Perks of Being a Student: The Free Facilities Your College Offers

You are so lucky to be a student! Even if you might not think so, give it time. You’ll get there.

Your student years are probably some of the most interesting of your life. You meet so many people, learn something new every day, and have so many fun opportunities.

Colleges provide students with accessible sports facilities, libraries, and student clubs.

Haven’t found your passion? Try everything! Your options are endless.

Being a student means that you get special student discounts and services. We have prepared a selection of freebies and benefits available to students. Check them out.

🎓 What Can Your College or University Provide?

It’s time to explore your college and what it has to offer!

Take a look at the facilities below – chances are your institution has them too. Check their website to be 100% sure.

Counseling & Peer Support

Juggling study, extracurricular activities, and personal problems at the same time can be challenging. That is why so many institutions pay attention to the mental health of their students. Therapy is mostly free or not as expensive as you might think.

Counseling is a great tool. Remember that going to therapy doesn’t mean that something is wrong with you. It means you are being proactive in caring about your health and well-being.

Career Counseling

Every university wants to make sure that its graduates succeed in the future. Career counseling is your chance to choose something you truly enjoy doing.

A counselor will help you evaluate your current skills and strengths, and focus on developing your talents. You will learn what career opportunities are available to you. You can also share your plans, thoughts, and feelings. Doing so can help a counselor identify personal factors influencing your career.

Even one session can assist you in organizing your studies and defining a career path. It is definitely worth trying!

Language Center

Don’t worry if English is not your native language. Most colleges offer ESL courses that help improve English proficiency. Typically, there are different courses for various levels. Most of them focus on preparation for academic study at American universities. A great bonus: you will get plenty of speaking practice in your free time.

Taking a language course is probably the fastest way to learn English and adjust to American culture. Some courses also involve activities, events, and trips. You might meet your future college friends and have a lot of fun!

Academic Advising

The purpose of academic advising is to assist you with your studies. It includes:

• Educating students on degree requirements. They will help you with your major choice and successful degree completion. You also might need help to ensure you choose courses that match your academic goals.
• Help with your academic and career plan. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about particular subjects, earning credit, research fields, and international exchange programs.
• Information about available internships. You can start building your career while still at college if you choose the right internship.
• Help with your academic concerns. Academic advising is needed if you have a problem with a particular class or other troubles related to the studying process.

Libraries and Computer Labs

All universities have libraries and computer labs, but do you know how to use them to their full potential? Most colleges provide main libraries and thematic ones, depending on the college’s focus. You can find rare manuscripts, book collections, and pieces of art there. A library is a perfect self-study and coworking place.

Computer labs provide students with laptops, tablets, stationary computers, free software, and tools. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you can’t find what you are looking for.

Disability Services

Modern colleges aim to create inclusive environments. That is why they equip campuses with offices and services with assistive technologies for various diverse needs. Some colleges also offer professional tutors and trainers. You can find out more information at your college’s disability services office.

Here is a list of some services that may be available:

1. Note-takers for lectures held in class.
2. Audio recordings of lectures.
3. Sign language interpretation.
4. Special exam conditions such as distraction-reduced rooms.
5. Course substitutions.
6. Sound amplification.
7. Extra time for tasks.
8. Priority class registration.

Student Clubs, Societies, & Unions

It is a perfect opportunity to spend your free time on campus with pleasure and benefit. Student organizations have multiple purposes, the primary goal being to unite like-minded people.

You can choose to join an academic club to enrich your knowledge and build career opportunities. Media organizations are perfect for developing your creative skills. Cultural societies offer a chance to meet people with similar backgrounds.

Recreation and sports clubs cover all types of activities. You can even get involved in government and community service to engage in civic activities and advocate for students. There are also religious and spiritual communities.

Spiritual Guidance

Universities support students of all faiths, religious or non-religious. Religious accommodations are available at most colleges. Typical faith and worship facilities on campus might be:

• Prayer rooms. These spaces are perfect for prayer, meditation, and reflection.
• Student clubs. They provide an opportunity to make friends, celebrate festivities together, and share your knowledge and experiences.
• Religious directors or faith leaders. If you seek advice, guidance, or support – these people are ready to talk to you.
• Facilities near campus. Colleges can recommend local places of worship.

🎢 TOP 8 Student Facilities Compilation

Here is our selection of the most exciting perks particular universities have to offer. Check the information below; maybe your college provides the same opportunities?

Unlimited Meals at Kenyon College

Kenyon College students dine in the enormous Pierce Hall, which consists of three dining areas. During the academic terms, students can enjoy unlimited meals according to their board plan. The only exceptions are Thanksgiving and spring breaks.

Several culinary stations serve different types of food:

• International cuisine.
• Hearth and fusion dishes.
• Vegetarian and allergy-sensitive options.

They also choose healthy organic food. Almost a half of it comes from a 40-mile radius out of campus. The menu changes three times a year, and students can suggest menu revisions.

Aquatic Center at University of Missouri

Want to swim?

Many universities have pools, but…

This is the perfect place for athletes, swimming enthusiasts, and sunbathers. Mizzou Aquatic Center comprises four pools that are perfect for competition, leisure, and recreation. It opened in 2005 and is still one of the premier aquatic facilities in the United States.

There is a 50-meter pool and 25-yard diving as well. Both have ultraviolet disinfection systems that provide better air and water quality.

Outdoor Center at Western Washington University

Do you like active time spent outdoors?

The Associated Student’s Outdoor Center is excellent for active people who love sports and seek adventures. You can find various outdoor activities, including sports opportunities and excursions.

Bike rentals and challenge programming are also available for students, staff, faculty members, and alumni. There are educational resources focused on sustainability and enriching the academic experience. If you want to learn how to deliver first aid or wilderness medicine, this is the right place for you to develop these skills.

Dairy Bar at South Dakota State University

What about the best ice cream in South Dakota?

SDSU Dairy bar offers more than 60 flavors of homemade ice cream and sherbet. Students manufacture this cow-to-cone ice cream and guarantee its quality. If you want to purchase a half-gallon container of your favorite treat, here’s the place to do it!

You can also try a variety of homemade dairy products and have a cup of coffee as well.

Birthday Cakes at Ohio University

It’s Birthday Club!

Parents can buy a giant cake or cookies for their children who live in Ohio University’s residence halls. For only $22, you can choose a 9-inch double-layered birthday cake or a chocolate chip cookie of the same size. You need to place the order at least two weeks before the delivery date.

A student receives an e-mail with greetings and can pick the cake at any dining location on campus.

Health and Wellness Center at Rice University

It’s time to take care of your mind and body!

Rice Recreation offers various activities which aim to promote the benefits of physical activity. You can experience all the physical, social, and emotional benefits at the center. It offers fitness and wellness programs, two swimming pools for recreation and competition, a gym, and even outdoor trips.

The center is available for all students, faculty, and staff. Whether you are a competitive athlete or just want to be healthy, you will definitely enjoy this facility.

Ski Area at Michigan Technological University

A ski resort owned by a university? Well, why not?

Mont Ripley is only one mile from the Michigan Tech center. It offers 24 ski trails and six Glade Runs. In addition, there is a tubing park, terrain parks with jumps and slides, and powder bowls. The place is perfect for pros, amateurs, and beginners. You can ski at night if you want to. There are also restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping options nearby.

Gadgets at Full Sail University

What is the LaunchBox project?

It is an excellent opportunity for students to build their portfolios. LaunchBoxes are a unique set of equipment and software created for different degree programs. There are options for students who study digital cinematography, music production, game art, game design, and sports marketing and media. The cost of it is a part of tuition, and students typically receive it in the second year of their studies.

💸 Discounts & Deals from Big Companies

There are also perks outside your college.

Plenty of deals are available both online and offline. Here are just some of them:

Shopping Discounts

A vast number of companies offer student discounts, for example, corporations such as Apple. It is essential to check the updates all the time. Discounts for students are available for clothing, beauty and health products, electronics, restaurants, and home décor.

Here is our list of favorites:

1. Apple has a variety of discounts and special offers for students. You can buy Mac and iPad models with discounts or receive AirPods as a bonus for your purchase.
2. Adobe Creative Cloud offers subscription discounts for students and teachers. It is only $19,99 for all apps, while the regular price is $52,99.
3. Levi’s gives a 25% discount when you join UNiDays. You need to spend a couple of minutes verifying your student status to get access to the deal.
4. Samsung has an education discount program. You can save up to 30% on laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other purchases.
5. ASOS offers a 10% student discount. After student status verification, you will get a student discount code that you can use till graduation.

Online Subscriptions

Many popular online services offer discounts for students and teachers. These include:

1. Apple Music. A student subscription allows you to listen to your favorite music for $4.99 a month for up to 48 months. You also get free access to AppleTV+ for a limited time.
2. Spotify. At first, you can stream for three months for free, and then you pay $4.99 a month with your student discount.
3. YouTube Premium. After a one-month free trial, you get unlimited music and video streaming without ads for $6.99 a month.
4. Hulu. You can enjoy your favorite shows and series for just $1.99 a month instead of $5.99.
5. Amazon Prime. Amazon Prime offers a 6-month trial and then a 50% discount. There are also regular extra savings and deals.

Entertainment

Are you a fan of movies or museums?

Student discounts apply to movie theaters, museums, theaters, sports events, and party supplies. Some museums are even free of charge if you show your valid school ID. Here is what we’ve found for you:

1. AMC Theatres. Just bring your student ID to the box office to get a discount.
2. Angelika Film Center. You can buy your ticket for $11.50 and get free popcorn every Tuesday with your student ID.
3. OTL Seat Filler Club. This club offers a discounted plan for Preferred-level members, which includes students.
4. Packed Party. You can get a 15% discount on accessories, party, and office supplies.
5. The Metropolitan Museum of Arts. Like many American museums, it offers a 50% discount for students.

Services

You can get a discount on your medical and car insurance, cell phone service, and transport. Check out your local public transport website. They also might have something to offer.

Take a look at these services:

1. Bank of America. No monthly fees for students.
2. Cigna. You pay just $100 a month for your health insurance.
3. IMG. This is the best option for international students offering long-term and short-term insurance plans.
4. AT&T. You need to register with your .edu e-mail to get a discount of $10 per month for a line.
5. Sprint. College students that participate in the discount program can get a discount for mobile service. Check if you are eligible on the website.

Other

What else is there? Don’t forget to register on UNiDAYS to get updated discounts for hundreds of stores.

Here are our last picks:

1. Petolon. An app that provides HIIT training, yoga, running, cycling, and various other options for students for $7 a month.
2. Groupon. With Groupon Select Student Program, you get an extra 25% off food, drinks, and entertainment.
3. CheapOair.com. Website offers discounts on selected domestic and international flights.
4. OneTravel. You can save $10 on travel expenses, including flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
5. AbeBooks. You can get new and used textbooks at low prices.

💻 Where to Find Student Deals

Here’s our list of sites where you will find available offers.

We hope you’re feeling excited about all the perks of being a student.

The more you try, the more choice you have.

That’s it for today. We hope it was helpful.

Share a unique perk of your college in the comments below.