Colleen B.

Year: Senior
Major: Psychology
Hometown: West Seneca, NY
 
What activities are you involved with at Oswego?
There are so many possibilities for student involvement on campus. One year I was the Welcoming Crew Coordinator for my residence hall. I was able to be in a leadership role, organizing a group of my peers to prepare our resident hall for the fall opening and welcoming students back to campus. I've been a Senator-At-Large for the Student Association, giving me the opportunity to affect the campus by helping clubs and organizations to put on events and trips for the campus community. I held the position of President for Riggs Hall Council and learned how to run meetings and organize events for my peers to enjoy. Currently, I am the Vice President of Team Mini, one of the clubs on campus, and learning a lot about robotics and team structures.
 
Why did you choose Oswego?
When college searching in high school, I did a lot of narrowing down at the very beginning. I didn't want to go anywhere too big nor too small. I wanted to be close enough to home to go back if there was a problem but far enough away to be an independent adult. I also made the decision early on that I would go to a State University because of the amazing education I could receive at price that I felt comfortable with. SUNY Oswego fit all of my needs and when I came to visit, it felt right. Coming to Oswego is a choice that I am so happy I made. There is always something to do here, from seeing a hockey game to throwing a Frisbee down along Lake Ontario. You have to make the choice that feels right for you and I can't imagine myself at any other institution.
 
What is the best thing about your major?
I find psychology fascinating! One of my professors defined psychology as "why we do the things we do". Who wouldn't want to know that? Every professor I've had has their own specialized interests within the field of psychology from researching evolution to adolescent behaviors. It opens you up to so many possibilities being able to see people who are so passionate and learning from them! I'd have to say that the professors are the best part about my major; they really love what they do.
 
Generally speaking, what impact has the Oswego faculty had on you?
The faculty members want you to do the best you possibly can and are more than willing to do whatever they can to help you reach that goal, even if it means more work for them. They set up office hours for you to ask questions, review sessions before tests, and many even post lecture notes online. They are so passionate about what they teach that they want as much opportunity to interact with students about the subjects as possible.
 
Who's your favorite professor and why?
I have had so many amazing professors in my years at SUNY Oswego but I would have to say that my favorite was Vic Licatese. I took a 3 hour long night class with him and he has such a fun and exciting way of teaching the material that it felt like no time at all. The class was Adolescent Psychology and his knowledge in the field was enhanced because he works with kids at one of the local schools. Because of his class, I have decided to pursue a career working with adolescents in schools.
 
Describe the campus atmosphere and how it has enhanced your ability to learn.
I spent a lot of time in the study room in my residence hall. It's quiet and there are no distractions, so it's really easy to focus on my work and get things done. Now, I live in the Village Townhouses so I have my own bedroom to get work done or I can use the 24 Hour Room in the library because it is always open.
 
What's the best thing about SUNY Oswego?
This campus is amazing! Anyone who comes to visit can see how beautiful the landscape is but only after you live here do you realize that the community is the best part. Your residence hall becomes 'home' and your neighbors are your best friends and your family.
 
Comment on how your Oswego experience has helped prepare you for a career.
Throughout my Oswego experience I've learned skills that I know have helped me prepare for a career like leadership, responsibility, organization, and teamwork. The involvement and leadership positions I have had through SUNY Oswego have helped me to develop skills I know I can use in the real world.