Academics
There are multiple pathways to success for students at Siena College, as evidenced by the nursing program’s BS and dual RN/BS options. The school also boasts a career-oriented focus that is aided by the school’s easy access to Albany, the capital of New York State. Students in the well-regarded pre-law program, for instance, appreciate “getting to hear from attorneys in the Capital Region.” Students also speak to the school’s inclusive attitude, which presents valuable viewpoints, like “an LGBTQIA+ seminar on…trans individuals in medicine that I thought was really insightful.” Having opportunities to “work outside in a garden collecting and harvesting our own herbs to use in an infusion” creates hands-on experiences, and, according to one student, allows them “to be impartial in the decision making of my patients.”
Academic choice extends to the “phenomenal” study abroad options: “There is an extremely wide array of programs to choose from, and the staff at Siena helps and encourages you every step of the way.” Even those normally outside of traditional study abroad programs have opportunities to travel: “I took a travel course to Ireland. We learned all about Irish literature and history and traveled to places that represented our studies over the course of ten days.” In all, Siena helps students to practice and succeed.
Student Body
“The small size of the student population creates a tight-knit and supportive community,” agree many students on campus. Notes another, “there is a diverse community supported by the [Franciscan] Friars.” To help support bonds with the “large commuter population,” the school also hosts regular on-campus events, such as monthly lunches. Not that students need the help! Many note that “holding doors, smiling at people, and…saying hello” are common courtesies on campus. And one senior fondly recalls that “one of the first things I noticed … is that when one of my peers saw me carrying large boxes to move in, they held the door for me even though I was far away. The “thoughtful actions, kind hearts, and warm smiles” of the student body are just a few of the reasons why students say things like, “I wake up each day and am grateful that I decided to go to Siena College.“
Campus Life
“We have a saying that ‘Siena Saints don’t sit on the sidelines,’” says one senior. “This means that we are active in making our school and community a better and safer place to live, play, and learn.” Saints play within 22 Division I athletic programs, and basketball games are a campus favorite. “I love to go to the basketball games with my friends,” raves one third year student. Siena even provides transportation to home basketball games in downtown Albany through a popular on-campus club, Dog Pound. “Sports, whether playing for the school or club, are…very popular to play and watch!” explains one sophomore.
Outside of athletics, Saints enjoy being of service to the greater Albany community. Habitat for Humanity and the Bonner Service Leaders Program, where students’ academic work is matched with nonprofit organizations in Albany, are common favorites. At Siena, “students can participate in volunteer work, service trips, and community service projects, which provide them with opportunities to make a positive impact on their community.” Given the student involvement, it is unsurprising—but satisfying—to hear Siena described as a “really beautiful campus” filled with “green spaces” where “the energy is always positive.” One student offers the perfect glimpse of Siena in a nutshell: “the Student Union is always full of peers studying, chatting or grabbing food, and it’s very easy to make friends!”
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