Achievements Archives - Page 8 of 11

Noteworthy Keynote Address by Dr. Ray Raymond

May 17, 2019 by Roycroft Michaela

Dr. Ray Raymond has been a well-known professor at SUNY Ulster since 2005. He teaches government, politics, international relations, and American history. In addition, he is an adjunct professor of comparative politics and international relations at the US Military Academy. He is known for riveting lectures complete with an eloquent English air about them.

Teaching students at SUNY Ulster is one of many commitments Dr. Raymond is regularly engaged in. He is also a regular visiting lecturer at the US Air Force Academy and Fellow of the Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy. He is also the Director of the Katt Institute for Constitutional Studies. His efforts have been recognized numerous times, including by the Times Herald Record Online.

An Address of Importance

On Saturday, April 13, Dr. Raymond gave the keynote address at the World Affairs Council of the Hudson Valley’s 6th annual student conference. He illuminated the diffusion of power in the international system since the turn of the century and suggested that that US international leadership has to be collaborative, not unilateral.

The outline of an eagle is filled with red and white stripes and a blue pattern containing white stars

Dr. Raymond suggested that the US does not have the power it once did. He also defended the liberal rules-based world order and recommended reforms in the US intelligence process to ensure that we avoid blind spots, in hopes that this will improve our understanding of the new strategic political environment.

Curious about this man and what the feel of his lectures are? Worry not, because he has contributed mini-lectures to AcademicMinute.org which are broadcast on WAMC Public radio from Albany. His broadcasts set out his views on US foreign policy and explain some key points of commitment and co-dependence between the United States and the United Kingdom. Listen to one of his broadcasts below.

The U.K.’s and The U.S.’s Special Relationship

Dr. Raymond’s Background

So where does our noteworthy professor get his skills from?
First, he is a former British diplomat who held a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Yale University in American History. Secondly, before coming to SUNY Ulster, Dr. Raymond spent twenty years in Her Majesty’s Diplomatic Service as a specialist on the United States. During that time, he analyzed US government and politics, US defense and national security issues as well US trade policy. Between 1997 and 2005, he advised then British Prime Minister Tony Blair on US politics as well as secondary and higher education. He also served as policy adviser and speech writer for High Royal Highness, The Duke of York. In recognition of his diplomatic work, he was honored by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with the Order of the British Empire.

A flag is bisected diagonally, the upper half depicting a partial american flag and the lower half depicting a aprtial uk flag

As political officer of the British Consulate General, New York he played an integral role in the UK’s response to the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 when 77 British nationals were killed in the World Trade Center. This included organizing events and giving speeches conveying the message to the United States that the United Kingdom would support it fully in the war on terror. One of them was at SUNY Ulster when Dr. Raymond gave the Howard St. John Lecture in late September 2001.

Dr. Raymond’s research has been published by The Atlantic Council and the National Interest. Currently, Dr. Raymond is working on a new book which will be published late next year by the US Naval Institute Press. It is about five of West Point’s most courageous young officers and their heroic service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Political Influence Aside

An open book sits on a table with a pair of glasses on top, there is a phone behond the book — Image by Dariusz Sankowski from Pixabay

Dr. Raymond’s top priority has always remained his students, however. In addition to teaching, he has mentored many SUNY Ulster students long after they graduated, helping them win places and often scholarships at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, Columbia University, the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, and New York University among others.

This influential man also has a high satisfaction rating from his students. He has multiple inspiring reviews on sites such as RateMyProfessors.com. One anonymous reviewer, a political science student, left a rating of five out of five, saying, “Dr. Raymond always remained very professional, and he is thorough. He will explain it a second or third time if needed and always responds to my emails in a timely manner… I personally enjoyed learning from him. A stand up man/professional if there ever was one.”

His Method

A student in cap and gown puts his thumb up with a wide smile

Dr. Raymond says he gets students into history by making it stimulating. He stresses the importance and relevance of political history in ways that ensure students will be able to make an argument using facts long after they’ve forgotten details of the lesson. “If you’re not excited about it yourself, you can’t expect students to be excited,” he commented.

Another Honorable Mention for One of Our Professors: Iain Machell

April 10, 2019April 10, 2019 by Roycroft Michaela

Two trees stand in middle of the frame and are wrapped with paper that features prints if their bark. The paper extends out of the frame, as if rolling off the tree.

Iain Machell is one of many professors at SUNY Ulster that teaches and influences students with his artistic creativity and experience. SUNY Ulster is proud to have him on board! Machell was awarded the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and is currently a Professor of Studio Arts and formerly held the position of department chair of art, design, music, theatre, fashion, and communication and is now Co-ordinator of the Fine Art program.

Artist Iain Machell stands in front of a pencil drawing of what appears to be a ball of hay or twigs. He is smiling and holding a pencil.

This artist has been mentioned many times in various publications throughout his career; such as the New York Times, Saugerties Artists Tour, Chronogram, and more. One of his books can even be seen in the Museum of Modern Art/ Franklin Furnace/ Artist Book Collection. Most recently Machell was included as one of twelve skilled artists in a well known artist’s blog Vasari 21. Check out the fourth name on their “What is Drawing?” series part five, to see the shout out to this professor featuring his 2015 piece entitled “PEEL”, shown above.

Inspirations and Style

Machell creates what he calls “landscape interventions”
described as sculptures made of found materials like wood or stone that are removed from the natural environment. These things are altered in some way, often with text or signage from an unlikely source, and then replaced in the landscape. He also draws and paints other nature inspired creations in his home studio which could be said to represent the human impact on nature and vise versa. One site describes him as a Brit living in New York State’s Hudson Valley, who has been engaged in observing the battle between the human condition and the natural world for many years.

Not Again – 2006
Root Ball 31 – 2014
Sketch 17 – 2015
Sorry Not Sorry – 2005
Terra Interruptus 2 – 2012
Terra Interruptus 62 – 2013

Iain Machell’s drawings, book projects, paintings and sculptures have been shown in galleries and institutions throughout the United States and United Kingdom notably The Drawing Center, The Sculpture Center and the Center for Book Arts in New York City and a handmade book is in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art/Franklin Furnace/Artist Book Collection.

To find out more about this busy man or pick his brain, visit his website: iainmachell.com, his professor bio, or his open letter to all members of the arts community and Muroff-Kotler Art Gallery supporters. If you want to see him in action, watch a video of A Classroom Moment with Iain Machell – SUNY Ulster.

The Truth About Native American Trauma

April 10, 2019November 27, 2018 by Roycroft Michaela

Dawnland is a documentary that has recently exposed the narrative of indigenous child removal in the United States, particularly in Maine. The story depicts Native American children that were taken away from their families by authorities and placed in white households.

First there’s pain, then there’s healing.

The film follows non-Natives sent out by the first government-sanctioned truth and reconciliation commission to hear the traumatic tales of those directly affected. Emotions run high as these people work together toward healing the pain and effects from loss of community and culture these people faced in their formative years.

This gut-wrenching film is “a history lesson that you’re ashamed to have never learned but whose truths you’ll likely never forget,” as stated by Crosscut news. This bold emotional journey is remarkable to many folks, from many walks of life. You name an interest you have and this film includes it; criminal justice, psychology, social science and more.

It’s kind of a big deal!

This screening is being talked about all over! Check out the NPR radio broadcast from yesterday featuring the Co-director Ben Pender-Cudlip being interviewed about his work on the project. He sheds some eye-opening information on the subject of his film. A great preview of the full feature that you’ll want to hear.

Or for a shorter read, take a look at the article about this screening in the Daily Freeman!

Your official golden ticket.

We invite you to behold the first-hand stories and emotions of the Natives that were displaced. This documentary is an inside view of a recent event that continues to have lasting effects in an area very close to home. Come and be a part of a historical investigation! By bearing witness to the moving accounts of adults that were devastated as children by the state’s poor child welfare decisions.

The screening (that you are more than welcome to attend no matter who you are) will take place on Wednesday, November

28, from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. We will gather in the College Lounge, in Vanderlyn Hall on campus.

For a bit more info, visit our Facebook event page!

Take advantage of this unique opportunity!

Lucky you, not only are you invited to attend this special screening that is being shown for the last time locally here at SUNY Ulster..

We also invite you to bring your notepad and an inquisitive mind along! Filmmaker Ben Pender-Cudlip will be in the house to introduce the documentary and have a discussion after the film. This event is free of charge and open to all members of the community. Experience for yourself the healing on the path toward reconciliation, truth, and the survival of indigenous culture.

SUNY Ulster Fashion Design Program Stuns in Runway Show!

August 8, 2018May 18, 2018 by SUNYUlster

A procession of models make their way down the fashion runway.

On Saturday May 12th,2018 SUNY Ulster Fashion Design Program first and second year students showcased their garments in the programs 2nd Annual Spring Fashion Show. The show was presented under the exceptional direction of Fashion Program Coordinator Kristin Flynn.

Kristin Flynn stands at the end of the fashion shows runway as the crowd looks on! — Photo Credit: John Halpern

Glitz and Glamour.

Both the afternoon and evening shows were filled with glitz and glamour. Attendees of the 7 p.m. evening show were given an extended presentation as two student who had gone above and beyond the design programs requirements were recognized for their dedication and passion to Fashion Design during an award presentation.

Ms. Kia Ward was selected for the Outstanding Fashion Student of the Year Award.

While Ms. Patricia Bowers won the Karina Dress Challenge in collaboration with Uptown Kingston designer Karina Cousineau –also known as “Karina Dresses”

Patricia Bowers the winner of the "Karinas Dress Challenge" hold her award and smiles as Professor Kristen Flynn looks at her smiling. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

Giving Thanks.

The students and faculty of the SUNY Ulster Fashion Program want to thank everyone who as supported the program since its inceptions and as it continues to grow each year! Below are more stunning photos from the 2018 Spring Fashion Show.

We invite you all to learn more about the Fashion Design Program at SUNY Ulster here: https://www.sunyulster.edu/academics/credit_programs/fashion_design

The president of the college and a student pose at the end of the fashion runway! — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A model with a flowing cape walks down the fashion runway! — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A student poses arms crossed behind his model on the runway. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

Student designer poses at the end of the fashion runway with her two models. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A model poses at the end of the fashion runway as the crowd looks on. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A model walks down the fashion runway head held high. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A model in 1970's inspired disco wear poses at the end of the runway while holding a small dog in matching outfit. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A model poses at the end of the runway with a small grin on her face. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

A male model poses at the end of the fashion runway looking in the distance with a moody expression. — Photo Credit: John Halpern

Tips and Encouragement for Graduates From Faculty

June 25, 2018May 15, 2018 by SUNYUlster

Congratulations to all our upcoming graduates! To help you Go Far, here’s some helpful quotes and tips from the faculty that have helped get you here:

Professor Mindy Kole:

“Be excited about your future, be optimistic. Work hard, be passionate, engaged, and grateful. The world is in your good hands.”

Professor Linda Farina:

“ALWAYS follow your passion!”

Professor Vicky Burgh-Harris:

“Obtaining your Associate’s Degree is a major accomplishment. You should be as proud of yourselves as your family members, friends, and I are proud of you. This is the beginning of a new chapter in your lives, and it’s very exciting. It can also be scary and overwhelming, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. I want to wish you all the best with your future endeavors. Good luck, Graduates!”

Professor Dina Pearlman:

“The highlight of my year as an instructor at SUNY Ulster is to attend graduation and watch the students walk back from the podium with elation and delight written all over their faces. Knowing some of the challenges many of them faced as they pursued their studies here, I am moved by their perseverance and accomplishments. That degree they are holding doesn’t just say ‘I’ve completed 63 credits of course work.’ That degree says: ‘I’ve overcome the challenges of work, family, discrimination, health and mental health issues, transportation, finances, or all of the above PLUS I’ve completed 63 credits of course work.’ That degree says you can do anything you set your mind to. Congratulations, felicidades!”

Students Artwork Selected For Exhibit in Albany!

March 12, 2026March 14, 2018 by SUNYUlster

Painting of the upper back of a slender and sad woman in a steam filled shower.

6 Visual Art Majors Selected for Exhibit in Albany.

Early March 2018 it was announced that 6 Visual Art Majors from SUNY Ulster have been selected to have their work showcased in the Spring 2018 SUNY Student Exhibit in Albany. This exclusive exhibit only happens twice a year to highlight the best student work making its way through the SUNY system. This exhibition is held in the Plaza Gallery on the ground floor of the SUNY Plaza in Albany opened by the SUNY Chancellor. The show runs from March to late May 2018 with a special reception held for the featured artist and their families with a date to be announced.

We want to extend a special congratulations to the selected artist from SUNY Ulster.

This is a huge opportunity for the six students selected. In the past students art work that has been selected for this particular exhibition has then traveled across New York State to various other associated exhibitions and galleries as well as award shows.

Abena Nkrumah – Fine Art/Visual Arts Student.

Gwen Lawlor- Fine Art/Visual Arts.

Elyssa vanBenschoten- Graphic design class of 2017.

Jayne Casey-Photography

Elizabeth Galeano-Graphic Design.

Brittany Hannah-Individual Studies/Fine Art.

How to Master the Class Registration Process

April 9, 2019October 31, 2017 by SUNYUlster

Register Now - Ask your Advisor About Online Registration

Every spring and fall, current returning students must register for the next semester’s classes here at SUNY Ulster. It’s not hard to do once you’ve got the hang of it! Here are some key tips to keep in mind as you prepare to register, and how to prepare for the upcoming semesters class load.

First Things First: Make an Appointment with Your Advisor.

You can find your Advisor by visiting My.SunyUlster.edu
Next click Student Resource Tab.

Scroll down the page until you get to Registration Tools and CLICK

Still Need Help?

Get registration assistance by phone at 845-687-5075.

Email: reginfo@sunyulster.edu

Your academic Advisor may let you know where or how they prefer for you to sign up for your registration appointment. For example some Advisors will provide an appointment signup sheet with their various available time slots, others will have you sign up via an online appointment calendar.

Before Your Appointment: Make a Plan!

There are a few things that you can do in preparation for your upcoming meeting to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible, and has limited confusion.

Check to see what is required for the upcoming semester and compare this what classes you still need against the upcoming academic class schedule! http://apps.sunyulster.edu/courses/

It is also helpful to make a mock schedule (or even 2) to bring to your upcoming appointment!

After Your Appointment: Set reminders for yourself!

In your planner, or calendar in your phone mark the start date reminder of any online courses or accelerated courses you may be taking. (It can be easy to forget when you aren’t physically attending class about particular dates.)
Also set a reminder at a closer date for you to closely see what books are required for your upcoming classes!

50th Anniversary of Classes at the Stone Ridge Campus

November 22, 2017August 23, 2017 by SUNYUlster

September 2017 marks the 50th year we’ve held classes at our lovely Stone Ridge campus! While the buildings and classes have changed over the years, our students’ drive for success and our own commitment to Start Here, Go Far hasn’t.

A Bit of History

The Stone Ridge campus was selected from 28 sites in Ulster County. Located on 165 acres of former farmlands and fields donated by the Leggett and Davenport families, the area that was agreed upon still has the apple trees by the main entrance. The campus was officially dedicated on October 21, 1967, and the first four campus buildings included the Macdonald DeWitt Library, the Business Studies Building, the Science Building, and an all-purpose building. College offices were placed in the library. In addition to classrooms, the all-purpose building included a snack bar, book store, and student lounge. In 1972, Phase II of a campus development plan added the Senate Gym, Hardenburgh, Vanderlyn, and Algonquin buildings to campus. In 1987, SUNY Ulster’s Children’s Center opened, providing childcare for children of students, faculty, staff, and the community.

Interested in more SUNY Ulster history? Learn more and add your own story to our interactive timeline!

Photo Gallery

SUNY Ulster Stone Ridge Campus Groundbreaking in 1965 — Groundbreaking in 1965

Students on the Stone Ridge Campus on Opening Day, 1967

SUNY Ulster Vice-President Ann Marrott in Early 1980s — Vice-President Ann Marrott during her time as a SUNY Ulster student

SUNY Ulster Nursing Students in 1982 — Nursing Students in 1982

The SUNY Ulster Cafeteria in 1993 — The Cafeteria in 1993

Meet SUNY Ulster’s Fashion Majors: Class of 2017

June 27, 2017May 23, 2017 by SUNYUlster

This May, the first group of SUNY Ulster students with a Fashion Design major will be graduating! To celebrate them and their accomplishments, here’s a snapshot of each of these talented students.

Safiyyah Alston

How Interest in Fashion Began: “When I was 4 or 5, my mom and grandma started teaching me how to make doll clothes and mini-quilts. I loved dressing my dolls up!”

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “Stay focused, but don’t lose the excitement and joy you get out of fashion.”

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: “The environment! There are so many different people with tons of different ideas and opinions that are so nice to be around and learn from.”

Favorite Classes: “I learned the most new information from my textiles class. I never knew how much went into the fibers and general descriptions. It was amazing and will stay with me.”

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “I didn’t think I was interested in menswear whatsoever until I had an independent study with Kristin Flynn, and she had me designing men’s clothing.”

Shauna Caines

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “You can go far in fashion. Many people believe that being a fashion designer on the runways in Paris is the only job that there is, and if you don’t make it that big, then there are no other jobs in fashion. Just do what you love and don’t be afraid to take risks. Be different!”

Inspirations: “Growing up, I would always watch Japanese designers that designed their clothing based on culture. I’ve always loved how they would bleach their clothing and make a unique version of something that would have been plain.”

Reasons for Choosing SUNY Ulster: “SUNY Ulster was close to home. I am able to go to school and continue my daily lifestyle as well.”

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: “Meeting students with the same desire and being able to build relationships with them, and hearing the success stories of my teachers as well.”

Favorite Fashion Classes: CAD, Costume History, and Sewing

Erica Carlson

How Interest in Fashion Began: “I fell in love with fashion design when I noticed how clothing changed what a person felt like. Clothing shows so much of a person’s personality if used right.”

Inspirations: Graphic designers Wish, James Jean, and Ario Anindito, as well as video games like Horizon Zero Dawn and Alice Madness

Feelings On the Fashion Program: “I have loved the program from day one. There are always new, exciting things to learn and experience in the world of fashion.”

Favorite Fashion Classes: Costume History, Drawing Design, and Studio Design

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “I knew that I wanted to go into fashion since the summer before seventh grade. Ulster has just reinforced my resolve about going into the fashion industry.”

Jeffrey Gomez

How Interest in Fashion Began: “While in high school and my early years of college, theater was a big part of my life. I always enjoyed being backstage more. In college, you could find me in the costume shop during rehearsal.”

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “Do your research; there are so many career options.”

Steps After Ulster: Attending FIT for their Technical Design program

Favorite Fashion Classes: Pattern Making and CAD

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “At first I thought about being a costume designer, then CAD designer, then surface/textile designer. Finally, I have decided to pursue technical design.”

Sarah Jayne

How Interest in Fashion Began: “I was interested in the fashion industry from a young age. Recently, I became interested in fashion and body positivity. Plus-size clothing, formalwear, and streetwear have always piqued my interest.”

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “Fashion design isn’t all about wearing stylish outfits. It takes willingness, dedication, patience, and passion. Sometimes fashion design is really stressful, but it’s so worth it.”

Steps After Ulster: Attending Marist’s Fashion Program

Favorite Fashion Classes: Illustration and Draping

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “The fashion program at Ulster has really opened my eyes to how much really goes into fashion design. People underestimate the time designing takes.”

Libbey Klosterman

Dream Job: “I would love to be a fashion buyer and be able to travel the world.”

Signature Style: “My signatures style is influenced by the 1990s. I want to look like I walked out of the Fresh Prince of Belair!”

Current Piece: A traditional Filipino dress

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: “My favorite part of attending SUNY Ulster is the environment and my fashion design professors.”

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “The fashion program experience overall has helped me grow as a person and given me confidence to broaden my career decisions.”

Theresa Naske

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “Be prepared to work hard. Fashion is not only glamorous gowns- it is everyday clothing, and even the simplest designs require artistry, math, proportion, and good communication.”

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: “Instructors! They are helpful, compassionate, and knowledgeable.”

Feelings On the Fashion Program: “It’s demanding, comprehensive, and wonderful!”

Favorite Fashion Classes: Computer-Aided Design and Draping/Pattern-Making

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “Getting to know industry professionals through review days and internships has shown me that a career in fashion is possible.”

Nicole Pearson

How Interest in Fashion Began: “I have always liked making clothes. I bought myself a sewing machine when I was 12 and went from there.”

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “Don’t underestimate yourself, don’t procrastinate, and never give up when something goes wrong.”

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: “The friendships that I’ve made with my classmates in the fashion program and seeing how much we’ve progressed over the past two years.”

Feelings On the Fashion Program: “It’s excellent. The teachers all have years of experience in the industry and push our creativity every day.”

Favorite Fashion Classes: CAD, Design Studio, Patternmaking, Draping

Mirabai Trent

Dream Job: Learning traditional weaving and embroidery practices from around the world to create and import items for her own business

Recommendations for Fashion Students: “Fashion is a lot more complex than what most would think. There’s so many different worlds inside the world of fashion that work to create everything we wear.”

Steps After Ulster: Volunteering in other countries

Reasons for Choosing SUNY Ulster: “They have an early college program, so I could work to get my degree in fashion while also getting a high school equivalency.”

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: Visiting the Design Library with fashion CAD class

Amari Turman-Roosa

Dream Job: Working as a company or celebrity stylist

Inspirations: Gucci, Betsey Johnson, Alice + Olivia

Feelings On the Fashion Program: “I love it. We’re like a small family!”

Favorite Fashion Classes: Draping and Pattern Making

Ulster’s Influence on Career Decisions: “The experience really made fashion grow more on me and reassured me that this is what I want to do.”

Dougie Tyler

Inspirations: “Music. Music has had such a huge influence and impact on everything I design. Some of my greatest designs came from simply listening to a song.”

Dream Job: Designing costumes for Cher or Madonna

Style: “I absolutely refuse to design boring clothes. Even if I design a simple pencil skirt, the fabric will always be bold and look like it’s one of a kind. I want the women I dress to feel like they can conquer the world in my designs.”

Favorite Part of SUNY Ulster: “The professors in the fashion department. They genuinely care about me and push me to strive for the absolute best in my life.”

Feelings on the Fashion Program: “I think it’s an amazing opportunity for anyone to get real, knowledgeable experience in fashion and have an advantage over students who go directly to schools like F.I.T. I now feel confident going to larger universities.”

Meet our Student Admissions Ambassadors

December 5, 2016November 30, 2016 by Valentina Villa

Here at SUNY Ulster, we have an elite team of student ambassadors that are in charge of portraying the persona of the student community. They are in charge of helping prospective and new students gain special insight into the SUNY Ulster experience through a student’s own perspective. Student Ambassadors are available to help a prospective student make an informed decision about the college, by sharing their own personal experiences with them.

Being a Student Admissions Ambassador will help a SUNY Ulster student earn valuable experience to boost their resume, help them develop excellent communication and leadership skills, make important connections for their future, get SUNY Ulster gear to wear for Admissions events, and most importantly, get to know other SUNY Ulster students. One of the most attractive benefits of being a Student Admissions Ambassador is that one can serve as an Admissions Tour Guide and receive payment in the summer for service.

In order to become a Student Admissions Ambassador, one must have excellent communication skills in one-on-one and group settings, good listening skills, be organized, possess excellent time management skills, and be able to work with a diverse group of students with different needs. They should have a positive attitude, be outgoing, enthusiastic, dependable, and in good academic standing. Anyone can be a Student Admissions Ambassador, from someone with a history in community service and volunteerism to having a strong interest in public relations and marketing. They serve as volunteers at various Admissions events, are able to help staff with recruitment efforts at local college fairs and community events, contribute to social networks, set up to assist prospective student, participate in open houses, lead campus tours for prospective students and visitors, and best of all, earn college credit as an intern.

It’s a great way to become involved right off the bat and immerse the average student in the college experience, as well as the local community. They meet on Wednesdays at 1pm in the Dining Hall. In order to become more involved myself, I met with one of the Student Ambassadors in person and asked her about the experience. Mariana Mena, an outstanding student athlete who has won Scholar Athlete of the Year, majors in Independent Studies and is due to graduate this upcoming spring of 2017. When asked why she likes the experience, she said, “It’s allowed me to learn a lot about communicating with others, and I overcame my shyness when it comes to talking to strangers. It taught me great leadership qualities, and allowed me to become more aware of the events around campus. Personally, getting involved with open houses was fun, and you could see the appreciation in people’s faces when they got to learn about the school through a student’s perspective.” She encouraged me to join as well, because SUNY Ulster gives you an opportunity to learn about college life before you move onto a huge college, get involved and educated, and allows you to meet people you probably wouldn’t have classes with. Best of all, it looks great on a college resume!

To learn more about becoming a Student Admissions Ambassador, contact Lucia Pecore at pecorel@sunyulster.edu.

If you want to talk to a Student Ambassador firsthand, Mariana Mena can be contacted at menam44@my.sunyulster.edu.

And, if you want to schedule a campus tour with a Student Admissions ambassador, go to the Visit page on our website to set up an appointment.