Sure, you go to school to learn, but everyone needs to take a break from studying now and again. When it's time to take a break from books and other work, U.S. college students seek numerous types of entertainment.
On Campus
If you like music, look for concerts by regional and national performers at campus venues. These shows will be well advertised, and you will have to purchase tickets in advance. Many college students are musicians themselves, and they often perform in local restaurants and bars on evenings and weekends; these events are often free or have a very low charge. For those who prefer classical music to rock tunes, check out your school's music department: orchestras, quartets, and soloists may have performances that are open to students and the public.
Students in theater departments (and those who study business but moonlight as actors) will perform in a variety of plays, from Shakespeare to student-written performance pieces. Fliers advertising upcoming performances will be posted at dining halls or the student union, and chances are there's a calendar on the theater department's Web site.
College sports teams compete in games year-round, and students can usually attend home games free of charge by showing their student I.D. card. Sports teams play in one of three seasons: fall, winter, and spring. In the fall you can attend football and soccer games; in the winter, look for basketball and ice hockey matches; in the spring, check out baseball and softball games.
Many colleges and universities have art galleries that show the work of students and professional artists. The work on display changes regularly, and upcoming shows are announced in advance. These galleries may or may not charge an admission fee.
Students looking for competitive games congregate at the student union or athletic complex. These facilities may offer bowling, pool tables, Ping-Pong, racquetball, or basketball.
While going out is great, sometimes staying in is better. Students regularly hang out in their dorm rooms and lounges, reading, talking, listening to music, and watching television.
Off Campus
Students enjoy going to see movies at large cinemas and at small, independent theaters. Many large theaters offer a discount to college students—you just have to show your student I.D. card. Daytime movies (called matinees) are cheaper than evening shows; depending on the part of the country in which you are studying, an evening show can cost from $7–$10. According to the National Association of Theater Owners, the average ticket price in 2004 was $6.21.
Many cities offer attractions such as art or history museums, professional sports teams, live theater, and parks. Check with your university and the local convention and visitors bureau to find things to do off campus.
Eating Out
When they live on campus, students usually participate in the university's meal plan. Eating at the dining hall day after day can become repetitive, however, so students will break the routine by meeting at local restaurants—especially on the weekends.
Where students choose to eat often depends on how much money they have. Fast food restaurants such as Wendy's, McDonald's, and Taco Bell are great for students on a budget. Restaurant chains like Applebee's and Chili's offer better fare than fast food restaurants and aren't too expensive; you may find locally owned restaurants in your town, and these are usually reasonably priced. If you aren't sure what the prices are like at a particular restaurant, ask a fellow student before you go so you don't overspend.
At Home
Students may choose to stay at home with their computers and let the entertainment come to them. Online chat programs and interactive games give students the best of both worlds—a chance to meet, bond, and interact with other students but in the comfort of their home (or dorm).
