emotionally, you will never be alone.

For me coming in as a new transfer student, I was more worried about been accepted and blending in. All that changed as soon as I arrived on campus because the students who lived in my hall took me in like a new member of the group, and that made me feel completely at ease all through that semester. I can assure you that as long as you open your heart and mind, you will leave here a changed and happy graduate.

Elianah Slotnick

Hello everyone! I’m a junior at the College at Brockport. I initially came here as a dance major, but switched to International Studies with a minor in Dance and Spanish. I transferred to Brockport in the spring of 2007 from University of Massachusetts at Amherst and Ulster County Community College.

My hometown is in New Paltz, NY which is in the beautiful scenic Hudson Valley. Brockport is about five hours away from my hometown! One of my initial fears coming to school at Brockport was whether I would be able to handle being so far away from home, but my experience here has been so positive that the distance does not bother me as much as I thought it would.

I had a few other fears coming in as a new student. I did not know if I was going to be challenged academically, enjoy my classes and teachers, or be able to make friends that I genuinely like and connect with. Towards the end of last semester and this semester I have met some any people through several on campus groups such as Sankofa, the African Dance and Drum ensemble, Foreign Language club, Amnesty International, Hillel, Campus Ambassadors and SOUL to name a few. Many professors have expressed thoughtful, caring considerations about my academic accomplishments and have encouraged me to pursue my goals. I have been academically challenged by professors who do care about the welfare of their students, and this is one thing I like the most about going to school here.

Amanda Sovern

My name is Amanda and I am a senior here at the College at Brockport. I am a History major with a Political Science minor and a concentration in Pre-Law. I have worked with the Alumni Relations and Development Staff for the past two years as a phonathon representative. I have also been involved in the Honors Club as well as in the Senior Gift Giving Program. I have absolutely loved my last three years at Brockport. I am very excited for all of you to come and begin to experience all of the wonderful things that Brockport has to offer.

My favorite thing about being a student at Brockport is the support that I get. Whether I need academic support from the staff or personal support from my friends, there is always someone here to help. The instructors are extremely supportive and will help you in any way that they can. They are also very understanding and truly go out of their way for you. On a personal level, the friends that I have made here have become like a second family to me. They are what I like to call “my Brockport family.” It is their support along with the overall support of the staff here that has truly made the last three years one of the greatest experiences of my life.

As an incoming freshman my biggest fear was how I was going to be able to balance the social and academic part of college. I knew that living in a suite with three other people was going to be a strain on my ability to stay focused and be productive. What I didn’t think about was that those other three people would also have work to do. It only took a couple weeks to get into a schedule. There is plenty of time to socialize and plenty of time to do work. The key to this was just to stay organized and to plan out time to do your work… and then actually do it! I also found that depending on the work I had to do the library was always one place I could go to when I was having problems concentrating.

Nira Tobochnik

Hi my name is Nira and I am going to be a senior here at the College at Brockport. I am from the Rochester area and I am majoring in Psychology. I am an active member of the Psychology Club and Hillel. This is my first time being an OSA and I am really excited about it. I can’t wait to meet you all!

One thing that I like about this school is that I never feel alone. There is always someone around to advise me and help me out when it comes to personal concerns or academic-related questions. My professors especially have made me really enjoy being a student here. They have all been enthusiastic about helping me.

When I first came here I was scared of being away from home. It was only a half hour drive but I have never lived anywhere else before. I overcame it by surrounding myself around my friends and activities to get my mind off it. I also called home and visited often until I felt comfortable enough to be here alone. I still miss home but I am confident in my ability to live somewhere on my own now.

Amanda Waggoner

My name is Amanda Waggoner and I am from Depew, NY. My major is still undecided. I am a member of the Freshman Council and also on the cheerleading team.

The students, faculty, and staff are the best part of being a student at the College at Brockport. Everyone on campus is friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand. I am not from Brockport, but after being here for a few days I already felt like part of the community. This helped a lot with any homesickness that I was feeling.

My biggest fear when coming to the College at Brockport as a first year student was if I would be able to handle the increase in the amount of work I would be getting in college classes. I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to succeed in passing all of my classes. I overcame this fear by learning how to manage my time. I kept in mind what my priorities were and set specific times throughout the week when I would study and other times to socialize.   

Brittany Wilbur

Hi, my name is Brittany and I will be a junior in the summer of 2008. I’m a Recreation and Leisure studies major. My activities on campus include being an RA in the freshman dorm McFarlane, volunteering for the Brockport Student Government, and non-freshman council. I have also been a tour guide since freshman year, so some of you may have seen me before.

My favorite part about being a student here at Brockport is the support that I get from everyone. I always know that there will be help when I need it. Everyone here is very friendly and has always made me feel welcome.

My biggest fear as a freshman was that I wouldn’t make any friends. I overcame this fear by getting involved in a lot of things on campus and was able to meet all types of people. I forced myself to get out and try new things. It worked great; I have some amazing friends now. I look forward to seeing you over the summer!