Off-campus Student Services Newsletter: September 2023

Four students walk down a path through an autumnal grove of trees.

Learn more about Off-campus Student Services.
 

Monthly Calendar of Events

7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday: New York's Past | Present | Future exhibition on view at the New York State Capitol

5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, September 12, 2023: Beverwyck Neighborhood Community Clean Up with Off-campus Student Services

11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, September 16, 2023: PearlPalooza in Downtown Albany

5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, September 16, 2023: Hispanic Heritage Celebration in the Empire State Plaza Convention Center

1:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 19, 2023: Roommate Mixer with Off-campus Student Services in Campus Center 138

7 p.m. Wednesday, September 20, 2023: Off-campus 101 with with Off-campus Student Services in LC 13

10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 23, 2023: Albany Book Festival in the Campus Center

1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, September 24, 2023: Weekly Pine Hills Clean Up with Off-campus Student Services

7 p.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023: Witch Perfect at The Egg

Visit the University Events Calendar for more ideas.

 

A smiling student wearing a purple UAlbany sweatshirt reaches out to throw away a piece of trash in Albany's Pine Hills neighborhood.

 

Know Your Tenant Rights

Right to Safe & Habitable Housing: Tenants have the right to live in a rental unit that is safe, clean and in good repair.

Anti-discrimination Rights: It is illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or familial status under federal and state fair housing laws.

Security Deposit Rights: Landlords must return a tenant's security deposit within a reasonable time after they move out and provide an itemized statement of any deductions.

Rent Increase: Appropriate notice must be provided based on the duration of the tenant's occupancy before raising the rent.

Protection from Retaliation: Tenants have the right to assert their rights without fear of retaliation or eviction by the landlord.

Right to Privacy: Landlords must provide reasonable prior notice (except in emergencies) before entering a rental unit.

 

Three students smile and laugh as they walk along the Empire State Plaza near the Capitol.

 

How to Be a Good Neighbor

Friendly Introduction: Start by introducing yourself. A warm smile and a friendly "Hello" go a long way in building rapport.

Communication Matters: Open and respectful communication is key. Discuss any issues calmly and find solutions together. Establish a rapport with your neighbors that encourages them to openly discuss any concerns they may have before seeking assistance elsewhere.

Respect Boundaries: Respect your neighbors' privacy and personal space.

Neighborhood Safety: Look out for your neighbors. Report suspicious activity and stay prepared for emergencies.

Keep the Peace: Mind the noise, especially during quiet hours. Maintain your yard and keep it tidy for the sake of curb appeal.

 

An Albany City Fire truck parked on campus on a sunny day.

 

Apartment Safety Tips

Secure Entry Points: Ensure all locks are in proper working condition.

Keep Your Apartment Well Lit: Ensure good lighting in common areas.

Know Your Neighbors: Build a sense of community.

Maintain Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Create a fire escape plan.

Maintain Your Apartment: Check for has leaks. Service appliances regularly. Ensure electrical safety.

Obtain Renters' Insurance: Renters' insurance offers protections for your personal possessions and tenant liability. It can sometimes be included as an add-on or endorsement to existing insurance policies, such as car insurance or your parents'/guardians' homeowner's insurance.

Communicate with Your Landlord: Maintain open lines of communication with your landlord or property manager.