As a student, there is a litany of benefits that you are entitled to, most notable, student discounts which you can read more about here.

As a Drexel student, you are able to access a whole new world of unique amenities that you should take full advantage of in order to maximize what you get for your tuition.

Here are the top-four things you should take advantage of as a Drexel student.

Drexel URec:

Drexel’s gym and recreation facility, officially titled as the URec but more commonly known as The DAC, is truly an important amenity to take advantage of. The DAC is genuinely a very nice gym. The DAC’s three floors are packed with everything that you could possibly need. From machines, free weights, calisthenics equipment, a basketball court, a swimming pool, a punching bag, a rock wall, to seemingly infinite squash courts, the DAC really does a good job providing students a place where they can get active in any way that interests them. 

The URec also offers a number of free workout classes for those who want to get active but do not know where to begin. Additionally, The DAC is the home for many of Drexel’s indoor intramural sports such as basketball and volleyball. 

College is a time when you are on your own and are learning to be an adult. Getting active is an important part of maintaining your physical and mental health throughout your years at Drexel.

Join a club

This is not a place, per se, but this is one of the best ways to get the most bang for your buck as a student. Each term, you pay a $790 student activity fee. This, partially, goes to funding student life on campus. In other words, if you do not join a club, you might as well be setting $790 on fire. 

The good news? There is literally no reason not to join a club! There are 493 clubs on DragonLink that you can join. They cater to every interest, no matter how niche (Hello, Dragon Jedi, we are all big fans of your work), and if you can not find the right club for you, you can create one!

Clubs are the best way to make friends, grow your skills and gain leadership experience. If you want to join a club, do not hesitate; join as early as possible. And if you do not know what club to join, I have the perfect one: The Square. 

Attend events on campus

If you do not go to events on campus, you are missing out on some of the best things college has to offer. Free food, free merch, new people and school spirit can be found in abundance at campus events. 

These events can range from goat yoga on Lancaster Walk, free massages during finals week and sporting events. You never know what event is going to happen next on campus, and they are often underutilized by students. For the best way of finding these events, follow @dustudentlife on Instagram or check DragonLink frequently. 

In particular, you are missing out if you do not go to sporting events on campus. Every single game is free to students, and they are chock-full of giveaways and promotional events. Additionally, there is no better place to feel some school spirit than our basketball games, and if you are not there showcasing your Drexel pride, then you are tacitly letting Drexel’s school spirit be underwhelming. 

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

This is a personal favorite of mine. Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences is the oldest natural science museum in the Americas. And Drexel owns it! Pretty cool, right? The Academy is more of a research institution than a museum in many ways, but it has got enough cool things that it is worth checking out once, and its rotating exhibits are well worth coming back for, especially for the low admission price of free. 

Additionally, the Academy is a lovely jaunt down to the Logan Square neighborhood of Philadelphia. This is a beautiful area with tons to do, as you can combine a trip to the academy with a visit to the Free Library of Philadelphia, the Barnes Foundation, The Philadelphia Art Museum and the Rodin Museum. 

Madis Coffee – 3527 Lancaster Ave. 

Madis is a coffee shop frequented by many university students and surrounding community members. With a cozy atmosphere that is constantly bustling, getting a table (with an outlet) is not for the faint of heart. Located conveniently near campus, this stop has a warm, beautiful and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for an extended study session. 

Garden outside of the Rush Building – 30 N 33rd St. 

If you are the type of person who prefers to study outdoors in a more secluded setting, the garden area outside of the Rush Building is perfect for you. Situated in a quieter nook on campus, the Rush garden contains the constant sounds of a small fountain with a variety of greenery amongst the tables and chairs outside. This spot is perfect for those warm spring nights when sitting inside feels like a crime, but you still have three finals to complete. 

Greek from Greece – 107 N 33rd St 

Located conveniently on campus near the freshman residence halls, Greek from Greece offers a cozy cafe experience paired with a variety of food and drink options to fuel your study session. This spot is perfect for students who prefer the cafe environment but also appreciate calm, peace and quiet. 

11th floor of the College of Computing and Informatics – 3675 Market St. 

For those who are a sucker for a good view while in the midst of midterm season (and have card access), the 11th floor of Drexel’s College of Computing & Informatics has very beautiful views of the city skyline and sky. Windows range floor to ceiling and spaces available include long tables, individual study rooms with whiteboards, and study booths along all Drexel floors of the building. 

Middle floor of Hagerty Library – 3300 Market St. 

The middle floor of Hagerty is a classic choice; being the only library on campus for undergraduate students, it is the perfect balance between silence and slight activity. While not as noisy as the bottom floor or as silent as the top floor, it is an ideal location for those who want to chat with their friends. Keep a lookout for the Dragons’ den! Open 24 hours every day, it is the go-to place for many students with work that goes late into the night.

Ross Commons (above Sabrina’s Cafe) – 229 N 34th St. 

Ross Commons, located above Sabrina’s cafe (a popular brunch spot among students), is a quieter space away from the hustle of campus. It is equipped with amenities like a pool table, comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere that make it a great place to go when exploring the area surrounding Drexel or even after a bite to eat at Sabrina’s!

Lancaster Walk

Lancaster Walk is more than just a path to your destination. Being one of the most popular spaces on campus to sit with your friends on a hot summer day, it is a great place to study if you prefer being close to all major campus locations. A few lounge chairs and a lot of grass space make this the perfect place to be if you prefer to sit outside while reviewing notes or catching up on reading between classes. 

Lebow Lounge – 3220 Market St.  

Located in the LeBow College of Business, this ground-floor lounge is a comfortable and (mostly) quiet place for students to study. With long tables and chairs and plenty of outlets, this is an excellent choice for students looking for a more professional study environment. They also appreciate the close proximity to a coffee outlet if they need it. 

Main Building- 3141 Chestnut St.

Located towards the edge of campus but inevitably a location in the Drexel tour, the main building provides historic architecture, high ceilings and a grand staircase, easily making it one of the most beautiful buildings on campus. Though it may not be as ‘modern’ as the other study areas on campus, its unique atmosphere provides itself to be a good spot to lock in for a bit between classes. 

Starbucks- 3131 Market St

This new Starbucks in Schuylkill Yards is definitely a step up from the old location in Lebow. A variety of couches, charging outlets and tables litter the area. More importantly, its location just a few steps from most key academic buildings make it perfect for grabbing a boost of caffeine to finish a pending assignment during a busy day of classes. 

Top Floor of Health Sciences Building – 60 N 36th St. 

The top floor of the newly constructed Health Sciences Building provides a nice, peaceful and quiet environment for those times when you really need to lock in. The spaces on the top floors are bright and open, with a variety of tables, chairs and couches available for student use. Plenty of natural light and an amazing view of campus and the city are available to keep you energized during those long finals weeks. 

Top floor of Korman Center – 15 S 33rd St. 

To end this list, the top floor of the Korman Center offers another spot that is quieter than most. Recently renovated, the space is on the modern side and is well-lit, with many tables and chairs to study at. An added bonus of this location is its close proximity to virtually all tutoring services, which is helpful for that one concept that you can not seem to master. 

On behalf of The Square, welcome to Drexel! 

My name is Paulie Loscalzo, and I am the Editor-in-Chief of The Square, Drexel’s independent student newspaper. The Square is financially and editorially independent of Drexel, and everything you see in this edition is the culmination of over a hundred students coming together to create a newspaper that caters to you, the Drexel community. 

The Square has been a staple on campus since 1926 — yes, we are about to turn 100 years old, it is very exciting — telling the story of our university and the city of Philadelphia. We are your one-stop shop for becoming more informed about your community and entertained daily. 

To stay up-to-date with The Square, the easiest thing to do is follow us on Instagram @drexeltriangle. For even more in-depth Triangle-following, go to www.thetriangle.org and read our paper online. Additionally, a few times a term, we will be popping up on campus in print. 

For however long you call Drexel home, The Square will be here as your guide, news source, and advocate. And, for many of you, The Square can be a place that you call home. If you are looking for a diverse and welcoming community, look no further than The Square. Here you can pursue quite literally any passion you have. From writing, to editing, to graphic design, to business, to IT, to video creation and anything else you can imagine, you can do it here with us. If you are interested in applying, go to thetriangle.org/join-the-triangle. 

Now, for some unsolicited advice from a soon-to-be fifth-year senior at Drexel. Please, cherish your time here at Drexel. There are infinite ways to spend your college career, and the only wrong way to spend it is by doing nothing.

Join a club (preferably The Square), go to the basketball games, and go to events where you don’t know anybody. Do something you have never done before (journalism?), explore the city of Philadelphia, and meet new people. Time will fly by; there is no time to waste feeling self-conscious or kicking things down the road. Get involved early and often and make some memories that will last you a lifetime.

People will constantly complain about Drexel and the things they don’t like. Don’t be like them. Everything is what you make of it. Take advantage of the things that other people are overlooking, and you will find that you love it here — trust me. 

Good luck to all of you this year! If you feel lost early on in your Drexel career, join The Square, and there’s a good chance everything will take care of itself from there. Enjoy this guide to Drexel, keep reading The Square, and get out there, share some laughs and make some memories. 

Best,

Paulie Loscalzo

Welcome to your freshman year at Drexel and welcome to Philly! 

My name is Shreeya Gounder, and I am the Managing Editor of The Square. The Square is Drexel’s financially and editorially independent student newspaper. 

To find The Square in print, you may see our newsstands scattered around campus. If you are more of an online reader, head to www.thetriangle.org. Our more day-to-day content can be found on our Instagram @drexeltriangle. We hope that you can use our content to stay informed about what is happening in your community. But if you want to take the next step and contribute to our paper, we welcome you to join! We offer a variety of positions in various niches, including social media, writing, photography, design, IT, business and more. There really is something for everyone.

I came into Drexel uncertain about what I wanted to get involved in and applied to The Square on a whim. It was a little scary to put my introverted self out there, but as a rising senior, I can say without a doubt that this organization has defined my Drexel experience. So I urge you: find what makes you happy, whether that’s a club on campus, a hobby in Philly, or even something that you never imagined you would be doing before coming to college.

I’m going to be honest with you, being a student at Drexel is not easy. Most days, you are juggling a demanding class schedule while simultaneously applying to and interviewing for co-ops. However, I have found that Drexel students are some of the most resilient and resourceful people I know. You will definitely learn to adapt to your environment and thrive, even under pressure. Take each challenge as a new opportunity to grow.  

As a student at a versatile university like Drexel, your path will be unique from that of your best friends. You’ll find the perfect co-op that fits your niche and the ideal student organization that keeps you sane during the busy quarter system schedule. While I am biased, hopefully The Square can be an outlet you consider to shape your college experience.

At a college like Drexel situated right in the heart of Philly, the opportunities for personal growth and professional development are endless. Take advantage of them. Explore the city and try new foods. Find a cool job that allows you to explore your passions. Most importantly, keep an open mind! Drexel and the city of Philadelphia may surprise you. “City of Brotherly Love” for real. Trust me, as someone who entered college without much knowledge of the amount of opportunities that awaited me, I am amazed by how much I have been able to grow both personally and professionally throughout my time at Drexel. 

I can’t wait to see the stories that each of you will bring to our community. Good luck!

Yours sincerely,

Shreeya Gounder

Welcome to campus, Dragons.

I am thrilled to welcome all new and returning students to campus this fall. For those who have been here over the summer, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many of you on my walks around campus. Your energy and enthusiasm give me so much hope for the future, and I want you to know that your success here at Drexel and beyond is my top priority. One of my core commitments as president is to ensure a positive and enriching student experience for every Dragon. Everything we do at Drexel from academics and co-op to campus life and community engagement is designed to support your growth, well-being and achievement. I look forward to meeting many more of you in the weeks ahead. Welcome, and let’s make it a great year.

I still remember my first days of college as if they were yesterday. That perfect blend of excitement, nerves and curiosity about what lay ahead. As a first-generation college student, it didn’t take long for me to understand the impact of higher education.

I began my journey at Bocconi University in Milan, not far from the working-class town where I grew up. Alongside my small cohort in the Economic and Social Sciences program, I dove into courses in math, statistics, philosophy, sociology and political science — absorbing everything I could and learning how to connect ideas across disciplines. I was hooked.

My professors encouraged me to pursue a career in academia, which led me to New York University for my Ph.D. in economics, supported by a generous scholarship. Four years later, degree in hand, I applied to more than 70 jobs around the world. I landed at the University of Minnesota, where I was fortunate (albeit quite intimidated) to work alongside brilliant colleagues — five of whom would go on to win Nobel Prizes.

From there, my path took me to institutions across the country, including Rice University in Houston and the University of Pennsylvania here in West Philadelphia. I have served as a professor, scholar, chair, director and dean, as well as a water polo coach, continuing to fuse fields, just as I did as an undergraduate. Throughout it all, I have always kept close to heart my early professors’ encouragement, and I have in turn prioritized student success as a central focus of all my roles.

Today, I am honored to serve as Drexel’s 16th president. I arrived here through hard work, yes — but also by keeping an open mind and embracing many, many unexpected opportunities.

Looking back, every twist and turn, every serendipitous moment, and every person who helped me along the way led me exactly where I was meant to be. I hope this year brings you great success, real joy and meaningful growth as you continue your own journey. Stay tuned for an email inviting you to my “office hours,” where we can connect more regularly as a group.

If there is one thing that brings people together, it is food. Whether you are grabbing a quick bite between classes or sitting down for a late-night meal with friends, good food makes campus life better. Drexel students are lucky to be in University City where the surrounding food scene is very diverse. From corner delis to board game cafés, there are plenty of spots to fuel up, hang out with friends and make new memories.

An immediate go-to when it comes to range is Old Nelson’s. Located at 3400 Lancaster Ave., the mini grocery store and deli is a staple for students looking for quick meals. With a multitude of to-go options, like hot sandwiches and prepackaged snacks, Old Nelson’s makes it easy to grab something in between classes or stock up for later.

If you are looking to sit in with friends, Board and Brew stands out as a more reasonable yet enjoyable option. The café, found at 3200 Chestnut St., goes beyond its menu of sandwiches, wraps and coffee by offering an entire library of board games. It is one of the top choices for students who want to eat, relax and spend a few hours competing in classics like Scrabble or trying out new and niche games. 

Drexel is known for its wide range of food trucks, which line the back of Main Building Auditorium and line the streets across campus. A few student favorites include Pete’s Little Lunchbox, usually parked near 33rd and Arch streets, Dos Hermanos Tacos, often found at 33rd and Market streets and Happy Sunshine, which serves up affordable meals near 33rd and Arch streets. Pete’s along with Happy Sunshine is a comfort food go-to, offering breakfast and lunch sandwiches at student-friendly prices. Dos Hermanos has built its reputation on tacos packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavor. 

In the mood for a late-night snack? D.P. Dough is a go-to spot, known for staying open from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. The chain, with a location at 3233 Powelton Ave., specializes in calzones stuffed with everything from classic pepperoni to more adventurous combos that hit the spot after a long day. Another late-night favorite is Insomnia Cookies, located at 3400 Lancaster Ave., which keeps students coming back with warm cookies, brownies and ice cream until the early hours.

Of course, there are plenty of culinary treasures across campus. Sabrina’s Café, with its cozy interior and massive brunch portions, is a popular weekend destination. For those craving Mediterranean flavors, GFG (Greek From Greece) serves quick, affordable options like gyros and spinach pies. With choices ranging from comfort food to international eats, you are certain to find a go-to dish here on Drexel’s campus.

One of the most exciting things about moving to a big city like Philadelphia is that there is always something to do. Of course, you can spend your weekends checking out restaurants or shops in Center City, but an option that is often overlooked is catching a concert at one of Philly’s renowned music venues.  

Home to a vibrant live-music scene, Philly is almost always a stop for your favorite music acts on tour. For students just getting acquainted with the city for the first time, here is a guide to a few of the most notable music venues in the city. While living in Philly, you are bound to see a great show—whether it is at an enormous sports stadium or in a basement bar. 

Franklin Music Hall 

Franklin Music Hall is one of the more popular venues in Philadelphia. With a capacity of around 2,700 people, this venue is bound to feel electric at any show you see here. Hosting acts across all genres, it’s likely someone you love will play at the Franklin Music Hall at some point during your time in Philly. In the next month or so alone, acts like Mac DeMarco, Wet Leg, Lil Tecca and Thundercat will be performing at this venue.  

Location: 421 N 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123 

Similar venues in Philly: The Fillmore 

Xfinity Mobile Arena (formerly known as Wells Fargo Center) 

Home to professional Philly sports teams, this arena hosts big budget music acts. Stars like Eric Clapton, Playboi Carti and Billie Eilish will be playing here in the near future. If you are a fan of the most popular figures in music today, keep your eyes peeled for tours stopping at Xfinity.  While it will not be as intimate as some venues, the energy in a packed, 20,000-person capacity arena will be unmatched. 

Location: 3601 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 

Similar venues in Philly: Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field 

Ukie Club (Ukrainian American Citizens’ Association) 

Ukie Club is a seriously underrated venue in Philadelphia. This place is about as close as you can get to the feeling of being at a house show in Powelton village while still at an established venue. The bands that come through here are typically up-and-coming acts, whether they are experimental noise rockers or quaint singer-songwriters. With a capacity of only about 400 people, the immediacy of the performances here are unmatched. No matter where you stand, the venue will feel intimate. Upcoming shows at the Ukie Club this fall will feature Soul Glo, Pool Kids, Bassvictim and more.

Location: 847 N Franklin St, Philadelphia, PA 19123 

Similar venues in Philly: First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia 

The Met Philadelphia 

This beautiful venue is rich with history. Originally built as an opera house in 1908, it has since been used for several different purposes. It has hosted everything from vaudeville shows to sports events to religious gatherings. Now, almost ten years after a massive renovation, The Met operates primarily as a top-tier concert venue that sits about 3,500 people. The architecture inside is something to gawk at while waiting for the performing act to take stage. It is a building to be admired. Acts like Ethel Cain, Big Thief and Patti Smith will take the stage at The Met in the fall.  

Location: 858 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19130 

Similar venues in Philly: Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts 

The Mann Center 

If you are ever feeling like you want to escape the energy and noise of Center City, The Mann is a great place to see a concert. This open-air amphitheater is nestled over in Fairmount Park, away from the most bustling areas in Philly. Most shows at The Mann are held during the spring and summer seasons so that audience members can enjoy a beautiful night while seeing a show. Bands like Goose, Haim and Car Seat Headrest are performing some of The Mann’s final shows before they close for the Fall and Winter.  

Location: 5201 Parkside Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131 

Similar venues in Philly: The Dell Music Center 

Welcome back to campus! Whether you are returning to campus or are here for the first time, it is the perfect time to become a Drexel sports fan. Athletic events on campus happen all year long. Sporting events are a great way to show school spirit, support student-athletes and are something fun to do after classes.

Drexel has 18 Division I sports teams that compete in the NCAA-affiliated Coastal Athletic Association conference. Other colleges in this conference include Northeastern, William and Mary, Stony Brook, and Hofstra. In recent years, Drexel has found much success in the CAA, with 11 teams finishing in the top three of their conference last year. 

The most popular sports on campus include men’s and women’s basketball, women’s field hockey, women’s lacrosse and men’s soccer. The current fall sports are men’s and women’s soccer and field hockey.

Drexel’s rivalries are a debated topic, but the main contenders include UPenn, Towson and Monmouth. Towson and Monmouth are both in the CAA and are the two colleges closest to Drexel. In addition, these two schools are competitive with Drexel in many different sports. UPenn is also considered a rival due to proximity, but since Penn and Drexel are in different conferences, competitions between the two are more about bragging rights.

The biggest athletic event of the year is the Big 5 basketball tournament. The event consists of six Philadelphia-area college basketball teams: Drexel, La Salle, Saint Joseph’s, Temple, Penn and Villanova. Drexel is a relative newcomer to the tradition, as the men’s basketball team first competed in 2024. Round-robin games begin in November, with the championship game happening on Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Xfinity Mobile Arena. The women’s basketball round-robin games follow the same schedule, with their championship game taking place on Sunday, Dec. 7th at the Finneran Pavilion in Villanova.

While Drexel is a university more known for its co-op program than athletics, that does not mean athletes have not found success here. Examples of famous student-athlete alumni include Justin Best, a rower who won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics and delivered the commencement address for the class of 2025. Additionally, Amari Williams, a three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year in men’s basketball, recently was selected in the NBA draft by the Boston Celtics.

If you are not a D1 athlete but are still interested in playing sports competitively, there are two options: club sports or intramurals. Drexel has over 39 different club sports to choose from. The tryout process for each team varies, but most teams begin competition in the fall quarter. Instructions on joining a club sport can be found on the University’s recreation website. 

Intramural sports, which are more casual than club sports, allow groups of students to play in games against each other. Fall intramurals usually include sports such as soccer, flag football and volleyball. Registration for intramurals happens on IMLeagues and opens during the first few weeks of each term.  

Whether you compete as an athlete or cheer as a fan, Drexel Athletics has something for everyone. Be sure to check out a game this season! 

The Square’s Cheat Sheet to Drexel Sports

Team name: Drexel Dragons

Team colors: Blue and gold

Mascot: A dragon named Mario the Magnificent, named after alumni Mario Mascioli, who attended every single basketball game for over 20 years

Basketball arena: The Daskalakis Athletic Center, but students refer to it as “The DAC”

Entry to events: Always free for students!

Whether you have bled Kelly green since birth or are moving to Love City for the first time, there is no better place for sports fans to thrive than Philadelphia. The South Philadelphia Sports Complex is home to Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field and the newly renamed Xfinity Mobile Arena, meaning that whatever your sport is, Philly has something for you. 

Baseball

There is no better atmosphere in a major league ballpark than Citizens Bank Park. The venue averages over 40,000 fans in attendance, but the energy is taken to another level during the postseason, which is called “Red October,” due to the huge sea of red during games. The Philadelphia Phillies have seen a successful season yet again in 2025. The team is currently atop the National League East division, with a healthy five game lead on the rival New York Mets. The team features a star-studded lineup including Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, as well as electric arms in Cristopher Sanchez and Jhoan Duran. Citizens Bank Park is a baseball fan’s dream ballpark, no matter which team you support.

Football

While Drexel does not have a football team, Philly residents are blessed with the reigning Super Bowl Champions, the Eagles, to root for. The phrase “Go Birds,” is a staple in Philadelphia lingo and an easy way to make friends with basically anybody. With superstars like Saquon Barkley, Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown and Zack Baun, Lincoln Financial Field is packed every Sunday. The Eagles are easily the most popular sports team in the city and are an easy group to root for. While it may be nearly impossible to get tickets at times, expect to see kelly green all across the city on game days.

Basketball

The 76ers saw a down season last year after a seven year playoff streak. Having a healthy Joel Embiid and Jared McCain will give the team a big boost, while Tyrese Maxey looks to put up another all-star season. Additionally, the addition of V.J. Edgecomb in this year’s draft should prove to make exciting basketball at the Xfinity Mobile Arena. Despite not having football and baseball, Drexel’s basketball teams are the most popular squads on campus. The women’s team has made the NCAA tournament twice in the last five seasons and brings back key starters Amaris Baker, Deja Evans and Grace O’Neill. The men’s team lost their top four contributors to the transfer portal, but features an energized group of newcomers including Moses Hipps and Martin De LaPortiere. Basketball at the DAC is an essential part of the Drexel experience. 

Hockey

The Philadelphia Flyers share the Xfinity Mobile Arena with the 76ers and look to rebound this winter amidst a five-year playoff drought. Right wing Matvei Michkov is the prized piece for the team after coming off a super successful rookie season. Two-time all-star Travis Konecny returns to the team following a 76-point season, while the addition of center Trevor Zegras should add an extra spark to the ice. 

As Drexel enters a new school year, the campus starts to come alive with old and new students alike moving to campus. Whether you are just getting situated in your freshman dorm room or moving into your senior year apartment, it is important that your fridge and cabinets stay stocked with food for the new school year. 

Fortunately, University City and the surrounding area offer many different locations for students to get their groceries. From fresh produce to those five-minute frozen meals, there is something for everyone to indulge in. 

Old Nelson’s 

Old Nelson’s is a campus staple. Part grocery store and part deli, Old Nelson’s has something for everyone. The grocery store side of Old Nelson’s is convenient for getting those last-minute groceries you forgot about, or if you are looking for a variety of snacks. The deli side offers a multitude of different sandwiches, as well as salads and desserts, such as banana pudding and cheesecake. Located just across 7-Eleven and a few doors up from Chipotle, Old Nelson’s is one of those places you will find yourself going to at least once in a while at Drexel. 

Trader Joe’s 

A personal favorite, Trader Joe’s is one of the best places to get your groceries if you live in University City. Although it is a bit farther – located across the bridge on Market Street – Trader Joe’s has something for everyone. With seasonal snacks, quality frozen foods, fresh produce and baked goods, anything you need can be found at Trader Joe’s at a reasonable price. It is the perfect store for your meal prep needs or if you simply want to try one of their many trending foods. 

Heirloom Giant 

Heirloom Giant is one of the more accessible grocery stores for Drexel students. Located on Chestnut Street, next to Penn’s campus, Heirloom is one of the most ideal locations to pick up groceries. While a bit pricey, Heirloom has everything from produce to canned goods, as well as a great selection of deli meats and cheese. Additionally, the self-checkout option can make the trip to Heirloom quick and efficient. And, if you are not looking to cook, Heirloom also has many options for prepackaged foods – and a sushi selection that is not half bad. 

Mario’s Market 

Located on the second floor of the Rush Building, which is on North 33rd Street just off Market Street, Mario’s Market is a food pantry accessible to all Drexel students, faculty and staff with a valid DragonCard. Operated and managed by Drexel’s Student Center for Diversity and Inclusion, Mario’s Market was created to solve the issue of growing food insecurity among university students. Mario’s Market can be accessed anytime during normal hours of operation. Individuals can enter the pantry solely with a swipe of their DragonCard, search the pantry’s inventory on their own and leave with what they need at no cost.

Northside Dining Terrace 

Picture a small mall food court combined with an even smaller grocery store on a university budget, and you will get Northside Dining Terrace. Northside, as it is referred to, holds a Chick-fil-a and a Wild Blue Sushi. Do not get too excited, however, as options are limited to only a select few menu items. Yet, students appreciate Northside as it is conveniently located by Race Lawn and across from Greek Row. Attached to these dining options is a little market that holds snacks, drinks, ice cream and pre-made food. It is ideal if you need a quick pick-me-up after class or are looking for an easy, ready-made dinner. The best part is, all the establishments take dining dollars. 

Rittenhouse Square Farmer’s Market 

Rittenhouse is one of Philadelphia’s most notable neighborhoods, which houses many restaurants, hotels, apartments and activities for people to explore. Rittenhouse Square Farmer’s Market is a year-round market that runs every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Farmer’s Market offers a wide variety of local produce, as well as other meats, dairy, crafts and artisanal foods. The Farmer’s Market is the perfect way to explore the neighborhoods of Philadelphia with friends, appreciate the beautiful Rittenhouse park, while also picking up some groceries from local farmers. 

So, as the year kicks off, whether you are on a dining plan or not, there are many great stores near campus for you to pick up your groceries and enjoy a nice meal.

Drexel’s co-operative education program offers students experiential learning, allowing them to earn degree credits while working part-time or full-time jobs. The program is designed to mirror the real job market, enabling students to learn how to find suitable job opportunities, qualify for positions and successfully interview with employers to secure offers, laying the groundwork for their careers. In addition to the mandatory Co-op 101 class that all freshmen must complete before participating in co-op interview rounds, Drexel’s Steinbright Career Development Center, located at 3201 Arch St., offers a wide range of services — from advising to career counseling and more — to support students with all their career-related needs.

Students can access these services by logging on to DrexelOne and opening the “Co-Op and Career Services” tab. From there, they can schedule meetings with their co-op advisor, who serves as a guide in helping students navigate the complex path to early career prosperity. Advisors are available to answer your questions about the application process and can help address any concerns you may have before or during your new position. They can also assist in reviewing your resume and help you practice interviewing with potential employers.

If you are seeking additional guidance for professional development, you can use the “Peer Mentor” link in the “Co-Op and Career Services” tab to find a peer mentor to learn from. Drexel’s peer mentors are trained to offer personalized advice on interviews and resumes. They also boast a variety of professional backgrounds and majors, so there is a good chance you can find someone you can relate to within your industry.

The co-op system is anything but simple to navigate; it can sometimes be just as complicated as the real job market. However, there are systems and services in place to help you prepare and/or overcome any challenge you may encounter when looking for your first major professional opportunity. When you start your first quarter and feel the pressure to start a resume or sign up for a LinkedIn profile, do not worry.

 Drexel helps students transition smoothly into the process through its Co-op 101 class, career fairs and professional development workshops. When applications begin, students have received sufficient instruction to be well-prepared.

Philadelphia has an abundance of sights and sounds to experience off-campus, and for those in the know, Drexel’s campus is one of the most convenient starting points to reach them using public transportation.

What is SEPTA? 

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority is the region’s public transit agency. To help riders navigate its broad and multimodal network, SEPTA has streamlined its many modes into three divisions: Metro, Bus and Regional Rail.

Metro covers the lettered routes, which are SEPTA’s subways, trolleys and light rail. Metro offers the most convenient way to get to Center City (downtown), far-flung neighborhoods, the stadiums and much in between.

Buses are the numbered routes operating throughout southeastern Pennsylvania in both the city and suburbs. Its routes include regular buses and “trackless trolleys,” or trolleybuses, that fill in the gaps not served by Metro lines.

Finally, fourteen Regional Rail lines — each named by destination — ferry commuters between Center City, the outlying suburbs and Philadelphia International Airport. These heavy rail trains make few stops within the city.

With all these modes, SEPTA provides one of the most robust transit networks in the country. However, there is a major caveat.

Budget crisis

After losing a major stream of state funding in recent years, SEPTA began implementing service cuts in phases over the summer. 

For the fall, a 20 percent service reduction for buses and Metro took effect, and trimmed or eliminated routes entirely. A base fare increase to $2.90 is planned for this fall, as well as cuts to Regional Rail, but these are being litigated at time of writing. 

Worse is in store without state funding commitments. By January, SEPTA will have enacted a 45 percent total reduction in service. Five Regional Rail lines will be eliminated, including two of the four busiest, as will more bus lines. The agency has warned these cuts could be permanent. 

So, where is state funding? Transit funding has long been a political football in the state capital, and negotiations over transit and other issues have delayed the passage of the 2026 state budget, which is now three months overdue. Progress toward a compromise has been halting. 

For the latest on the evolving situation, visit SEPTA’s website for the most up-to-date information on service. Schedules and maps for all routes are available online. With those in hand, here is a rundown of the essential services and destinations.

Metro

SEPTA operates two subway routes: the L (also known as the Market-Frankford Line) and the B (formerly Broad Street Line). They run east-west and north-south, respectively. 

The L has two stations on campus on Market Street: 34th Street and Drexel Station at 30th Street Destinations include West Philly, Center City and Fishtown to the northeast. It is the quickest way to Center City from Drexel. A free transfer is available to the B and T lines at City Hall.

The B runs on Broad Street from NRG Station in South Philly to Fern Rock in North Philly. Destinations include Temple University, the Kimmel Center, South Street and the Sports Complex. Be mindful of the express trains that skip stops.

Lines T1 through T5 travel underground from City Hall and fan out onto surface streets in West Philly. It stops on campus at 33rd Street and 30th Street. If traveling between 33rd Street Station and Center City, all routes serve all stops by request. However, west of 33rd Street Station, the lines diverge. 

When nearing your stop, request it by pulling the yellow cord or pressing the button at the rear doors. When disembarking by the rear doors, be sure to step down: the top step is a pressure plate.

Regional Rail

Regional Rail is the best way to reach destinations outside Philly. Consequently, schedules are oriented towards weekday suburban commuter travel, and off-peak service can be limited. 

Regional Rail has its own fare structure, with pricier tickets to travel to further fare zones and during rush hours. Train fares can be purchased at kiosks or on the train. If you are issued a paper ticket, be sure to take it with you.

The Airport Line offers 24/7 service to Philadelphia International Airport, half-hourly on weekdays and hourly on weekends. You can view the schedules for all lines online. Be aware of express trains, and that some stations are served by multiple lines. 

Bus

Buses are the workhorse of SEPTA’s network, with over 100 routes. They make up the most local form of transportation, with stops as frequent as every city block. Drexel’s campus is well-served by buses.

How do I use it?

SEPTA bus and Metro fares are $2.50, but this is expected to increase to $2.90 if state funding is not approved.

Fares can be paid contactlessly by credit or debit card, Apple or Samsung Pay or the SEPTA Key. The Key functions like a debit card. Users can load money onto the card at a kiosk, online or through the app. 

There are no current advantages to using the Key over other cashless methods, but it does come with perks: showing your Key at businesses across the region can get you discounts.

The SEPTA app is available for smartphones, and contains all the schedules, maps, live vehicle tracking and fare information you should need. An alternative for route planning is the Transit app, which uses crowdsourced information to track vehicles.

Drexel offers a ComPass program to purchase a SEPTA TransPass or TrailPass at a 15 percent discount. This option is worthwhile for daily riders.

Alternatives

Amtrak and NJ Transit services stop at William H. Gray III 30th Street Station. NJ Transit buses and private bus operators depart from 30th Street and Schuylkill Avenue.

Drexel also operates campus shuttles. The Dragon Route runs weekdays from Nesbitt Hall to limited stops in Center City. While not the most direct route, it is free to students with a DragonCard. For information on the Dragon Route and other routes, download the TripShot app.

IndeGo is a bikeshare service available throughout Center City and University City. 

Or, if you’re not in a hurry, Philadelphia consistently ranks among the most walkable cities in America.

Public Transportation is the Way To Go

Access to public transportation is one of the biggest upsides to living in a city, and with Drexel beside a transit hub, there are an abundance of options. With service from SEPTA, Amtrak, NJ Transit and more, there is no shortage of ways to get to local and regional destinations without access to a car.

While there is a learning curve to using public transit, remember that there are many resources to help you plan a trip, and that the drivers, conductors and transit ambassadors you’ll encounter will be happy to answer any polite questions. SEPTA is “the way to go,” and with some experience, it will become second nature.

College — and Philly — is expensive. Between tuition, your overpriced dorm and a meal plan you probably will not use as often as you should, the dollars add up. Student discounts may not solve all your problems, but they can help you chip away at costs. With just your DragonCard, you can cut down expenses on everything from groceries to entertainment. Here is how to make the best of your student status for the next four to five years.

Getting around

Full-time Drexel students can load discounted SEPTA passes directly onto their SEPTA Key through DrexelOne, saving 15 percent on monthly TransPasses and TrailPasses. If you are heading to New Jersey, NJ Transit’s Quik-Tik program slashes 25 percent off monthly passes. Amtrak also offers a national 15 percent discount for riders between 17 and 24 years old, while United Airlines offers a five percent discount on flights for travelers aged 18 to 23.

Tech and software

Drexel offers free access to a range of software, including Adobe Acrobat Pro, Creative Cloud and Adobe Express Premium, as well as discounts on hardware through Dell and the Apple Education Store. Beyond Drexel, companies such as Microsoft, Samsung, Lenovo, HP and Logitech offer discounts of 10 to 25 percent for students. 

Apple’s Pro Apps Bundle lets you grab Final Cut Pro and other premium apps for $199 — a bundle worth more than $600. Notion also provides its Pro plan for free, while GitHub’s Student Developer Pack offers a plethora of free and discounted tools.

Food and groceries

Food is one of the easiest things to burn money on as a student, but Philly has a number of student-friendly options. Right on campus, Landmark Americana cuts brunch prices in half from Saturday through Monday (11 a.m. – 3 p.m.). Close by, Café Lift gives 10 percent off your bill, and Revolution Taco offers 10 percent off for students. For groceries, Reading Terminal Market is a good option, as both Lovine Brothers Produce and OK Produce offer 10 percent off to students on select days. 

Some national chains also have your back: Pizza Hut, Subway, Dunkin’, Buffalo Wild Wings, IHOP, Taco Bell and Arby’s all offer 10 percent off with an ID at participating locations. Walmart+ is available for $6.47 per month or $49 per year, roughly half the standard price. DoorDash’s DashPass comes at half price for students, with unlimited free delivery on orders over $12.

Things to do

There are zero excuses to be bored in Philly. Opera Philadelphia offers $10 rush tickets on the day of a performance, and The Philadelphia Orchestra hosts an annual free concert. The Barnes Foundation costs just $5 for students, the Mutter Museum is $15 and the Philadelphia Museum of Art offers a yearly membership for only $25. 

The Philadelphia Zoo membership is $35 a year, the Philadelphia Film Society gives student memberships for $30 (with $5 off movies and 10 percent off concessions), and The Walnut Street Theatre offers $25 rush tickets if you’re 24 or younger.

For the sports fans, some Philly teams make it easy to stay involved. The Phillies’ Student Steal program offers reduced ticket prices for specific games, while the Flyers’ Student Rush program provides discounted tickets 24-48 hours before games.

Shopping

Chains like H&M (20 percent off), Levi’s, J. Crew, Aeropostale and Tommy Hilfiger (15 percent off) all offer discounts with a student ID. Athletic brands such as Champion, North Face and Hanes also offer 10 percent off. Target runs a College Student Appreciation program with rotating deals through Target Circle, while UniDAYS and Student Beans constantly update with exclusive offers across dozens of stores. Amazon Prime Student also offers six months free, along with added perks like free Prime Video and Grubhub, followed by a 50 percent discount on membership afterward.

Subscriptions

Spotify Premium, bundled with Hulu, is free for the first three months and then $5.99 per month thereafter. Apple Music for Students is available at a discounted price and includes Apple TV+ for free, while YouTube Premium also offers a discounted price for students after a free trial. Peacock is available for just $1.99 per month for 12 months, and Paramount+ offers 25 percent off the monthly subscription cost. 

Students can also save on productivity tools and memberships. Evernote offers up to 40 percent off a full year of Evernote Professional, and Chegg Student Perks provides discounted subscriptions to Max, Adobe Acrobat, Tinder Gold and more when paired with a Chegg Study Pack subscription.

Need to find your course materials? Need to register for classes? Need to (despite how much it makes you gag) look at your university bill? Most things you will need in your career as a college student can be accessed on the web through one of Drexel’s many online services. You have used at least some of them already, but there are others you have not had to use yet or have not completely explored yet. Here is a quick run-down that will get you familiar with the most common online systems at Drexel.

Logging In:

Once you have set up your Drexel account, you will log into through Microsoft, using the same login page as your email. All of Drexel’s online services will redirect you to the Microsoft login page, where you can put in your email and password as well as two-factor authentication, where it will redirect you back to the service you were trying to access. 

The Hub:

The first portal students get access to and use, alongside their email, is DrexelOne. One is the hub that connects all other services, and is a lot like the directory of a company. You will usually get to all other online services through DrexelOne, and if you are trying to find something, you will look for it on DrexelOne in one of the six tabs:

– Home lists the urgent items that need to be attended to, as well as some common links.

– The Academics tab will show you where to access anything related to participating in, registering for or planning out your courses.

– The Billing+Financial Aid tab will link to your e-bill on TouchNet and provide an overview of awarded financial aid, loans and estimated cost of attendance.

– The Co-op+Career Services tab provides all the resources students need to succeed in their co-ops and also in their career after graduation.

– Employee will be a tab you only touch if you have a work study, or you get a student job at Drexel and need to access employee resources like time reporting, HR and compensation.

– Campus+Community primarily connects you with residence and dining services on-campus, but also has other resources for making the most of the Drexel community.

Coursework:

The go-to platform for everything related to classes or coursework is Blackboard Learn, which most people refer to as Drexel Learn, BB Learn or just Learn. You might have already used Learn for placement exams, and in that case you will have experienced what a lot of your tests and exams going forward will look like. Each class’s Learn page is accessible by clicking on that course’s name in the Academics tab of DrexelOne, and they are all structured differently according to which instructor is teaching it. Learn has downloadable course materials, quizzes of various types, discussion board forums, assignment submissions, groups and even video conferencing for online classes.

Another important platform used in classes is Kaltura, Drexel’s video hosting platform. Most of the time it is used embedded directly into Drexel Learn (for lecture recordings, video materials, etc.) so you do not notice its presence. Occasionally professors link to Kaltura itself, or encourage you to use it for hosting your own videos. Since it’s hosted by Drexel itself, it can be more flexible and faster than something like YouTube.

College of Computing and Informatics students also have access to Echo Video, a platform that stores full recordings of every class you take at CCI. All CCI classes link to their Echo Video page from their BB Learn page. These recordings can be an invaluable resource when you’re studying and need to have a concept explained again or be reminded of a question asked in class.

Registration:

Once the time comes, you will need to plan out your schedule and register for the classes you need. You will want to have a plan prepared — for your long-term career as a college student as well as the current year and upcoming term. Drexel Degreeworks gives you an overview of your program and the classes that are required of you as well as the options you need to pick from. In Degreeworks you can make a plan of study that outlines which classes you want to take and in which order. Of course most people never adhere to their initial plan, but it is extremely important to have one so you know where you’re going.

Once you have a long-term plan, you can use Banner Web to plan out the exact sections to register for before your time ticket opens. The Plan Ahead features shows all available courses and sections, and what a potential schedule would look like. Then, as soon as your time ticket opens, you can finalize those registrations or opt for a plan-B if you could not get the schedule you wanted.

Co-ops:

SCDC or the Steinbright Career Development Center is the one stop shop for all things co-op at Drexel. As a first year there are a lot of questions that might exist around SCDC and co-op. The good news is that Drexel has thought of that. Drexel has a class called COOP 101 that you take at least one quarter before your co-op slot, and it will explain all about cooperative learning at Drexel. SCDC Online is the portal that you will learn to use to apply, manage and accept or rank co-op opportunities. The portal only opens during your designated time slot, so do not worry about that yet, and if you have any questions, ask your co-op advisor, who can be contacted via the “co-op and career services” tab on DrexelOne. 

Conclusion: 

Drexel is a large school, and it can easily feel overwhelming or confusing. Understanding Drexel’s on demand online resources is a great first step to success while at Drexel. A lot of the processes for simple tasks can all be done online, avoiding a long wait to talk to an advisor or professor. Hopefully with this guide, as well as what you will learn in University 101 (UNIV), you will be ready to start (or continue) your journey as a tech savvy Drexel Dragon!

A student co-operative experience is a hands-on working experience in a company whilst being actively enrolled in college, for the purpose of gaining experience as a part of your degree. Most people, especially incoming freshmen, are unaware of all the available facilities at Drexel to help conquer this unfamiliar territory and make the best use of it.

SCDC – Steinbright Career Development Center

The Steinbright Career Development Center, located at 3201 Arch St, is a dedicated office at Drexel for all your co-op and career-related needs.

What Can SCDC Help You With?

• Career Counseling

• Resume Development and Review

• Professional Workshops

• Employer Information Sessions

• Career fairs

• Peer Mentorship

• Pre-law and pre-health advising programs

• Getting FREE formal attire (yes!)

Click here to browse through the services available at SCDC!

If you log on to DrexelOne and open the “Co-op + Career Services” tab, you will also see your co-op advisor assigned to you even before your classes begin. This dedicated co-op advisor fulfills the role of serving your individual mentorship and guidance needs, and you can make an appointment with them to discuss your career goals to tailor your individual plans. Under this same tab, you will see additional resources, such as resume development aids and job-hunting options.

So, although Drexel’s co-operative education system can seem challenging, the university does equip you with a strong support system to assist you with all your needs when you feel lost. It is natural to lose direction while navigating the professional part of your college life and it’s highly advisable to keep in touch with SCDC for any concerns or advice. If you find it too daunting to reach out to the SCDC advisors, you can also reach out to the Peer Mentors — who are affiliated with SCDC to find the right resources for you.

Navigating the co-op process at Drexel might seem overwhelming at first, but with the wealth of resources at your fingertips, you do not have to go it alone. The SCDC is your go-to hub for guidance, from refining your resume to acing your interviews and beyond. Scan the QR code, explore the services and take the first step towards making the most out of your own unique Drexel co-op journey, which would lay the foundation for a strong professional career post-graduation.