Mathematics major Daniel Schlagel didn’t come to SUNY Oneonta with math in mind, but after exploring courses across the sciences and humanities, he found himself drawn to the subject at the center of them all. Now, through research, volunteer work and studying abroad in New Zealand, Schlagel is expanding that curiosity beyond the classroom. With plans to pursue graduate study in systems engineering, he hopes to apply his mathematical background in a more practical way while continuing a growing passion for travel and exploration.
Why did you choose your major?
I chose the Mathematics major at SUNY Oneonta for many reasons. It wasn’t my original major, but through my exploration of many natural and social sciences and humanities courses, I found that mathematics was the core of many of these subjects, which I thought was interesting.
I was curious about where the mathematical equations in my physics and economics courses originally came from, and I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of the logic used in computer science and philosophy. I really enjoyed mathematics lectures and personally had a much easier time retaining the content taught in each class, which made me feel more comfortable and confident as a student. My curiosity, enjoyment and slight boost in confidence were why I ultimately declared Mathematics as my major.
Why did you choose SUNY Oneonta?
What drew me to SUNY Oneonta was the university’s size and curriculum. As a liberal arts-centered university, there is an emphasis on undergraduate education. What this comes with is smaller class sizes, very personable and welcoming faculty, and a very well-rounded education. Also, as an out-of-state student, SUNY Oneonta provides an abundance of scholarships, which has made my education very affordable.
What has been your favorite class, and why?
My favorite class has been, by far, Discrete Mathematical Structures with Dr. Keith Jones. This class not only introduced me to mathematical proof writing, set theory, combinatorics, etc., but also opened the door to many other branches of mathematics I hadn’t explored yet. The class was almost like a preview to number theory, abstract algebra, logic, combinatorics and even graph theory!
Another huge plus for this course was Dr. Jones's actual teaching style. Every now and then, Dr. Jones would lecture, but about 90% of the classes involved students teaching students. We all completed certain problems before each class and had to provide explanations for each step we made along the way to reach our conclusion in front of the class.
Although I found it nerve-racking at times, his teaching style made me a better critical thinker and a more methodical problem solver. I also felt encouraged to be comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. This philosophy of teaching and learning, I think, was by far the most important aspect not only in my growth as a student but also as an individual.
Best Experiences at SUNY Oneonta?
Two of the most impactful experiences I had at SUNY Oneonta were doing research under Dr. Laura Munteanu and Dr. Toke Knudsen outside of the classroom. Working under Dr. Munteanu, we performed research in differential geometry and even got the opportunity to give a talk at a mathematics conference last year.
Working under Dr. Knudsen was also quite special. We got the incredibly unique opportunity to investigate the connections between mathematics and the arts. I am beyond grateful for both opportunities, and they have even made me consider pursuing further education in mathematics and mathematical research.
Moreover, I made some of my best memories out in the mountains of the Adirondacks and the Catskills and experienced the Oneonta music scene with some of my closest friends.
Clubs and Activities
From freshman to senior year, I worked as a student coordinator in the Center for Volunteerism and Community Engagement (CVCE) under Linda Drake and Sue Sorbera. My main roles were to coordinate student placements with local nonprofits and help organize large-scale service events, conferences and food drives. I did some volunteer work before I started at SUNY Oneonta. After being around passionate, active volunteers and consistently seeing the actual impact volunteering has on people and the community, my personal engagement in the local community and campus increased rapidly!
A really important part of my time in the CVCE office was meeting many amazing people whom I had the pleasure of working with. I truly consider Sue, Linda and each of those whom I worked with as family. Unfortunately, many good things do come to an end, and I had to say goodbye to the office this past winter. Now, I am currently studying abroad at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand!
Studying Abroad in New Zealand
Ever since my sophomore year of college, I knew I wanted to do some sort of education abroad. I planned my schedule well enough to complete all the required courses for the Mathematics major before studying abroad, meaning all I have left to do is complete a few more credits to graduate. So I had full choice for the courses I wanted to enroll in while abroad, and I am currently taking math, stats and psychology courses.
While in New Zealand, I have gone on a lot of solo backpacking and tramping trips, but have also been able to go on amazing adventures with my flatmates and friends I have made abroad. Aside from New Zealand’s breathtaking mountains, lakes, rivers, coasts, wildlife, etc., the people here and other visitors have been super fun and welcoming. While away, I was warmly welcomed to spend a few days with a local New Zealand family. Even though my time spent was short, I got to meet amazing people and was fortunate enough to experience some of the Māori and New Zealand culture.
There are also a lot of people visiting New Zealand. I have had the chance to meet people from every continent, whether it be students at Otago, other universities, or those I meet while traveling. I am super fortunate and grateful to have the opportunity to hear their stories, learn of native or tribal languages I have never even heard of, experience new foods and make everlasting memories.
Advice for New Students?
For anyone new to SUNY Oneonta, my biggest piece of advice is to explore, support one another and enjoy your time. Some of the most amazing people I have met here were just from me trying something new and being friendly. You will change a lot throughout your time here, whether that's academically, emotionally, spiritually, or any other way. It is of the utmost importance that everyone is treated with respect and cared for. Lastly, the four years do go by quickly, so try your best to balance what means most to you and cherish each and every moment!