Parking is one of the most challenging things to do on campus because no matter how you do the math, there are only so many student spots. Having a car on campus is a complicated balancing act that many students do not play. That means for many students, there are times when one can feel stuck on campus. After weeks of the same buildings and people, it can feel claustrophobic.
One of the great things about college is that students are supposed to grow, and if you are willing to let it, the City of Salem can be a great place to start and get off campus. Downtown Salem is only a block off campus and is filled with great spots for students if you are willing to go looking. It does not matter if you are looking for a space filled with people and noise or a quiet place to bunker down; there are places all over Salem.
Some examples for those new to Salem or a reminder:
Mill Mountain Coffee is a coffee shop on Main Street. This coffee shop is an excellent place for those who like to be surrounded by people and the noise of the world. It is a great place to get a drink and get some homework done, where the college does not surround you.
If you would rather have a quieter atmosphere, the Salem Public Library is also a great place to find a hidden corner. The Salem Public Library on Main Street, in my experience, is often very empty and a great place to decompress with a book.
While the big department stores and fast food are not within walking distance, that does not mean that they are out of reach for any student without a car. There is a bus that goes up and down Main Street. The info desk will have more information on that. Another way might be renting a bike from Fintel. Just be careful when riding farther down Main Street, where there may not be sidewalks.
My last suggestion for this article is a place that my friends and I call the duck pond. If you’re looking to do something outdoors and don’t mind the walk, they have outdoor picnic tables, and you can spend a quarter to feed the ducks that live in the pond.
Everyone has a place that they go. For some people, that is on campus, and for others, campus can feel constricting. The most important part is to explore all the places around you while you have the opportunity.
Nina Earle
Staff Reporter
