Off-campus Student Services Newsletter: February 2026

Learn more about Off-campus Student Services.
 

Hello, Great Danes!

Welcome back to campus and welcome to a new semester! Whether you are returning from winter break or joining UAlbany for the first time this spring, Off-Campus Student Services is here to support you as you settle back into routines, navigate winter weather, and plan for a successful semester both in and out of the classroom. 

February is a great time to reset, reconnect, and get organized. This month’s newsletter highlights campus and community events, practical tips for off-campus living during winter, and resources designed to help you start the semester strong
In this newsletter: 

• Events (On- and Off-Campus)
• Winter Living Check-In
• Navigating Your Commute This Semester
• Finding Jobs and Internships for Spring and Summer
• Planning Ahead for Housing and Lease Decisions
• Campus Resources to Support You This Semester

Upcoming Events

On-Campus Events

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

• Every Weekend:
  • 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Late Night in the Campus Center, Campus Center Orb Stage
    A consistent, low-pressure way to unwind with music, games and social activities.
• February 7, 2026:
  • 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Men's Basketball vs. UMass Lowell, Broadview Center
• February 9, 2026:
  • 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.: UAlbany Graduate Fair, Lecture Center Concourse
    An excellent opportunity to explore graduate programs and speak directly with faculty and admissions representatives.
• February 10, 2026:
  • 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.: Game Night at CEHC, ETEC, B042
• February 11, 2026:
  • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Business Job & Internship Fair, Campus Center Ballroom, CC 202
    Meet employers offering internships and full-time positions in business and related fields. Bring résumés and be ready to network.
• February 14, 2026:
  • 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Men's Lacrosse vs. Cornell, Bob Ford Field, Casey Stadium
  • 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Women’s Basketball vs. Binghamton, Broadview Center
• February 17, 2026:
  • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Men's Lacrosse vs. Penn, Bob Ford Field, Casey Stadium
• February 19, 2026:
  • 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.: Women’s Basketball vs. NJIT, Broadview Center
• February 21, 2026:
  • 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.: Women's Lacrosse vs. Harvard, John Fallon Field, Lacrosse Field
  • 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Women's Basketball vs. UMBC, Broadview Center
• February 23, 2026:
  • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: WCI AI & Writing Fair, Campus Center Ballroom CC 202
    Learn how artificial intelligence is shaping writing, research, and academics. 
• February 24, 2026:
  • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Government & Non-Profit Job & Internship Fair, Campus Center Ballroom CC 202
    Connect with organizations focused on public service and community impact.
• February 25, 2026:
  • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Women's Lacrosse vs. Niagara, John Fallon Field, Lacrosse FIeld
• February 26, 2026:
  • 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.: Men's Basketball vs Maine, Broadview Center
• February 28, 2026:
  • 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Select Saturday at the University Art Museum, Fine Arts, FA 105
    A relaxed weekend event featuring art exhibits and activities.
  • 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Men’s Basketball vs. New Hampshire, Broadview Center

Off-Campus Events

• February 6, 2026:
  • 5 p.m.: 2026 Ballston Spa Chocolate Festival, Ballston Spa
• February 7, 2026:
  • 11 a.m.: 27th Annual Saratoga Chowderfest, Downtown Saratoga
    Sample chowders from local restaurants while exploring downtown Saratoga with friends.
  • All Day: Town of Clifton park Winterfest 2026, Various Locations, Clifton Park
    An all-day winter celebration featuring outdoor activities, food, and seasonal fun.
  • 12 p.m.: Tenth Annual Family Festival, Proctors Theatre, 432 State St.. Schenectady, NY
• February 13 to 15, 2026:
  • Various Times: Flurry Dance Festival 2026, Saratoga Springs City Center
    A weekend-long contemporary dance festival showcasing performances from artists across the country.
• February 14, 2026:
  • 1 p.m.: 2026 Albany, NY Wine & Chocolate Festival, The Desmond Hotel
    A Valentine’s weekend favorite featuring wine tastings paired with decadent chocolate treats.
• February 15, 2026:
  • 3 p.m.: Marmen Quartet, Union College Memorial Chapel
• February 20 to 21, 2026:
  • Various Times: Bailey's Annual Ice Bar, Bailey's Saratoga
    A unique winter experience with ice sculptures, themed drinks and a lively atmosphere.
• February 21, 2026:
  • 12 p.m.: 2026 Saratoga Beer Summit, 2026 Saratoga Springs City Center
  • 6:30 p.m.: In the Heart of Darkness: A Sound Journey for the Tender Places, Carols of the Heart
• February 22, 2026:
  • 3 p.m.: Sterling Elliott, cello, Union College Memorial Chapel
• February 23 to March 1, 2026:
  • Various Times: 2026 Schenectady County Restaurant Week, Participating Schenectady Restaurants
    Enjoy discounted prix-fixe menus at popular local restaurants throughout the week.
• February 26, 2026:
  • 5:30 p.m.: Warmth of Winter 2026, Wolferts Roost Country Club
• February 28 to March 1, 2026:
  • Various Times: 2026 Saratoga Home and Lifestyle Show, Saratoga Springs City Center
    Explore home décor, wellness, and lifestyle vendors in a relaxed, indoor setting.

Winter Living Check-in for Off-campus Students

February is often the coldest month, making it a good time to check in on your apartment and daily routines.

• Confirm your heating system is working properly and report issues to your landlord early.
• Keep walkways, stairs, and exits clear of snow and ice for safety.
• Check windows and doors for drafts and use simple fixes like weather strips if needed.
• Monitor utility usage to avoid unexpected heating bills.
• Know emergency contact information for your landlord or property manager.
• Review your lease to understand responsibilities related to winter maintenance.

Navigating Your Commute This Semester

Winter weather can affect travel time, especially for off-campus students commuting to campus. Here are a few tips on you can safely navigate your commute this spring!

• Leave earlier on snowy or icy days to allow for safe travel.
• Stay informed about parking regulations and snow emergency rules in the city of Albany.
• Check bus schedules for weather-related delays or route changes.
• Keep backup transportation options in mind when possible.
• Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear for icy sidewalks.
• Sign up for campus alerts to receive weather and safety updates.

Finding Jobs & Internships for Spring & Summer 

The beginning of spring is a key moment to start exploring employment and internship opportunities! Take advantage of all of the resources available to you here at UAlbany. 

• Check Handshake regularly for part-time jobs, internships and summer positions.
• Consider roles that offer flexible hours to balance coursework.
• Explore internships in government, nonprofit or local organizations.
• Update your résumé and cover letter early in the semester.
• Communicate your availability clearly with employers.
• Visit Career and Professional Development for help with job searches and interview preparation.

Planning Ahead for Housing and Lease Decisions

Housing planning often begins early in the spring semester for off-campus students.

• Review your current lease for renewal deadlines and notice requirements.
• Start conversations with roommates about plans for next year.
• Research housing options and neighborhoods if you plan to move.
• Compare rental costs and utilities when budgeting for next year.
• Avoid rushing into decisions without reviewing lease terms carefully.
• Reach out to Off-campus Student Services with housing-related questions.

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 an grant.
• Homelessness Liaison: Struggling to find a safe place to live and sleep? Get connected.
• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Some students may be eligible for monthly food assistance that can be used like a credit card at the grocery store. Check your eligibility!