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So you've made your decision (or are almost there)—now what? Here’s your month-by-month guide to navigating the months between commitment and move-in day. The college application season is behind you, and you’ve either made your decision or are about to. Congratulations! Now that the hard work is behind you, it’s time to focus on what comes next. The months leading up to move-in day can be just as crucial as the application process itself, with plenty of important steps to take care of before your student embarks on their college journey. Here’s a month-by-month timeline to help families stay on track, with all the critical tasks leading up to the first day of college.

Starting college is a big step for anyone, but for international students, it’s an even bigger leap. They leave behind their families, friends, and home countries to chase their dreams in a new place. At Siena, international students bring fresh perspectives, different cultures, and inspiring stories that make our campus even more special.

For Patrick Freaney ’98, protecting others isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. As the Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s New York field office, he leads a team responsible for safeguarding high-profile individuals, including world leaders and dignitaries. His career has taken him across the globe, working in high-stakes environments. But his journey to the Secret Service began long before his first assignment. It started with a defining moment in his teenage years.

Picking a major is an exciting step in your college journey, but it doesn’t mean you have to stick to just one path. Combining different areas of study through interdisciplinary studies can help you develop a unique skill set, making you stand out to employers and opening up more career opportunities.

Choosing a college isn’t just about rankings or campus amenities—those matter, but so does finding a place where you can truly thrive. The experiences that shape your time on campus often come from moments of unexpected discovery: joining a club that challenges your perspective, taking a class that sparks a new passion, or finding a community that makes campus feel like home. These moments don’t happen by accident—they happen when a school fosters an environment where students feel encouraged, supported, and valued.

Starting college is exciting, but let’s be real—it can also feel overwhelming. You’re stepping into a new place, surrounded by new people, and somehow, you’re just supposed to find your people?

Good news: You don’t have to fake being an extrovert or force connections. Making friends at Siena happens naturally when you put yourself in the right situations. Here’s how to actually meet people and build real connections from day one.

College is all about new experiences, new friends, and discovering what makes you thrive—and staying active can be a big part of that. Whether you played sports in high school or just want a fun way to move, Siena offers plenty of opportunities to keep fitness in your routine—without the pressure of varsity athletics.

Choosing a college major is one of the biggest decisions students face, but what if you don’t know what you want to study? If you're feeling uncertain about your future path, you’re not alone—many students enter college undecided and thrive. Here’s why being undecided is a smart thing and how you can make the most of your college experience while exploring your interests.

Choosing the right college isn’t just about academics — it’s about finding a place that feels like home, a place where you’ll grow, and a place that offers something truly unique. At Siena College, there are experiences, opportunities, and a sense of community you won’t find anywhere else. Here are five things that make Siena stand out:

Choosing the right college is about more than rankings or prestige—it’s about finding a place where you feel comfortable, supported, and excited about your future. But how do you know if you’ve found the right fit? Ask yourself these key questions: