Admissions

Chat Transcript

April 4, 2012

Skidmore Admissions: Welcome to the Skidmore College Student Live Chat! We will begin shortly. If you'd like to submit a question, please do so at any time and we will respond during the session.

Before we begin, we'll have the panelists introduce themselves. 

Skidmore_Molly: Hey everyone! My name is Molly, and I'm a senior from Burlington, VT. I'm an English major and French minor, an editor for Palimpsest, Skidmore's online literary magazine, a Student-to-Student online representative, and a Res Life staff member for the past three years. (Right now I'm a UA, which is like an RA for the on campus apartment complexes.) I'm so excited to answer your questions!

Skidmore_Logan: Hi, my name is Logan Frederick. I am a junior here at Skidmore College, from Arlington, VA. I am a Geoscience Major and Mathematics Minor. I am also a member of the Skidmore Women's basketball team. I am the president of the Newman Club on campus (the Catholic Club on campus). I look forward to answering your questions.

Skidmore_Brittany: Hi my name is Brittany. I'm currently a senior here at Skidmore. I am a biology major. I currently do research in genetics and biochemistry with two of my professors and have presented my work at several symposiums and conferences. I work in the Admissions Office as a student assistant. I am a member of Skidmore Polo Club and Honors Forum. I recently was accepted into graduate school and I will be attending UCLA in the fall. I am really excited to be chatting with you guys, and please feel free to ask me any questions!

Skidmore_Melvis: Hi My name is Melvis, I am a senior double major in economics and business. On campus, I am a member of the men's basketball team, Senior Class President, and Honors Forum. Last summer, I interned at JP Morgan in Sales and Trading and the previous summer I was at a corporate law firm. I was born in Ghana, grew up in Indiana, moved to Zimbabwe then Kenya, and went to boarding school in NJ-the Lawrenceville School.

sread94: How would you describe the atmosphere on campus? Are students supportive of others and their accomplishments or are they competitive?

Skidmore_Melvis: Students are very supportive of one another. There is a lot of collaboration on many different actions. The level of competition is helthy/friendly.    

sread94: Could you talk a little bit about the strengths of the language programs at Skidmore as well as the study abroad programs? In regards to study abroad, are all trips taken during the school year, or is it possible to go abroad during the summer?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi sread94! I really love the foreign language program at Skidmore; any language track you take is going to be well-rounded, with different courses on conversation, literature, history and culture. In my French minor, I've taken Intro to French Lit, French History from Gaul to the 19th century, Conversation, Phonetics, and Translation. Lots of good stuff. Also, you can take Self-Instructed language classes, with options like Arabic, Korean, Hebrew and Portuguese.   

    
As for study abroad, it is very much possible to go abroad during the summer! Skidmore frequently sponsors summer abroad programs; this summer there's a textiles/art program in Kyoto, Japan, and a Beatles program in London and Liverpool.    Thanks for your question!    

sread94: Do you think that Skidmore has strong science programs that prepare students for graduate school or jobs after graduation? What opportunities are available for science majors?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi sread94, I think that Skidmore has an excellent science program. I am a geoscience major, and am in the process of applying to graduate school for hydrological science (The study of water flow). I find that the science program here has allowed me to get competitive internships as well as good field work experience, which graduate schools really appreciate. The science department is rather small, so the small class sizes allow for a good one on one interaction.

Jen: I love bowling! Is there a bowling alley near by?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Jen, There is a bowling alley in town that was just renovated. It is called Strike Zone, you can either take the bus (which is free for students), walk, or ride a bike there.

julialatham: Who has been your favorite professor so far?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Julia! Hmm, favorite professor is a toughie...I've had a lot of really inspirational English professors over the past four years. Steven Millhauser, Steve Stern, and Greg Hrbek have all been incredible creative writing teachers (check their work out online!) and I've learned SO MUCH from them. I also had a really cool history professor named Colin McCoy who would play banjo for us during lecture. Gotta love banjo.   

Tobes2323: What do students do for fun at skidmore?

Skidmore_Melvis: There are MANY activities for students to do during the weekends: concerts, house parties, lectures, comedy shows, and going downtown if you are 21. Also there is MOOREBID (halloween party), FUN DAY, JUNIOR RING, AND SPRING FLING!!!!"

sread94: Do you think that Skidmore has strong science programs that prepare students for graduate school or jobs after graduation? What opportunities are available for science majors?

Skidmore_Brittany: Hi! I think that Skidmore has really amazing science programs. What's great about Skidmore is that it's extremely flexible because it is a liberal arts school. Although I am a biology major, I have taken neuroscience and psychology courses as well as many chemistry courses. I am also currently doing biochemistry research, which is actually in chemistry department not the biology department. I recently interviewed at several graduate schools and one thing they thought set me apart was my research experience and coursework - I never would have had those opportunities if I did not attend Skidmore. There is an extensive alumni network which is wonderful for networking in the sciences, and we have Faculty/Student Summer Collaborative research as well. Also, the programs will help you apply for any outside research internships you might be interested in. As I said in my bio, I am attending UCLA in the fall and it's biochemistry graduate program is ranked top 10 in the nation...so we are getting accepted into amazing graduate programs. Also, everyone I know that is looking for a job before entering graduate school have found something they are excited about. I cannot express how happy I am as a science student at Skidmore.

ccouture: What weaknesses do you feel that Skidmore has?

Skidmore_Melvis: HONESTLY, I cannot think of something. I have had an amazing career.

julialatham: Which freshman seminar do you suggest?

Skidmore_Brittany: I took Human Origins which kind of bridged the gap between science and English and brought up the evolution of man and how we are constantly searching for our purpose, and how that search relates to our evolution. I loved it so much and my adviser from that course is currently my adviser. I still have friends from that course, it brought us very close.

Toria: Hey guys, when I visited, the dining hall looked really awesome. Is it as good as it looks?

Skidmore_Molly: The dining hall is possibly BETTER than it looks, and it looks pretty darn cool. Lots of vegetarian, vegan and healthy options, different sections like Global Cafe and Supremo's (PIZZA!!), and of course, the famous Late Night offerings like grilled cheese and chicken wings. The variety is great, there are Sunday Sundaes, sushi, a deli section where you can create a custom sandwich (hello, avocado spread), and a DIY section where you can cook your own fried rice, omelets, and more. LOVE the dhall...yes, that's what we call it here at Skid.   

Connie: Did you know what you wanted to major in when you applied to Skidmore? Are there core requirements?

Skidmore_Logan: I knew I wanted to study science, but I had no idea what I wanted to do specifically. The great thing about small liberal arts schools is that you do not need to know what you are going to major in. You do not have to declare your major until the second semester of your sophomore year. My freshman year, I took a bunch of classes in all different disciplines, it did not set me back at all when I started focusing on my major. Start off your college experience by taking classes that sound interesting to you!

Toria: I'm a little worried about being too isolated in upstate new york. Do you ever feel like there's nothing to do or the campus gets too small?

Skidmore_Melvis: There are MANY activities for students to do during the weekends: concerts, house parties, lectures, comedy shows, and going downtown if you are 21. Also there is MOOREBID (halloween party), FUN DAY, JUNIOR RING, AND SPRING FLING!!!! There are also numerous clubs and organizations that you can join. Also the location is great in the sense that you are about 3 hours away from NYC, Montreal and Boston.   

Samuel: Can you tell me a bit about the art department?

Skidmore_Molly: The art department is wonderful because it offers intense art school-style courses without, y'know, having to go to art school. Skidmore studio art and art history majors can enjoy the liberal arts AND create cool work. Studio art majors have to take four elementary courses (Visual Concepts, Color, Form & Space and Drawing) before choosing from the full menu of delightful options: metalwork and jewelry making, painting, bronze casting, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, printmaking and more. Lots of options, really knowledgable professors who are also working artists, and the option to study abroad in places like Rome and Amsterdam. Especially now as a senior, all of my studio art major friends are really coming into their own and creating cool art -- which will end up in the senior art show at the Tang museum on campus!

julialatham: Who has been your favorite professor so far?

Skidmore_Brittany: I currently work for Dr. Kelly Sheppard, who is a Biochemistry professor here at Skidmore. I absolutely love him, he has been much more than a professor and a research adviser for me...he is really my mentor. He has helped me with my academics and with any issues I have outside of the classroom and laboratory. He has helped me so much I will be forever grateful for him. He read over my application essays for graduate school and told me everything I needed to know for interviews, and is slowly trying to ease me into the transition. He lets me work completely independently in the laboratory, which improves my laboratory skills and increases my confidence in my ability to do science. I could not have asked for a better professor and mentor.

sread94: Is it realistic to double major in two completely different subjects? (I'm interested in physics and Spanish)

Skidmore_Melvis: There is no typical Skidmore student. You can easily find pre-med students who are also majoring in Dance or English or Art majors who are in Math or Psychology...It is perfectly possible to do those two majors because we have great faculty members to help you out.   

sread94: How would you describe the atmosphere on campus? Are students supportive of others and their accomplishments or are they competitive?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi sread94, I was worried about being in a ultra-competitive environment when it came to college. I have found that my peers are very supportive when it comes to classes as well as extra circular activities. I play basketball, and I find that my friends who are in the theater department come to my games, and I love attending their plays. Everyone here finds there own niche, but I find that everyone is interested in supporting everyone else.   

julialatham: Did you like your roommate?

Skidmore_Melvis: My freshman roommate and I are best friends and we currently live in one of the apartment buildings on campus!   

Vered: Hey, I just wanted to ask how is the deal between the college and the city of new york? do students just go and spend the day etc? and also..does it offer internships in museums for prospective art and art history students?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Vered! New York City is about three and a half hours away from Skidmore College, and there's a lot of opportunities to visit and experience NYC. Skidmore Urban Experience does regular (cheap) bus trips to the city, as does the art department. Last Saturday there was a trip to MoMa and the Met, which a lot of people chose to partake in. (There's also a new Megabus route that connects Skidmore with NYC.)   

    
As for internships, Skidmore's Career Services department can help hook students up with art-related opportunities in NYC, plus we have the Tang museum on our own campus, and the Tang offers internships in areas like education and curating as well. Thanks for your question!    

Toria: Hey guys, when I visited, the dining hall looked really awesome. Is it as good as it looks?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Toria, the dining hall is as good as it looks! My biggest advice is to become friends with the dhall staff, because they are some of the nicest people. I have a lot of allergies and I am a vegetarian, and they are very accommodating.   

sread94: How would you describe the atmosphere on campus? Are students supportive of others and their accomplishments or are they competitive?

Skidmore_Brittany: The atmosphere here at Skidmore is completely supportive. We look to each other when we are having an issue or basically whenever we need to talk. Although there is going to be a little competition here and there, just because we are all striving for greatness, it's healthy competition. It make us all want to be better at what we do. I have always felt comfortable in my major and amongst my peers and can go to any of them for help and support.

julialatham: Do any of you know someone on the equestrian team, and if so, does she find it difficult to balance riding and academics since it's a D1 sport? 

Skidmore_Melvis: I have friends on the team. They actually do REALLY well balancing academics and riding. In fact they hold the highest GPA of all athletes. They usually have the greatest number of students on the Thoroughbred Society (student athletes with GPAs of over 3.67).    

Jen: Can you describe your dorm experience in 5 words?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Jen! I absolutely can: interactive, social, tripled, friendly, SNACKS.

Jennaleah: What made you pick Skidmore?

Skidmore_Melvis: Rooms are LARGE, dinning hall is phenomenal, professors are friends in/out of the classroom, and the location is ideal for going to Montreal/Boston/NYC.

julialatham: Do you ever find the guy/girl ratio to be a problem?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Julia! I think the 60:40 ratio sounds a little scary, but 1) it's apparently the national average for colleges, 2) it isn't as evident/obvious in everyday life, whether in class or in social situations, and 3) I personally haven't felt an imbalance. Plus, thanks to this past incoming class, we've beaten down the ratio to 59:41, yay!

Marlena: How are roommates chosen?

Skidmore_Logan: Marlena: There is a housing questionnaire that you fill out before you come to school. The questionnaire will ask questions about your sleeping habits, music preferences, things like that. All first year Scribner Seminars are housed in the same dorm building, so you will know those students after the first day.   

Max: How artsy would you say this school is? I enjoy art but don't want it to dominate every day life. How big is the sports and science culture?

Skidmore_Brittany: I would never use the word ""artsy"" to describe Skidmore. The arts are present on campus, but it's actually nice because I feel like it adds a lot to the culture on campus. Sports on campus are really fun to watch, it's always great to cheer on Skidmore especially when it is a really important, big game. The sciences have always been very present, but they are definitely up and coming. We have several great programs and our professors are published, research scientists. I think what distinguishes Skidmore from many schools is that the arts, sciences, and athletics come together to create a unique culture that leads to well-rounded graduates.

Toria: Hey guys, when I visited, the dining hall looked really awesome. Is it as good as it looks?

Skidmore_Brittany: Yes!! The dining hall is amazing. There are a lot of different options - pasta, ethnic, diner, vegetaria, sandwiches, pizza, etc. You can eat differently every night and try new foods all the time. I was a picky eater when I came to Skidmore...not anymore!   

Katie: I am from a fairly rural area in VT and am a bit intimidated by Saratoga Springs. Thoughts?

Skidmore_Molly: Hey Katie! Fellow Vermonter over here! Don't be intimidated by Saratoga Springs; it's pretty much the best of both worlds in terms of urban/small-town. If you've ever been to Burlington, Saratoga is quite similar in terms of size and things to do. The downtown area has a lot to offer but it's not overwhelming by any means. The town itself is accessible by a 15 minute walk or by the bus that comes to Skidmore every half hour. I think that you'll be pleasantly surprised by Saratoga's accessibility -- it's a cute college town, and it won't scare you. Come and visit sometime, and thanks for the Q!

Jen: How's security on campus?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Jen, Saratoga Springs is a really nice town, and it does not have a high crime rate. As far as on campus goes, I have always felt safe. It is a good idea to always travel in pairs wherever you are. We have a blue light system on campus for emergencies as well as a 24 hour campus safety department.

Tobes2323: What do students do for fun at skidmore?

Skidmore_Brittany: There is so much to do at Skidmore! Every weekend there are several events to choose from, whether it is a comedy show, concert, theater production, or just a movie playing in one of the auditoriums. I have never had trouble finding something to do for fun here on campus. Also, sometimes we just curl up in our dorms or apartments and have movie marathons or play board games. What is great about Skidmore is you can go out if you want to, but no one ever pressures you to go to parties or judges you if you prefer to stay in. You can find people who love to have fun the same way that you do.

Elle: Hi Molly, what do you mean by ""tripled" in your answer to Jen, describing your dorm experience? BTW, I love your last word! :)"

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Elle, I was in a triple my freshman year in Howe-Rounds. It was obviously an interesting experience and I'm actually really grateful for it because I learned A LOT about myself by living in a room with two other people. My suggestion for those who might be put in triples is this: be open, be flexible, and take it as an opportunity to meet not one but TWO new individuals and learn from your roommates. Plus, I got to sleep in a bunk bed for the first time :)

Thanks for that question! Snacks are definitely a big part of the Skidmore experience.    

Marlena: What's housing like after Freshman year?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Marlena, after freshman year, there is a housing process where every student gets a lottery number. Your lottery number is random, but over your three years of housing selection, you will get one "good" number, one "bad" number and one in the middle. You can "pull-in" with your friends, where you can use the best number that one of them has. The housing on campus is all very nice, and there are lots of on campus apartments that are really fun to live in with friends.

julialatham: What kinds of questions do they ask on the roommate surveys?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Julia, the survey asks questions like what time you generally go to bed, what kind of music you like, whether or not you smoke (smoking isn't allowed in the dorms, but it's still a relevant lifestyle question), your relative neatness/messiness, things of that nature. You'll be housed more by your Scribner Seminar than anything else, but those are certainly useful questions for getting down to specifics.   

julialatham: Are any of you or your friends on the quidditch team?

Skidmore_Melvis: I have a a friend on the team...she enjoys it and they just bought their jerseys and had their first tournament last weekend.

julialatham: If you are struggling with a paper or other assignment, will staff or fellow students offer help?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi julialatham, I am a horrible writer, I have found a lot of support when I need it for writing papers. We have a writing center that is made up of professional staff and peers who will review and help with papers for free. You should never feel like there isn't help available.   

ccouture: What will you miss most about Skidmore?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi ccouture! I personally will miss just about everything! My apartment, my classes and professors, the amazing friends I've made over the years, the super-convenient and cool social events and concerts, the creative atmosphere...I can only hope that wherever I live after graduation still has that Skidmore kind of spirit, because I really love it. Thanks for the nostalgia-inducing question!   

Eric: Skidmore_Brittany would you be willing to elaborate a little more on your experiences with neuroscience? I am accepted to Skidmore and am looking to make the right decision for a neuroscience program.

Skidmore_Brittany: I had a great experience with the neuroscience program at Skidmore. Our program is a mixture of an introduction to neuroscience course, biology courses, and psychology courses. You kind of get a taste for all types of neuroscience, whether you are interested in the molecular side of things or the behavioral/clinical track. We do not have a molecular neuroscience program, although we just received a grant and they are planning to build up the neuroscience program and hire professors to teach molecular neuroscience. Also, taking the biology courses gives you a very good sense of molecular biology and its application to neuroscience. I applied to graduate school thinking I wanted to pursue biochemical neurobiology and they were impressed with my credentials and I feel extremely prepared to pursue that. Our neuroscience, biology, and psychology professors are wonderful - they always have their doors open and are there to help you in any way they can. They also love taking on new research students in their laboratories! I think the neuroscience program here is already amazing, but it is growing every year.   

Max: Is there any cross country skiing in the winter?

Skidmore_Logan: Max: There is a cross country ski club and a down hill ski club team. This year was not so good for snow in the north east, but there are some trails on campus as well as some 5 mins from campus.   

Toria: How big is the party life? Is it possible to find people to hang with on a Saturday night who aren't partying?

Skidmore_Molly: Hey Toria, I'd say it's definitely possible to find non-partying activities. There are tons of weekend activities (concerts, comedy shows, a capella shows, art openings, sports games) on campus that don't involve 'partying', so to speak, and Skidmore Late Night is a club that specifically puts on programming meant to be enjoyable for everyone on the weekends.

Also, you might want to consider Skidmore's themed substance-free housing; all res halls are technically substance-free, but this is a floor in Rounds Hall designated specifically for people who'd rather keep their living situation totally free of that kind of thing. It's generally a chill, quiet space for folks! Thanks for the question!    

Vered: Hey I just wanted to ask how is the deal between the university and the city of new york? do students just go and spend the day etc? and also..does it offer internships in museums for prospective art and art history students?

Skidmore_Brittany:  Skidmore is three to three and a half hours away. It is definitely possible to take the train into the city and just spend the day. Also, we often have bus trips that leave from campus. The Honors Forum has day trips into the city often. We have the Tang Teaching Museum here on campus where you can take courses and help out with the galleries. It is not only possible to get internships in museums, it is very likely you could get one. Art and art history faculty members will help you and career services has listings of alumni and other internships that you can get in touch with and apply to.

Connie: Did you know what you wanted to major in when you applied to Skidmore? Are there core requirements?

Skidmore_Melvis: At Skidmore, the academic curriculum is broken up into thirds...overall 1/3 electives, 1/3 core requirements and 1/3 your major requirements. I came in thinking about doing chem, but now I am graduating with a double major in econ and business.    

julialatham: Have any of you studied abroad, and if so, where did you go and how was the experience?

Skidmore_Molly: Hey Julia, I studied abroad in Prague, and it was incredible. I studied Czech literature, history, culture and language, stayed with a Czech family in a homestay, and ate soooo many fried cheese sandwiches. 55% of the class of 2011 studied abroad, so it's definitely part of the Skidmore experience. Thanks for the Q!   

Marlena: How easy was it to get to know people when you started at Skidmore?

Skidmore_Logan: Marlena, the great thing about college is that everyone is starting off with only knowing a few people or no one at all. I found that I made friends very easily. At the beginning of freshman year, there are lots of activities and things like ice cream socials to get new students mingling.   

cpcassidy94: How easy is it to double major?

Skidmore_Melvis: It is VERY easy to do it. A majority of my friends have double majors. the resources and professors are always more than willing to help advice students on course selection.   

worcsoxfan18: What surprised you when you got to Skidmore?

Skidmore_Melvis: Everyone here is quite friendly. Also, the town is great.

esims: Do you find that the social atmosphere on campus is one of small cliques or is it more open?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi esims! The clique question comes up a lot, and it's a legitimate worry, especially at a small school. I say, Skidmore is only as cliquey as you make it! Over the years I have successfully prevented my social life from becoming cliquey by taking part in a wide variety of activities: res life, cabaret troupe, tour guiding, a literary magazine, working in the dining hall, and so on. The more stuff you do at Skidmore, the wider your social circle becomes.

Samuel: How would you describe the student body’s personality?

Skidmore_Melvis: The student body's personality is: multi-talented, friendly, dynamic, and outgoing.

Jen: How accessible are nurses/ doctors on campus in case I get sick?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Jen, We have a health center on campus that has a RN as well as nurses practitioners. There is a doctor that comes in once a week. You can get your physical done at the health center, or if you are feeling sick, or need a prescription. There is also a urgent care center, less than 10 mins away, as well as a hospital for the more serious problems.

Alex: Hi Brittany, I'm very interested in the health professions and want to attend medical school. I plan on becoming a biology major as an undergrad. Do you feel the program at Skidmore properly prepares pre-med students to achieve this goal?

Skidmore_Brittany: Absolutely!! Skidmore has an excellent biology program. The faculty members here are all published research scientists that are more than willing to take on research students. The coursework is challenging, and because of the flexibility of Skidmore you can take several science courses - I have taken biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and psychology courses. One thing that is great about Skidmore is that when you are interested in pre-med, you get an academic adviser and a pre-med adviser whose sole job is to help you prepare for medical school. There are always events on campus that are designed to help you apply to medical school, including mock interviews. I think Skidmore allows you to be an excellent candidate for medical school, because you will have experiences that many other applicants will not have such as diverse coursework or research. I have friends that have been accepted to medical shools such as Columbia and Harvard - so needless to say, Skidmore prepares you to be an excellent candidate for medical school. 

Tobes2323: What do students do for fun at skidmore?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Tobes2323! Here's an abbreviated list of things we do for fun: concerts (big bands and student bands), a capella shows, comedy shows, theater performances, art openings and parties, neighborhood block parties (the Hip-Hop Alliance club and the Pride Alliance are both putting on block parties this month!), sports games, res hall movie nights, the bars downtown (for the over 21-ers), lectures, off-campus parties, and big events like Moorebid Ball (Halloween), Junior Ring (the big winter dance), and Fun Day (the most fun day of the year). So yeah, lots of fun being had by all!   

julialatham: Are there any clubs you definitely suggest joining?

Skidmore_Melvis: It depends on what you like, we have over 80 chartered clubs and organizations and you may charter your own club once you get here. Recently, the student senate chartered the Quidditch club.

Abi: What's the first day on campus like?

Skidmore_Logan: Dear Abi, the first day on campus is a whirl-wind, but it is very exciting and fun. You will met lots of new people, and you wont remember half of what happens. The school is very good about preparing events for new coming freshman, so do not worry about finding things to do!

Alex: Brittany, did you have the opportunity to study abroad while at Skidmore?

Skidmore_Brittany: Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to study abroad while at Skidmore. Although it is a little more difficult to study abroad as a science major, it is far from impossible. With a concentration in molecular biology, in order to take the courses I needed to have the background I wanted it was better for me to stay on campus for my coursework. I was also starting a research project the semester that I would have studied abroad. However, that does not mean science majors can't study abroad. There are really large, wonderful programs for the sciences in Copenhagen, South Africa, and Australia - which are the places I would have gone had I studied abroad. The majority of students at Skidmore study abroad, and the Study Abroad Office helps you find programs, fit those programs into your academic schedule, and apply to them. Even though I did not have the opportunity, I would have loved to and I have many friends in the sciences that studied abroad and had the time of their lives!   

julialatham: What has been your favorite memory from Skidmore?

Skidmore_Melvis: Winning back-to-back Liberty League tournaments, and attending FUN DAY in the Spring.

browneyes3: Hey. I'm attending Skidmore next fall and I'm really nervous about the roommate situation. i am very scared i wont get along with my roommates. do most people not have this issue?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi browneyes3! I understand why you're nervous. It's pretty scary to live with one or two new people! Once you find out who your roommate/s is/are in August, I'd recommend emailing or Facebooking them right away to figure out needs, wants, who's taking what bed, and who's bringing what stuff to the room. Very useful info to get ASAP. As for getting along with roommates, it really depends on the people involved, but my own personal advice would be to be open and flexible, listen to your roommate's needs, and assert yourself when necessary.   

I f conflict arrives (and it can! I've experienced it!), there are lots of avenues to take, from talking to your RA, to using Skidmore's mediation club, Fight Club, to work things out with your roommate.   
   
Don't worry! Conflict is natural and can absolutely be resolved. An open mind is key -- I think having roommates that are very different from you can be a really cool experience. Thanks for the question! 

Jen: How long does it take to get from campus to downtown saratoga springs?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Jen, it's a fifteen minute walk or a five minute bus ride! Thanks for the Q!   

julialatham: Are there any good places nearby to go snowboarding?

Skidmore_Logan: Julialatham, there are a couple of mountains near by. The school offers a discounted rate for students to Gore and West mountain. As far as transportation goes, I have a couple of friends who do not schedule classes on Fridays and pack up early and spend the day on the mountain. This is not usually possible freshman year, but can be as an upper classmen.

smccoy: How are the facilities at Skidmore?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi smccoy, Skidmore facilities, from the neuroscience labs to the music building to the athletic/dance facilities, are pretty uniformly up-to-date, and even state-of-the-art! Thanks for the question.   

sread94: What types of jobs are available on campus?

Skidmore_Melvis: There are jobs in various administration and academic major areas, tour guiding, alumni calling, and also the dining services offers some opportunities.

sread94: How easy is it to get involved in volunteer organizations?

Skidmore_Logan: Sread94, there are a lot of opportunities for volunteer work in town. Is there anything you were wondering in particular? I am a volunteer firefighter in town, and I love all of the interactions I get with all different types of people. There is also a homeless shelter, as well as an emergency corps. But if there is something particular you were interested in?   

Connie: Did you know what you wanted to major in when you applied to Skidmore? Are there core requirements?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Connie, I knew what I wanted to major in (English) when I went to Skidmore, but that doesn't mean you have to know in advance -- you don't have to declare a major until the end of your sophomore year. 

A s for core requirements, there are a few, and I actually blogged about them (and how to fulfill them without going totally crazy) on my Skidmore SS2S blog; here's the link: http://academics.skidmore.edu/blogs/molly/2012/03/03/are-there-any-classes-at-skidmore-that-you-are-required-to-take/. Thanks for the question!   

Abi: What's the first day on campus like?

Skidmore_Brittany: It was a little overwhelming, but I had so much fun that it didn't really matter. You meet so many people, and orientation is extremely helpful for getting to know Skidmore before classes begin. It was so exciting, because you were meeting new people and making friends, and it signified the beginning of your future - which may seem scary, but it's a really good feeling. I remember having a great time, but as a side note - it can be a little difficult saying goodbye to your parents, they will probably be emotional which will likely make you emotional. But remember that they are only emotional because they are really happy for you, so although it is hard it is also really exciting learning to become independent.   

Alex: Does anyone have any feedback as to class sizes in your elective, core, or major courses?

Skidmore_Melvis: The graduating econ major size is about 36 and in business about 90.

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Alex, class size depends on the department. Usually the largest class you will take will be your introductory classes during your freshman year. But once you delve more into higher level classes, the class size decreases. Even in large classes, there is usually a lab component (as with the intro to bio and chem), where the professors learn your name and can help with 1on1 questions.

Connie: Did you know what you wanted to major in when you applied to Skidmore? Are there core requirements?

Skidmore_Brittany: I have known that I wanted to study Biology since I was approximately 5 years old! I knew I wanted to do research in high school. I chose this school with Biology in mind, because it is prestigious but I knew I would have the opportunity to take other courses and explore other interests. There are core requirements, such as quantitative reasoning (which is usually like a math course), foreign language, humanities, natural science, non-western, cultural diversity, etc. But they are not hard to accomplish, and often open your mind to other subjects. I took a religion course called ""Goddess in India"" and I absolutely loved learning about Hinduism as a religion and a culture - I never thought I would! And I took several Spanish courses, because I enjoyed the language and it is really helpful when looking for jobs in the future.   

Jen: Can anyone tell me more about food plans?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Jen, if you're living in a res hall on campus (which pretty much everyone does both freshman and sophomore years), you automatically are signed up for an UNLIMITED meal plan. That's right: unlimited. You can go to the dining hall any time between 7am to 11pm, as many times as you'd like, whether you're eating a full meal or grabbing a snack between classes.

Once you start living in the apartments or off-campus, you can choose to stick with the unlimited plan, or you can sign up for different kinds of ""apartment"" or ""commuter"" plans with pre-specified numbers of breakfasts, lunches and dinners, OR you can get Dining Dollars to spend wherever you'd like. Once I started living in the apartments, I picked Dining Dollars because they're a bit more flexible.   
   
Thanks for the Q! More dining information here: http://cms.skidmore.edu/diningservice/meal-plan-options.cfm    

Marlena: Do people stay on campus on the weekends?

Skidmore_Molly:  Hi Marlena, Skidmore is not a ""suitcase school"" -- people tend to stick around on the weekends. Thanks for the question!  

ccouture: What weaknesses do you feel that Skidmore has?

Skidmore_Brittany: I can honestly tell you (and I know that you probably think I am lying to you, but I'm not!) that I have yet to find a weakness here at Skidmore. I have had an amazing experience here at Skidmore. Although I have had not-so-great days and even weeks, overall they weren't issues with the college but simply the experiences that you have in college.

julialatham: What has been your favorite memory from Skidmore?

Skidmore_Logan: Julialatham, my favorite memory at Skidmore was last winter, before Christmas, me and some friends walked downtown in the snow. We made a snow angel on every lawn we passed! There is this bagel shop downtown that gives out free day old bagels, so me and my friends grabbed a bag of my favorite. We proceeded to spend hours in front of the local post office singing Christmas carols, AND PEOPLE JOINED!!!

Jen: My friend also got into Skidmore, can we request to dorm together?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Jen, unfortunately, first-year students aren't allowed to pick their roommates. You get housed by your Scribner Seminar (it helps foster community within your seminar right away!), and you also fill out a survey to state what kinds of preferences you have in terms of living style: what kind of music you like, how late you stay up, whether you want substance-free, gender-neutral or women's floor housing, et cetera. Of course, once you complete your first year, you can start choosing roommates! Thanks for the Q.   

julialatham: Logan, That's awesome! Is that something that you think a lot of other kids would probably do?

Skidmore_Logan: I have met some of the most unique people at skidmore, and I am sure lots of them have more epic stories like mine! The cool thing is there are always alternative things to do on the weekends.   

Alex: I'm concerned about my financial aid. Skidmore was very generous with my scholarship. Did you find that your financial support remained throughout your four years at school?

Skidmore_Brittany: Skidmore has been extremely wonderful to me financially. They were also very generous in my financial aid when I entered as a freshman, and over the years because of my high academic standing my financial aid has increased over the years. I received two scholarships for my standing in the biology department as well as my general academic standing, which was very nice not only because of the money they provided, but because Skidmore was awarding me for my hard work. I can tell you that paying tuition has not been an issue thanks to Skidmore's generosity.   

Skidmore_Molly: Hey Alex, I've received a hefty financial aid package for the past four years and can say that my aid has stayed pretty constant throughout. When Skidmore creates a financial aid package, they seem to want to make a commitment to the student so that they won't have to leave for financial reasons. Thanks for the question!

Skidmore_Melvis: The financial aid on campus is GREAT. The support I have gotten from Skidmore has remained the same over the past 4 years. 

esims: Do you find that the social atmosphere on campus is one of small cliques or is it more open?

Skidmore_Melvis: The campus climate is quite open... students are very friendly and outgoing.    

julialatham:  Is there an outdoors orientation program, such as a hiking or canoe trip?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Julia, heck yes there is! It's a pre-orientation program called SCOOP. There are lots of options within the SCOOP program: wilderness hiking, wilderness canoeing, hiking & canoeing, or lodging. I did lodging, which is great for anyone who likes outdoorsy things but doesn't necessarily want to sleep in a tent/get eaten by a bear. Of course, I don't think we've had any bear casualties in the wilderness group yet. Do SCOOP! It's a fun pre-college bonding activity, and the location is really, really beautiful.   

julialatham: Do students tend to be more liberal or conservative?

Skidmore_Logan: Julia, there are lots of different types of students at Skidmore, there are definitely some die-hard Democrats, as well as some Republican. Overall, the school is mostly liberal, and the town leads towards conservative. There are clubs for both parties. While students has different opinions, I have never been scared to share my views and talk about current issues.

julialatham: Are there any buildings currently under construction or that will be getting renovated soon?

Skidmore_Melvis: There is construction of a new apartment complex, the library will be getting interior renovations, and also there is an expansion of the science department.   

Jen: How has your perspective on Skidmore changed throughout the years?

Skidmore_Brittany: I find that each year I attend Skidmore, I fall in love with it just a little bit more. As each semester passed, I realized that the flexible, supportive atmosphere helped me thrive as a student. I have had the opportunity to take diverse coursework and do a wide array of research, and Skidmore has given me so much. I have gained so much knowledge here, and have become a much more confident, strong individual. The background that Skidmore has given me has not only prepared me to enter a prestigious graduate program, but has prepared me for life.  

julialatham: Do you find the construction distracting?

Skidmore_Melvis: The construction has not been distracting. They work at strategic times so that they do not disrupt the daily operations of student and faculty.   

Jen: I remember when I came to visit over the summer, a tour guide said something about how you can learn how to play an instrument? Does anyone know more about this?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Jen, there are music lessons offered through the music department -- both advanced ones for people who have previous experience, and beginner ones. I have a classmate who is taking classical guitar (and has never played guitar before) and she says that the class has gotten really good over the semester. You can take lessons in voice, guitar, wind instruments, West African drumming, sitar, and more.   

sread94: Why did you choose Skidmore?

Skidmore_Brittany: I chose Skidmore because the moment I visited campus, I knew it felt right. It was well-ranked in the sciences, and I got the feeling that the environment would be supportive and never judgemental. The campus is beautiful, which is always a bonus. I made the correct decision!   

julialatham: Is it easy for double majors to study abroad?

Skidmore_Melvis: It is easy to double major and go abroad. You will just have to find a program that allows for easy transfer of credits.

julialatham: What have been the most fun, unique, or interesting classes that you have taken?

Skidmore_Melvis: Documentary film making, school and society, ballet/modern dance/improbe dance....   

Jennaleah: Are there a lot of things that happen on campus? I know the town is awesome, but what about the campus?

Skidmore_Logan: Hi Jennaleah, the town is very active and a nice place. There is always activities going on campus, wether they are dances, performances or sporting events. I have run into the issue many times where I do not know what to do on the weekend because there are so many things I want to go to.   

Alex: How's the bathroom situation in the dorms? Is there plenty of availability for showering, etc? Also, are there washes/dryers available in each dorm?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Alex, the bathrooms in res halls are suite-style, which means that anywhere from four to eight people share a bathroom (except in Wiecking, which has communal bathrooms for floors because it isn't suite-style). I've never had a problem with shower availability, as long as you communicate with roommates and suitemates. And there are laundry rooms on each res hall floor with washers and dryers -- it's $1.25 per load, and you pay by swiping your Skid card, so no worrying about having enough quarters to get clean clothes. Thanks for the question!   

julialatham: How are the lab facilities?

Skidmore_Brittany: Our laboratories are really great! We have an electron microscope that very few undergraduate institutions possess, as well as SAIL (Skidmore Analytical Instrumentation Laboratory...I think) We have an NMR machine as well. Our laboratories are well-funded by Skidmore and other organizations, and I have found that if a laboratory does not have something we find ways to work around that are try our best to obtain it. I have had great experiences in the laboratories here at Skidmore, and having worked at other schools I can tell you our laboratories are pretty awesome!

julialatham: What is it like having a car on campus? Are freshmen allowed to have cars?

Skidmore_Logan: I did not have a car freshman year, and I did not feel disadvantaged, because the free bus service is very convenient. My sophomore year, I was allowed to bring the "family-mobile" up to school. You have to pay to register your car, it is about $110 for the year. There is a lot of parking, some places are better than others. You really do not need a car, but if you ever live in an apartment, it is nice to get groceries whenever you want to.    

Samuel: How would you describe the student body’s personality?

Skidmore_Brittany: Supportive. You can always count on your peers to be there for you when you need them, whether it is to share good news or to help you through a problem. There is a strong sense of community here on campus, which really helps everyone succeed in their undergraduate studies.

Max: How strict is the campus?

Skidmore_Molly: Hi Max, if you're asking about how strict the campus is in terms of drinking/partying, I'd say we're about average. Obviously it isn't legal to drink until you are 21, and the res halls are substance-free so even if you are 21, you're not allowed to drink in the res halls, but this isn't a so-called ""dry campus."" If anything, from what I've seen as an RA, the policies in place are there to keep you safe, not to keep you from having fun! Thanks for the Q. Here's our policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs: http://cms.skidmore.edu/student_handbook/alcohol-and-other-drugs.cfm.

Skidmore_Logan: Thanks for all the questions, if you have anymore questions, my email is lfrederi@skidmore.edu. Dont hesitate to ask, we have all been in your shoes!

Skidmore_Melvis: "Thank you for joining us for this session. If you have any further questions following tonight, please feel free to email me at: mlangyin@skidmore.edu. 

Skidmore_Molly: Thank you so much for all of your questions! I hope we were helpful in answering them. If you have more questions, you can email me at mobrien1@skidmore.edu, or ask me Q's on Formspring (http://formspring.me/mollyatskidmore), or check out my blog for more info on daily life on campus (http://academics.skidmore.edu/blogs/molly). Thanks again!

Skidmore_Brittany: Hey everyone! I hope I was able to answer all of your questions and help you make your decision about whether Skidmore is the right college for you! I hope that you will consider Skidmore, because it is a really wonderful school. If you have any more questions, please feel free to email me at bulrich@skidmore.edu Thanks! 

Skidmore: That's all for tonight, folks! Thank you for attending the current student live chat. We will be holding another session on April 17. If you have any further questions, please contact the Admissions office at 1-800-867-6007 or admissions@skidmore.edu.