opportunities at suny ulster Archives

Over 50 Years of Nursing at SUNY Ulster

February 12, 2020February 5, 2020 by SUNYUlster

Group photo of nursing students on Campus

Nursing Awards Announcement:

In the Spring of 2018, the SUNY Ulster Nursing Department became the recipients of the PNA Honorary Recognition Award. This award recognizes an agency which has rendered distinguished services or valuable contributions to the nursing profession. This award came as the nursing program celebrated its 50th anniversary of service to the Ulster County community.

Celebrating 50 Years of Service:

Since its inception in 1968, the SUNY Ulster Nursing Program has proven itself time and time again as a leader in the healthcare industry of the Hudson Valley. The SUNY Ulster Nursing Program has had over 1,900 graduates- many of these graduates have gone on to win awards and be nationally recognized. Jess Robie Class of 2016 won the Future Nurse Leader Award 2017, Dana Wright class of 2015 represented the WMC/Health Alliance of the Hudson Valley on the Today Show in May 2018, and Donna Becker class of 2014 received the Registered Nurse of the Year Award at Golden Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in May 2018.

Our History:

The prestigious 50 year history of the SUNY Ulster Nursing Program is one that is filled with the highest standards of academia, ethical standards, and professionalism. The commitment to student success in the Nursing Program began in 1968 under Head Professor Mrs. Florence Irwin (pictured below) and her original staff made up of Miss. Elizabeth Dunn and Miss Joan Cassavant.

From the get-go, the Nursing Program has boasted itself as innovative and forward- thinking in its approaches to the healthcare field. In its earliest pubic recruitment efforts, the program made it known it was “-open to Men or Women, Married or Single, with High School or GED Degrees.” By the Fall of 1968, SUNY Ulster proudly announced in a newspaper headline that “50 Students Enrolled in the UCCC Nursing Program.” This first class was made up of 48 women and 2 men; 24 of those students were the first class to graduate from the program in 1971.

The photo below is of the 2019 graduating class, which was made up of 34 students and had a pass rate of 97.05% for the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), which means 33 of the 34 students passed on their first try!

From the start, students in the SUNY Ulster Nursing Program have been exposed to and taught about all the different elements that go into making a healthcare facility reach its appropriate standards. Below is a photograph of students from the 1970’s practicing skills such as bed making and other “practical chores”.

Students since 1968 have been gaining experience during clinical settings. Here, a nursing student is exposed to patients of all different ages: infants, children, adults, and the elderly.

SUNY Ulster nurses have always been given the opportunity to practice the skills that make them exceptional: working hands-on with medical equipment, working one-on-one with patients, and working collaboratively at the nursing station.

The SUNY Ulster Nursing Program continues to prepare its students for the workplace, by instilling in them the skills needed to provide safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care to those in the Hudson Valley community.

The opportunities continue to grow for our nursing students!

During the 2019 Spring semester, there was a collaborative project with the Nursing program of Durban University of Technology of South Africa. It was an opportunity for our nursing students (present and alumni) to travel to South Africa to meet with their collaborating partners and observe their teammates in clinical settings.

SUNY Ulsters graduates that decide to continue with their education can now look to our recently forged partnership with Empire State College. This partnership is making it easier for Registered Nurses (R.N.) to secure their Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in the Hudson Valley. It is designed to support students during their transition from an associate’s degree or diploma to a baccalaureate degree, in both an online and on-site format.

Choosing The Right Classes For Your Future.

July 26, 2019 by Roycroft Michaela

A bright red apple sits atop a stack of three hard cover books, we cannot see their titles or covers. This display sits atop a table in front of a smoky grey background.

Some people dive into college with set intentions, knowing exactly what they will choose and graduate with, and that’s great! Then there’s the rest of us. It can be hard to fill up your semester’s class schedule. Especially when you aren’t sure where your time and energy would best be spent.

The big idea is to go to college and get a degree. That will give your career ~~(and income)~~ the kick start or boost that you want, right? That initiative alone is all you need to get started. The rest is figuring out what it is you want to study. Then finding a way to make it happen. As they say, where there’s a will there’s a way!

Students with undeclared majors are more common than you might think. The amount of choices can be overwhelming. Courses are often offered on hundreds of different subjects with varying levels of expertise. Some classes are reserved for specific students while others require more courses to be taken first. Navigating the sea of learning can be daunting!

A black and white image of someone's upper abdomen in a sweatshirt as they hold up a large piece of paper over their face depicting a large white question mark.

A study on the “Developmental Disconnect in Choosing a Major” states that an estimated 20 to 50 % of students enter college as “undecided” and an estimated 75 % of students change their major at least once before graduation (Gordon, 1995). So don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone. Turns out a lot of people get frustrated when spinning that big wheel of life. Fortunately, reality doesn’t have to play out like a game show and we have the power to choose the right courses to lead to ultimate success.

It’s completely okay to start without knowing where to begin, most people do!

A very generic picture of a stack of five thick textbooks on a white background

When first starting out, make sure to take some general education (often called “gen ed” on campuses) credits. Every student is required to take these courses regardless of major. They consist of basic knowledge stuff any collegian should know like psychology, algebra, history, etc. It can be a win-win situation; getting these classes out of the way will free up time later on for the good stuff. Not to mention there is potential to fall in love with an area of research.

An extra literature or writing class is always helpful to have under your belt. These skills are used in every class and you’ll want to hone them early on. While signing up for those general classes, be sure to review the college catalog and pick a few courses that seem fun or interesting to take. Once you start those and learn more about them from a professor, you may have found your major!

Background: A man stands in front of a wall almost covered in various pieces of visual art. He seems to be lecturing as he holds his hands in to his chest as if ready to throw them open, next to him appears to be a television. Foreground: Students sit with their head faced away from the camera, watching the man talk, we see the back of their heads. — courtesy of: 祝鹤槐

An uncommon resource that not everyone thinks of is the professor of the class you might register for. You could always reach out to them and ask any questions you may have that an adviser can’t answer. They are typically happy to help and tend to respond pretty quickly in my experience.

It’s time to plan ahead!

Planning a semester schedule for college classes can be a tricky task. Some people prefer to have all their classes back to back in one or two days a week to coincide with other nonacademic schedules. Some prefer to have only a class or two every day to spread out the work load and study time. As long as you don’t sign up for courses that overlap or occur at the same time, you should be fine. Most colleges have advisers that would make sure that a scheduling faux pas wouldn’t happen anyway. If you have room in your schedule throw in some bonus microcredentials. Make sure to consider factors like distance from your house and your method of transportation. Schedules can be changed in the first few weeks of classes, but planning ahead, so that the first schedule you make will be a good fit, is important and saves a lot of undue hassle.

A weekly planner lays open in a table, the book lays atop a sheer piece of toole next to a scented wax melter and a handful of pens and markers. The book is littered with small posted notes and drawn on with a highlighter over all dates. The right page underneath the weekend says in bold "be happy and smile" — Photo by Bich Tran from Pexels

A good way to make sure you have the most options and opportunities available to you is to register as early as you can. More classes will be presented with available seats for students like you!

A woman stands with her hands held out, throwing glitter at the camera. She holds her head up high and wears a large smile, a graduation cap, and what appears to be a doctors jacket.

Five Truths of Being An Adult Student!

October 3, 2018 by SUNYUlster

a man sits outside in a warm sweater, happily reading a self-help book

Returning to college in your adulthood can be nerve-racking, but adults pursuing their educations are not alone. Many adult students put off going back to school because of all the “What if” scenarios- “What if this, that, or the other thing”.

Peirce College reports that “ Students over the age of 25 are the fastest-growing segment in higher education”, and that “ From 2000 to 2012, the enrollment of students over the age of 25 has increased by 35%, and by 2019, the share of students over age 25 is projected to increase by another 23%.”

Being an adult student may require some adjustments to your personal and professional life. Here are some of the fun and occasionally challenging scenarios that many adult students experience!

You Will Study In Unexpected Places.

During your kids sports team practice, on your own lunch break at work, and during the commercial breaks of your favorite television show are all potential study opportunities when you’re a hard-working adult student! (You’re going to develop some stellar focusing abilities my friend!)

Organization Will Become Your Best Friend.

Going back to college as an adult student can mean adding even more tasks to an already very full plate. We have put together 12 tips & tricks that can help you keep your personal and educational responsibilities so you never miss a beat! http://blog.sunyulster.edu/12-tips-for-organizing-your-college-life/

Part-Time or Full-Time, You Can Get It Done!

As an adult student, the “traditional” track to graduation may not be fit for your busy life. You may find yourself taking a full-time semester here, and maybe a part-time semester there with Summer, Winter, and Express Semesters sprinkled in along the way. Whatever the roadmap to your graduation or certification looks like- YOU CAN GET IT DONE!

You Can Include Your Kids!

If you are an adult student with a child, try to make homework and study time a group effort. By encouraging your kids to join you in your efforts you can create a bonding experience. You can also make it a fun game, for example, you could say “If we study for 45 minutes, then we get to have a sweet treat.”

The Struggle Is Worth The Reward.

Late nights, fitting a class load in to your already hectic schedule, occasionally choosing to stay in on the weekends, pushing yourself in adulthood to learn and expand your ways of thinking are all the elements of going back for your education as an adult! But so is an improved sense of self, higher paying job opportunities, adding new and improved skills to your repertoire, and gaining mentorship and friendships that can last a lifetime!

Join us at an Info Session | Request more information

Contact:
845-687-5022
admissions@sunyulster.edu

Explore Adult Ed. Opportunities at SUNY Ulster:

Business Administration (AS, Online Program)

Business & Entrepreneurial Studies (AAS)

Entrepreneurship (Certificate)

Computer Science (AS, Online Program)

Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)

Criminal Justice (AAS) (traditional 15-week schedule)

Human Services (AAS) (traditional 15-week schedule)

Direct Support Practice (Certificate)

Individual Studies (AS, Online)

Web Development

Have You Considered These 5 Reliable Degrees?

August 9, 2018July 31, 2018 by SUNYUlster

figure of male walking among library stacks

Reliable degrees at SUNY Ulster Community College.

When you begin exploring potential reliable degrees, it is important to consider a field that you are interested in working in, as well as one that is experiencing growth within its own respective industry!

There are many beneficial degrees offered here at SUNY Ulster, but in this particular article we will explore in more detail five of the most reliable degrees offered at SUNY Ulster.

(SUNY Ulster rated 5 out of 25 of the top New York State Community Colleges.)

Public Safety and Criminal Justice:

The Criminal Justice program at SUNY Ulster is designed to offer an educational experience for criminal justice practitioners, individuals seeking employment in the field, and concerned citizens wishing to become better informed about the administration of justice. Various job positions in the criminal justice field consistently have openings, making it one of the most reliable degrees offered at SUNY Ulster!

SUNY Ulster Offers: Criminal Justice (AS), Criminal Justice (AAS), and Police Basic Training (Certificate)

Paralegal:

The Individual Studies Paralegal degree at SUNY Ulster is a jointly registered program with Marist College. Here you can study in a program that is designed to prepare students for employment and transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. Graduates of this program at SUNY Ulster earn an Associate in Science in Individual Studies and a Paralegal Certificate from Marist.

SUNY Ulster Offers: Individual Studies/Paralegal (AS).

Technology:

Technology is something we use every day, so it should come as no surprise that the technology field is rapidly growing! If you decide to study technology at SUNY Ulster you will have the opportunity to potentially strengthen your computer science, programming, designing skills set, and beyond. Specific programs require various curriculum levels of mathematics, manufacturing processes, computers, drafting/blueprint reading, communication skills, and liberal arts!

SUNY Ulster Offers: C omputer Game Design (Credential),Computer Science AS,Computer Science Online AS,Green Building Maintenance & Management AAS,Industrial Technology: Drafting & Design AS,Industrial Technology: Drafting & Design AAS,Manufacturing Technology (Certificate),Mobile Application Developer (Credential),Network Administrator AAS,Network Administrator (Certificate),Web Application Developer (Credential).

Engineering:

Engineering at SUNY Ulster provides the basic preparation for students who plan to continue studying engineering at a four-year college. If you plan to attend you should keep in mind that applicants should have above-average grades in high school mathematics and chemistry. High school physics is also recommended for incoming students.

SUNY Ulster Offers: Engineering Science AS, Aeronautical, Civil, Industrial, Mechanical & Nuclear, Chemical, Computer, Electrical.

Technology and Engineering students can enjoy learning in state of the art classrooms as a part of the Pfeiffer Technology and Innovation Lab expansion.

You Can Learn More Here: http://blog.sunyulster.edu/the-pfeiffer-technology-lab-at-suny-ulster/

Nursing:

The Nursing program at SUNY Ulster has a long history of graduating some of the best nurses in the area! The Nursing program can be completed in two academic years or extended and pursued on a part-time basis. Nursing courses, however, must be taken consecutively and it is recommended that they are taken without interruption. Recently, SUNY Ulster and Empire State College announced that they would be partnering up to help allow Registered Nurses (R.N.) to secure their Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in the Hudson Valley. A reliable degree with many growing opportunities locally and nationally.

You Can Learn More Here: http://www.sunyulster.edu/academics/credit_programs/nursing-rn-bsn.php

SUNY Ulster Offers: Nursing (AS), Nursing (R.N. to B.S.).

Why You Absolutely Should Attend Campus Connect!

August 8, 2018July 26, 2018 by SUNYUlster

two smiling students with SUNY Ulster folder

Welcome to SUNY Ulster!

If you’ve been accepted to SUNY Ulster and are now enrolled, you may be thinking “Whats next?” By now you have probably received your checklist of things the college requires from you before you start classes. As the first day of the semester approaches you probably have a lot more questions about what you need to fill out, submit, and when you should do so. That’s where Campus Connect comes in!

What is Campus Connect?

Campus Connect is an opportunity for students to meet our faculty and soon-to-be classmates, learn more about your major, pick up your class schedule, and explore our beautiful campus! The purpose of this event is to help answer students’ questions, give them insight about campus life, and allow students to establish themselves for academic success! As a mandatory event, Campus Connect holds great importance in launching your college career.

What Kind of Opportunities are at Camps Connect?

Campus Connect is the perfect opportunity for you as a student to get a guided tour of your campus, take part in an in-person orientation, as well as a chance for you to learn more in-depth about internships, academic travel, the potential of your major, and how advisement will help YOU succeed.

Who Will You Meet?

This event allows you to meet and mingle with other students, student leaders, and faculty. The connections you may make during this event may even lead to internships, employment opportunities, and valuable mentorships. College is a lot of learning, and expanding your social circle, and forming lifelong friendships!

To register for upcoming Campus Connect dates click here: https://www.sunyulster.edu/admissions/info/campus_connect

Have Any Questions?

campusconnect@sunyulster.edu

845-688-6042

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

SUNY Ulster COIL Scholarship Recipients Travel To Mexico!

August 8, 2018April 11, 2018 by SUNYUlster

COIL students from Mexico greet SUNY Ulster students

SUNY Ulster Students Travel to Mexico!

During the week of March 16th, 2018, SUNY Ulster students Kia Ward-Fashion Design Major, Kailey Campbell-Human Services Major, John Bove-Independent Studies/Fashion Major, and Natasha-Pico Aulicino-Business and Entrepreneurship Major all traveled to Obregon, Sonora, Mexico (the second largest city in northern Mexico) as recipients of the Sheldon COIL Academic Travel Scholarship!

The Students Arrival!

The recipients were welcomed by students, professors, and staff of Universidad de la Salle NoroEste! The recipients had already met some of these students when 25 of the ULSA students traveled to SUNY Ulster to meet their COIL collaboration team in October 2017.

SUNY Students In The Classroom.

The SUNY Ulster students spent their week in Mexico attending classes and presenting projects to the Universidad de la Salle NoroEste classes they had COIL-ed with previously. The time outside the classroom was spent sightseeing and making lifetime friends with their host families! This was a great opportunity to dive deep into the wonderful and diverse Mexican culture, as well as utilize global citizen skills as ambassadors of SUNY Ulster.

A huge thank you to all the hardworking individuals who helped to make this trip a possibility!

4 Ways to Find An Internship.

November 19, 2018November 17, 2017 by SUNYUlster

Woman writing in notebook and looking at laptop

As the winter recess approaches you may find yourself thinking that this is the perfect time to consider getting involved with an internship. Here at SUNY Ulster you can earn college credit while participating in the Student Internship Program. To get involved in the Student Internship Program you must have at least a 2.0 GPA and 30 college credits completed, or by permission of the fieldwork coordinator. For further information, contact Linda Farina, Office of Fieldwork and Internships, farinal@sunyulster.edu

You can also check out our Internships page Here: http://www.sunyulster.edu/student_handbook/internships.php

An internship is not only a beneficial addition to your resume but can also be a fulfilling personal experience as well. Gaining knowledge, building your skills profile, and expanding your network field are all crucial elements in creating the best opportunities for yourself as you continue your success after SUNY Ulster.

*Important Tip* When reaching out to potential internships put together a resume and a short pitch/ cover letter can help you to appear direct, and respond to your potential internship. Be prepared to have to communicate with people as to why you are deserving of this opportunity.

3 Additional Ways to Find An Internship.

Talk to People You Know.

When it comes to looking for an internship you may find yourself thinking “Where do I even start?” The answer may be right in front of you in your sphere of influence. Start by asking your professors if they are aware of any opportunities that are available.

Another way to reach out to people you already know is sharing with your friends on social media (Like Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin) that you are looking for this new venture. You may be surprised by what leads and resources your friends and family have to offer.

Online Websites.

Online job sites like Indeed.com, Monster.com, https://regionalhelpwanted.com are not only for looking jobs! With the websites listed above, you can either use the “Internship” tag or search “Internships” in the website’s search engine. Here all active opportunities are filtered and listed as specific, or unspecific as you would like!

Create Opportunities For Yourself.

Make a list of 5 to 15+ potential places that you can see yourself working in your local area. Research the best contact information for all of these places- and do what is known as a “Cold Contact”. Be professional and friendly while letting them your objective, when you can start, and all the important information they need to know when considering you as a potential intern.

You are capable of manifesting your own opportunities that could in turn into an employment position for you.

Mentor Moment with Instructor Angela Kunz.

November 9, 2017November 9, 2017 by SUNYUlster

Angela Kunz surrounded by a fashion class

On a warm and sunny autumn afternoon, I had a candid conversation with Fashion Design Adjunct Instructor Angela Kunz (or Mrs. K as she prefers to be called by students) on SUNY Ulster’s beautiful campus. We discussed what advice she has for students entering the field of fashion merchandising, design, and the evolving work force as a whole.

Follow SUNY Ulsters Fashion Department on Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/SUNYUlsterFashionDesign/

Follow SUNY Ulster Fashion Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FDCSUNYUlster/

“What led you to a career in fashion instruction?”

“After studying fashion at Pratt Institute in Lower Manhattan I began working in the fashion industry in the 1990’s.”

After living in New York City and achieving what she thought was her ‘dream’- the success of celebrities and the members of popular television shows wearing her designs, Mrs. K felt herself dealing more with the business side of the industry and less with the creativity side that she loved. “I began feeling completely drained and unfulfilled – that’s when I moved up to the Hudson Valley and began to ask myself “How can I keep fashion in my life without being directly involved in it?””

A few years after moving to and working in the Hudson Valley an adjunct position in the Marist College Fashion Department opened up and as Mrs. K put it “-it was a manifestation of working adjacent to the fashion industry and with students!”

“Would you change anything about how you got to where you are?”

Mrs. K quickly responded “No!-everything happened in a perfect transition right where I wanted to live and work-It’s all about finding the balance.”

“What would be your top advice to someone thinking of entering the fashion industry?”

“Be willing to fail, and do not settle! Look at your options and find a way to keep your truest dreams alive, and always aspire to reach your full potential.”

“4 words you would use to describe a leader in your field?”

Mrs. K paused and after a moment she said “Innovative, passionate, and simultaneously endlessly motivated about the field, and finally someone who is dedicated.”

Mentor Moments highlights the mentors that help to make our college great!

Have a mentor you want to feature? Email Terriann at (smitht36@my.sunyulster.edu)

Stories of SUNY Ulster — Marla Gruner: Family Woman, Educator, Library Scientist

June 20, 2018October 5, 2017 by John Motta

The Stories team recently got an opportunity to conduct an interview with SUNY Ulster’s own charismatic librarian: Marla Gruner. Invariably seated at the help desk, Marla is known for her pleasant helpfulness and the sagacity of her assistance. Entering her office, we are delighted to the smell of fresh coffee, photographs of her two adorable children, and a glowing presence ready to talk.

“I was an English major in college, and I realized there wasn’t a whole lot I could do with an English degree *Laughs*. So I thought, what are my options? I talked to my advisors and they were iffy about it, and I think I took a career quiz and found out that I could go on and get my masters in library science very easily, and I had also worked in a public library when I was in high school and I liked it! It’s not a thrilling story or anything, I was just fortunate enough to have a direct line to working in this field, sort of a straight path…Mostly it’s the people here that I like working with, there are a lot of energetic, fun people to work with. It’s a small community, and unfortunately a lot of people come here from disadvantaged circumstances, so I really enjoy being able to help them in any way; be it finding a book or navigating the site…I’m teaching at F.Y.E. this semester, so I feel like I’m really able to branch out, talk to people and meet more students — that’s one thing about the library is you don’t always necessarily get to know the students very well, you don’t see them as much as their professors might per se. I feel like this is a great opportunity to know more students better…So, yeah, I just really like the community college environment and feel, and with my job specifically, I’m able to do a lot of things in the library, whereas at a larger institution, there might be like ten librarians. So I get to do the job of ten *Smiles*, but in all seriousness it is wonderful and I enjoy it.”

Interesting Tidbit: When asked about the slow decline of the print book and nationally declining book circulation rates, Marla says she is not concerned. She envisions the library of the future as more of a meeting place and help center, as well as a massive digital database. Forever the optimist, Marla is as much a librarian as she is a friend to the campus at large. The next time you find yourself in the library, keep an eye out for Marla and her infectious smile!