General Advice from Students
Make the most of the resources available to you. That goes for professors, not just equipment and software. The faculty at Newhouse has an incredible amount of experience and knowledge in various fields and specialties. With only a year, asking questions and going to them for guidance will save a lot of time you could invest in the content for your reel.
I can't stress this enough: Take advantage of the Newhouse Career Development Center's information sessions and guest speakers! Top leaders in the communications industry visit almost every week. Even if it's in an area that is not your primary interest, they all provide valuable advice that will make the job hunt seem a little less stressful. And they provide great networking opportunities! Networking is key in this business and you can never do too much of it!
Don't forget your down jackets, snow boots and beer!
Enjoy the seasons, especially if you're only here for a year. The winters get cold, but you'll regret it if you don't go skiing, ice skating, or snow shoeing. Take time out of Boot Camp to get some rays and enjoy the pleasant Syracuse summer. Autumn is beautiful around here. Look into SU-sponsored trips to apple orchards, wineries, haunted hayrides. Do it all. Get all the fresh air you can.
If you're a coffee addict, check out the nonprofit student-run cafe in the basement of Hendricks Chapel. Even if you're an atheist. Just get over there! They have the cheapest coffee around, and all sorts of other treats that you won't find anywhere else on campus. A huge coffee specialty drink won't run you more than $1. It surely beats the $12 you'll pay at Starbucks for a tar-flavored latte and greasy muffin.
Be open to learning new things and taking advice from your professors and your peers.
Take advantage of all of the academic, cultural and athletic opportunities that the University has to offer. Attend speakers, lectures, sports games, student organization events. It's a great way to meet new people outside Newhouse and be able to know your community/campus better.
Don't freak out about Syracuse's winter. (I'm from the South so I was terrified.) Come prepared and you'll be fine. A knee-length, hooded coat is best. Hit up L.L. Bean in the summer, they are on sale then.
Don't worry about which end of the experience spectrum you're on. You might have had a lot of experience in your field already or you might just be starting and not know the difference between a radio and a television...it doesn't matter. The professors are great about working with what you know and bringing you along so that you never feel bored or overwhelmed. You will always be challenged and you will always be learning. Just listen to what they have to say and work as hard as you can and you will be amazed at how fast you improve.
If you're a Broadcast Journalism student, don't forget to white balance, and never say "blaze" when relaying a story about a fire.
Make friends with the people in your program. They share the same passions as you. They will be your future roommates, co-workers, and counselors. Plan activities on the weekend, go to trivia at the Inn Complete on Thursdays, attend basketball games together.
Make of the most of your time in Syracuse by enjoying the city and the region. There are tons of great restaurants, bars, and shops beyond Armory Square and the Mall, and there are festivals and outdoor activities during every season that will keep you busy without breaking your budget. Ask the locals, keep an eye on the Post-Standard Weekend section, and just get out there and explore.