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Understanding Your Student’s
First Year of College
2014-15 Academic Calendar
Welcome to the SUNY Cortland Community
Every student comes to college with his or her own distinct set of talents, experiences and goals. There are some shared experiences among students,
but your student’s experience will be a unique journey. As they enter their first year of college, a world of opportunities opens up to them. Students
will face new experiences and discover more about themselves and their personal strengths. They will also face challenges that will help them develop
skills and tap into their potential.
As a parent, relative, mentor or friend your role also will change. Students might surprise you with their requests for advice, help or with their need
for independence. Through it all, your support is just as crucial as before, even though it may take on a new form. Because you are important to your
student’s success, we see you as a part of the SUNY Cortland community and welcome you along with your student.
This calendar is a guide to the issues of first-year students and the student support resources at SUNY Cortland. Use it to get a sense of what is
happening on campus and to communicate with your student. The calendar also provides facts about campus and important dates. A listing of
campus offices and a glossary of SUNY Cortland terms are provided at the end of the calendar.
In each month, you will find:
• The Student Experience, examining what students may be thinking about or experiencing
• Top Tips, suggestions for parents from the National Orientation Directors Association
• Parent to Parent, advice that other Cortland parents have shared
Take some time to read through the whole calendar before your student heads off for college in the fall. You might find topics or questions that you
could discuss with your student before the beginning of an exciting and eventful first semester. We know that your student has the ability to be
successful at SUNY Cortland and this calendar will help you understand and support your student in his or her first year of college.
Best wishes for the upcoming year!
Advisement and Transition
SUNY Cortland
cortland.edu/advisement
August 2014
Fall 2014 Opening Weekend
Friday, Aug. 22, 2014
Check-in for first-year and transfer students who already attended
a summer Orientation or Transfer Transition Seminar.
*Please note that some halls have a staggered check-in schedule;
look on the Residence Life and Housing Web page in August for
this schedule.
Sunday, Aug. 24, 2014
New Student Academic Convocation
What NOT to bring:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
pets (other than fish in bowls with no electric filters)
microwaves
Foreman grills or sandwich makers
candles or incense
extension cords
lamps with plastic shades (lava lamps and 5-light octopus lamps)
hot plates/hot pots
toasters/toaster oven
electric blankets
halogen lamps
individual air conditioning units
electric heaters/sun lamps
recliners
incandescent light bulbs
wireless/computer routers
bed risers
Need more information on Residence Hall policies?
Visit the Residence Life and Housing website at
cortland.edu/reslife
Notes :
August 2014
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Suggested Shopping
List
Here is a list of commonly used
items you might not think to
bring with you to college. Some
of these items may be purchased
at the College Store.
• desk lamp with a compact
flourescent light bulb
• hangers
• wastebasket
• surge protectors
• humidifier
• iron with automatic shutoff
• flashlight/batteries
• coffee pot with an automatic
shutoff
• drying rack
• laundry bags/baskets
• shower caddy
• shower shoes
• dish towels
• mattress pad
• weather-appropriate
outerwear
• cleaning supplies
• postage stamps
• TV cable cord
• manual can opener
• Micro-fridge (only one per
room; triples are permitted
two)
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
New Students
Move In
24
25
26
Classes Begin
27
28
29
Last day for
drop/add
Convocation
31
Top Tip
Stay positive and
relaxed!
30
Drop/Add occurs on these days to allow students to make schedule changes.
Students should go to their academic department with questions.
Besides physically moving all of your student’s things into his or her room, you have a very
important job to do on move-in day: sending a message of support, belief and love. Every
action and conversation on this day should convey support for your student and the belief
that he/she is capable and ready for college success. Stay positive and do what you can to
assure your student that everyone, including you, is going to be fine during this transition.
September 2014
The Student Experience
• Adjusting to their new home in the residence halls and
getting along with their roommate(s).
• Understanding Residence Life and Housing expectations and
learning about College-wide policies such as the Code of
Student Conduct.
• Learning about personal health and wellness: New sleep
patterns and learning the meal-plan system.
• Learning about instructor expectations; every instructor
provides a course syllabus that outlines expectations.
• Establishing a study routine for their classes: The minimum
recommendation is that students study three hours outside
of class for each hour they are in class. This adds up to more
than 40 hours of work outside of class.
• Making sure all possible credits from Advanced Placement
tests, college courses done previously, etc. are on the
student’s college transcript.
Notes :
September 2014
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Start Talking Now
Before the semester gets
going, have a conversation
with your student about the
things that are important
to you and the student,
such as finances, academic
expectations, decisionmaking, substance use,
communication, visits and
your changing roles. Don’t
forget to ask them what their
expectations are as well.
Anticipate that your student
may call home to let off
steam, share worries or
sort through situations out
loud. Use these moments as
opportunities to let them do
their own problem-solving;
listen, ask questions and
affirm your belief in their
decision making.
Monday
1
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
2
3
4
5
6
9
10
11
12
13
Labor Day
No classes in
session
7
8
Homecoming
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Top Tip
Don’t ask them
if they’re
homesick
The power of suggestion can be a powerful thing. The first few weeks of school are
action-packed; adjusting to new people and new situations will take up the majority of the
student’s time and concentration. Unless they are reminded of it, they will probably escape
the loneliness and homesickness. And even if they don’t tell you in the first few weeks,
they do miss you.
October 2014
The Student Experience
• Setting up a meeting with their academic advisor in
preparation for registration.
• Running a DegreeWorks audit to see degree progress and
help determine classes needed.
• Reviewing their mid-semester estimates via myRedDragon
and discussing any problem areas with faculty or their
academic advisor. The reality of how they are actually doing
in classes often motivates students to focus on study habits
and academic skills.
• Balancing their free time and joining clubs and organizations.
• Balancing new friends, friends from home and handling long
distance relationships.
• Managing money and their own finances. Students will often
receive many offers for credit cards that seem tempting.
Notes :
October 2014
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Delve a little deeper
Ask follow-up questions
when you communicate
instead of just leaving it at,
“I’m fine.” Many students
feel they need to handle it
all on their own and may
take a bit of time to share
what’s going on. While
you want to give them
space, sometimes a little
open mindedness and
curiosity can help foster
communication.
Monday
Tuesday
5
6
7
12
14
13
Columbus Day
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
8
9
10
11
15
16
17
18
22
23
24
25
30
31
Classes in session
19
20
21
Fall Break
begins 8 a.m.
26
27
Fall Break
28
Classes
resume at
8 a.m.
29
Family
Weekend
Top Tip
Ask questions
(but not too many)
First-year students may resist your curiosity about their life at college, but most still desire
the security of knowing that someone is still interested in them. Parental curiosity can be
interpreted as caring or interference depending upon the individual student. “I have a right to
know” tinged questions may make a student less inclined to talk with you. However, honest
inquiries and open discussions will do much to further the parent-student relationship.
November 2014
The Student Experience
• Learning the class registration process and deciding on classes
for next semester.
• Having enough on their meal plan to get through the rest of
the semester.
• Figuring out how to get home for Thanksgiving Break.
• Mounting academic pressure due to procrastination and the
difficulty of work.
• Feeling economic anxiety as funds from parents and summer
earnings begin to run out.
• Increasing depression and anxiety because of feelings that
one should have adjusted to the college environment by
now.
• Checking academic deadlines, including the deadline for
withdrawal from a course (leaves an X on transcript and does
not impact grade point average).
Notes :
November 2014
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Let them
problem solve
Help your student become
empowered by asking
questions, referring them
to campus resources,
and letting them find
solutions to problems
when appropriate. The
College website tells you
about a lot of offices, but
let your student call. They
still need your support, but
the experience of taking
the lead on their problem
solving helps students grow
tremendously. Let your
student know that you
trust them to make good
choices and decisions.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
Family
Weekend
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
10
11
12
13
14
15
Family
Weekend
9
Veteran’s Day
Classes in session
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
Thanksgiving
Break Begins
at 8 a.m.
27
28
Thanksgiving
Day
29
Res. halls
re-open at 2
30
Top Tip
Write
(even if they don’t
write back)
Residence Halls
close at 4 p.m.
(exceptions made for
late classes)
Thanksgiving Break
Although new college students are typically eager to experience their away-from-home
independence, most are still anxious for family ties. News from home is very important. Email and
online messaging are good ways to keep in touch, but at the same time, electronic methods have
made it rare for students to receive traditional mail. Students are thrilled to find a postcard or
letter from you in their residence hall mailbox.
December 2014
The Student Experience
• Developing strategies for studying for final exams and
finishing papers.
• Learning strategies for handling personal stress and that of
roommates and friends.
• Planning ahead because the residence halls are locked over
break and students need to think about what to take home
with them for break.
• Making arrangements for getting home for semester break.
Students are asked to leave within 24 hours of completing
their last exam.
• Growing excitement about seeing - and spending a lot of
time with - friends and family from home.
Notes :
December 2014
Parent to Parent
Coming home for the
first time
Prepare for their first
extended visit home
and remember that they
have been experiencing
life on their own for the
past several months. Be
sure to discuss what your
expectations are now with
the realization that they
have been living in a very
different environment.
They might spend a lot of
time with their friends from
home and a lot of time
sleeping.
Remember that they still
want their place at home
- so give a head’s up on
any significant changes. It’s
tough for some students
to come home and find
that their room is now
the sewing room or home
theatre.
Sunday
Monday
1
Tuesday
2
Wednesday Thursday
3
4
Classes
Resume
at 8 a.m.
7
Study Day
8
Final Exams
begin
Friday
5
Classes End
9
10
11
12
Saturday
6
Study Day
13
Residence Halls
close at 5 p.m.
(exceptions made for
late exams)
14
15
16
Final Exams
17
21
22
23
24
28
29
30
31
Top Tip
Expect Change
(but not too much)
18
19
20
25
26
27
Change is natural, inevitable, and it can be inspiring and beautiful. College and the experiences
associated with it can affect social, vocational and personal behavior and choices. Remember
that your son or daughter will be basically the same person that you sent away to school, aside
from interest and behavioral changes. Don’t expect too much, too soon. Maturation is not an
instantaneous or overnight process, and you might well discover your student returning home
with some of the habits and hang-ups that you thought he/she had grown out of.
January 2015
The Student Experience
• Moving back in with their roommate or having a new one.
• Feeling the excitement of reconnecting with college friends.
• Getting motivated to do academics after a long semester
break.
• Starting to look for new ways to become involved on
campus now that they are more comfortable with the
campus and college-level academics.
Notes :
January 2015
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Celebrating the first
semester
Celebrate the
accomplishment of going
to college and completing
their first semester and
help your student stay
focused on the bigger goals
when they get frustrated.
The transition to college
can be very challenging
academically, personally
and socially. Recognize that
the transition itself is an
important milestone. At
the same time, help your
student reflect on their
performance and goals - is
this what they wanted to
see on their grade report
and how can they set new
goals and strategies?
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
1
Friday
Saturday
2
3
Happy New
Year!
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
Winter
Session Begins
11
12
Winter
Session Ends
18
19
25
Residence
Halls open
10 a.m.
26
20
21
22
23
24
Residence
Halls open
10 a.m.
27
28
29
30
31
Classes
Begin
8 a.m.
Last Day for
Drop/Add
Drop/Add
Often when troubles become too much for a first-year student to handle the only place to
turn, write or dial, is home. During trying times the urge to communicate with family is felt
strongly. You are less likely to hear about the triumphs. In times of crisis your student may
Don’t worry (too
much) about phone unload trouble or tears and after the catharsis return to their routine, while you inherit the
worry. Be patient with this type of phone call. You are providing a real service just listening.
calls or letters
Top Tip
February 2015
The Student Experience
• Establishing goals for the semester.
• Beginning to think about the room selection process
operated by Residence Life and Housing; planning for the
deposit and talking about where they want to live next year
and with whom.
• Planning for Spring Break in March.
• Pledging a fraternity/sorority. According to college policy,
students are not permitted to affiliate with a banned
organization and students should check the status of a
fraternity/sorority before becoming involved.
• Experiencing cabin fever due to the weather.
Notes :
February 2015
Parent to Parent
Sunday
The sibling
connection
Very often, students joke
about wanting to get away
from siblings. You’ll find
there is less competition
for phone time, computer
time, even shower time.
However, students often
find themselves missing
the camaraderie with their
siblings and may develop a
whole new appreciation for
those relationships.
It is also challenging for the
sibling who is still at home.
Remember that he or she
is going through a change
as well. Help students stay
connected with their siblings
by encouraging emails, calls,
letters and time together
when your student is home.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Siblings Weekend
15
16
President’s
Day
17
18
19
20
21
24
25
26
27
28
Classes in Session
22
23
Top Tip
Visit
(but not too often)
Visits, especially when accompanied by shopping sprees and/or dinners out, are another part
of first-year events that new students appreciate greatly, even when a student pretends not
to care. These visits give the student a chance to introduce some of the important people
in both of his/her worlds to each other. Spur-of-the-moment surprises are usually not
appreciated and may interrupt academic or social plans.
March 2015
The Student Experience
• Studying for midterms and checking mid-semester estimates.
• Expecting more of themselves in the second semester as
academic pressures increase.
• Deciding on classes to take in the fall semester.
• Deciding on a major or thinking about changing the major
they are in.
• Beginning to think about plans for a summer job or exploring
internships.
• Taking a trip with new friends or spending a week at home
for Spring Break.
Notes :
March 2015
Parent to Parent
Help is always
available
Encourage your student to
use the resources available
to them on campus. There
is always help available
and they need to find it
sometimes. It may be tough
- they’re still your child. It’s
an adjustment for us as well
as them, but have faith in
the work you did raising
them.
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Spring Break
Begins
Residence Halls
close at 6 p.m.
(exceptions made for
late classes)
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
26
27
28
Spring Break
23
22
Residence
Classes
Resume at
Halls re-open
8 a.m.
at 2 p.m.
24
29
31
30
25
The first year of college can be full of indecision, disappointment and, most of all, mistakes. It is
also full of discovery, inspiration, good times and people - but, in retrospect, students remember
Top Tip
both the good and the bad. Being unhappy, afraid, confused, disliking people and making
Avoiding “These are
mistakes are all part of this new reality and growing up. Parents who accept and understand the
the best years of their
highs and lows of their student’s reality are providing support and encouragement where it is
lives” cliché
needed most.
April 2015
The Student Experience
• Increasing academic pressures, as things may have been put
off until after Spring Break.
• Feeling spring fever as the warm weather sets in.
• Meeting with their academic advisor to plan their fall
schedule.
• Increasing preparation for papers and exams.
• Feeling social pressures, as there are many banquets, picnics,
and campus events.
Notes :
April 2015
Parent to Parent
Letting the student
take the lead
Trust your student. Finding
oneself is a difficult enough
process without feeling
that people whose opinion
you respect the most are
second-guessing your own
judgment.
Of course you know your
student and will be a
critical source of feedback
to them. Try and hold your
insights back until your
student can talk through
things. They might reach
the same conclusion
without your help.
Consider sharing some
of your own experiences
when you were your
student’s age - it might
help them see that you do
understand a lot of what
they are experiencing.
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Honors
Convocation
19
20
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
30
Top Tip
Let the student
problem solve
24
25
When you hear about a problem, you might want to jump in and solve it for your student. They
might be emotional about the issue and are looking to vent more than asking you to take care
of the issue. You may not be getting all sides of the story at this point. Be sure to ask questions.
Listen to your student and mentor them on how to problem solve and communicate with faculty
and professionals. They are learning new skills and taking on new challenges, but they’ll still need
you to listen.
May 2015
The Student Experience
• Preparing for final exams.
• Packing up the belongings from their room and learning
building closing procedures.
• Preparing for adjustment to living at home again.
• Reconnecting with friends from home and staying in touch
with new friends from SUNY Cortland.
• Taking summer course work or starting a summer job.
Notes :
May 2015
Parent to Parent
Summer begins!
The end of the academic
year can be looked at from
a different perspective
once your student has
returned home. While
there might be excitement
about finally finishing the
year, there is also some
time to acknowledge
what had transpired over
the past nine months.
Use this time to celebrate
successes and reflect on
challenges. Time and a
different outlook can assist
in developing new plans for
success.
Sunday
3
Monday
4
Tuesday
5
Wednesday Thursday
6
7
Friday
1
2
8
9
Classes End
10
11
Study Day
12
13
14
15
Res. Halls close
at 5 p.m.
Final Exams
Begin
Saturday
Study Day
16
Undergraduate
Commencement
Graduate
Commencement
17
18
19
Final Exams
20
24
25
26
27
21
22
23
28
29
30
Memorial Day
31
Summer jobs are often taken to earn some cash, but talk to your student about what
experiences they will gain from certain jobs. Summer work and volunteering can help students
Top Tip
think about their major and career choices. They should look for experiences that challenge
Making the most of
them and help build skills important to their field of choice. Students can also learn a great
summer
deal by shadowing or visiting professionals in their field. Any way you look at it, experience is a
great teacher and can help students establish and reach their goals.
June 2015
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Comforts of Home
Much like December, you
and your student may have
to get used to living in the
same house again. They’ve
been living on their own
for a year now, and you
may need to rethink some
of the ways you interacted
or some of the house rules.
Discuss your expectations
of each other ahead of
time so you can enjoy the
summer.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Top Tip
Show the love
Don’t forget to show your student how much you love them. Tensions may be high as he/she gets
tired of living at home and as you get tired of having them home. Remember the summer will soon
be over, and for many students, the summer after their first year is the last time they live at home
for a while. Work to build a strong adult-to-adult relationship that will carry on long after they
move out.
July 2015
Parent to Parent
Sunday
Maintaining
Connections
As the summer progresses,
your student may express
some loneliness for
friends made at college
or the campus as the
“home” away from home.
Discuss the value of your
student having developed
a positive sense of
campus life and plans for
involvement next year.
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Top Tip
Set Goals
As your student begins planning for the next academic year encourage them to set goals for
themselves. Whether it is academic, career, social or financial, goals can assist your student in
making the most of their college experience and reaching their fullest potential.
Academic Support
Academic Support and Achievement Program (ASAP) helps students
of all ability and achievement levels learn how they learn best by
providing assistance in writing, reading, study skills and math. Students
can participate in individual, small group, workshop, classroom and
Supplemental Instruction groups attached to demanding courses.
Academic Peer Mentors (APM) are students who are part of the
Residence Life and Housing staff and assist students with academic
questions and career-related issues. APMs present programs on a wide
variety of topics, such as drop/add, time management, test-taking skills,
registration, study skills and career-related skills.
Student Disability Services provides services for students that include:
personal counseling, educational outreach, assessment and evaluation of
documentation related to individual disabilities and the development of
appropriate service plans.
Advisement and Transition assists all students with academic planning,
course selection, academic processes and choosing a major. The office
also provides support as students make the transition to Cortland.
COR 101: The Cortland Experience is a one-credit course designed
specifically for first-year students at SUNY Cortland with the goal
of facilitating the intellectual and social integration of first-time
college students into our academic community. The course provides
important information on campus resources, policies and activities
while challenging students to think critically about themselves and their
academic life.
The Registrar’s Office is committed to offering high-quality, accurate and
confidential services to students, faculty, alumni and outside agencies.
The office focuses on maintaining the integrity of all academic records,
the verification of enrollment status of our students, and the execution
of operational procedures as prescribed by established College policy
and FERPA guidelines. Students often use this office to process academic
paperwork, request transcripts and get help with academic policies and
procedures such as registration.
Associate Deans of each school assist students with an array of
academic issues including: withdrawing from a class or college, leaves of
absence and academic probation.
The Library, located at the heart of the campus, is convenient to the
residence halls and academic buildings. It is open seven days a week
when classes are in session with late night hours, providing extended
periods for study and computer use. Library staff work with students
and faculty to promote information and computer literacy and to
develop research skills. The library uses both traditional materials and
new technologies to implement its programs and services and to access
and deliver information.
International Programs Office provides help to students wishing to
study abroad during a semester or over a Winter or Summer Session.
This office can help students identify opportunities around the world.
It is helpful if students explore these options early to work them into
their degree plan. The office also provides support to our international
students studying at SUNY Cortland.
Personal and Social Support
The Counseling Center assists students with decision-making and
adjustment to college life as well as provides developmental workshops
and programs to anticipate and meet students’ needs.
Career Services serves students throughout their academic career
by assisting with the planning of realistic career goals and by teaching
effective skills for a career choice, successful graduate and/or
continuing education and employment search. Career Services includes
the Career Resource Library, credential files, internship programs,
Student Employment Services and Internship and Volunteer Office.
Living on Campus and Getting Involved
Residence Life and Housing Office is responsible for the administration
and supervision of the residence halls and presenting informational and
educational programs on all aspects of college life.
Student Employment Services assists students in finding on-campus
and off-campus employment opportunities.
Wellness and Safety
Residence Hall Directors (RHD) are full-time, live-in, professional
staff members. Problems with residential living, including roommate
conflicts, facilities issues and other concerns may be referred to a
student’s RHD.
Resident Assistants (RA) are peers that live on the floors of the halls
and have the most frequent contact with the residents. They help
develop community on the floor through activities and educational
programming. They refer residents to on-campus services and can lend
a sympathetic ear.
Campus Activities and Corey Union is home to our Student Activities
Board and hosts many campus events. Campus Activities supports
student organizations; brings concerts, lecturers, and events to
campus; and works to increase the diversity of programs and student
involvement on campus. Events are listed on the campus activities
website: cortland.edu/coreyunion.
Multicultural Life and Diversity Office strives to culturally enrich
SUNY Cortland by providing co-curricular programs and services for
the entire campus that explore different cultures and the detrimental
effects of racism and discrimination. The office also supports ALANA
(African American, Latino, Asian and Native American) students as they
pursue their academic, career, personal and social goals.
Student Government Association (SGA) represents the concerns and
needs of all students. SGA oversees the use of the student activity fee,
is a voice for the students in campus affairs, supports a wide variety
of student organizations and provides services to all students. The
downstate bus services is just one example of SGA’s work.
Performing Arts includes these musical groups: Choral Union, College
Singers, Vocal Chamber Ensemble, College-Community Orchestra and
the Wind Ensemble.
Resources
Student Health Service provides direct services, including diagnosis
and treatment of common illnesses such as colds, sore throats, G.I.
complaints, simple orthopedic problems and urinary symptoms. Staff
also assist in the care of more chronic medical problems.
Health Promotion Office emphasizes awareness of current health
issues, prevention of diseases and illnesses, and promotion of health
and wellness.
Student Conduct Office is responsible for developing and
administering the Code of Student Conduct that supports the
College’s values, goals and priorities. The program strives to create
an environment that fosters personal integrity and promotes justice,
equality and diversity on campus. Students have a responsibility to
become familiar with the Code of Student Conduct and understand
their rights and responsibilities on campus.
University Police Department embraces the following principles:
1) the provision of quality law enforcement services to the campus;
2) the maintenance of high standards for personal and professional
ethics and protection of constitutional rights;
3) the recognition that law enforcement personnel are part of the
educational process;
4) the importance of consultation, teamwork and open discussion with
campus constituencies on law enforcement and related safety matters;
and 5) the appreciation of diversity.
University police officers help students integrate into the campus
and larger Cortland community by sharing expectations for being a
community member. The officers provide educational programming on
a range of personal safety issues.
Support Services
Financial Aid Office provides information and support to students, helping
them negotiate federal and state financial aid processes. The office also
connects students with scholarship opportunities and Work-Study. Every
student has an assigned financial aid advisor. Financial aid is different from
student accounts, the office that handles billing and payments.
• View a list of off-campus restaurants and partners that accept
Connections
• Sign up for Microfridge or safe rental
• Sign up for Personal Property Insurance
• Sign up for textbook prepack service
• Order clothing and gifts from the College Store
Campus Technology Services supports, promotes and advances the use
of computing and emerging technologies by faculty, staff and students.
Campus Technology Services is a key access point for faculty, staff
and students who wish to receive assistance in the use of computers
for instruction, communications, research, development and office
technologies.
Student Accounts Office provides collection and processing services for
all College revenue, including student tuition and mandatory fees, room
and board and other income in compliance with all applicable laws and
procedures.
Auxiliary Services Corporation (ASC) is a campus-based, not-for-profit
organization that provides dining services, vending, College stores, student
ID cards and other essential services to our campus community. ASC
is governed by a board of directors made up of students, faculty and
administrators. It employs more than 300 regular staff and students, and is
the largest employer of students on and off campus.
Even though you’re far away from SUNY Cortland, you can
do a lot to assist your student right from home.
Visit the ASC website at www.cortlandasc.com
• Find contact information if you need to contact ASC
• Find information on dining plans, menus, College Store, jobs and more
• Add funds to the Connections debit account for the College Store,
vending, copy service or dining
• Add funds to any meal plan
• Order a birthday cake and other goodies through Hugs from Home
ASC Office..................................................................................................607-753-4627
College Store.............................................................................................607-753-4621
Family Information
For additional resources and current information about SUNY Cortland,
visit the Parent and Family website at cortland.edu/family.
A Message from SUNY Cortland’s Director
of The Cortland Fund
Welcome to SUNY Cortland. We are excited that your son or daughter
has chosen to continue their education at SUNY Cortland. We believe
SUNY Cortland offers one of the finest educational programs in the
country. We hope that you will consider getting actively involved in
the life of the College right along with your son or daughter. We offer
a regular schedule of College events around the state of New York and
look forward to meeting you and helping you to make the most of
your involvement with the College. Please let us know if we can be of
assistance. Again, welcome to SUNY Cortland.
SUNY Cortland Chapter Programs
The Alumni Affairs Office at SUNY Cortland puts together a monthly
schedule of regional events for alumni, parents and friends of SUNY
Cortland. If you would like to be added to our mailing list and receive
notices of College events in your area, or if you are interested in
volunteering, please send your name, address, telephone number and
email address to: Alumni Affairs Office, SUNY Cortland, P.O. Box 2000,
Cortland, NY 13045, or call 607-753-2516 and simply let us know you
would like to be added to our mailing list for chapter events.
Weekend Escape Bus
Best Wishes,
Jennifer Janes, Director of The Cortland Fund
jennifer.janes@cortland.edu, 607-753-5578
The SUNY Cortland Parents Fund
Many Parents ask the College, “How can we support the activities and
educational mission of SUNY Cortland?” One important answer is by
making a financial contribution to The Parents Fund. The Parents Fund
is a great way to support the College’s athletic programs, the art gallery,
undergraduate research opportunities, the Campus Artist and Lecture
Series, acquisitions for the College Library, technology for our classrooms
and labs and a host of other activities related to the core educational
mission of the College. Private support from parents each year provides
substantial enhancements to the world-class educational experience that
is available to all SUNY Cortland students.
Resources
The Student Government Association has a contract with a bus
company every year to provide students with transportation downstate
on the weekends. Destinations are NJ, NYC, Queens and many stops
for Long Island. Tickets** may be purchased in the SGA office during
business hours from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Cash, check and all credit cards
except American Express are accepted. For more information, please
stop in the SGA Office, 217 Corey Union.
**Prices subject to change
Visit Your Student
Cortland offers a variety of restaurants and overnight accommodations.
The website below features a partial listing.
www2.cortland.edu/admissions/restaurants-and-lodging.dot
Glossary of Terms
Academic Advisor – Every student is assigned to a faculty advisor who is available to
answer academic questions and offer guidance about the academic program. Advisors
are assigned at the beginning of each semester by the department of the student’s
major.
Alpha Sigma Lambda – Academic honor society for non-traditional students.
Class Year – Level determined by the semester hours earned: 0-25.5 = Freshman; 26-56
= Sophomore; 56.5-89.5 = Junior; and 90 or more = Senior.
College Catalog – An online catalog that includes requirements for majors, minors, and
concentrations, academic policy and procedures, and course descriptions.
Course Reference Number (CRN) – A unique number used to identify a specific course
and section in the Course Schedule.
Credit hour – The basic unit of credit in college courses.
Dean’s List – A uniform 3.3 average and at least 12 credit hours are required to qualify
for the Dean’s List. Eligibility is every semester.
DegreeWorks audit – multi-use academic tool used for advisement and to track
academic progress through graduation.
Drop/Add – The first five days of each semester during which students may drop and/
or add courses to modify their schedules.
Elective – A course taken that is not a requirement toward the degree program for
which a student is enrolled. However, credit is received for the course and the credit
hours are applied toward the total number of credit hours needed for graduation.
FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid is required each year that a student
requests financial assistance. This form must be completed to be eligible for aid.
Incomplete – A designation indicating that a student has not completed all work
for a course as determined by the instructor. Transcript will reflect a grade of INC.
Undergraduate students must complete the course within one semester or the grade
will change to failure (E).
Lab – A small, hands-on section of a course that is required with a lecture section.
Lecture – Usually a large class where the primary method of instruction is lecturing.
Liberal Arts and Sciences Requirement (LASR) – Courses that may be used in
fulfilling liberal arts requirements for the B.A. or B.S. degree. These courses are
identified before the credit hour notation in the course description section of the
College catalog.
Leave of Absence (LOA) – LOAs can be requested for a specific period of time, not to
exceed one year, if the student is in good standing.
Major – An approved program of study leading to a bachelor of arts or bachelor of
science degree. Majors require from 30 to 36 hours of courses in the discipline, or
related.
Minor – An approved program of study in a discipline other than the major. A minor
does not lead to a degree.
Phi Eta Sigma – Academic honor society for freshmen.
Prerequisite – A course that is required as a prior condition for taking another
course. Most courses beyond the introductory level require a degree of knowledge or
preparation described by the prerequisites for the course.
President’s List – College-wide honor for students receiving an A- or better in each
course for a given semester.
Probation, Academic – Based on academic grade point average, students may be
placed on academic probation by the associate dean. Failure to improve may lead to
academic suspension.
Full-Time Status – Students must be enrolled in 12 credit hours in a semester to be
considered full time. This may impact financial aid and other areas.
Retake – Students may retake a course at SUNY Cortland to receive a new grade.
Retakes cannot be taken at other institutions. The new grade will appear on the
student’s transcript whether it is better or worse than the initial grade. Student should
check with financial aid before retaking.
General Education (GE) – Courses required for graduation, which provide students with
an intellectual and cultural basis for their development as informed individuals.
Tau Sigma – Academic honor society for transfer students.
Grade Point Average (GPA) – Calculated by the amount of credit hours taken and the
grade earned in each class. See cortland.edu/advisement for more information.
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) – Students must apply annually to the New York
State Higher Education Services Corporation.
Hold – A “hold” on a student’s record indicates there is an outstanding obligation
(fees, signature, etc.). Holds must be taken care of before students will be permitted to
register.
Withdrawal from a Course – Officially discontinuing enrollment in a course after the
drop/add period and before the withdrawal deadline.
Withdrawal from College – Officially leaving the institution; processed through the
associate dean.
Support Directory
ACADEMIC ISSUES
Academic Support and Achievement Program (ASAP)
Van Hoesen, Room B-205 .......................................................................................................... 753-4309
Advisement and Transition
Memorial Library, Room A-111 ....................................................................................................753-4726
Arts and Sciences, School of (Associate Dean’s Office)
Old Main, Room 125 .......................................................................................................................753-4314
Career Services
Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-5 ........................................................................................................753-4715
Education, School of (Associate Dean’s Office)
Education Building, Room 1239 ..................................................................................................753-5431
Honors Program
Old Main, Room B-13 ....................................................................................................................753-4827
International Programs Office
Old Main, Room 219 ..................................................................................................................... 753-2209
Library
Memorial Library ........................................................................................................................... 753-2590
Professional Studies, School of (Associate Dean’s Office)
Professional Studies Building, Room 1175 .............................................................................753-2702
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Miller Building, Room 408 ..........................................................................................................753-2207
Registrar’s Office
Miller Building, Room 223 ...........................................................................................................753-4702
PERSONAL AND SOCIAL ISSUES
Counseling Center
Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-44 ....................................................................................................753-4728
Emergency Squad
Van Hoesen Hall, Room A-23 ............................................................................ (emergency) 753-4111
Student Conduct Office
Corey Union, Room B-409 .........................................................................................................753-4725
Student Health Service
Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-26 ..................................................................................................... 753-4811
Vice President for Student Affairs
Corey Union, Room 407-A ..........................................................................................................753-4721
University Police Department
Van Hoesen Hall, Room C-17 ............................................................................. (emergency) 753-2111
.........................................................................................................................(non emergency) 753-2112
Resources
LIVING ON CAMPUS AND GETTING INVOLVED
Alumni Affairs Office
Brockway Hall, Room 208 ............................................................................................................753-2516
Campus Activities and Corey Union
Corey Union, Room 406 ..............................................................................................................753-2322
Internships and Volunteerism (Career Services Office)
Van Hoesen Hall, B-5......................................................................................................................753-4715
Multicultural Life and Diversity Office
Corey Union, Room A-407 .........................................................................................................753-2336
Gender and Intercultural Studies, Center for
Old Main, Room 122 ......................................................................................................................753-5784
Residence Life and Housing Office
Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-33 .....................................................................................................753-4724
Student Government Association (SGA)
Corey Union, Room 217 ............................................................................................................... 753-4816
SERVICES
Auxiliary Services Corporation (ASC)
Neubig Hall .......................................................................................................................................753-2430
Child Care Center
Education Building, Room 1000 ................................................................................................753-5955
Educational Opportunity Program (EOP)
Cornish Hall, Room D-132...........................................................................................................753-4808
Financial Aid Office
Miller Building, Room 205 ............................................................................................................753-4717
Information Desk
Corey Union ................................................................................................................................753-2700-0
The Help Center (technology/computer assistance)
Memorial Library, First Floor ..................................................................................................... 753-2500
President’s Office
Miller Building, Room 408 .......................................................................................................... 753-2201
Student Accounts Office
Miller Building , Room 323 ...........................................................................................................753-2313
Student Employment Services
Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-4.......................................................................................................753-2223
University Police Parking Department
Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-38 .....................................................................................................753-4123
For more information, see SUNY Cortland website cortland.edu
2014-15 Academic Calendar
Spring Semester 2015
Fall Semester 2014
Third-Quarter Student Teaching Begins........................................................................Tuesday, Jan. 20
President’s Opening Address and Faculty Meetings...........................................Thursday, Aug. 21
President’s State of the College Address and Faculty Meetings.......................Thursday, Jan. 22
New Student Orientation and Registration.................................................................Friday, Aug. 22
New Student Orientation and Registration.....................................................................Friday, Jan. 23
Academic Convocation .....................................................................................................Sunday, Aug. 24
All Classes Begin......................................................................................................................Monday, Jan. 26
All Classes Begin..................................................................................................................Monday, Aug. 25
Third-Quarter Classes End......................................................................................................Friday, Mar. 13
Labor Day (No classes in session)..................................................................................Monday, Sept. 1
Third-Quarter Student Teaching Ends...............................................................................Friday, Mar. 13
First-Quarter Student Teaching Begins.......................................................................Tuesday, Sept. 2
Fourth-Quarter Student Teaching Begins...................................................................Monday, Mar. 16
* Rosh Hashanah...............................................................................................................Thursday, Sept. 25
Spring Break ............................................................................Monday, Mar. 16 through Friday, Mar. 20
* Yom Kippur..........................................................................................................................Saturday, Oct. 4
Classes Resume and Fourth-Quarter Begins — 8 a.m...........................................Monday, Mar. 23
First-Quarter Classes end......................................................................................................Friday, Oct. 10
* Good Friday.................................................................................................................................Friday, Apr. 3
Second Quarter begins.....................................................................................................Monday, Oct. 13
* Passover...................................................................................................................................Saturday, Apr. 4
October Open House ..................................................................................................... Monday, Oct. 13
Easter...............................................................................................................................................Sunday, Apr. 5
Fall Break begins — 8 a.m. ..................................................Monday, Oct. 20 and Tuesday, Oct. 21
Spring Open House ..............................................................................................................Saturday, Apr. 11
Classes resume 8 a.m. ................................................................................................Wednesday, Oct. 22
Honors Convocation............................................................................................................Saturday, Apr. 18
First-Quarter Student Teaching Ends............................................................................. Friday, Oct. 24
**Last Day for In-Class Examinations....................................................................................Friday, May 1
Second-Quarter Student Teaching Begins.............................................................. Monday, Oct. 27
All Classes End...............................................................................................................................Friday, May 8
November Open House ...................................................................................................Tuesday, Nov. 11
Study Days..............................................................................................Saturday and Sunday, May 9 & 10
** Last day for In-Class Examinations.........................................................................Tuesday, Nov. 25
Final Examination Period.......................................................Monday, May 11 through Friday, May 15
Thanksgiving Break Begins — 8 a.m.....................................................................Wednesday, Nov. 26
Fourth-Quarter Student Teaching Ends................................................................Wednesday, May 13
Classes Resume — 8 a.m....................................................................................................Monday, Dec. 1
Graduate Commencement....................................................................................................Friday, May 15
All Classes End.............................................................................................................................Friday, Dec. 5
Undergraduate Commencement...................................................................................Saturday, May 16
Study Days.............................................................................................Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 & 7
Final Examination Period.....................................................Monday, Dec. 8 through Friday, Dec. 12
Second-Quarter Student Teaching Ends...................................................................Tuesday, Dec. 23
Winter Session 2015
All Classes Begin.......................................................................................................................Monday, Jan. 5
All Classes End..............................................................................................................................Friday, Jan. 16
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday..........................................................................................Monday, Jan. 19
* No examinations or quizzes may be given during the period designated for
observance of religious holidays. Observance of Jewish holidays will begin at 4 p.m. the
day before the holiday and end at 7 p.m. the day of the holiday. Observance of Good
Friday will begin at noon and end at 3 p.m.
** No examinations or quizzes may be given the five class days preceding the final
exam period without the approval of the dean.