Off-campus Student Services Newsletter: November 2025

Hello, Great Danes!

The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and November is in full swing. This edition brings you the best of campus and community events, tips to beat the winter blues, ways to protect your home during the break, smart ideas for healthy off-campus meals, and more. Let’s make this month count!

Inside this newsletter, you’ll find:

• Events (On- and Off-Campus)
• Beating the Winter Blues
• Protecting Your Home While on Break
• Eating Healthy While Living Off Campus
• Campus Resources

Events

On Campus

For a full list of campus events, please visit the official UAlbany Events Calendar website.
 

Off Campus

Beating the Winter Blues

As daylight fades earlier and temperatures drop, it’s completely normal to feel your energy and motivation dip. The “winter blues” can sneak up during the colder months, especially for off-campus students balancing classes, work, and home life. But with a few simple habits, you can lift your mood, stay productive, and enjoy the season.

• Create a cozy study zone with bright lighting and warm blankets to make early nights feel less like a drag.
• Stay active: walk or bike home (when weather allows) or join an indoor fitness class via campus recreation.
• Keep your social calendar: even one off-campus event a week helps maintain connection with friends and the UAlbany community.
• Light therapy or just extra daylight breaks during the day can help, especially during darker afternoons.
• Use UAlbany’s services if you ever feel isolated or down during the cold winter; you’re not alone and there’s always support available.

Protecting Your Home While on Break

Are you going back home for the long-awaited Thanksgiving break? Or perhaps you’re heading out of town for the holidays? Before you pack your bags, take a few minutes to secure your off-campus apartment or house. A little preparation can prevent unwanted surprises (or stress) when you return.

• Lock all doors and windows, including sliding ones, and keep valuables out of sight. Take smaller items like laptops or jewelry with you and use curtains or blinds to prevent visibility from outside.
• Use light timers or smart bulbs so your home looks occupied. Set them to turn on during the evening to give the impression someone is home.
• Pause mail and package deliveries or ask a neighbor to collect them. Stacked mail or packages are a clear sign that no one’s around.
• Unplug electronics to save energy and reduce fire risk. Chargers, lamps, and TVs still use electricity even when turned off.
• Set the thermostat to around 55°F to prevent frozen pipes. This keeps your apartment warm enough to avoid damage while saving on your heating bill.
• Empty the fridge and trash before leaving to avoid unpleasant odors. It’s also a good idea to run your garbage disposal with a bit of baking soda and water.
• Leave a small light on or use motion lights outside for visibility. A little bit of lighting can help deter unwanted visitors while keeping your space safe.
• Let your landlord or property manager know you’ll be away. They can check on the unit or contact you if anything unexpected happens.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and confirm renter’s insurance is active. These small steps can protect you financially and ensure peace of mind if an emergency occurs.

Off-Campus Healthy Eating  

Living off campus gives you independence, but it can also make it harder to eat well and maintain balance. Between classes, jobs, and commuting, it’s easy to lean on fast food or skip meals altogether. Here’s how to stay nourished, energized, and mindful this semester:

• Stock up on basic healthy staples such as whole foods, fresh vegetables, beans, eggs. These are affordable and will help you reach your daily nutrition goals!
• Plan simple, budget-friendly meals. Cook once, eat twice! Think pasta, soups, stir-fries, or overnight oats that reheat easily.
• Use what’s on campus. Bring your own lunch and use the microwaves in the Campus Center or the Transfer & Commuter Lounge.
• Stay hydrated and limit your caffeine intake. Energy drinks and coffee might feel essential, but water and snacks like fruit or trail mix keep you fueled longer.
• Be mindful about substances. Off-campus life can come with more freedom, but also more risk. Be conscious of alcohol and drug use, and reach out to UAlbany Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) if you need support.
• Tap into resources. The Purple Pantry offers free groceries to UAlbany students, and Student Health Services can help with nutrition and wellness guidance.

Campus Resources

Take a look at some important campus resources!

Purple Pantry: Need some help with food? Check it out.

Purple Threads: Interview clothing is expensive. How does free sound?  

Student Emergency Fund: Had an emergency that cut into your savings for school and living expenses? You might be able to get a grant.

Homelessness Liaison: Struggling to find a safe place to live and sleep? Get connected.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Some students may be eligible for monthly food assistance that can be used like a credit card at the grocery store. Check your eligibility!