Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about Russell Sage College Orientation

Is Orientation required?

Yes. The expectation of Russell Sage College is that all new students need to participate in orientation.

Orientation is filled with opportunities for students to gain an understanding of policies, offices, and services that Sage has to offer. Plus, we have a number of important opportunities to have you network with other new and returning students from both our Albany and Troy campuses.

What is covered and why is it important?

At Russell Sage College, we want you to grow and succeed throughout your time with us. Orientation helps provide a smooth transition into your college experience and gives you the opportunity to meet a number of our faculty and staff, to attend key presentations that inform you about our expectations and support services. In addition, all new students will receive their course schedules, and students will have the opportunity to meet their fellow classmates. Staff from Financial Aid and Student Accounts will be on hand to help students and families understand the steps they need to take to secure their financial aid and pay their bills. This is a great chance for you to have your questions and concerns answered. You may even find answers to questions you didn’t know you had!

When will resident students move on campus?

New resident students move in on Sunday, August 21. The Residence Life office will reach out with more information later this summer. Contact residencelife@sage.edu or 518-244-2008 with any questions.

Do families participate in the "SET" Fall Welcome Orientation?

Families are invited to assistance resident students with moving in on Sunday, but they will need to depart residence halls by 5:00PM. The remainder of orientation programming through will be for students only. No guests are allowed at these sessions.

Are there any special COVID requirements with move-in and orientation this year?

Please check back for updated information.

Does orientation end when classes begin?

No! Experience tells us that new students will continue to have questions and need support after formal orientation programming ends, so we have developed a great support system for our new students that will extend throughout the fall. This is the GO! part of our 3 phases of orientation - Ready.Set.GO! All new first year students have been enrolled in a section of RSC 101, which will serve as an extended orientation to our campuses, our resources, and the skills and behaviors students need to practice to be successful at Sage. Transfer and first year students are all invited to participate in our welcome week events, which are coordinated with our Student Life division. In addition, all students are able to connect with their faculty advisors, student success coaches, and other campus resources throughout their time at Sage to help them find success.

Where do I pick up my Student ID?

Student IDs will be distributed when resident students move in on August 21 and during Set Orientation on August 22. Students can can also pick up your student ID from College Services during the first week of classes. Upload a photo for your Sage ID on Sage's Portal. Find out more info about how and where you can use your Sage ID online.

Do I need my parking permit before Orientation?

No. Students have time to get settled before picking up their parking permits. All full-time undergraduate students qualify for a free parking permit and will need to register your vehicle online before you can obtain a permit. You can find more information about this process on the parking webpage on Sage.edu. Students will need to pick up their permits from the College Services office once they are registered. Be sure to pick up and display your parking tag in your vehicle at all times when parked on campus to avoid getting a ticket. Ticketing of vehicles will begin after the 2nd week of classes to allow time for students to obtain their permits.

What if I am still having issues with financial aid, paying my bill, adjusting my schedule, etc.?

We want to make sure all students are in a great position to focus on their coursework when classes begin. To this end, students should be in contact with the individual offices if they have any questions or concerns. As always, you can reach out to offices and resources directly with any concerns, including Financial Aid <finaid@sage.edu>, Student Accounts <studentaccounts@sage.edu>, and Academic Advising <academicadvising@sage.edu>. We are here to help; just ask!

Whom can I contact with questions?

Any questions or concerns should be directed to the Student Success office at studentsuccess@sage.edu. We look forward to getting to know you!

NOTE: All new students are charged the orientation fee, even if they are unable to attend orientation.