Hi from Advice and Beyond! We would like to welcome all of our new students to Stony Brook by giving some helpful information about how to make your mark. Coming to a new school can be overwhelming, so here are some helpful tips!
Q: What should I do if I didn’t declare a major yet?
A: First and foremost, there’s no rush! It is completely okay if you haven’t decided what you want to study yet. From being surrounded by fellow Stony Brook peers to career fairs, incoming students feel pressured to declare a major within their first two years. Once getting over first-day jitters, it is important to take advantage of the Stony Brook Curriculums (SBC), a specific set of classes that every student has to take. Take the time to find SBCs you’d be interested in, and explore the majors that your favorite SBC is associated with. College can be worthwhile, you just need to have faith in the process.
Q: How do I get more involved on campus?
A: There are plenty of opportunities to be an active member of the Stony Brook community. It really comes down to having a “can-do” attitude about finding a space that fits you. So get ready to head over to the involvement fair these next two upcoming Wednesdays during campus lifetime (1-2:20 p.m.). While bustling your way through, be sure to get to know your student body by taking a look at the material they have laid out for you and asking a lot of questions.
Q: Where can I turn to for guidance?
A: Adjusting to a new school can be quite challenging, but it’s crucial to know that you are not alone. Asides from getting support from your close circle of friends and family, get the chance to find safe outlets on campus. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides free counseling to students who come in during walk-in hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CAPS counselors are available after hours if you want to vocalize your thoughts and are in need of support. You can also find comfortable spaces for dialogue down the hall with your RA, at a club meeting or even in a room with students/faculty in your major.
