If you’re in first year, by now you are probably tired of campus tours. Fair. It’s a small campus and it doesn’t take long to find your way around. I am not a tour guide paid by the university. I’m giving it the good ol’ King’s-college-try by sharing what you really need to know when navigating our lovely little quad.
Library
The best spots in the library are the independent study rooms. If it is exam season, these get snatched up fast. Get there early. Like, first thing in the morning early.
Prince Hall
My friends and I once took over-baked cookies from the desert bar and played table hockey with them. I love Prince Hall, but not necessarily because of the food… Some of the best conversations and moments of bonding happen in this room. But also, it can be overwhelming eating with everyone you know for every meal of the day. Find a balance. Also, it is not open late. So I’d recommend keeping some actually nutritious food in your dorm for when you get hungry at night.
The Day Student Lounge: the heart and soul of King’s community
Also home of the Wardroom and the Galley, the lounge is where you can catch up on readings, see your friends, and play pool for free.
The Wardy
The Wardy has cheap drinks and because they have a wet/dry liquor license, King’s students of all ages are welcome. The Wardy doesn’t get nearly enough hype. When it is packed, it is so much fun. The Wardy is what you make it. My friends and I have started going more often now that we are in fourth year and I regret not going more often earlier in my degree. Go to the Wardy.
The Galley
My opinion on the Galley has changed since they got the espresso machine this year. My advice: opt for the espresso. The drip coffee is mediocre at best, but it is wonderfully inexpensive and will crunch the caffeine craving. An iced latte is more expensive but much, much better quality. The standout star of the Galley is the grilled cheese. The perfect comfort food for studying in the lounge.
The Pit
I regret to inform you I have not spent much time here. It’s kind of hard to find. HELP!!!
The Gym
If frat boys and loud conversations about creatine aren’t your thing, but you care about your personal fitness, the King’s gym might be your saving grace. It is a bit small but almost never crowded. There’s even a dance studio in the basement. And it’s all free to use. Talk to the front desk, they’ll set you up.
Chapel
Don’t turn your nose up at the Chapel. If you’re looking for a way to get off campus, and into nature, the chapel hosts hikes and retreats throughout the year. No matter what religion or denomination you are, these outings are a nice break from the city and campus.
J-School:
The very best and worst nights of my academic career have been spent hunched over a desk in the j-school. If you are a journalism student, you can borrow DSLRs and Video Cameras. There are private interview/study rooms, comfy couches and it’s quite quiet. The classrooms are also stacked with Macbooks you can sign onto with your student account. These are great for editing photos and videos. My advice if you are continuing to take journalism classes: play around with the software and equipment. It’ll help you out down the line.
Plato’s Cave:
The smoke spot. Technically not allowed but grandfathered in and kind of inevitable. They put up a no smoking sign last year. People took pictures smoking in front of it. I think someone stole it after about two weeks. Long live Plato’s.
