STEM Success
STEM Success at SUNY Oswego is as easy as π! Our four-step plan for math success is proven to assist students in completing their studies.
Step 1 - Math Placement
Step 2 - Tutoring
Step 3 - Office Hours
Step 4 - Involvement
Math Placement
Students majoring in a STEM field may be required to take a math placement test, SUNY Oswego uses the ALEKS placement exam. ALEKS not only places students, but also provides a platform for practice and remediation. ALEKS is a wonderful opportunity for you to gauge your readiness for your upcoming math course and to fill any gaps in your knowledge base. All incoming STEM students should take the ALEKS exam and complete the associated practice in order to prepare for their first math course at SUNY Oswego. Spending at least three hours practicing math before the semester starts is a good goal.
You can learn more about ALEKS and math placement here.
Tutoring
Tutoring is a large part of college-level learning and is recommended for all students majoring in STEM at SUNY Oswego. One-on-one tutoring appointments provide an opportunity for students to clarify their own understanding, review materials, ask questions, practice problems and learn study skills. Each year nearly 20% of the student body receives assistance from the tutoring center, the majority of these students being STEM majors.
The Office of Learning Services (OLS) provides free peer tutoring for more than 100 courses in the natural sciences, social sciences, humanities and the arts. OLS also provides writing assistance at the writing center. The writing center employees content-specific tutors to assist with STEM writing assignments such as labs, reports and presentations. Students should schedule their first tutoring appointment by the second week of the semester to familiarize themselves with the process before they need academic assistance.
Tutoring appointments are available both online and in-person and are scheduled through tutortrac.
Office Hours
Set a goal of meeting each of your professors outside of class by the third week of the semester. Even if you do not need assistance yet, make sure that you can find their offices and introduce yourself. Office hours are an invaluable part of the college learning process. The sooner that you become comfortable meeting with your professors the sooner you can reap the benefit of their individual instruction. Don't delay, meet your professors right away!
Involvement
Participating in academic clubs and activities is a great way to quickly build your friend group and explore the community. Clubs exist on campus for a multitude of STEM disciplines including Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Ecology, Education, Engineering, Geology, Mathematics, Meteorology, Physics, Pre-Health, Pre-Vet, Robotics, Technology and Zoology. Clubs organize fundraisers, game nights, field trips and meetups. Begin exploring extracurricular activities by week four of the semester and attend the semester Involvment Fair to get connected.
You can learn more about clubs and organizations here.