5 Ways to Get to Know Your College Town
A large part of making the most of a college experience is enjoying the city or town where the college is located. Whether the campus is in the heart of the city, in a remote rural town, or somewhere in between, going away to college opens up opportunities to expand horizons and fully embrace the new independence that leaving home can bring. Getting off campus can allow for a healthier school-life balance, and can assist with job opportunities either during the semester, in the summer or post-college. Here are five ways your student can make the most of their college town.
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#1 Check Out Coffee Shops & Cafes
In the first few months, it can be fun to try out the cafes and coffee shops in the neighborhood. These are also great places to start if your student is looking for a part-time job during the semester. Coffee shops are perfect to use as an additional study spot for group or personal study sessions. If your student isn’t a coffee drinker, have them check out local smoothie spots or cafes for the same environment!
#2 Get Active
A great way for your student to stay healthy and clear their mind is by taking workout classes. Doing so in town will connect them with other members of the community, and allow them to run into fellow students with similar interests. This is a great time to explore new things, and from spin classes to rock climbing or pilates, chances are they will discover an activity that helps them let off some steam. Finding things to do outside of school and studying will allow them to have a more well-rounded college experience and can assist when trying to make new friends. Plus, most workout studios have a free trial period or offer student discounts (see tip #3!), so your student can shop around and see which location feels like the right fit for them.
#3 Student Discounts
One of the many perks of being a college student is the discounts that come with it! Your student can often find discounted rates with their student ID at local museums, theaters, live music venues and parks. These are great spots to bring friends and get to know other students who are looking for fun things to do on the weekends. They can also be good spots to visit when your student is in need of a study break.
#4 Get to Know The Local Library
The local library is another amazing resource to use for both research and studying. Most college campuses have their own library, but a local library is another quiet spot where they can tuck away, especially during finals week when the on campus library gets overcrowded. Certain libraries will hold community events which can be a great way to learn more about the area and meet people with similar interests. The local library will also hold a different selection of books and articles that may help when writing or researching for papers and projects.
#5 Connect with Older Students
A great way for your student to get to know their college town is by chatting with someone who has been living there a little longer than they have! College is unlike high school in that talking with students outside of their class is much more normal and even encouraged.
Encourage your student to get to know the local spots by talking with their R.A. or older students in their classes who can give better insight into what students love to do in their college town. They will have the best recommendations and might even become a trusted friend and resource for your student during their college years.