Freshmen (0-29 credits) begin with the College's General Education Requirements. These courses are a good way to explore the range of academic programs on campus as well as develop skills in writing, researching and critical inquiry. Students typically select five classes their first semester (average 15 credits per semester to graduate in four years), all of which will be in the 100 and 200 level. For those students who have very structured curricula (engineering, many of the natural sciences, art), they will include their fields' required introductory courses in their schedules. Students should get to know their academic advisors and their instructors early, specifically to seek help if they have questions or concerns about a course or an issue affecting their academic performance. Become involved in campus life, too. The College has over 120 student organizations, as well as lectures, plays, musical performances and art exhibits available on a regular basis. You might also want to consider undertaking a community service project, such as those offered through the College's AmeriCorps Program. In short, take advantage of all New Paltz has to offer you.
Sophomores (30-59) continue fulfilling General Education Requirements, but also become more focused on major selection. For those who need help deciding, the Career Resource Center (CRC) offers a range of resources, from Discover, a computerized career guidance/major exploration system, to one-on-one career counseling. Looking at the homepages of academic departments is also a good way of learning about majors. Access is available via the New Paltz webpage, www.newpaltz.edu. Now is also the time to start thinking about internships, which CRC can assist with, as well as studying abroad, with which the Center for International Programs can be helpful. (See the section on campus resources for office locations and phone numbers). Once you have declared your major, you will be assigned a new academic advisor in your major department. Make sure you get to know that person early so you can establish a relationship that will last for your entire college career. Now may also be the time to think about deepening your campus involvement, perhaps taking on a leadership position in a student organization, or being a Resident Assistant or an Orientation Leader. And work experiences, either in the summer or during the school year, are good ways of clarifying interests, strengths and goals.
Juniors (60-89) typically take courses for their major(s) while also completing upper division electives or working on a minor(s). For those considering graduate or professional school, now is the time to begin exploring the possibilities and the requirements. Many graduate and professional programs require you to complete special entrance examinations (the LSAT, MCAT, GRE, etc.), and most students take these early in their senior year. This is also the time for those who plan on full-time work after graduation to begin, or intensify, the search process. Be sure to attend a career fair, or a special recruitment event, to explore your options and get feedback on your resume. CRC has a credential file service, too, through which references may be kept on file to support applications for employment or graduate school. Begin talking seriously with your academic advisor and instructors about your plans and assessing their ability to write on your behalf. Also consider seeking an internship or summer position that will provide direct experience in your chosen career field.
Seniors (90-120), it's time to finish with a flourish! You should be wrapping up your major requirements, as well as any lingering General Education or college-wide degree requirements. Make an appointment with your advisor at least two semesters prior to graduation to assure you know exactly what is left to complete. Formal applications for graduation must be submitted to Records and Registration the semester before you intend to graduate. Check the Academic Calendar for the exact deadline each semester. The application must be accompanied by a major plan and, for students in the education curricula, a curriculum plan and an application for teaching certification. You should also be nailing down your post-graduation plans, whether that is full-time employment, graduate school, travel or community service.
Student Success Tip
Research suggests that commitment to either an academic or occupational
goal is the single most important factor in persistence towards graduation.
