Category: Resources

When someone visits your OpenLab profile, it’s often the first impression they get of you whether it’s a classmate, faculty member, potential collaborator, or even a hiring manager. A complete, thoughtful profile helps you stand out and shows you’re an active part of the CUNY SPS community.

Here’s how to make your OpenLab profile shine:

Add a Profile Picture (yes, really)

It doesn’t have to be a professional headshot (unless you want it to be!) just a clear, friendly photo that represents you. Profiles without a photo can feel unfinished.

• Bonus: It helps people remember you after classes, events, or workshops

Write a Short Bio

Think of this like your “elevator pitch.” A few sentences are enough to introduce yourself and give others an idea of what you’re about. You might include:

• Your program or major
• Your interests (academic or personal)
• How you want to use your OpenLab site
• Anything you’re working on or passionate about

You don’t need to compose a full résumé, just something that feels like you.

List Your Skills or Projects

OpenLab lets you share links, projects, or groups you’re a part of. You can use this space to:

• Mention any ongoing academic work or extracurriculars
• Link to your portfolio or blog
• Add courses you’re proud of or topics you’re exploring

It shows you’re actively using the platform and gives people a reason to connect with you.

Be Intentional with Privacy Settings

You control who can see your profile and what’s visible. If you’re using OpenLab to network or build a portfolio, keeping your profile public can be a smart move. But if you’re just starting out and want to keep things low-key, that’s okay too.

Just take a moment to check your visibility under Settings > Profile Privacy.

Keep It Updated

As your interests or work evolve, come back and update your bio, picture, or links. It only takes a few minutes, but it helps keep your presence current and consistent.

Your profile is your space. Own it.

📩 Have questions or want help getting started? Reach out to us anytime at openlab@sps.cuny.edu. We’re happy to walk you through it.

Photo Credit: “unconventionalpaintings.com” by Carl Dunn via Flickr under the license CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.

If you’re a CUNY SPS student, OpenLab is your go-to platform for building connections, showcasing your work, and collaborating with classmates. But with so many features, where should you start? Here are the top 5 must-use features that will help you make the most of OpenLab!

1. Personal Portfolio

Want to stand out academically and professionally? OpenLab lets you create a personal portfolio where you can showcase your projects, coursework, and achievements all in one place. Think of it as your online resume!

2. Join Student Groups & Clubs

Connect with like-minded peers by joining student groups, academic organizations, and clubs. Whether you’re looking for study groups, networking opportunities, or social activities, OpenLab makes it easy to find your community.

3. Collaboration Spaces for Projects

Working on a group project? Need a space to brainstorm, share files, and discuss ideas? OpenLab provides dedicated collaboration spaces where students can work together efficiently, no endless email threads needed!

4. Learning & Resource Hubs

From study guides to academic support, OpenLab gives you access to valuable learning resources that can enhance your studies. Explore shared materials, faculty insights, and important updates, all in one convenient place.

5. Campus Announcements & Updates

Stay in the loop with the latest CUNY SPS news, events, and opportunities. OpenLab is a great place to find important updates, so you never miss out on deadlines, workshops, or community happenings!

Start Exploring Today!

Log in to OpenLab, explore these features, and make the most of your SPS experience. Your journey starts here!

Photo Credit: “unconventionalpaintings.com” by Carl Dunn via Flickr under the license CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.

Getting involved in student organizations is one of the best ways to connect with peers, build leadership skills, and engage with topics that interest you. OpenLab makes it easy to find, join, or even create your own student groups at CUNY SPS.

Why Join or Start a Group?

• Expand your network while connecting with classmates who share your academic or personal interests.
• Participate in discussions while collaborating on projects and sharing valuable resources.
• Gain leadership experience while organizing events, managing a group, and building a community.
• Stay informed while receiving updates on campus activities, career opportunities, and academic support.

How to Get Involved

• Explore existing groups while browsing OpenLab’s Groups section to find student clubs, academic organizations, and project teams.
• Join discussions while introducing yourself, engaging with posts, and contributing ideas.
• Create your own group while setting up a space for discussions, collaboration, and resource sharing on topics that matter to you.
• Stay active while posting updates, sharing insights, and inviting peers to participate.

Whether you’re looking to connect, collaborate, or lead, OpenLab is the perfect place to start.

Photo Credit: “Magic&Loss” by livingtheliminal via Flickr under the license CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.