Tips for New Students at the University of South Florida

Are you a new student at the University of South Florida and not sure where to go, what to do, and how to stay safe around the campus? New students at USF may feel overwhelmed during their first weeks at the university, but don't worry. You'll be feeling at home in no time. I'm also a USF student and am here to give you some advice on what to do, where to go, and what to see and do around the USF campus.

These tips are great for anybody, but they're especially designed for new USF students who haven't gotten much time yet to explore and find out what's happening in and around USF.

The USF Campus: Where To Meet Friends and Hang Out

USF is a sprawling campus. Many students report getting lost on campus because it is so large and has so many buildings.

However, the heart of the campus is the Marshall Student Center. This is where the pulse of the campus vibrates. Here you'll find a ton of things to do while studying, taking a break, or simply wanting to make a new friend. The Marshall Center offers a Beef O' Brady's (perfect for lunching or taking in a game on TV) and many other great eats.

The Marshall Center also has a computer lab, meeting rooms, study corners, and is located right next door to the campus bookstore. You'll have no problem finding the Marshall Center - it's centrally located and is a 10-minute walk (or less) from virtually anywhere on campus.

Studying At The USF Student Library

Another place on campus you'll need to know about is the student library. This place has anything and everything you'll need for your studies. With six floors, a vast computer lab, dozens of newspaper and periodical archives, access to a nearly endless database of articles and journals, and - of course - books on every topic imaginable, the USF student library will be your one-stop place for the materials you'll need to guarantee an 'A' on your next paper.

The USF student library is located in the center of the campus between Fowler Avenue (the main entrance of the USF campus) and the Marshall Center.

Don't forget to bring along your USF student I.D. card -- you'll need it for checking out books and using some of the amenities at the USF student library.

Where to Go Off Campus

As dedicated a student you are, I'm sure you'll want to know about other things to do off the USF campus. You're in luck. USF is located near what I like to call the 'hub' of North Tampa. University Mall, the wild rides and animals of Busch Gardens, the water slides of Adventure Island, and dozens of chain and independent restaurants are located within two miles of USF.

Chili's, Friday's, Tia's Tex-Mex, Einstein Bagels, Piccadilly Cafeteria, McAlister's Deli, Five Guys Burgers, Jason's Deli, and a slew of fast food restaurants are all within walking distance of the campus.

Whatever you do, be sure you check out the Fowler Avenue corridor -- virtually anything you'll need to buy is along Fowler Avenue between Interstate 275 to the west and 56th Street to the east. Fletcher Avenue offers a Wal-Mart near the corner of Bruce B. Downs.

All of the places mentioned here are located on or near bus lines.

Head's Up: Advice On Staying Safe At USF

There's a lot to see and do in and near USF. But this guide wouldn't be complete without some tips to keep you safe while living the USF life.

In case you haven't noticed yet, USF is located near some neighborhoods that have seen increases in auto theft, burglary, drug issues, and other forms of serious crime in recent decades. While the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, the Tampa Police Department, and the USF Police have all done a remarkable job in keeping us safe, I still recommend you to stay alert as to your surroundings.

University Mall has many great places to shop at, including a very nice multi-screen movie theater. However, make sure you keep your eyes up when walking to or from your car, especially at night. Lock your doors and don't leave any valuables in your car. Be sure you hide anything that you don't want miscreants to see.

USF is a generally safe campus, but watch your back when walking in and near the wooded areas on campus. Be careful walking around at night. Remember that safety comes in numbers. Don't do much walking around campus without having a few of your friends around you.

There are many emergency phones located across the campus. Don't be afraid to use them if you need help. The USF Police Department will always be glad to help any student who needs assistance.

Resources

Personal and first-hand knowledge and experience