You Belong at the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS).
Science is inherently collaborative and creative. Time and again, research demonstrates that belonging is an essential precondition for both. Belonging is the foundation from which we voice our wildest ideas; and scientific progress is nothing if not a compounding chain of wild and wilder ideas.
At ECS, we believe that belonging accelerates innovation, and we aim to cultivate a sense of belonging for every one of our students, staff, and faculty.
To foster belonging for all those comprising or aspiring to engineering and computer science, we seek to:
- Undertake the work of education and research with integrity;
- Engage our students, staff, and faculty as whole people, and provide comprehensive support through their nonlinear journeys of learning and discovery;
- Empower our students, staff, and faculty to create and uphold a welcoming culture for all who wish to pursue engineering and computer science;
- Apply the endless pursuit for scientific advancement to our own College and strive, always, to do better.
Programs and Initiatives
Academic Excellence Workshops
Academic Excellence Workshops (AEWs) are one-credit, peer-facilitated sessions that supplement fundamental engineering and computer science courses. They’re designed to deepen your understanding of course material through active, collaborative learning while connecting you with a community of peers who are invested in your success. AEW participation has been linked to higher course grades, so register through MySlice. Want to take on an academic leadership role? Apply to become an AEW facilitator. Applications go live every spring. For more information, email ecsieoffice@syr.edu.
Campos Student Center
Location: CST 2-219
Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 AM – 6 PM
The Campos Student Center is a welcoming home-away-from-home where ECS undergraduates can study, connect, and recharge. More than a student center, Campos is a launchpad for personal growth, offering opportunities to build your network, strengthen your skills, define your path, and gather the tools you need to reach your goals.
Recurring Programs, Fall 2025:
Math Study Table, Mondays, 4 – 6 PM
Computer Programming Study Table, Tuesdays, 4 – 6 PM
Thriving Thursdays (drop-in belonging initiative), Thursdays, 10 AM – 6 PM
First Fridays (community brunch), first Friday of every month, 11 AM – 1 PM
Catalyst
Catalyst is a cohort-based leadership program for first-generation college students at ECS. With the support of a close-knit community of students and professionals, participants hone the skills to catalyze positive change in STEM.
Participants receive:
- Peer mentoring
- Leadership and career development
- An ever-expanding support network
Each fall, Catalyst recruits a new cohort of first-year students to participate. Interested? Email ecsieoffice@syr.edu for more.
Inclusive Excellence Council
Comprised of staff and faculty from across ECS, the Inclusive Excellence Council works to foster a welcoming environment for all students, staff, and faculty at ECS. The council advises on priorities, recommends strategies, and leads projects that advance success and boost belonging within the College.