The campus has a lot of free resources, although they not known to all, unfortunately.

From one college student to another, here’s a small guide to some freebies around SCC for the cheapskate in you. Please keep in mind to be considerate and polite when visiting these places or using their resources, though! You can thank me after.

1. Snacks

This is what you came for, isn’t it?

The International Education Office (PUB 9302) on campus has a handful of candies available for some light snacking while you’re waiting in line to talk or schedule appointments with the advisers for
international students. For non-international students, worry not! The next tip’s got you covered.

Besides the friendly smiles of the people working there, the campus’ counseling center, located in the FOSS building in Room 5245, also offers snacks of different varieties which are switched up from time to time. They also have comfortable spaces to study or take in-between- class breaks with coloring pages and games to while away the minutes.

Clubs and events held throughout the school year often serve food as an add-on to their event, an example being the International Club, which holds meetings filled with country-themed snacks as well as their quarterly potluck events.

“Come for the fun, stay for the snacks,” they say.

Or is it supposed to be the other way around…?

2. Parking

Looking to avoid the battle for parking spots on campus? The Sears’ parking lot, located about 10 minutes away by walking from SCC’s campus, has a lot with free parking. Rather than panicking through the morning rush before class just to find a place to park, there’s this accessible alternative. And if you’re not into walking, there is a free shuttle that goes between the lot and campus continuously from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. every Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. every Friday.

3. Stationeries (and other artsy goodness)

From markers to stamps to button makers to the coolest collection of washi tapes, the library’s Makerspace has you covered for the wide range of projects that your classes may require. To get there, head straight to the back of the library after going through the main entrance. It will be on your left in Room 4216.

4. Protection

Condoms, pads and tampons, organized neatly in individual packages, rest on a table in the Student Life Center, ready for students to take. The Student Life Center is located on the PUB’s third floor, to the left of the main stairway; the area is also the Associated Student Government’s office. Pads and tampons are also available at the library’s circulation desk, next to the stapler.

5. Toiletries

Emergencies happen, and when budgets get a little tight, the campus offers free toiletries. Available in both the CEO (Career Education Options) Office on the lowest level of the FOSS building and Counseling Center, baskets filled with toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpastes, soaps, shampoos and lotions are provided for students who need it. But please don’t take more than you need!

6. Games

Although not exactly an item students can take home, the Low-Tide Lounge and Game Room in the PUB, Room 9103, does have game consoles and a pool table students can use during operating hours. It’s a pretty chill way to have fun with friends or to try out new video games for free!

7. Fitness

The school’s fitness center, complete with treadmills and weights, is open for all students. For those who want a place to swim, the Helene Madison pool on Meridian offers free access to a pool with just a student ID. Show your student ID at the door and you’ll get in free of charge.

By NATASHA SIDIK, Staff Writer