A meteorology major from Queens, who also has spent time working in Oregon, Sy Sosa Medina transferred from CUNY Kingsborough Community College with an associate’s degree in Earth and planetary sciences.
Why did you choose Oswego?
I chose SUNY Oswego due to its small yet supportive Meteorology program, as well as unique opportunities within the department, including storm chasing and student forecasting! I’ve gotten close with my professors, and look forward to taking classes with them in the near future.
What is your major, and why did you choose it?
Majoring in Meteorology, minoring in Mathematics. While working in the mountains of Oregon, I fell in love with the sky, and hope to share that admiration and awe with the public as an educator or researcher in the field.
Tell us about your Oswego experience.
As a non-traditional student who missed out on the “formative” college experience, I did not expect for there to be much support or opportunity -- yet, every day holds a new experience at SUNY Oswego! In my first semester here, I’ve found myself part of the Meteorology and Geology clubs, as well as a member of the Equestrian Team. Additionally, I’ve been able to join SEL’s (Student Engagement and Leadership) Leadership Development Program (Shout-out to Dorren Allen-Carr!), found community in the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) and am currently in talks to join LESPaRC– the Lake-Effect Storm Prediction and Research Center!
In what ways did you feel supported in the transition to become a Laker?
I believe I’ve mentioned this already -- Being able to join many clubs and organizations this semester has been incredibly helpful in building a supportive network. I’ve found community and mentorship through CSTEP, and have made friends with fellow Meteorology majors to nerd out over waterspouts and Northern Lights and despair over differential equations. Professors are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their fields, and are very welcoming and supportive after class and during office hours. While making the move upstate and transferring as a non-traditional student was challenging and a lil spooky, I know I’ve made the right decision -- and feel right at home as a Meteorology student at SUNY Oswego.