Hi, this is Natsuki!
Today's topic is cellphone. If you look at the page 46 of your orientation booklet, there is the list of companies you can refer to, but here I am going to write some general advice.
Exchange students and other students who are going to stay here only for the short period of time, it is often difficult for you guys to buy a plan, because the contracts often last for 2 years. Also, if you don't have the social security number, you are usually required to pay deposit at the beginning of the contract and you may not get it back until the end of the first year of your contract. The amount of deposit varies, but it could be several hundreds dollars. So typically, one-year or one-semester students buy minutes, and top it up as you go.
Many undergraduate students may not have social security number (you can't have SSN unless you have a job), but may be planning to stay in the States long enough to buy a contracts. You guys will be required to pay deposit, but I thought it's worth it. Your deposit will come back eventually (unless you do something terribly wrong), and you can get better rate.
If you have social security number, and are going to stay here for a while, there shouldn't be much trouble purchasing any sort of plan!
If you have your cellphone from back home, try to bring it just in case. You may simply be able to switch sim card, and not have to buy a phone.
Please note that you cannot use address of your temporary housing or international student services when you make a contract. So be sure to know where you will be living after the orientation, when you go to buy a phone!
Either you get cellphone or not, make sure to call your parents back home as soon as you arrive here... Orientation leaders don't want to receive any more phone calls from mothers crying and asking if her kids arrived safely or not!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
What is there to do in State College?
Hey All! Brittany here! If you are wondering what there is to do in State College, then this blog is for you.
100 Things to Do In State College
Art/Galleries
1. Art Classes
At Creative Oasis.
Located at 133 East Beaver Avenue.
Drawing, painting, pottery wheel, hand building and sculpture, stained glass and more.
6 week classes cost $99.00.
Go to http://www.thecreativeoasis.com/ for more information about classes and prices.
2. Land-Grant Frescoes
At Old Main Building on Pollock Road on campus.
Second-floor lobby.
View unique artwork that depicts Penn State’s History to 1950.
Painted by artist Henry Varnum Poor.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.psu.edu/ur/about/frescoes.html for more information.
3. Paint Pottery
At 2000 Degrees.
Located on West College Ave.
$10 to $25 per piece. $6 for studio time.
4. Palmer Museum of Art
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Come view the museum’s permanent collection as well as its special exhibits and events each year.
Free Admission.
Go to http://www.psu.edu/dept/palmermuseum/ to see the schedule of exhibits for this year.
5. Rent a Digital Camera
From Media and Technology Services.
Located in room 26 Willard Building on campus.
Cost: Free! All you need to bring is your Penn State id card.
Take pictures of campus, downtown and the beautiful landscape!
6. The Robeson Gallery and the HUB Gallery
Located in the HUB on Pollock Road on campus.
View national and international artwork at these two galleries.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/usa/galleries/ for information on exhibits and hours of operation.
Animals/Exhibits
7. HUB Aquarium
Located downstairs in the HUB.
Stop by any day, any time.
This coral reef aquarium was donated by the graduation class of 1999.
Go to http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/oct2002/aquarium.htm to learn about how the aquarium is run.
8. Live Animal Exhibits
In the Discovery Room at Shaver’s Creek.
Located at 3400 Discovery Road in Petersburg.
Open 7 days a week. Free admission.
Encounter snakes, frogs, and toads at the exclusive reptile and amphibian exhibit.
Go to http://www.outreach.psu.edu/shaverscreek/index-discovery-room.html for more information.
9. Play with Kittens and Puppies
At The Wild Side Pet Shop.
Located at 258 West Hamilton Avenue.
Stop in the Kitten room or the puppy room at Wild Side and play with these furry animals.
Go to http://wildsidepetsinc.com/ for more information about Wild Side.
10. Reptiland
Located at 18628 U.S. Route 15 in Allenwood.
Come see this AZA accredited zoo specializing in reptiles and amphibians.
Snakes, alligators, lizards, tortoises, frogs and more.
Admission ticket costs $10.00 for adults.
Go to http://reptiland.com/ for information about special events and exhibits.
11. Wild Life Tour
At Penn’s Cave.
Located at 222 Penns Cave Road in Centre Hall, PA.
$18.50 for adults. $10.50 for children.
See deer, elk, wolves, mountain lions, black bears (and more) in their natural habitats.
Go to http://www.pennscave.com/wildlifetours.php for more information.
Athletics/Sports
12. Gym Facilities
On Penn State Campus.
Fitness classes, cardio equipment, indoor track, weights, swimming and more.
Fitness membership for one semester is $52.00.
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/fitness/ for more information.
13. Intramural Sports
At Penn State.
Join one of many IM teams.
Soccor, volleyball, tennis, golf, softball, basketball and more.
Costs $37 per team.
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/recsports/ for more information.
Penn State All-Sports Museum—See Museums
14. Penn State Football
At Beaver Stadium.
Located on Curtain Road and Porter Road on campus.
Enjoy a live PSU football game in the 100,000+ seating stadium.
Tickets available for purchase online.
Go to http://gopsusports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/psu-m-footbl-body.html for more information.
15. Run in a 5K for Charity
Sponsored by various student clubs and charity organizations.
Takes place through the year, mostly in the warmer months.
Registration usually costs $10.00 to $15.00.
Keep an eye out for posters and ads with information about 5Ks.
16. Spikes Baseball
Located at 112 Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.
Runs June to September.
Individual tickets range from $6.00 to $11.00.
Go to http://www.statecollegespikes.com/ for more information about games and tickets.
17. Sporting Events
At Penn State.
Enjoy football, basketball, gymnastics, swimming, and more.
Ticket prices vary. PSU students get discounted prices.
Go to http://gopsusports.cstv.com/ for schedule of events.
18. Swim
At the McCoy Natatorium.
Outdoor and indoor pools located on Bigler Road on campus.
$4 one time admission. Free with purchase of Penn State fitness pass ($52.00 per semester).
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/rec/nat/ for more information.
Festivals/Traditions
19. First Thursday
Sponsored by various businesses and organizations.
Takes place in institutions throughout downtown and campus.
Every first Thursday of the month.
Enjoy art exhibits, performances, and seminars that showcase the talent in Center County.
Free admission.
Go to http://www.firstthursdaystatecollege.org/ for schedule of events.
20. Local Festivals
Located in downtown state college.
Festivals take place throughout the year.
Arts Fest, 4th Fest, First Night, Homecoming Parade, Tree Lighting Ceremony and more.
All festivals are free.
Go to http://www.happyvalley.com/; http://statecollege.com/; or http://www.centralpacvb.org/ for more information
21. Take Your Pictures With the Nittany Lion Shrine
Located at Curtin Road and Burrows Road on campus.
This is a long held tradition of many students who want a keepsake to remember their time at PSU.
22. THON
Penn State’s two day dance marathon to raise money for the Four Diamonds Fund.
Takes place every February.
Last years total raised: $6,615,318.04.
Get involved or just come by to see all of the festivities.
Go to http://www.thon.org/ for more information.
23. World Cultural Festival
Sponsored by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center.
Located on the HUB lawn.
Takes place in September.
Free food, music and displays.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/prcc/WorldCulturalFestival.shtml for more information.
Films
24. Film Series
French Film Series: http://www.french.psu.edu/news/filmseries.html
Chinese Film Series: http://complit.la.psu.edu/chinese/film.shtml
Association of Residence Hall Students Film Series: http://php.scripts.psu.edu/clubs/up/arhs/?p=4.4
Peace Center Film Series: http://www.scpeacecenter.org/films.html
Graduate Student Association Film Series: http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/gsa/menu/services/ CAFE/index.html
International Film Series: http://www.outreach.psu.edu/programs/language-institute/Film-Series.html
25. Premiere Movie Theater
Located at 125 Premiere Drive.
Watch the latest Hollywood flicks.
Tickets cost $6.50 for students.
Go to http://www.statecollege.com/movies/ for movie times and other cinemas in State College.
26. Schlow Centre Region Library
Located at 211 South Allen Street.
Fine books, music, newspapers, American and foreign films, encyclopedias and more.
Also offered are workshops, seminars and film showings.
Go to http://www.schlowlibrary.org/ for more information.
27. The State Theatre
Located at 130 West College Avenue.
Watch American and foreign films, documentaries, musical concerts and more.
Movie tickets cost $5.00 for PSU students.
Go to http://www.thestatetheatre.org/ for schedule of events.
28. University Libraries
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Find books, music, American and foreign films, maps, encyclopedias, newspapers and more.
Go to http://www.libraries.psu.edu/ for more information.
Food/Drink
29. $1 Nacho Night
At Champs Bar and Grill.
Located on North Atherton Street.
Every Tuesday Night.
Includes nachos, salsa, cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, guacamole, and peppers.
Regular price: $7.00.
30. Bake Cookies for Mike the Mail Guy
Post Office located in the McCallister Building on Pollock Road on campus.
Compete to get your name on Mike’s Cookie of the Month board.
31. Berkey Creamery
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Enjoy Penn State’s famous icecream!
Only $2.50 for a cup or cone. Over 100 flavors yearly.
Go to http://www.creamery.psu.edu/ for more information about the creamery.
32. Café Laura
Run by students in the School of Hospitality Management at Penn State.
Located in the Mateer Building on Park Avenue on campus.
Meals are prepared/served by students in HRIM 430: Advanced Quantity Foodservice Management
Go to http://www.cafelaura.psu.edu/ for menu, prices and hours of operation.
33. Eat a Grilled Sticky
At Ye Old State College Diner.
Located on West College Avenue.
A Penn State Tradition since 1929. These stickies only cost $1.50.
Go to http://www.thediner.statecollege.com/ to look at the diner’s menu.
34. Eat Cookies at Midnight
At Insomnia Cookies.
Located at 421 East Beaver Avenue.
Cookies cost $0.90 each.
Open till 1:00.
Go to http://www.insomniacookies.com/ for menu.
35. Farmer’s Market
Sponsored by Central PA Farmer’s Market Assocaition.
Located on Locust Lane between College Avenue and Beaver Avenue.
Every Friday between May and November from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers and baked goods.
Go to http://www.statecollegefarmers.com/ for more information.
36. Ice Cream Social Cruise
On the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat.
in the Susquehanna State Park in Williamsport.
Tickets $6.00 for adults.
Wing night cruises also available.
Go to http://ridehiawatha.com/ for more information.
37. International Coffee Hour
Sponsored by International Student Services.
Located at 410 Boucke Building on campus.
Every Thursday afternoon from 3:30 to 5:30.
Enjoy free coffee, tea, cookies and chat!
38. Picnic
On campus or in the surrounding country side.
Pack a lunch for two or more.
Go to http://www.happyvalley.com/posts.php?id=1394 for picnic spot recommendations.
39. Tea Work Shop
At East West Crossings.
Located at 201 Elmwood Street.
Learn about the many health benefits of tea as well as how it is grown, processed and brewed.
Go to http://www.eastwestcrossings.com/ for more events offered by East West Crossings.
40. Webster’s Bookstore Café
Located at 128 South Allen Street.
Browse lightly used books. Find a quiet place to study. Enjoy fair trade teas and coffee. Enjoy delicious soups, wraps and desserts.
Go to http://www.webstersbookstorecafe.com/.
41. Wine Tasting
At Brookmere Farm Vineyards.
Located at 5369 SR 655 in Belleville.
Wine tasting and tours 7 days a week.
Must be 21 years or older.
Go to http://www.brookmerewine.com/ for information on Brookmere Farm.
Go to http://pennsylvaniawine.com/ for more wineries in PA.
Fun Activities for Everyone
42. Ballroom Dance
With the Penn State Ballroom Dance Club.
Free lessons weekly.
Salsa, Argentine Tango, Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Tango, and more.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/ballroomdance/ for times of lessons and location.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/swingdancingclub/news.htm for information about the Penn State Swing Dancing Club.
43. Billiards
At The Corner Pocket.
Located downstairs in the HUB.
$5.00 per table, per hour.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/billiards/ for information about events and lessons offered by the Penn State’s Billiard Club.
44. Bowling
At Northland Bowl.
Located at 1521 Martin Street.
Special deals every night!
Go to http://www.northlandbowl.com/ for special deals and events.
45. Cell Block
Located at 420 East College Avenue.
Open Daily.
Every Wednesday night, age 18 and up.
Enjoy this night club’s party atmosphere.
Cover charges apply.
Go to http://www.thecellblock.com/Cell_Block.html to find out about special events.
46. Delgrosso’s Amusement Park
Located on Route 220 in Tipton.
Enjoy a variety of rides and attractions including a water park.
All-day pass costs $12.95.
Go to http://delgrossos.com/dap.html for more information.
47. Explorer Day Trips
Sponsored by International Student Services.
For more information or tickets go to 407 Boucke Building on campus.
Previous trips: Hershey Park, Atlantic City, New York City, Washington DC, Philadelphia and more.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/iss/explorers_program.html for more information.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/iss/cultural_events.html for more ISS events.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/iss/newsletter_iss.html for the ISS newlestter.
48. Get a Massage
At the Central Pennsylvania School of Massage.
Located on South Fraser Street.
½ hour massage = $24.95; facial = $7.00
Go to http://www.schoolofmassage.com/clinic.html for more services, prices and hours.
49. Go Kart
At Tussey Mountain.
Located on Route 322.
One ride costs $4.50. Hour long session costs $19.00.
Go to http://www.tusseymountain.com/summer/gokarts.html for hours of operation
50. Ice Skating
At the Penn State Ice Rink.
Located on Pollock Road and McKean Road.
Open year round.
$4 for PSU students. $2 for skate rentals.
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/rec/icerink/index.asp for more information.
51. Late Night Penn State
Located in the HUB.
Every weekend during the school year.
Enjoy comedians, improv groups, laser tag, karaoke, films, board games,sports, crafts, and more. Free admission. PSU id required for some activities.
Go to http://www.latenight.psu.edu/ for more information.
52. Meditation
At the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center.
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Meditation room open daily from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm.
53. Paint Ball
At Penn Skates.
Located at 2210 High Tech Road.
Combo Package $30. Includes rentals, paint balls, field fee and field judges.
Go to http://www.pennskates.com/paintball_page.htm for more information.
54. Roller Rink and Family Fun Center
At Penn Skates!
Located at 2210 High Tech Road.
Go to http://www.pennskates.com/ for prices and hours of operation.
55. Salsa Dance
At Tony’s Big Easy.
Located on Pugh Street.
Every Wednesday Night starting at 11 pm.
Instruction provided for beginners at 10 pm.
$5 (Free for 21 +)
56. Stamp Collection
With the American Philatelic Society.
Located at 100 Match Factory Place in Bellefonte.
Learn about stamp collecting and start your own collection.
Sell and buy. Over 300,000 items in stock.
Go to http://stamps.org/ for more information.
57. Swim
At the McCoy Natatorium.
Outdoor and indoor pools located on Bigler Road on campus.
$4 one time admission. Free with purchase of Penn State fitness pass ($52.00 per semester).
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/rec/nat/ for more information.
58. Take a Day/Weekend Trip
With Fullington Trailways.
Located at 2101 Alexander Drive.
Fullington offers a variety of packages and deals.
Example: “Do as you please” day trip to New York City costs $77.00.
Go to http://www.fullingtontours.com/fulltours/website/packages/main_calendar.stm for more information about deals offered this year.
59. Yoga
At Yoga State College.
Located at 220 A South Allen Street.
10 class card costs $75.00. Drop in fee costs $10.00.
Go to http://www.soldprice.com/yoga.htm for class times.
Miscellaneous
60. Amish Village
Located in Lancaster.
Take a tour of the Amish Village and purchase Dutch foods and souvenirs.
Tours cost $7.75 for adults.
Go to http://www.800padutch.com/avillage.html for more information.
61. Browse Local Events Online
Sponsored by various on-campus departments and off-campus organizations.
Located throughout campus and downtown.
Most events are free and open to the public.
Lectures, exhibits, workshops, seminars, discussions and more.
Go to http://events.psu.edu/ to search by category or by date.
62. Conversation Partners
Sponsored by Global Connections.
Located at 404 A Boucke Building on campus.
Native English speakers are matched with non-native English speakers for the purpose of language practice and cultural exchange.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/IHC/ for more information.
63. Hookah Lounge
At Chronic Town.
Located at 224 West College Avenue.
Enjoy a variety of hookah flavors including mango, guava, rose, vanilla and more.
Local bands featured several times a month.
Cover charge applies for shows.
Go to http://www.myspace.com/chronictownusa for events and shows at Chronic Town.
64. HUB Poster Sale
Sponsored by Beyond the Wall.
Located on the main floor of the HUB.
Takes place during the first two weeks of every semester.
Purchase posters for your apartment or dorm room. Costs between $5.00 and $20.00.
Go to http://www.beyondthewall.com/ for more information about Beyond the Wall.
65. Join a Club
Penn State has over 600 student organizations!
Multicultural/international, service, religious, sorority/fraternity, athletics and more.
Most meet once a week or every other week.
Some clubs have membership dues.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/usa/studentactivities/search.asp to search clubs.
Don't miss the student involvement fair at the beginning of every semester!
66. Nittany Mall
Located at 2901 East College Avenue
Shop at over 70 specialty stores and eateries.
Go to http://www.shopnittanymall.com/ for more information.
67. Residence Hall Socials
Located at your dorm residence hall.
Socials are planned throughout the semester.
Ice cream socials, crafts night, cookies and milk, mocktails and more.
Talk to your R.A. for more information.
68. State College Peace Center
Located in 201 State College Municipal Building on Allen Street.
Thursdays at 7:30 pm (check website for exceptions).
Attend lectures and films about war and peace.
Go to http://www.scpeacecenter.org/ for more information.
69. Vintage Clothes Shopping
At the Rag and Bone.
Located on Calder Way.
Browse American vintage style clothing from the 1920’s to the 1980’s.
Music
70. Bryce Jordan Center
Located on Curtain Road and University Drive on campus.
Attend a concert or sporting event.
Go to http://www.bjc.psu.edu/arena/ for list of events.
71. Drum Circle
At the wall on College Avenue in front of the Old Main Building across from PNC Bank.
Wednesday and Fridays from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Weather permitting.
Newcomers Welcome. Bring your own drum or just come and listen.
Email Dan Trevino at abonda@yahoo.com for more information.
72. Listen to Local Bands
At bars, benefit concerts and events.
Located throughout campus and downtown.
Cover charges and tickets fees apply at some shows.
Go to http://www.lemonsoul.net/shows.htm for show dates and location by local band Lemon Soul.
73. Listen to the Lion 90.7
Penn State Student Radio Station.
Indie, jazz, Latin, gospel, metal and more.
Go to http://www.thelion.fm/ for more information.
74. Live Jazz Music
At Bar Bleu.
Located at 112 South Garner Street. In the basement of Beulah’s BBQ.
Live jazz every weekend.
Go to http://www.dantesinc.com/barbleu.htm for more information about special events.
75. Open Mic Night
Sponsored by Students Organized for the Multiple Arts (SOMA).
Located in Waring study lounge (West Halls).
The first Tuesday of every month from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Come out to perform or just listen to the many talents of Penn State students.
Free Admission.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/soma/SomaWebsite.htm for more information about SOMA.
76. School of Music
At Penn State.
Located at Music Building I on campus.
Attend a show given by talented Penn State students.
Choirs, band, jazz band, orchestra and more.
Go to http://www.music.psu.edu/upcoming/ for performances and prices.
Museums
77. Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum and Art Gallery
Located at 16 Deike Building on Borrows Road on campus.
View collections of rocks, minerals, and fossils totaling more than 22,000 specimens.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.ems.psu.edu/museum/ for more information.
78. Frost Entomological Museum
Located at Head House III on Curtain Road on campus.
View over 2,000,000 specimens of insects representing at least 15,000 species.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.ento.psu.edu/home/Frost/index.HTML for more information.
79. Matson Museum of Anthropology
Located in 409 Carpenter Building off of Curtain road on campus next to the Nittany Lion Inn.
See exhibits on the diversity of contemporary human cultures and the history of human evolution.
Take self-guided or guided tours.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.anthro.psu.edu/matson_museum/ for more information.
Palmer Museum of Art—See Art/Galleries
80. Penn State All-Sports Museum
Located in the southwest corner of Beaver Stadium on Curtain Road.
Museum exhibits highlights from all 29 varsity sports at Penn State.
$5 for adults. $3 for PSU students.
Go to http://www.happyvalley.com/posts.php?id=1003 for more information.
81. Pennsylvania Military Museum
Located in Boalsburg.
Tour the museum for $4.00.
Speaker series and various events take place throughout the year.
Go to http://www.pamilmuseum.org/ for more information.
Outdoors
82. Arboretum
Located on Park Avenue on campus.
Stop by often to see the construction of this 370-acre outreach, teaching, and research facility dedicated to preserving the beauty and ecological functions of vegetated landscapes in an urbanizing society.
Go to http://arboretum.psu.edu/ for more information.
83. Balloon Rides
At Sky’s The Limit Ballooning, Inc.
Location of pick up varies. Call 814-234-5986 to set up a flight.
All seasons activity. Weather permitting.
Most flights last 1 hour.
Flights cost $190 per person. Up to four passengers can join the pilot in the basket during each flight.
Go to http://www.paballoonrides.com/ for more information.
84. Bike the Alleghenies
Stop in the Visitor’s Center for tour information.
800 East Park Avenue.
On-road and off-road tours available.
Go to http://thealleghenies.com/biking.aspx for more information on tour routes.
85. Caving and Camping
At Woodward Cave and Campground.
Located at 148 Woodward Cave Drive in Woodward.
Explore one of the largest caverns in PA! Tours last 50 minutes.
Tours cost $10.50.
Camping costs $18.00 per tent, per night.
Go to http://woodwardcave.com/ for more information.
86. Critical Mass
Meet at the Allen Street Gates at 5:30 pm.
The last Friday of every month.
Bring your bike and join 20-30 other bikers for a ride around downtown to celebrate cycling.
Go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_Mass to find out more about critical mass.
87. Fishing
At Tussey Mountain.
Located on Route 322.
Catch and release policy. Must have a fishing license.
Go to http://www.tusseymountain.com/summer/fishing.html for more information.
88. Fly a Glider
At the Ridge Soaring Gliderport.
Located 3523 S Eagle Valley Rd in Julian.
Fly 2,000 to 4,000 feet over State College in a glider.
Between $79.00 and $150.00 per flight.
Go to http://www.eglider.org/ for more information about Ridge Soaring Gliderport.
Also go to the Penn State Soaring Club website http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/soaring/ for special prices on glider rides and training.
89. Full Moon Walk
At the Millbrook Marsh.
Located at 614 Puddintown Road.
This non-scary walk encourages participants to be comfortable out at night.
Walk costs $7.50.
Go to http://crpr.centreconnect.org/Millbrook/Programs/Sum08/Walks_Sum08.html.
90. Golfing
At Penn State Golf Courses.
Located at 1523 West College Avenue.
Week day special $35.00.
Go to http://www.pennstategolfcourses.com/ for more information.
91. Hay Ride
At Harner Farm.
Located at 2191 West Whitehall Road.
A fun fall activity. Pumpkin patch and corn maze also available.
Go to http://agmap.psu.edu/Businesses/420 for more information.
92. Hike Mount Nittany
Located off of Mount Nittany Road.
Noted as the classic hike for local residents, tourists and returning alumni.
Go to http://www.mtnittany.org/ for more information.
93. Indian Caverns
Located at 5374 Indian Trail in Spruce Creek.
Explore the caverns and learn about Native American history and folklores.
Tours schedule daily.
Tours costs $9.00 for students.
Go to http://www.indiancaverns.com/ for more information.
94. Sky Dive
Located at the Mifflin County Airport.
Tandem jump or instructor aided deployment just $195.00.
Go to http://skydivehappyvalley.com/ for more information.
95. Star Gazing
Sponsored by the Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics and the Astronomy Club.
On the roof of the Davey Lab on campus.
Every Friday Night from 8:30 to 10:30 pm.
Free admission. Telescopes provided.
Call 814-863-1234 ext. 7 for star gazing status.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/astro/open_house.htm for more information.
96. Winter Sports on Tussey Mountain
Located on Route 322.
Enjoy this winter season by skiing or snowboarding. Lessons offered daily.
Snow tubing also available.
Go to http://www.tusseymountain.com/pricing/winter$.html for prices and hours of operation.
Performances
Bryce Jordan Center—See Music
97. Distinguished Speakers Series
Sponsored by Penn State’s Student Programming Association (SPA)
Free tickets provided for students at least a week in advance. Tickets can be picked up at the HUB information desk or Eisenhower box office.
Last year’s speakers: Elie Wiesel, Lisa Ling, Paul Rusesabagina, and Jerome Bettis.
Go to http://pennstatespa.weebly.com/dss.html for more information.
98. Dream: Spoken Word Lounge
Sponsored by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center.
Located in the Waring study lounge (West Halls).
Takes place several times each semester.
Enjoy original poetry, music and stories written by students and faculty.
Free admission.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/prcc/BEDSpokenWordPoetryLounge.shtml for more information.
99. Outlaws
Located in room 6 of the Arts Building on campus.
Every Thursday at 11:15 pm.
Penn State University's All-Original, All-Experimental, Completely Uncensored, mostly Undergraduate, Late Night, Black-Box Theatre EVENT!
Free admission.
Go to http://www.outlawspsu.com/ for more information.
School of Music—See Music
100. School of Theater
Located at the Pavilion Theatre, Playhouse Theater or Penn State Downtown Theater Center.
Enjoy a variety of plays and musicals performed by the Penn State School of Theater.
Purchase tickets at the Penn State Downtown Theater Center, HUB information desk, Eisenhower ticket office, or Bryce Jordan ticket office.
Tickets cost $25.00 to $55.00.
Go to http://www.theatre.psu.edu/index.html for more information.
100 Things to Do In State College
Art/Galleries
1. Art Classes
At Creative Oasis.
Located at 133 East Beaver Avenue.
Drawing, painting, pottery wheel, hand building and sculpture, stained glass and more.
6 week classes cost $99.00.
Go to http://www.thecreativeoasis.com/ for more information about classes and prices.
2. Land-Grant Frescoes
At Old Main Building on Pollock Road on campus.
Second-floor lobby.
View unique artwork that depicts Penn State’s History to 1950.
Painted by artist Henry Varnum Poor.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.psu.edu/ur/about/frescoes.html for more information.
3. Paint Pottery
At 2000 Degrees.
Located on West College Ave.
$10 to $25 per piece. $6 for studio time.
4. Palmer Museum of Art
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Come view the museum’s permanent collection as well as its special exhibits and events each year.
Free Admission.
Go to http://www.psu.edu/dept/palmermuseum/ to see the schedule of exhibits for this year.
5. Rent a Digital Camera
From Media and Technology Services.
Located in room 26 Willard Building on campus.
Cost: Free! All you need to bring is your Penn State id card.
Take pictures of campus, downtown and the beautiful landscape!
6. The Robeson Gallery and the HUB Gallery
Located in the HUB on Pollock Road on campus.
View national and international artwork at these two galleries.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/usa/galleries/ for information on exhibits and hours of operation.
Animals/Exhibits
7. HUB Aquarium
Located downstairs in the HUB.
Stop by any day, any time.
This coral reef aquarium was donated by the graduation class of 1999.
Go to http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/oct2002/aquarium.htm to learn about how the aquarium is run.
8. Live Animal Exhibits
In the Discovery Room at Shaver’s Creek.
Located at 3400 Discovery Road in Petersburg.
Open 7 days a week. Free admission.
Encounter snakes, frogs, and toads at the exclusive reptile and amphibian exhibit.
Go to http://www.outreach.psu.edu/shaverscreek/index-discovery-room.html for more information.
9. Play with Kittens and Puppies
At The Wild Side Pet Shop.
Located at 258 West Hamilton Avenue.
Stop in the Kitten room or the puppy room at Wild Side and play with these furry animals.
Go to http://wildsidepetsinc.com/ for more information about Wild Side.
10. Reptiland
Located at 18628 U.S. Route 15 in Allenwood.
Come see this AZA accredited zoo specializing in reptiles and amphibians.
Snakes, alligators, lizards, tortoises, frogs and more.
Admission ticket costs $10.00 for adults.
Go to http://reptiland.com/ for information about special events and exhibits.
11. Wild Life Tour
At Penn’s Cave.
Located at 222 Penns Cave Road in Centre Hall, PA.
$18.50 for adults. $10.50 for children.
See deer, elk, wolves, mountain lions, black bears (and more) in their natural habitats.
Go to http://www.pennscave.com/wildlifetours.php for more information.
Athletics/Sports
12. Gym Facilities
On Penn State Campus.
Fitness classes, cardio equipment, indoor track, weights, swimming and more.
Fitness membership for one semester is $52.00.
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/fitness/ for more information.
13. Intramural Sports
At Penn State.
Join one of many IM teams.
Soccor, volleyball, tennis, golf, softball, basketball and more.
Costs $37 per team.
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/recsports/ for more information.
Penn State All-Sports Museum—See Museums
14. Penn State Football
At Beaver Stadium.
Located on Curtain Road and Porter Road on campus.
Enjoy a live PSU football game in the 100,000+ seating stadium.
Tickets available for purchase online.
Go to http://gopsusports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/psu-m-footbl-body.html for more information.
15. Run in a 5K for Charity
Sponsored by various student clubs and charity organizations.
Takes place through the year, mostly in the warmer months.
Registration usually costs $10.00 to $15.00.
Keep an eye out for posters and ads with information about 5Ks.
16. Spikes Baseball
Located at 112 Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.
Runs June to September.
Individual tickets range from $6.00 to $11.00.
Go to http://www.statecollegespikes.com/ for more information about games and tickets.
17. Sporting Events
At Penn State.
Enjoy football, basketball, gymnastics, swimming, and more.
Ticket prices vary. PSU students get discounted prices.
Go to http://gopsusports.cstv.com/ for schedule of events.
18. Swim
At the McCoy Natatorium.
Outdoor and indoor pools located on Bigler Road on campus.
$4 one time admission. Free with purchase of Penn State fitness pass ($52.00 per semester).
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/rec/nat/ for more information.
Festivals/Traditions
19. First Thursday
Sponsored by various businesses and organizations.
Takes place in institutions throughout downtown and campus.
Every first Thursday of the month.
Enjoy art exhibits, performances, and seminars that showcase the talent in Center County.
Free admission.
Go to http://www.firstthursdaystatecollege.org/ for schedule of events.
20. Local Festivals
Located in downtown state college.
Festivals take place throughout the year.
Arts Fest, 4th Fest, First Night, Homecoming Parade, Tree Lighting Ceremony and more.
All festivals are free.
Go to http://www.happyvalley.com/; http://statecollege.com/; or http://www.centralpacvb.org/ for more information
21. Take Your Pictures With the Nittany Lion Shrine
Located at Curtin Road and Burrows Road on campus.
This is a long held tradition of many students who want a keepsake to remember their time at PSU.
22. THON
Penn State’s two day dance marathon to raise money for the Four Diamonds Fund.
Takes place every February.
Last years total raised: $6,615,318.04.
Get involved or just come by to see all of the festivities.
Go to http://www.thon.org/ for more information.
23. World Cultural Festival
Sponsored by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center.
Located on the HUB lawn.
Takes place in September.
Free food, music and displays.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/prcc/WorldCulturalFestival.shtml for more information.
Films
24. Film Series
French Film Series: http://www.french.psu.edu/news/filmseries.html
Chinese Film Series: http://complit.la.psu.edu/chinese/film.shtml
Association of Residence Hall Students Film Series: http://php.scripts.psu.edu/clubs/up/arhs/?p=4.4
Peace Center Film Series: http://www.scpeacecenter.org/films.html
Graduate Student Association Film Series: http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/gsa/menu/services/ CAFE/index.html
International Film Series: http://www.outreach.psu.edu/programs/language-institute/Film-Series.html
25. Premiere Movie Theater
Located at 125 Premiere Drive.
Watch the latest Hollywood flicks.
Tickets cost $6.50 for students.
Go to http://www.statecollege.com/movies/ for movie times and other cinemas in State College.
26. Schlow Centre Region Library
Located at 211 South Allen Street.
Fine books, music, newspapers, American and foreign films, encyclopedias and more.
Also offered are workshops, seminars and film showings.
Go to http://www.schlowlibrary.org/ for more information.
27. The State Theatre
Located at 130 West College Avenue.
Watch American and foreign films, documentaries, musical concerts and more.
Movie tickets cost $5.00 for PSU students.
Go to http://www.thestatetheatre.org/ for schedule of events.
28. University Libraries
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Find books, music, American and foreign films, maps, encyclopedias, newspapers and more.
Go to http://www.libraries.psu.edu/ for more information.
Food/Drink
29. $1 Nacho Night
At Champs Bar and Grill.
Located on North Atherton Street.
Every Tuesday Night.
Includes nachos, salsa, cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, guacamole, and peppers.
Regular price: $7.00.
30. Bake Cookies for Mike the Mail Guy
Post Office located in the McCallister Building on Pollock Road on campus.
Compete to get your name on Mike’s Cookie of the Month board.
31. Berkey Creamery
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Enjoy Penn State’s famous icecream!
Only $2.50 for a cup or cone. Over 100 flavors yearly.
Go to http://www.creamery.psu.edu/ for more information about the creamery.
32. Café Laura
Run by students in the School of Hospitality Management at Penn State.
Located in the Mateer Building on Park Avenue on campus.
Meals are prepared/served by students in HRIM 430: Advanced Quantity Foodservice Management
Go to http://www.cafelaura.psu.edu/ for menu, prices and hours of operation.
33. Eat a Grilled Sticky
At Ye Old State College Diner.
Located on West College Avenue.
A Penn State Tradition since 1929. These stickies only cost $1.50.
Go to http://www.thediner.statecollege.com/ to look at the diner’s menu.
34. Eat Cookies at Midnight
At Insomnia Cookies.
Located at 421 East Beaver Avenue.
Cookies cost $0.90 each.
Open till 1:00.
Go to http://www.insomniacookies.com/ for menu.
35. Farmer’s Market
Sponsored by Central PA Farmer’s Market Assocaition.
Located on Locust Lane between College Avenue and Beaver Avenue.
Every Friday between May and November from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm.
Purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers and baked goods.
Go to http://www.statecollegefarmers.com/ for more information.
36. Ice Cream Social Cruise
On the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat.
in the Susquehanna State Park in Williamsport.
Tickets $6.00 for adults.
Wing night cruises also available.
Go to http://ridehiawatha.com/ for more information.
37. International Coffee Hour
Sponsored by International Student Services.
Located at 410 Boucke Building on campus.
Every Thursday afternoon from 3:30 to 5:30.
Enjoy free coffee, tea, cookies and chat!
38. Picnic
On campus or in the surrounding country side.
Pack a lunch for two or more.
Go to http://www.happyvalley.com/posts.php?id=1394 for picnic spot recommendations.
39. Tea Work Shop
At East West Crossings.
Located at 201 Elmwood Street.
Learn about the many health benefits of tea as well as how it is grown, processed and brewed.
Go to http://www.eastwestcrossings.com/ for more events offered by East West Crossings.
40. Webster’s Bookstore Café
Located at 128 South Allen Street.
Browse lightly used books. Find a quiet place to study. Enjoy fair trade teas and coffee. Enjoy delicious soups, wraps and desserts.
Go to http://www.webstersbookstorecafe.com/.
41. Wine Tasting
At Brookmere Farm Vineyards.
Located at 5369 SR 655 in Belleville.
Wine tasting and tours 7 days a week.
Must be 21 years or older.
Go to http://www.brookmerewine.com/ for information on Brookmere Farm.
Go to http://pennsylvaniawine.com/ for more wineries in PA.
Fun Activities for Everyone
42. Ballroom Dance
With the Penn State Ballroom Dance Club.
Free lessons weekly.
Salsa, Argentine Tango, Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Tango, and more.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/ballroomdance/ for times of lessons and location.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/swingdancingclub/news.htm for information about the Penn State Swing Dancing Club.
43. Billiards
At The Corner Pocket.
Located downstairs in the HUB.
$5.00 per table, per hour.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/billiards/ for information about events and lessons offered by the Penn State’s Billiard Club.
44. Bowling
At Northland Bowl.
Located at 1521 Martin Street.
Special deals every night!
Go to http://www.northlandbowl.com/ for special deals and events.
45. Cell Block
Located at 420 East College Avenue.
Open Daily.
Every Wednesday night, age 18 and up.
Enjoy this night club’s party atmosphere.
Cover charges apply.
Go to http://www.thecellblock.com/Cell_Block.html to find out about special events.
46. Delgrosso’s Amusement Park
Located on Route 220 in Tipton.
Enjoy a variety of rides and attractions including a water park.
All-day pass costs $12.95.
Go to http://delgrossos.com/dap.html for more information.
47. Explorer Day Trips
Sponsored by International Student Services.
For more information or tickets go to 407 Boucke Building on campus.
Previous trips: Hershey Park, Atlantic City, New York City, Washington DC, Philadelphia and more.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/iss/explorers_program.html for more information.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/iss/cultural_events.html for more ISS events.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/iss/newsletter_iss.html for the ISS newlestter.
48. Get a Massage
At the Central Pennsylvania School of Massage.
Located on South Fraser Street.
½ hour massage = $24.95; facial = $7.00
Go to http://www.schoolofmassage.com/clinic.html for more services, prices and hours.
49. Go Kart
At Tussey Mountain.
Located on Route 322.
One ride costs $4.50. Hour long session costs $19.00.
Go to http://www.tusseymountain.com/summer/gokarts.html for hours of operation
50. Ice Skating
At the Penn State Ice Rink.
Located on Pollock Road and McKean Road.
Open year round.
$4 for PSU students. $2 for skate rentals.
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/rec/icerink/index.asp for more information.
51. Late Night Penn State
Located in the HUB.
Every weekend during the school year.
Enjoy comedians, improv groups, laser tag, karaoke, films, board games,sports, crafts, and more. Free admission. PSU id required for some activities.
Go to http://www.latenight.psu.edu/ for more information.
52. Meditation
At the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center.
Located on Curtain Road on campus.
Meditation room open daily from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm.
53. Paint Ball
At Penn Skates.
Located at 2210 High Tech Road.
Combo Package $30. Includes rentals, paint balls, field fee and field judges.
Go to http://www.pennskates.com/paintball_page.htm for more information.
54. Roller Rink and Family Fun Center
At Penn Skates!
Located at 2210 High Tech Road.
Go to http://www.pennskates.com/ for prices and hours of operation.
55. Salsa Dance
At Tony’s Big Easy.
Located on Pugh Street.
Every Wednesday Night starting at 11 pm.
Instruction provided for beginners at 10 pm.
$5 (Free for 21 +)
56. Stamp Collection
With the American Philatelic Society.
Located at 100 Match Factory Place in Bellefonte.
Learn about stamp collecting and start your own collection.
Sell and buy. Over 300,000 items in stock.
Go to http://stamps.org/ for more information.
57. Swim
At the McCoy Natatorium.
Outdoor and indoor pools located on Bigler Road on campus.
$4 one time admission. Free with purchase of Penn State fitness pass ($52.00 per semester).
Go to http://www.athletics.psu.edu/rec/nat/ for more information.
58. Take a Day/Weekend Trip
With Fullington Trailways.
Located at 2101 Alexander Drive.
Fullington offers a variety of packages and deals.
Example: “Do as you please” day trip to New York City costs $77.00.
Go to http://www.fullingtontours.com/fulltours/website/packages/main_calendar.stm for more information about deals offered this year.
59. Yoga
At Yoga State College.
Located at 220 A South Allen Street.
10 class card costs $75.00. Drop in fee costs $10.00.
Go to http://www.soldprice.com/yoga.htm for class times.
Miscellaneous
60. Amish Village
Located in Lancaster.
Take a tour of the Amish Village and purchase Dutch foods and souvenirs.
Tours cost $7.75 for adults.
Go to http://www.800padutch.com/avillage.html for more information.
61. Browse Local Events Online
Sponsored by various on-campus departments and off-campus organizations.
Located throughout campus and downtown.
Most events are free and open to the public.
Lectures, exhibits, workshops, seminars, discussions and more.
Go to http://events.psu.edu/ to search by category or by date.
62. Conversation Partners
Sponsored by Global Connections.
Located at 404 A Boucke Building on campus.
Native English speakers are matched with non-native English speakers for the purpose of language practice and cultural exchange.
Go to http://www.international.psu.edu/IHC/ for more information.
63. Hookah Lounge
At Chronic Town.
Located at 224 West College Avenue.
Enjoy a variety of hookah flavors including mango, guava, rose, vanilla and more.
Local bands featured several times a month.
Cover charge applies for shows.
Go to http://www.myspace.com/chronictownusa for events and shows at Chronic Town.
64. HUB Poster Sale
Sponsored by Beyond the Wall.
Located on the main floor of the HUB.
Takes place during the first two weeks of every semester.
Purchase posters for your apartment or dorm room. Costs between $5.00 and $20.00.
Go to http://www.beyondthewall.com/ for more information about Beyond the Wall.
65. Join a Club
Penn State has over 600 student organizations!
Multicultural/international, service, religious, sorority/fraternity, athletics and more.
Most meet once a week or every other week.
Some clubs have membership dues.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/usa/studentactivities/search.asp to search clubs.
Don't miss the student involvement fair at the beginning of every semester!
66. Nittany Mall
Located at 2901 East College Avenue
Shop at over 70 specialty stores and eateries.
Go to http://www.shopnittanymall.com/ for more information.
67. Residence Hall Socials
Located at your dorm residence hall.
Socials are planned throughout the semester.
Ice cream socials, crafts night, cookies and milk, mocktails and more.
Talk to your R.A. for more information.
68. State College Peace Center
Located in 201 State College Municipal Building on Allen Street.
Thursdays at 7:30 pm (check website for exceptions).
Attend lectures and films about war and peace.
Go to http://www.scpeacecenter.org/ for more information.
69. Vintage Clothes Shopping
At the Rag and Bone.
Located on Calder Way.
Browse American vintage style clothing from the 1920’s to the 1980’s.
Music
70. Bryce Jordan Center
Located on Curtain Road and University Drive on campus.
Attend a concert or sporting event.
Go to http://www.bjc.psu.edu/arena/ for list of events.
71. Drum Circle
At the wall on College Avenue in front of the Old Main Building across from PNC Bank.
Wednesday and Fridays from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Weather permitting.
Newcomers Welcome. Bring your own drum or just come and listen.
Email Dan Trevino at abonda@yahoo.com for more information.
72. Listen to Local Bands
At bars, benefit concerts and events.
Located throughout campus and downtown.
Cover charges and tickets fees apply at some shows.
Go to http://www.lemonsoul.net/shows.htm for show dates and location by local band Lemon Soul.
73. Listen to the Lion 90.7
Penn State Student Radio Station.
Indie, jazz, Latin, gospel, metal and more.
Go to http://www.thelion.fm/ for more information.
74. Live Jazz Music
At Bar Bleu.
Located at 112 South Garner Street. In the basement of Beulah’s BBQ.
Live jazz every weekend.
Go to http://www.dantesinc.com/barbleu.htm for more information about special events.
75. Open Mic Night
Sponsored by Students Organized for the Multiple Arts (SOMA).
Located in Waring study lounge (West Halls).
The first Tuesday of every month from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Come out to perform or just listen to the many talents of Penn State students.
Free Admission.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/soma/SomaWebsite.htm for more information about SOMA.
76. School of Music
At Penn State.
Located at Music Building I on campus.
Attend a show given by talented Penn State students.
Choirs, band, jazz band, orchestra and more.
Go to http://www.music.psu.edu/upcoming/ for performances and prices.
Museums
77. Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum and Art Gallery
Located at 16 Deike Building on Borrows Road on campus.
View collections of rocks, minerals, and fossils totaling more than 22,000 specimens.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.ems.psu.edu/museum/ for more information.
78. Frost Entomological Museum
Located at Head House III on Curtain Road on campus.
View over 2,000,000 specimens of insects representing at least 15,000 species.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.ento.psu.edu/home/Frost/index.HTML for more information.
79. Matson Museum of Anthropology
Located in 409 Carpenter Building off of Curtain road on campus next to the Nittany Lion Inn.
See exhibits on the diversity of contemporary human cultures and the history of human evolution.
Take self-guided or guided tours.
Admission is free.
Go to http://www.anthro.psu.edu/matson_museum/ for more information.
Palmer Museum of Art—See Art/Galleries
80. Penn State All-Sports Museum
Located in the southwest corner of Beaver Stadium on Curtain Road.
Museum exhibits highlights from all 29 varsity sports at Penn State.
$5 for adults. $3 for PSU students.
Go to http://www.happyvalley.com/posts.php?id=1003 for more information.
81. Pennsylvania Military Museum
Located in Boalsburg.
Tour the museum for $4.00.
Speaker series and various events take place throughout the year.
Go to http://www.pamilmuseum.org/ for more information.
Outdoors
82. Arboretum
Located on Park Avenue on campus.
Stop by often to see the construction of this 370-acre outreach, teaching, and research facility dedicated to preserving the beauty and ecological functions of vegetated landscapes in an urbanizing society.
Go to http://arboretum.psu.edu/ for more information.
83. Balloon Rides
At Sky’s The Limit Ballooning, Inc.
Location of pick up varies. Call 814-234-5986 to set up a flight.
All seasons activity. Weather permitting.
Most flights last 1 hour.
Flights cost $190 per person. Up to four passengers can join the pilot in the basket during each flight.
Go to http://www.paballoonrides.com/ for more information.
84. Bike the Alleghenies
Stop in the Visitor’s Center for tour information.
800 East Park Avenue.
On-road and off-road tours available.
Go to http://thealleghenies.com/biking.aspx for more information on tour routes.
85. Caving and Camping
At Woodward Cave and Campground.
Located at 148 Woodward Cave Drive in Woodward.
Explore one of the largest caverns in PA! Tours last 50 minutes.
Tours cost $10.50.
Camping costs $18.00 per tent, per night.
Go to http://woodwardcave.com/ for more information.
86. Critical Mass
Meet at the Allen Street Gates at 5:30 pm.
The last Friday of every month.
Bring your bike and join 20-30 other bikers for a ride around downtown to celebrate cycling.
Go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Critical_Mass to find out more about critical mass.
87. Fishing
At Tussey Mountain.
Located on Route 322.
Catch and release policy. Must have a fishing license.
Go to http://www.tusseymountain.com/summer/fishing.html for more information.
88. Fly a Glider
At the Ridge Soaring Gliderport.
Located 3523 S Eagle Valley Rd in Julian.
Fly 2,000 to 4,000 feet over State College in a glider.
Between $79.00 and $150.00 per flight.
Go to http://www.eglider.org/ for more information about Ridge Soaring Gliderport.
Also go to the Penn State Soaring Club website http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/soaring/ for special prices on glider rides and training.
89. Full Moon Walk
At the Millbrook Marsh.
Located at 614 Puddintown Road.
This non-scary walk encourages participants to be comfortable out at night.
Walk costs $7.50.
Go to http://crpr.centreconnect.org/Millbrook/Programs/Sum08/Walks_Sum08.html.
90. Golfing
At Penn State Golf Courses.
Located at 1523 West College Avenue.
Week day special $35.00.
Go to http://www.pennstategolfcourses.com/ for more information.
91. Hay Ride
At Harner Farm.
Located at 2191 West Whitehall Road.
A fun fall activity. Pumpkin patch and corn maze also available.
Go to http://agmap.psu.edu/Businesses/420 for more information.
92. Hike Mount Nittany
Located off of Mount Nittany Road.
Noted as the classic hike for local residents, tourists and returning alumni.
Go to http://www.mtnittany.org/ for more information.
93. Indian Caverns
Located at 5374 Indian Trail in Spruce Creek.
Explore the caverns and learn about Native American history and folklores.
Tours schedule daily.
Tours costs $9.00 for students.
Go to http://www.indiancaverns.com/ for more information.
94. Sky Dive
Located at the Mifflin County Airport.
Tandem jump or instructor aided deployment just $195.00.
Go to http://skydivehappyvalley.com/ for more information.
95. Star Gazing
Sponsored by the Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics and the Astronomy Club.
On the roof of the Davey Lab on campus.
Every Friday Night from 8:30 to 10:30 pm.
Free admission. Telescopes provided.
Call 814-863-1234 ext. 7 for star gazing status.
Go to http://www.clubs.psu.edu/up/astro/open_house.htm for more information.
96. Winter Sports on Tussey Mountain
Located on Route 322.
Enjoy this winter season by skiing or snowboarding. Lessons offered daily.
Snow tubing also available.
Go to http://www.tusseymountain.com/pricing/winter$.html for prices and hours of operation.
Performances
Bryce Jordan Center—See Music
97. Distinguished Speakers Series
Sponsored by Penn State’s Student Programming Association (SPA)
Free tickets provided for students at least a week in advance. Tickets can be picked up at the HUB information desk or Eisenhower box office.
Last year’s speakers: Elie Wiesel, Lisa Ling, Paul Rusesabagina, and Jerome Bettis.
Go to http://pennstatespa.weebly.com/dss.html for more information.
98. Dream: Spoken Word Lounge
Sponsored by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center.
Located in the Waring study lounge (West Halls).
Takes place several times each semester.
Enjoy original poetry, music and stories written by students and faculty.
Free admission.
Go to http://www.sa.psu.edu/prcc/BEDSpokenWordPoetryLounge.shtml for more information.
99. Outlaws
Located in room 6 of the Arts Building on campus.
Every Thursday at 11:15 pm.
Penn State University's All-Original, All-Experimental, Completely Uncensored, mostly Undergraduate, Late Night, Black-Box Theatre EVENT!
Free admission.
Go to http://www.outlawspsu.com/ for more information.
School of Music—See Music
100. School of Theater
Located at the Pavilion Theatre, Playhouse Theater or Penn State Downtown Theater Center.
Enjoy a variety of plays and musicals performed by the Penn State School of Theater.
Purchase tickets at the Penn State Downtown Theater Center, HUB information desk, Eisenhower ticket office, or Bryce Jordan ticket office.
Tickets cost $25.00 to $55.00.
Go to http://www.theatre.psu.edu/index.html for more information.
A little bit about supplemental housing
Hi, my name is Mustafa. I’m a senior at Penn State, and I stayed in a supplemental housing room my freshman year…
The one thing I feared the most when I first applied for on-campus housing was being stuck in supplemental housing. Because the freshman class size has increased so much in the past few years, I’m almost positive some of you have to stay in these supplemental rooms. Well, have no fear! Living in supplemental housing was one of the most fun experiences I’ve had at Penn State.
I thought the supplemental housing was going to be a very hard experience. Sharing a room with 4-8 people is more challenging than sharing the room with just one more. I remember I was so worried about living in supplemental, but now I wish I could do it again! It gave me a chance to meet so many new people. There was always someone around, and I was never bored.
Let me tell you a little about my old supplemental room:
Our supplemental room was in Packer Hall (East). It was the largest room on our floor and everyone agreed it was the most fun. After getting together with my roommates, we moved our furniture around to give us the most living space. We put the closest to the side, two facing each other, with just enough room for one person to go in. Then we bunked our beds and put them to the other side. Then we put carpet in the middle of the room and put our appliances next to each other. We had two huge TV’s that normally would be too big for regular dorms. It didn’t matter, because our room was HUGE! We even had a disco ball attached to the ceiling. Everyone on our floor loved our room. We always had friends over because of the extra living space. We would hold video game tournaments, movie nights, birthday parties… a single dorm doesn’t have enough space to do all that!
Of course, living in supplemental requires you to work with your roommates. In my supplemental, we all had different schedules. I had class in the morning, and my roommates had class in the afternoon. When I got dressed for class, I made sure I didn’t make too much noise, and everything worked out fine. Another issue I thought would be a big problem was finding a quiet study place to do homework in the supplemental. With so many people, it is hard to have the room very quiet. But the great thing about Penn State is that there are so many other places to study. I found that I rarely worked in my room. I was always in the library, or the HUB, or outside!
So my point is simple: if you have received on-campus housing and you have to stay in supplemental housing, don’t worry. It will be a great experience and a chance for you to meet so many new people!
The one thing I feared the most when I first applied for on-campus housing was being stuck in supplemental housing. Because the freshman class size has increased so much in the past few years, I’m almost positive some of you have to stay in these supplemental rooms. Well, have no fear! Living in supplemental housing was one of the most fun experiences I’ve had at Penn State.
I thought the supplemental housing was going to be a very hard experience. Sharing a room with 4-8 people is more challenging than sharing the room with just one more. I remember I was so worried about living in supplemental, but now I wish I could do it again! It gave me a chance to meet so many new people. There was always someone around, and I was never bored.
Let me tell you a little about my old supplemental room:
Our supplemental room was in Packer Hall (East). It was the largest room on our floor and everyone agreed it was the most fun. After getting together with my roommates, we moved our furniture around to give us the most living space. We put the closest to the side, two facing each other, with just enough room for one person to go in. Then we bunked our beds and put them to the other side. Then we put carpet in the middle of the room and put our appliances next to each other. We had two huge TV’s that normally would be too big for regular dorms. It didn’t matter, because our room was HUGE! We even had a disco ball attached to the ceiling. Everyone on our floor loved our room. We always had friends over because of the extra living space. We would hold video game tournaments, movie nights, birthday parties… a single dorm doesn’t have enough space to do all that!
Of course, living in supplemental requires you to work with your roommates. In my supplemental, we all had different schedules. I had class in the morning, and my roommates had class in the afternoon. When I got dressed for class, I made sure I didn’t make too much noise, and everything worked out fine. Another issue I thought would be a big problem was finding a quiet study place to do homework in the supplemental. With so many people, it is hard to have the room very quiet. But the great thing about Penn State is that there are so many other places to study. I found that I rarely worked in my room. I was always in the library, or the HUB, or outside!
So my point is simple: if you have received on-campus housing and you have to stay in supplemental housing, don’t worry. It will be a great experience and a chance for you to meet so many new people!
Monday, July 28, 2008
On eletrical appliances
Hi,
This is Ming. Every semester we get questions about the compatibility of electrical and electronic appliances, gadgets, and pretty much every thing that needs to be plugged into the wall from students (and parents) basically from the first day of Orientation. I have some small advices to make your first few days in State College a bit more pleasant.
My first advice is to bring only items that is compatible with the USA Voltage/ Frequency which is 110 volt/60 hertz electricity (110V/60Hz). If your gadgets come with an adapter that is already compatible for world-wide usage, i.e. 110-240V/50-60Hz, then you are okay.
Secondly, please bring a universal adapter from home. You may be able to buy it from electronics stores such as Radio Shack but they may or may not have the item in stock and it definitely saves you time in case you in to urgently recharge your mobile phone or your digital camera. Also, the nearest Radio Shack is still a bit out of the way from where you would be staying for the week.
I have uploaded two examples of universal adapters. By the way, in case you are wondering, US appliance's plug is of the "two vertical pins" design (circled in red).
For more detail information you could read in up from WikiTravel.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Woo-hoo. We Crossed The 500 Mark!
Hey All,
We have been receiving many visitors to our ISS Blog since its inception not long ago. In fact we just past the 500 unique visitors mark! Will there be 1000?
The more comments and questions we get, the better and more useful the ISS Blog will become. We will try to answer all the questions as best as we could.
And we also though that everyone might be interested in "seeing" where all these visitors are from so we prepared a map.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Getting a Driver's License in Pennsylvania
This is Rachel -- so based on the Transportation post (see below), we received a question about getting your driver's license in Pennsylvania. Thanks for the question! It's a good one, although it's a long, complicated, and confusing answer. I'll try my best to give a general answer here, but please remember that you can stop by the International Student Services office in 410 Boucke Building for more information when you arrive in State College.
The first thing you'll need to do is stop by the ISS office and pick up a driver's manual. This manual will help explain the rules to get your learner's permit and driver's license and will help you prepare for the driving test. While you're in the office, you should tell the front desk reception staff that you are interested in getting your driver's license -- they will ask you to complete a LETTER REQUEST FORM to start the process.
You'll then need to get a physical health examination, which you can get at University Health Services on campus.
Now, the regulations. As an international student, there are certain requirements that need to be met in order to get your license here in Pennsylvania. In order to get a driver’s license a student must:
The first thing you'll need to do is stop by the ISS office and pick up a driver's manual. This manual will help explain the rules to get your learner's permit and driver's license and will help you prepare for the driving test. While you're in the office, you should tell the front desk reception staff that you are interested in getting your driver's license -- they will ask you to complete a LETTER REQUEST FORM to start the process.
You'll then need to get a physical health examination, which you can get at University Health Services on campus.
Now, the regulations. As an international student, there are certain requirements that need to be met in order to get your license here in Pennsylvania. In order to get a driver’s license a student must:
- Have updated address with ISS
- Fill out a LETTER REQUEST FORM, which you can pick up in the ISS office. This letter typically takes 3-4 days to process, and just verifies that you are an international student at Penn State.
- Letter from ISS
- Passport, visa, and I-94
- I-20 or DS2019
- Two documents showing where you live (you can find a list of what documents that the DMV accepts in the ISS office)
- Social Security Card (if you don’t have one, you will need to apply for one with the Social Security Office, get rejected, and then take your rejection letter). (Social Security Numbers are only available for students who have jobs).
Again, please remember that you can visit the DMV website (http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/) for more information and of course, stop by the ISS office for more information once you've arrived.
Friday, July 11, 2008
What is THON?
Hi everyone! It’s Beth again. In my first post I mentioned that one of my favorite things at Penn State is the annual dance marathon (called THON for short). THON is a year-long event during which students plan, organize, and fundraise for the 46-hour no sitting, no sleeping dance marathon held in the Bryce Jordan Center. Started in the 1970s by the Interfraternity Council, THON raises money for the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State’s very own Hershey Medical Center. The Four Diamonds Fund provides support to families affected by childhood cancer. Check out the Four Diamonds website: http://www.hmc.psu.edu/fourdiamonds/
Throughout the year there are fundraising events including a 5K run, blood drives, and “canning weekends” when students travel throughout the state (and country) and collect donations. Student clubs and organizations also hold their own fundraisers to raise money, (usually organized by a designated THON chairperson). The amount of money raised by each organization determines the number of dancers from that org. There are also some “independent” dancers which are not associated with an org, but students must raise at least $2500 just to be placed in the dancer lottery system.
This year THON weekend will be February 20-22. Over 700 dancers participate on the dance floor and thousands of other students flock to the BJC to offer their support! Throughout the weekend there is live entertainment such as bands, dance groups, magicians, and a pep rally. However, the dance marathon is not for the students, or even for the university…it is done “For The Kids” (the motto of THON – FTK!). It is done in the memory of those lost, for the courage and strength of those fighting to overcome their illness, and for the joy of those who have survived! Most of the “THON families” (those families under the support of the Four Diamonds Fund) also visit the BJC during the weekend, so there is always plenty of little kids running around (many of them carrying water guns!). THON weekend is a campus-wide party in the BJC – I definitely recommend checking it out!
Besides dancing, there are tons of other ways to get involved with THON. An easy way is to join a student group on campus and talk to that group’s THON chairperson. They will be able to tell you about upcoming campus-wide events and fundraisers. They are also there to help brainstorm ways the group can contribute to the event. The International Student Council (ISC) is new to THON this year, and I’ll be the THON chair for the group J
There are also 8 different THON committees for students to join (Finance, Hospitality, Morale, Public Relations, Communications, OPPerations, Special Events and Rules and Regulations). For more information on the THON committees visit: http://www.thon.org/getinvolved/students/committees.php . Applications for committee positions are usually due at the end of September.
If you have any questions check out the THON website at http://www.thon.org/ or post a comment!!
Throughout the year there are fundraising events including a 5K run, blood drives, and “canning weekends” when students travel throughout the state (and country) and collect donations. Student clubs and organizations also hold their own fundraisers to raise money, (usually organized by a designated THON chairperson). The amount of money raised by each organization determines the number of dancers from that org. There are also some “independent” dancers which are not associated with an org, but students must raise at least $2500 just to be placed in the dancer lottery system.
This year THON weekend will be February 20-22. Over 700 dancers participate on the dance floor and thousands of other students flock to the BJC to offer their support! Throughout the weekend there is live entertainment such as bands, dance groups, magicians, and a pep rally. However, the dance marathon is not for the students, or even for the university…it is done “For The Kids” (the motto of THON – FTK!). It is done in the memory of those lost, for the courage and strength of those fighting to overcome their illness, and for the joy of those who have survived! Most of the “THON families” (those families under the support of the Four Diamonds Fund) also visit the BJC during the weekend, so there is always plenty of little kids running around (many of them carrying water guns!). THON weekend is a campus-wide party in the BJC – I definitely recommend checking it out!
Besides dancing, there are tons of other ways to get involved with THON. An easy way is to join a student group on campus and talk to that group’s THON chairperson. They will be able to tell you about upcoming campus-wide events and fundraisers. They are also there to help brainstorm ways the group can contribute to the event. The International Student Council (ISC) is new to THON this year, and I’ll be the THON chair for the group J
There are also 8 different THON committees for students to join (Finance, Hospitality, Morale, Public Relations, Communications, OPPerations, Special Events and Rules and Regulations). For more information on the THON committees visit: http://www.thon.org/getinvolved/students/committees.php . Applications for committee positions are usually due at the end of September.
If you have any questions check out the THON website at http://www.thon.org/ or post a comment!!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Are you planning to live off-campus?
If so, and especially if you don't know where you'll be living yet, this post is for you! Rachel asked me (Ruth) to call up apartment complexes this week so that we could find out how many still have places available for the fall. So, after a few days of searching, I have some good news and some bad news.
The bad news is that most of the complexes and realty groups in the area are already full for this year. Since many students usually rent through a realty company or apartment complex, this could seem like a problem for all of you.
But, don't worry - I said there was also good news! Even though the companies that handle rentals are mostly fully rented for this year, using them is not the only way to find housing. Many people in the area rent out their apartments, condos, townhouses, or houses for a year at a time while they are away. This is called subletting, and means that you deal directly with the person instead of with the rental company. As in any rental situation, it is a good idea to be sure that you feel safe and that you know what you are responsible for in the agreements you make.
You can find information about available sublets at the Housing Board outside room 407 Boucke Building and on websites like http://www.craigslist.org/ , at the Marketplace on http://www.facebook.com/, and at the Penn State Off-Campus Living Office at http://www.sa.psu.edu/ocl/. Remember that Bellefonte and Boalsburg are nearby towns and that rent there is often cheaper than in State College. They are further away, though, and you would need to take the bus. Here is a link to the CATA Bus website: http://www.catabus.com/, to the Boalsburg schedule: http://catabus.com/centreline/routes/b/schedule.htm, and to the Bellefonte schedule: http://catabus.com/centreline/routes/x/schedule.htm. Bus fare is $1.25 per trip for off-campus routes if you just buy a single token, $49 for a one-month pass, $279 for a 6-month pass, and $499 for a one-year pass (for more options and details, see http://catabus.com/ssfares.htm).
And, while most of the rental agencies are fully rented for the fall, not all of them are. Here are a few that I found who said they still had apartments for rent:
Continental Real Estate Management at 814-238-1598 or cremapt@gmail.com
Copper Beech Townhomes at 814-867-2323 or statecollege@cbeech.com
Falk Realty at 814-238-8788 or info@falkrealty.net
Park Crest Terrace at 814-231-9677 or info@parkcrestterrace.com
Toftrees Apartments at 866-649-1340 or leasin-toftrees@rentberger.com
I hope this is useful information for you and that you are all a little further on your way toward getting a place to live for the fall! If you haven't started looking yet, it's probably a good idea to do that as soon as you can. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about housing! We're here to help. :)
The bad news is that most of the complexes and realty groups in the area are already full for this year. Since many students usually rent through a realty company or apartment complex, this could seem like a problem for all of you.
But, don't worry - I said there was also good news! Even though the companies that handle rentals are mostly fully rented for this year, using them is not the only way to find housing. Many people in the area rent out their apartments, condos, townhouses, or houses for a year at a time while they are away. This is called subletting, and means that you deal directly with the person instead of with the rental company. As in any rental situation, it is a good idea to be sure that you feel safe and that you know what you are responsible for in the agreements you make.
You can find information about available sublets at the Housing Board outside room 407 Boucke Building and on websites like http://www.craigslist.org/ , at the Marketplace on http://www.facebook.com/, and at the Penn State Off-Campus Living Office at http://www.sa.psu.edu/ocl/. Remember that Bellefonte and Boalsburg are nearby towns and that rent there is often cheaper than in State College. They are further away, though, and you would need to take the bus. Here is a link to the CATA Bus website: http://www.catabus.com/, to the Boalsburg schedule: http://catabus.com/centreline/routes/b/schedule.htm, and to the Bellefonte schedule: http://catabus.com/centreline/routes/x/schedule.htm. Bus fare is $1.25 per trip for off-campus routes if you just buy a single token, $49 for a one-month pass, $279 for a 6-month pass, and $499 for a one-year pass (for more options and details, see http://catabus.com/ssfares.htm).
And, while most of the rental agencies are fully rented for the fall, not all of them are. Here are a few that I found who said they still had apartments for rent:
Continental Real Estate Management at 814-238-1598 or cremapt@gmail.com
Copper Beech Townhomes at 814-867-2323 or statecollege@cbeech.com
Falk Realty at 814-238-8788 or info@falkrealty.net
Park Crest Terrace at 814-231-9677 or info@parkcrestterrace.com
Toftrees Apartments at 866-649-1340 or leasin-toftrees@rentberger.com
I hope this is useful information for you and that you are all a little further on your way toward getting a place to live for the fall! If you haven't started looking yet, it's probably a good idea to do that as soon as you can. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about housing! We're here to help. :)
Monday, July 7, 2008
FOOD!
Here is everything you will ever want to know about dining in State College!
On-Campus
For starters, there is campus dining. There is a dining commons in every residence hall area. The dining commons provides a variety of foods everyday—buffet style! Everyday you can find salads, veggies, soups, sandwiches, chicken, hamburgers, French fries, pasta, cereal, and deserts (including our own campus creamery ice cream). In addition to this, there is always a menu which changes everyday. This menu includes food such as: turkey, beef, mashed potatoes, fish, rice, sloppy joe sandwiches, and cheese steaks. You can see a sample menu here.
If you are a vegetarian, you will want to stop by the West Halls dining commons. You will find the best foods here for your diet. The vegetarian chili is very delicious!
In addition to the dining commons, you can also eat at one of the many eateries found in each residence hall area. For instance, in East Halls there is the Big Onion (pizza, burgers, cheese steaks, salads); Fresh Express (subs, wraps, sandwiches, salad bar and Asian stir fry); and Roxy’s (burgers, shakes). In East Halls you can also find Good 2 Go, a convenient store for when you want to grab sometime quick to eat!
There are other eateries throughout campus as well. In the HUB you can find the following eateries:
Nathans (hot dogs, fish sandwiches, fries);
Panda Express (Chinese cuisine);
Chick-fil-a (chicken sandwiches, fries, chicken tenders);
Chats (coffee, pastries, smoothies, deserts);
Sbarro (Pizza and other Italian cuisine);
Wild Cactus (Mexican cuisine);
Mixed Greens (salads and wraps)
and many others.
Also, there are a number of campus restaurants. To find locations and what’s on the menu at this link.
If you are in the mood for ice cream, make sure to stop by our campus creamery located on Curtain Road near Bigler Road. Over the year, you can find 100 different ice cream flavors offered. Some of them are seasonal (only offered at certain times of the year), but many of them are classics that you’ll want to enjoy again and again: vanilla, strawberry, chocolate! Be sure to try Peachy Paterno—named after our famous football coach!
Off-Campus
In down town state college there are plenty of delicious eateries and restaurants to keep you satisfied.
American Restaurants/Eateries: Chili’s, Allen Street Grill, The Corner Room, The Diner, Baby’s, The Deli, The Waffle Shop, The Gingerbread Man, Irving’s, Panera, Pita Pit, Fresh Harvest Café, Webster’s
International Restaurants: Cozi Thai Bistro, Indian Pavillion, Masala, Kaarma, Say Sushi, Chinese Wok, Chinese Kitchen Express, Kim Chi Korean Restaurant, Seoul Garden, Zola’s, Herwig’s, Qdoba, Uncle Chen’s, Belly Buster Burritos, Faccia Luna, Mad Mex, Viet Thai
Fast Food: MacDonald’s, Five Guys (burgers) , Jimmy Johns (subs); Dunkin Donuts, Subway, College Pizza, Canyon Pizza, Brothers Pizza, Belle’s Greek Pizza
Tea and Coffee: Starbucks, Irving’s, Webster’s
There are also a variety of markets if you live in an apartment and want to cook for yourself.
Super Markets: Wegman’s, Weis, Giant
Smaller Markets: Meyers Diary (fresh milk)
International Markets: Krishan Indian Grocery (a great place to find calling cards), East European Market, African Market, Far Corners Asian Market; International Market, That Oriental Store, Dragon Land
Farmer’s Market: Locate on Locust Lane (behind the HUB) every Friday till 5 pm from June to November. Here you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, home made desserts, jam, and apple cider.
Convenient Stores: McClanahan’s, Uni-Mart, College Mart
On-Campus
For starters, there is campus dining. There is a dining commons in every residence hall area. The dining commons provides a variety of foods everyday—buffet style! Everyday you can find salads, veggies, soups, sandwiches, chicken, hamburgers, French fries, pasta, cereal, and deserts (including our own campus creamery ice cream). In addition to this, there is always a menu which changes everyday. This menu includes food such as: turkey, beef, mashed potatoes, fish, rice, sloppy joe sandwiches, and cheese steaks. You can see a sample menu here.
If you are a vegetarian, you will want to stop by the West Halls dining commons. You will find the best foods here for your diet. The vegetarian chili is very delicious!
In addition to the dining commons, you can also eat at one of the many eateries found in each residence hall area. For instance, in East Halls there is the Big Onion (pizza, burgers, cheese steaks, salads); Fresh Express (subs, wraps, sandwiches, salad bar and Asian stir fry); and Roxy’s (burgers, shakes). In East Halls you can also find Good 2 Go, a convenient store for when you want to grab sometime quick to eat!
There are other eateries throughout campus as well. In the HUB you can find the following eateries:
Nathans (hot dogs, fish sandwiches, fries);
Panda Express (Chinese cuisine);
Chick-fil-a (chicken sandwiches, fries, chicken tenders);
Chats (coffee, pastries, smoothies, deserts);
Sbarro (Pizza and other Italian cuisine);
Wild Cactus (Mexican cuisine);
Mixed Greens (salads and wraps)
and many others.
Also, there are a number of campus restaurants. To find locations and what’s on the menu at this link.
If you are in the mood for ice cream, make sure to stop by our campus creamery located on Curtain Road near Bigler Road. Over the year, you can find 100 different ice cream flavors offered. Some of them are seasonal (only offered at certain times of the year), but many of them are classics that you’ll want to enjoy again and again: vanilla, strawberry, chocolate! Be sure to try Peachy Paterno—named after our famous football coach!
Off-Campus
In down town state college there are plenty of delicious eateries and restaurants to keep you satisfied.
American Restaurants/Eateries: Chili’s, Allen Street Grill, The Corner Room, The Diner, Baby’s, The Deli, The Waffle Shop, The Gingerbread Man, Irving’s, Panera, Pita Pit, Fresh Harvest Café, Webster’s
International Restaurants: Cozi Thai Bistro, Indian Pavillion, Masala, Kaarma, Say Sushi, Chinese Wok, Chinese Kitchen Express, Kim Chi Korean Restaurant, Seoul Garden, Zola’s, Herwig’s, Qdoba, Uncle Chen’s, Belly Buster Burritos, Faccia Luna, Mad Mex, Viet Thai
Fast Food: MacDonald’s, Five Guys (burgers) , Jimmy Johns (subs); Dunkin Donuts, Subway, College Pizza, Canyon Pizza, Brothers Pizza, Belle’s Greek Pizza
Tea and Coffee: Starbucks, Irving’s, Webster’s
There are also a variety of markets if you live in an apartment and want to cook for yourself.
Super Markets: Wegman’s, Weis, Giant
Smaller Markets: Meyers Diary (fresh milk)
International Markets: Krishan Indian Grocery (a great place to find calling cards), East European Market, African Market, Far Corners Asian Market; International Market, That Oriental Store, Dragon Land
Farmer’s Market: Locate on Locust Lane (behind the HUB) every Friday till 5 pm from June to November. Here you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, home made desserts, jam, and apple cider.
Convenient Stores: McClanahan’s, Uni-Mart, College Mart
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Transportation: Buses, Trains, or Cars?
Here's an excellent question on transportation:
Hey! I just wanted to know about the transportation options available to and from the campus? For weekend trips, and so on... I've heard that driving down would be the best option. But are there any other alternatives, like trains? :)
Answers: There are the local buses called CATA Bus that operate in the University Park campus and the greater State College area. If you plan to go to places like Philadephia, New York City or Washington D.C you could take buses (e.g Greyhound Buses) which departs from a bus terminal located next to the campus. As for trains, the nearest train station is located in Lewistown, PA about 45 minutes away by car.
Hey! I just wanted to know about the transportation options available to and from the campus? For weekend trips, and so on... I've heard that driving down would be the best option. But are there any other alternatives, like trains? :)
Answers: There are the local buses called CATA Bus that operate in the University Park campus and the greater State College area. If you plan to go to places like Philadephia, New York City or Washington D.C you could take buses (e.g Greyhound Buses) which departs from a bus terminal located next to the campus. As for trains, the nearest train station is located in Lewistown, PA about 45 minutes away by car.
Searching for Topics and Answers
Hi There!
Although this ISS Orientation Blog is really quite new, we have already been getting responses from future students. According to the sitemeter, ISS Orientation Blog is being visited by readers from around the world! Take a look at July's stats from the sitemeter. Hopefully, more people will get to know the blog and its usefulness (the funny thing about this blog, is that the more people use it, the more useful it will be).
You could use the ISS Orientation Blog by randomly browsing through it (for those of us with hmmmmm...more time on their hands) or you could look at the FAQs Keywords located on the sidebar of the blog. For example, if you want to know about the dormitory you will be staying during the Orientation Week, click on the keyword "dorms" under FAQs Keywords. This should bring you to the postings that talk about dormitories in Penn State.
The ISS Orientation Blog is still expanding and we will keep on adding more topics and details. If you can't find what you are looking for today, come back in a few days to see if that topic has been added. Better still, post a comment on the blog and we will try to look for an answer for you.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Places to Study at Penn State
I know we're all in summer mode right now, but some of you might be wondering about how and where you might study when classes start in...let me check...54 days!
This campus is full of quiet places for times when you are feeling overwhelmed by work and don't want to be in your room. Close to home for those of you living on campus are the study lounges that can be found in every dorm. Check with your RA for exact locations of the lounges in your building once you get to campus.
Whether you want to study with 6 of your loudest friends or by yourself in silence, libraries are always a good option. Our main library (which consists of two parts - Pattee and Paterno) is full of group study spaces. These rooms can be reserved ahead of time and all come with large tables and other helpful study equipment. Stop by here to find out more.
If you're looking for a quieter spot, you can find individual desks (some with computers) in the stacks area of the Pattee side of the library, and more tables and computers in all of the special subject libraries on the Paterno side. For those of you who like Harry Potter (and for those of you who don't), there is a huge, very quiet room on the second floor of Pattee that some people think looks like the Great Hall at Hogwarts. It might make studying for that Econ exam a little more fun.
The HUB is also a great place to study. It's best for groups, since it can get pretty loud, but lots of comfortable chairs, tables, coffee, and food make the noise worthwhile. Also, while the weather is warm at the beginning of the semester, lots of students take advantage of both the HUB lawn and the Old Main lawn. That's always a good way to go, since it's easy to slip in a game of frisbee between assignments.
Downtown is full of good study locations - Webster's Bookstore on S. Allen St., Irving's on College Ave., the Schlow Library on the corner of Beaver and Allen, Panera at that same intersection, and Saint's Cafe on Beaver are all great choices (among many others!).
This blog entry was written by Ruth Parrish (Orientation Staff for Fall 2008) for Fall Orientation 2008.
This campus is full of quiet places for times when you are feeling overwhelmed by work and don't want to be in your room. Close to home for those of you living on campus are the study lounges that can be found in every dorm. Check with your RA for exact locations of the lounges in your building once you get to campus.
Whether you want to study with 6 of your loudest friends or by yourself in silence, libraries are always a good option. Our main library (which consists of two parts - Pattee and Paterno) is full of group study spaces. These rooms can be reserved ahead of time and all come with large tables and other helpful study equipment. Stop by here to find out more.
If you're looking for a quieter spot, you can find individual desks (some with computers) in the stacks area of the Pattee side of the library, and more tables and computers in all of the special subject libraries on the Paterno side. For those of you who like Harry Potter (and for those of you who don't), there is a huge, very quiet room on the second floor of Pattee that some people think looks like the Great Hall at Hogwarts. It might make studying for that Econ exam a little more fun.
The HUB is also a great place to study. It's best for groups, since it can get pretty loud, but lots of comfortable chairs, tables, coffee, and food make the noise worthwhile. Also, while the weather is warm at the beginning of the semester, lots of students take advantage of both the HUB lawn and the Old Main lawn. That's always a good way to go, since it's easy to slip in a game of frisbee between assignments.
Downtown is full of good study locations - Webster's Bookstore on S. Allen St., Irving's on College Ave., the Schlow Library on the corner of Beaver and Allen, Panera at that same intersection, and Saint's Cafe on Beaver are all great choices (among many others!).
This blog entry was written by Ruth Parrish (Orientation Staff for Fall 2008) for Fall Orientation 2008.
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