College campuses offer a variety of student benefits. You can probably handle many of your daily errands and activities without ever leaving school grounds! Many of your school’s amenities are likely covered by your tuition and may be available at no additional cost.
Do College Amenities Matter?
According to a recent study released by College Pulse, 54% of undergraduate students said campus facilities factored into their decision to enroll at a particular school.
Colleges offer amenities to recruit and retain students, ranging from lap pools to extravagant lazy rivers and on-campus steakhouses. The value of these amenities varies, but they can significantly impact your college experience.
Here are 13 top amenities that colleges offer (and that you may not be using!):
1. Go to the Campus Gym
With so many different food options on and surrounding most college campuses, it can be easy to let your workout regimen slide. The good news is that many schools offer gyms, so you can work out in the morning or between classes! Using a campus gym is a fantastic amenity, especially if you’re already on campus during the day.
If you like to work out in groups, find out if your college’s gym offers classes or training sessions. From morning yoga to weight lifting, group classes are a great way to stay in shape and learn a new skill.
2. Attend On-Campus Events and Workshops
Many colleges and universities offer access to educational resources that go far beyond simply attending classes. Often, schools will host special events and workshops, allowing you to learn new skills or network with professionals in your selected field.
Additionally, your campus may host recreational events, often free entertainment and food. If you’re looking to have a great time on a budget, explore your college’s calendar of events to see if anything is coming up.
3. Guest Speakers
Throughout the year, colleges often invite guest speakers to lecture on campus. Guest speakers can include well-known politicians, activists, business leaders and even entertainers. These events can give you incredible insights from industry experts.
4. Explore the Library
The campus library is a great place to find academic resources to help you ace your classes. Almost all college libraries offer computer access, and you can often check out textbooks and required reading materials.
5. Tutoring Services
Your college likely offers tutoring services for a variety of classes. Before exploring more expensive tutoring options, visit your campus library’s website, or speak with your academic advisor to see if tutoring is available to students.
6. Technology Rentals
Need a professional camera or editing software for class? Your campus library may offer rentals to students! Colleges often provide free or affordable technology rentals for students working on large-scale projects. Check with your school’s library or IT center for more information about this option.
7. Career Services
Often, campus libraries or career centers offer networking and college resume help. If you have questions about starting your job search or looking for an internship, the career center is the perfect place to go. Ask your academic advisor if you aren’t sure where to find the career center on campus, and they can likely point you in the right direction.
8. Academic Advising
You may wonder, “What does an academic advisor do?” The answer is almost everything related to helping you succeed in college! You can ask your academic advisor many questions, from which classes will be most beneficial in your schedule to resources for networking. They may even be able to connect you with the career center for college resume help or can provide advice for finding a job after graduation.
Your academic advisor is a fantastic resource, and you should ask them any questions you have about campus. They may even introduce you to more resources available for college students!
9. Visit On-Campus Museums and Historical Buildings
Especially if you attend a historical school, your campus likely boasts various buildings and exhibits worth exploring. Some schools even have campus museums on site, and others offer guided tours of long-standing historical buildings.
It can be easy to take these things for granted when attending class on campus. Be sure to take full advantage of all the services and activities offered as college student benefits!
10. Mental and Physical Health Services
One of the most significant college student benefits that campuses often offer is student health clinics. If you’re not feeling well, there’s no need to search for a general practitioner when you can likely visit the on-campus clinic instead. School-owned clinics often include the cost of treatment in your tuition, so you may save money by opting for the campus clinic over another doctor’s office.
Additionally, many campus clinics offer mental health services. If you or someone you know needs to speak with a counselor, you can often arrange a session directly through your school’s clinic. Access to mental and physical health services is paramount to busy students, and you should be sure to use them as needed.
11. Student Discounts
One of the best perks of being a student is receiving college student discounts! From movies to clothes, many retailers and restaurants offer student discounts. You can even enjoy exclusive discounts on services like Amazon Prime, Spotify and Hulu.
12. Participation in Research Surveys
At most colleges, professors perform their research and publish their work in academic journals. They often need to complete surveys throughout the year to inform their research. Depending on the survey, you may qualify for extra credit or even a modest financial benefit for participating.
13. Free or Discounted Transportation
With some schools, you can use discounted transportation to get around. For example, you may qualify for a discounted bus or train pass, or your school may have a free shuttle from the local train station or airport.
Take Out A Private Student Loan With ELFI
Wherever you decide to go to college, taking advantage of all campus facilities and amenities can enhance your experience.
If you need help paying for college, consider taking out a private student loan from ELFI. It allows you to borrow up to the total cost of attendance, and you can have up to 15 years to repay your loan. Plus, you can get a quote online without affecting your credit score.