Serafina earned her bachelor’s degree in education from The College at Brockport, State University of New York. She specializes in English tutoring, ISEE tutoring, and a number of other subjects. Below, she shares her experience at SUNY Brockport:
Describe the campus setting and transportation options.
Serafina: Brockport is the perfect size town. The campus is fairly rural, but the main street is within walking distance and offers plenty of restaurants. There is also a bowling alley in town and an active night life. There is a bus to Rochester, and a campus bus that makes trips to local grocery stores. If you want an off-campus job, you may need a car, or at the very least a bike, but there are plenty of on-campus opportunities as well.
How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants?
Serafina: In my experience, the faculty are very available. Some faculty do not hold regular office hours, but offer to schedule a meeting whenever you would like. You do need to seek out help if you need it. If you make the effort to meet with professors, they are very accommodating and helpful.
How would you describe the dorm life—rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students?
Serafina: Dorm life is typical. There is a strong no-alcohol policy that is strictly enforced. There are plenty of clubs, and you can even make your own club if what you are looking for isn’t currently available. The food is generally greasy, but there are healthy options as well.
Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?
Serafina: In my experience, Brockport’s teaching program is a good program that prepares you well for the field. I went into teaching because it was my biggest passion. In addition, the business program is world-renown and probably the best program Brockport offers.
How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life?
Serafina: I was a transfer student, and making friends was easy. There are many clubs and the people in the dorms are very friendly. There aren’t many strong Greek life opportunities on campus.
How helpful is the Career Center and other student support services?
Serafina: The career center is great. Companies recruit on campus and there are career fair events in which many employers come to campus at once to speak to students.
How are the various study areas such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges?
Serafina: The library is quiet and was recently redone. The workout facilities are amazing and also have been recently remodeled. The student union is spacious, and I have never experienced overcrowding on campus.
Describe the surrounding town.
Serafina: Brockport is a small town, so if you want access to a city, you have to go to Rochester. However, if you like small-town environments, Brockport has everything you need. There are places to shop, dine, and beautiful places to walk. My favorite walks are the canal and North Hampton park.
How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes?
Serafina: Brockport is a medium sized school. General education classes can be big, sometimes 300-400 students. But once you get into your major, class sizes drop way down to 10-40 students.
Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most.
Serafina: I remember being shy in my first arts for children creative drama class. We did a lot of improvising, and at first I hated it. But by the end of the class, I was friends with everyone and had so much fun every class period.
Check out Serafina’s tutoring profile.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.
