Off-Campus Student Services Newsletter: May 2026

A UAlbany student poses in a purple picture frame, wearing academic regalia.

Congratulations to Ellion Magsino (above) on graduating this semester with a Master of Science in Taxation! Ellion has been a Graduate Assistant in Community Standards during the 2025-2026 academic year, and contributed greatly to the office’s success, including producing these monthly newsletters. We appreciate your hard work Ellion, and wish you all the best in your new adventures!

Hello, Great Danes!

Could you believe it? The Spring semester went by really quick, and we’re down to our last month. The UAlbany campus will miss you over the summer, but this newsletter provides some resources that will help you succeed in reaching the finish line. Whether you’re preparing for finals, ending or extending your off-campus lease, or looking into making a purchase online, we've got you covered! 
 

In this newsletter: 

  • Events (On- and Off-Campus)
  • Preparing for Move Out and End-of-Lease Responsibilities
  • Setting Up for Success: Finals Edition!
  • Caution When Using Online Marketplaces
  • Campus Resources
     

Events

On-campus Events

Off-campus Events

 

 

Preparing for Move-Out and End-of-Lease Responsibilities

As the end of the semester quickly approaches, May is the perfect time to start thinking ahead of moving-out and lease obligations.

  • Review your lease for move-out requirements and notice deadlines.  This will help ensure you meet all expectations and avoid unexpected fees.
  • Begin decluttering and donating items you no longer need. Starting early makes the process less overwhelming and helps support local charities.
  • Take photos of your apartment’s condition to document your move-out. These images can protect you if there are disputes about damages later.
  • Schedule any required inspections or maintenance with your landlord. Doing this ahead of time helps ensure you aren’t rushed during the final days before moving out.
  • Clean shared spaces gradually to avoid last-minute stress. Breaking tasks into smaller steps keeps the workload manageable and ensures thorough cleaning.

  • Make a plan for storage or transportation if you are leaving Albany for the summer. Researching options early can help you find the most affordable and convenient solution.


     

 

Setting Up for Success: Finals Edition

We want you to succeed during your finals! Here are a few ways to prepare effectively and get high marks:

  • Try to arrive at your exam location about 30 minutes early. This extra time can help account for traffic delays or unexpected problems.
  • Take advantage of office hours. Many instructors offer extra help sessions before finals, and some may be available online.
  • Be familiar with your exam schedule. Finals often take place outside regular class times, and departmental exams may follow different schedules. Check the Final Exam Policy & Schedule page through the Registrar's Office for details.
  • Seek help if exam stress becomes overwhelming—you’re not alone. You can contact Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) for support at any time.
  • Remember to eat before your exams. Having a meal beforehand can help improve focus and performance.
  • Use free tutoring resources. No matter the subject, University at Albany offers tutoring services to support your academic success—visit the Tutoring & Academic Support website to learn more.

  • Choose a quiet environment. If you need a calm place to study or take an online exam, consider the silent study areas in the University Library.


     

 

Caution When Using Online Marketplaces

If you plan to make a purchase or sell items in an online marketplace, be sure to use these tips to stay safe:

  • If an offer feels unrealistically good, it’s likely a scam. Use sound judgment when browsing online marketplaces, as fraudulent listings are common.
  • Always arrange to meet in a public location. When completing a transaction in person, choose a spot with plenty of foot traffic. If possible, bring someone along for added safety. The Albany Police Department advises using station lobbies and makes them available to help ensure safe exchanges.
  • Handle payments carefully. Never hand over money before inspecting the item in person. Afterward, pay using a trusted app like Venmo or Cash App, or use the platform’s secure payment system. Since cash and checks can be counterfeit, avoid them unless you’re able to confirm their authenticity.

  • Take extra care with electronic items. Before selling electronics, perform a factory reset to erase any personal data. Before purchasing electronics, be aware that evaluating their true condition at the time of exchange can be difficult.


     

 

Campus Resources

Take a look at some important campus resources!