You did it . . . you were successful in your first year of college!  Now you are back, and are in such a different place.  You have made friends, you know the campus and you were successful in your courses!  Congratulations on all your successes!  If you are a sophomore transfer to Oswego, we are delighted you are here!

As a sophomore, it is time for you to think about where you are heading in the next few years, so that you can gain practical experience that will help you to meet your goals.  It is time to DEVELOP YOURSELF by getting involved, gaining practical experience and beginning to plan for your future.

Here is a checklist for you to consider in the DEVELOP phase of your college experience: 

1. Still unsure about your major?  It is time for you to work actively at declaring or confirming your academic major.  The COMPASS has many workshops/events and even classes designed to support students who are exploring and/or confirming their choice of majors.  Stop by 142 Campus Center today to learn more about our services and online resources or to meet one on one with a COMPASS advisor. Follow the link to resources for undeclareds.
   
   
2. Decided on your major?  Congratulations!  This is an important step in the educational planning process. . . but don't rest now!  Make it a priority to connect with the faculty and staff in your academic department, you can start by chatting with your academic advisor or a professor in the area.
   
   
3. Are you involved on campus?  The sophomore year is a great time for you to explore the many opportunities on campus.  You might want to start by checking out the clubs and organizations available.  Take the initiative, go to a meeting or event and get involved!  Involvement leads to experience which leads to leadership experience which leads to job/career opportunities!  Get started TODAY!
   
   
4. Do you contribute to the community?  A great way to get involved, or to give back to our community is to volunteer in the community, either through Community Service or Service Learning.  On our campus, we have so many opportunities to participate!
   Check out the Center for Community Service and Service Learning website!
   
   
5. How about an internship?  The sophomore year is a great time to get an internship, a credit bearing experience that will further DEVELOP your skills, and gain practical experience.  The best way to get started is to come to a COMPASS Internship Orientation Workshop, offered many times a semester, to get details on how to find an internship, how to earn academic credit, and how to get started!  Our students have the opportunity to do several internships during their college experience, some that are even paid!  Get started TODAY!  Check out Experience Based Education's website.
   
   
6. Are you thinking about a study abroad experience?  SUNY Oswego currently has 30 study abroad sites in 15 countries around the world.  We also offer international internships and teaching opportunities.  As you DEVELOP your total college experience, think about planning for a study abroad experience.  In your sophomore year, you should check out the International Education website or stop by their office for more information.  It can take up to a year to make all the arrangements necessary so get started NOW!

How can the COMPASS help me?
At the COMPASS, we will help you to develop an educational plan . . . A plan that consists of meeting your academic requirements as well.  Think about it as a map that will give you direction as you continue your journey here at Oswego.  Though the plan may change (and it often does!), the plan will help you to identify the experiences you need to meet your goals.

Congratulations!  You are on the way and are DEVELOPING YOURSELF and your future.
Next step: DEFINE yourself!

Resources for Sophomores

Sophomore FAQs