If you're days away from starting classes at Wilkes U, or perhaps already moved into a dorm, there's a few things you should know about the ins and outs of campus life. Some of these are common sense, but others can be learned only through pain, suffering , and experience. The following, in no particular order, will save your bacon around school.

Space to study

Though you probably don't want to think about it yet, you're gonna be studying soon, and sometimes your dorm room or house just isn't an option. Perfect example, my cat will go nuts if not given constant attention at home. The best places to study are the library study rooms in the basement of Farley, the booths and tables of UCOM, and the various department lounges on campus. The library lounges can be reserved at the front desk for two hours at a time, so get there early in the week to get the times you want. The seats in UCOM are first come, first serve, the department lounges are nice depending on what department you're in. Pity the engineers, their lounge has no AC.

Munchies

There's a few good places for snacks in and around campus. Frank's on Main St. has excellent pizza, plus you get a discount with your Student ID. The POD in Stark provides snacks and microwaveable meals, as well as a salad bar if you get the hours right. Though the best place to get your munchies is the Dollar General up the street. Quantity over Quality.

Note: Do not get the bulk candy from the POD. Those peach rings have been sitting in that plastic bin all summer.

Parking

There are numerous parking lots on campus, the best being the one right behind the student center. Good luck getting a space between 9 am and 4 pm. I recommend getting to campus an hour before your class starts if possible. The UCOM lot tends to fill somewhat slower, but is also much smaller. The next best place to park is the garage, which now has the Gateway directly in front of it, allowing easy access to the majority of campus.

Welcome to Wilkes, May the Grades be ever in your favor.