How can I get connected to the Chemistry Department in my first two years, other than through course work?

There are several ways to do this.

Ask our Administrative Assistant to put you on our email list to receive notice of our online newsletter, the Weekly Beaker.
You are welcome to attend our Friday department seminars, which are usually at 3:30-4:30 pm. Speakers and details are always announced in the Weekly Beaker and can be found on the departmental web site.
Most weeks the faculty and chemistry majors eat lunch together either at Periodic Table in the LDC or at Journal Club. Details are in the Weekly Beaker.
You may want to consider working for the Chemistry Department. New first-term Carleton students can work in our stockroom. Once you have taken a Chemistry course, you may want to grade exams or be a lab TA for that course. Talk to a chemistry faculty member about your interests in student work.