Freshman Life FAQs

What happens at freshman orientation?
Orientation is scheduled for July.  There are four sessions. The Office of Student Activities will assign the student a session. Students and parents are introduced to the campus, people and policies. Students register for classes with an advisor.

Is housing guaranteed?
Housing is guaranteed for freshmen.  We provide housing for the student for all four years, as long as the student is a respectful community member.

Can I pick my roommate?
Yes. If you meet someone at a function or orientation, you may request a roommate.  The two students must request each other.

What happens if my roommate and I don’t get along?
Siena understands that students have an adjustment period. Students are welcome to talk to a Resident Assistant, Resident Director, or Friar-in-Residence. We will have them work through an arbitration period. After that process, if the students would like to move, it is possible.

What is there to do on the weekends?
You will not be bored. From athletics to theatre, there is always something to do. If you want to get off-campus, the Capital Region offers numerous opportunities.

How many classes does a freshman take first semester?
Freshmen generally take five 3-credit classes during the first semester. Science students, because of labs, might have more credit-bearing class time.

Can I have a car on campus?
Freshmen residents cannot have cars on campus. Students find it easy to get around by taking cabs and buses, or getting rides with upperclassmen.    

Do you provide transportation on breaks?
We do not provide transportation for breaks. Many students will carpool with friends and parents. We also have a ride share board for carpools, and we are located 10 minutes from the Greyhound bus station, Amtrak train station, and Albany International Airport.

How is the food?
The food is great. The Dining Hall just completed a 4.5 million dollar renovation.  It has a variety of food, continual dining hours and all you can eat style. There is also a coffeehouse on campus, and a sub shop/pizza place in O'Leary's Pub.

How safe is Siena?
Siena is a very safe campus. We have a 24 hour security patrol 365 days a year. Also, Loudonville is ranked as one of the safest communities in New York State.