Off-campus Student Services Newsletter: October 2025

Five students wearing backpacks walk away from the camera down a paved pathway toward UAlbany's academic buildings on a sunny fall day.

 

Hello, Great Danes! 

Fall is in full swing! October brings crisp weather, cozy vibes and plenty of opportunities to connect with campus and the Albany community. 

Whether you’re cheering on the Great Danes, getting into the Halloween spirit or simply finding your groove balancing work, school and life, this edition has something for you.

Inside this newsletter, you’ll find:

  • Events (On- and Off-Campus)
  • Halloween Do’s and Don’ts
  • Commuter Corner
  • Finding Work/School Balance
  • Campus Resources

Learn more about Off-campus Student Services.

 

A dozen students smile and pose for a photo while sitting on a grassy hill above UAlbany's football stadium during a home game.

 

Upcoming Events

 

On-campus Events

Visit the University Events Calendar for more on-campus events.

Off-campus Events

 

Damien the Great Dane high fives a child wearing a Halloween costume during a holiday event on campus.

 

Halloween Do’s and Don’ts

Are you looking forward to Halloween? It's one of the most exciting times of the year, but it’s also important to celebrate safely and respectfully. Read through the following Do’s and Don’ts to ensure that this year’s Halloween is enjoyable for everyone.
 

Do

  • Wear creative, fun, or spooky costumes that do not stereotype or mock other people’s cultures or identities.
  • Choose characters, animals, superheroes, fantasy or DIY costumes.
  • Use gender-neutral, family-friendly and respectful language.
  • Bring allergy-friendly or non-food treats, such as stickers, pencils, glow sticks, etc.
  • Ensure decorations are safe and welcoming, such as pumpkins, fall themes, friendly ghosts, etc.
  • Celebrate diversity by making the event accessible with considerations such as wheelchair-friendly spaces, quiet zone, inclusive activities, etc.
     

Don't

  • Don't wear costumes that copy, mock or stereotype cultures, races or religions, such as Native headdresses, sombreros, geisha, Voodoo priestess, etc.
  • Don't use blackface, brownface or yellowface.
  • Don't treat sacred items, such as hijabs, turbans, rosaries, Indigenous regalia, etc., as costume props.
  • Don't reinforce stereotypes through games or activities such as fortune teller or tribal masks.
  • Don't use decorations or themes that trivialize trauma, such as lynching, insane asylums, etc.

Avoiding offensive and harmful costumes, decorations and activities ensures this Halloween is an inclusive experience!

 

A student focuses as she works on a laptop inside the Transfer and Commuter Lounge in UAlbany's Campus Center.

 

Commuter Corner

Check out some tips and tricks below to help you stay connected with the UAlbany campus as a commuter student!

  • Get Involved: Build your campus connections by joining clubs and organizations! Start by exploring opportunities on MyInvolvement.
  • Use Downtime Wisely: Take advantage of class breaks to study or complete assignments, instead of commuting back and forth.
  • Plan Your Schedule: Avoid stacking too many classes in one day, as it can be more draining than productive.
  • Find Your Space: Relax or study in the Transfer and Commuter Lounge (Campus Center 109). Lockers are also available to rent for storage through Campus Center Connections.
  • Eat Smart: Save money by bringing meals from home. Microwaves are available in the Campus Center and commuter lounge. Or consider a meal plan tailored for commuter students.
  • Stay Informed: Leave early for exams. Sign up for Nixle alerts through the Albany Police Department to get real-time traffic and road updates.
  • Save Time: Skip food lines by using the Mobile ID app to order ahead and pay with Munch Money.

 

Finding Work/School Balance

Want to gain work experience while in school? Here are some ways you can find part-time work and internships and balance work with school:

  • Apply Smart: Job boards can be outdated! Check company websites directly for the most accurate listings.
  • Explore Opportunities: Restaurant, retail and government internship roles often offer flexible hours.
  • Use Campus Tools: Search for internships and part-time jobs through Handshake, and visit Career & Professional Development in the Science Library for guidance.
  • Prioritize Academics: Don’t overcommit. Your coursework comes first!
  • Stay Organized: Use to-do lists and calendar tools like Outlook to manage time and tasks.
  • Communicate Clearly: Let your employer know your schedule may shift each semester.

 

A bronze bust of Damien the Great Dane inside the Campus Center lobby, with a banner for the Great Dane Union in the background.

 

Campus Resources

Take a look at some important campus resources!