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First Year Wellbeing

Navigate Your First Year 

Transitioning to college can feel daunting, but at SUNY Canton, we are invested in your success and wellbeing. This guide offers ideas to help you navigate your first year on campus with confidence.  

1. Introduce yourself to others.
   A great place to start is by introducing yourself to your Resident Assistant (RA). RAs are specially trained fellow students. They are a valuable resource for your adjustment to college. Since you'll be sharing common areas, building a friendly rapport with your neighbors is key. Take a moment to introduce yourself; it makes living near each other much more comfortable. Invite a neighbor or classmate to join for your lunch. 
2. Keep your Student ID Handy
   Always carry your ID card. You'll need to access your residence hall, eat at the dining center, and use Campus Cash at on-campus eateries and The Campus Store. It’s the best way to manage your campus funds. 
3. Attend Campus Events 
   Meet people by getting involved in campus events. Keep an eye out for student-run events hosted by the College Activities Board (CAB).   Along with wellness programming designed to help you recharge. Whether you’re looking for social connection through movies and music or a boost in wellbeing through campus health workshops, these events are free and the perfect way to balance your academic life. 
4. Stay Hydrated 
   Staying hydrated is essential for staying focused. Aim for 64+ ounces of water daily- more if you’re hitting the gym. Keep a reusable water bottle in your bag so you can refill it at stations across campus. 
5. Support Your Physical and Mental Health 
   The Davis Health Center is conveniently located on campus and offers a range of health-related services for students. The Counseling Center works to promote a safe and positive atmosphere on campus. Their goal is to create an environment conducive to learning and to developing a healthy lifestyle. The Counseling Center provides short-term counseling with Licensed Mental Health Counselors. TimelyCare is a virtual health and well-being platform for students. The service provides 24/7 access to virtual care at no cost and is offered in addition to the services at the Health Center and Counseling Center. 

Available services:  

• MedicalNow: 24/7, on-demand medical care. 

• TalkNow: 24/7, on-demand emotional support. 

• Scheduled Counseling: Select the day, time, and mental health provider of your choice. 

• Scheduled Medical: Select the day, time, and medical provider of your choice. 

• Self-Care Content: 24/7 access to self-care tools and resources, such as meditation and yoga sessions, helpful videos, and short articles from experts. 

• Peer Community: An anonymous and judgment-free space where you can connect with, react to, and support other students going through similar situations. 

Make it Worth it: Get Involved  

Staying engaged is essential to a great college experience. Here is how to dive deeper into the SUNY Canton community:  

• RooLife: Your digital headquarters for involvement. Use the RooLife website to browse SGA-recognized clubs and find campus event schedules. Whether you’re looking for wellness resources or contact information for club advisors and student leaders, it's all in one place.  

• The Hub of Activity: Visit Student Activities, Involvement, and Leadership (SAIL) in the Miller Campus Center (MCC), Room 211. They are a centralized resource for clubs/organizations,  CAB,  the Student Government Association (SGA), the voice of the student body, Greek Life and student leadership opportunities.  

• Explore Your Surroundings: Visit an office, ask a question, find your classrooms before classes start or find a new favorite study nook. Get to know the campus.