Living on a college campus is a unique and exciting experience. After the college years, you won’t have the opportunity to live in a building with hundreds of other students your age or enjoy lunches and dinners you don’t have to cook. While the dorms and dining hall are staples of a college campus experience, there are many other resources and benefits to living on campus, including the 10 listed below.
1. Academic Advising
Few students utilize their academic advisor as a resource. Not only can your assigned advisor guide you with class selection, he or she can also teach you how to add, drop, or withdraw from classes, run an advising report, and set academic goals.
2. Career Resource Center
Many colleges have a career resource center on campus with a career counselor or team of counselors to assist with resume writing, interviewing, and job search tips. Career workshops and seminars offer a more formal learning environment for groups of students. A strong alumni network can greatly increase opportunities for an internship or job.
3. Counseling Services
Homesickness, stress, and anxiety are common among first year college students. A campus counselor can offer support and encouragement as you transition from living at home to on campus. The number of campus counselors depends on the number of students attending that school.
4. Writing Center
Writing those college papers can be a drag, but help is just a short walk away. Almost every college has a writing center on campus where students can receive free writing assistance. Why not take advantage of this resource?
5. Student Union
The student union building often houses the dining hall, vending machines, bookstore, and study lounge. The dining hall opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the bookstore has all the academic books and supplies you’ll need. If you’re looking for a new study spot check out the student union lounge.
6. Organizations/Clubs
Professional organizations, social clubs, and fraternities/sororities offer opportunities to connect with students who have the same interests and passions as you do. Participating in organizations and clubs can enhance the college experience outside of the classroom.
7. Sports/ Intramurals
Do you love to play soccer? Are you a talented basketball player? Consider trying out for a school sports team or joining an intramural team, which is less competitive. You can even try an intramural sport you’ve never played before, like ultimate frisbee.
8. Fitness Center
Exercise is proven to increase endorphins, resulting in decreased stress and improved mood. If you’re not into a competitive sport but want to stay active and healthy, the fitness center is the place to go.
9. Safety and Security Services
All campuses have college police on premises to prevent and investigate crime. If you feel threatened or in danger on campus, reach out to the campus police department. Some campuses have blue light safety phones scattered throughout the parking lots so all you have to do is press a button to connect with the campus police.
10. Health Services
Many campuses have a health clinic with nurses trained to address mental health diagnoses, eating disorders, ADHD, addictions, and disabilities. These nurses also manage chronic conditions and promote a healthy lifestyle.