As a measley freshman on a huge campus such as University Park, life can be a little overwhelming. Fortunately for those that live in East Halls, they don’t have to go through this change alone. East Halls is the perfect place for freshman to be at Penn State, and here are ten reasons why:
1. It’s All Freshman. It’s comforting to know that the faces you see everyday are your peers and they are experiencing this transition to a new lifestyle just like you. It’s very easy to make friends that share this experience, and its no more than 5 minutes to meet up with them in a dorm or in the commons.
2. Findlay-Johnston Commons. If you want to grab a bite to eat, need to use a computer or printer, need an ATM, have an issue with housing, want to get your mail, or just looking for a nice place to study, the commons are always a reliable place to go.
3. Nearby Athletic Facilities. Being in East means that most sporting events are right in your backyard. East Halls is located right next to the IM Building, IM fields, the softball field, the Natatorium, the pool, the BJC, and most importantly Beaver Stadium. There’s nothing better than being able to walk out your door and be immediately in the tailgating atmosphere!
4. The Big Onion. Where else can you get a slice of pizza for less than 50 cents! The Big O is the best place in East for breakfast, pizza, cheesesteaks, chicken tenders, and fries. If you want to just hang out and watch TV, or participate in an open mic night, the Big O is the place to be!
5. Short Walk to Thomas. Every Penn State student will have multiple classes in the Joab L. Thomas Building. This building provides class sizes ranging from 15 to 750, and is one the more notable class buildings on campus. Luckily for freshman in East Halls, you have just a 5-10 minute walk to Thomas for whatever class you may have, and that is just a fraction of the time it takes when you live off-campus.
6. Weekend Bus Rides. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night the bus stop at East is packed! Freshman wait eagerly in the “cattle chutes” to get on the bus and out of the cold. At no other place will you see so many intoxicated freshman get yelled at to “get behind the yellow line,” and once they are crammed in, the songs and chants begin. No matter where your destination is, if you’re on the bus be sure to show some school spirit and sing Biz Markie the whole way there!
