Stony Brook University alumni are empowering the newest class of Seawolves to get the most out of their college experience through the new Wolves of Wisdom program.
Alumni from all graduating classes were called upon to share their advice, tips and insights from their experiences to help new students navigate campus life and take advantage of everything Stony Brook has to offer.
More than 120 alumni — ranging from the Class of 1964 to the most recent Class of 2025 — answered the call with congratulations and encouragement for both first-year and transfer students. Many, like Karen Hollander Schwarz ’69, shared the importance of connecting with their fellow classmates. “Allow yourself to meet and get to know people from different backgrounds than yours,” she said. “Allow yourself to spread your wings. Be empathetic. Grow and enjoy.”
Others highlighted the value of being involved on campus and taking ownership of their university experience. “As you begin your journey at Stony Brook, I encourage you to get involved and try new things!” shared Christina Geraci ’04, who is a member of the Alumni Association Board. “Stony Brook has so much to offer. Whether it’s an interesting class on a topic you’ve always been curious about or an exciting new club, you never know where stepping out of your comfort zone might take you.”
The insightful messages shared through the Wolves of Wisdom program will be emailed to incoming students at the start of the semester, enabling them to benefit from the wisdom imparted as they begin their Stony Brook journeys.
While plenty has changed over the years, alumni agree there is still much to learn outside the classroom — if students are willing to put themselves out there and discover the possibilities.
“Stony Brook is a wonderful place where you will learn, make friends and gain a first-class education. Take advantage of the lectures, guest speakers and cultural and social activities. Soak in as much as possible as your undergraduate years provide opportunity for intellectual and personal exploration.” — Daniel McLane ’88
Wolves of Wisdom marks the university’s latest venture to pass along wisdom from one generation of Seawolves to the next, but it’s not the first. Stony Brook’s Career Center currently features Alumni Words of Wisdom along its office wall, giving students a chance to view them and gain inspiration. Students can read about the careers of notable alumni, including veterans and 40 Under Forty honorees. Graduates have also shared their experiences with new students in the past through campaigns like “Notes To My Younger Self” and “From Wherever They Are Now.”
Through programs like these, alumni have played an instrumental role in shaping student success, sharing their expertise and guidance to inspire future leaders. With this support — alongside dedicated faculty and staff — the newest Seawolves begin their journey equipped with wisdom they can carry throughout their time at Stony Brook and beyond.
As recent graduate Katherine Wu ’24 shared, “Your time at Stony Brook will be full of opportunities to grow, explore and redefine who you are. Say yes to the things that challenge you, surround yourself with people who inspire you and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
While submissions for Wolves of Wisdom are closed for this year, alumni are encouraged to continue inspiring future generations and share their advice and wisdom next summer as the program welcomes the next group of Seawolves in 2026.
– Kristina Brandt
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