Free Resources Every NYC College Student Should Know About
Discover free resources every NYC college student should know about! From free museum admission to complimentary software and fitness facilities, this guide helps students save money while enhancing their academic and social lives in New York City.
Navigating student life in New York City (NYC) can be both exciting and overwhelming. With the city’s bustling streets and endless things to do as a student, it’s essential to discover the free resources available to make the most of your time here. This blog serves as your guide to valuable services, such as free MetroCards and complimentary software subscriptions, designed to ease your financial burden and enhance your academic and social experiences. Dive into these incredible resources and learn how to maximize your student life in NYC!
1. Free Admission Days to NYC museums
Why pay for a cultural experience when you can enjoy it for free? Many of New York City’s world-renowned museums offer special days with free or pay-what-you-wish admission, perfect for college students looking to explore art, history, and culture.
Museums to Visit:
- Metropolitan Museum of Art: Pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents and students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut with a valid ID.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Admission is free every Friday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. during UNIQLO Free Friday Nights.
- Whitney Museum of American Art: Pay-what-you-wish on Fridays from 7 to 10 p.m.
- The Guggenheim: Pay-what-you-wish on Saturdays from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Brooklyn Museum: Admission is free on the first Saturday of each month (except in September).
2. Free access to NYC Public Libraries
New York City's public libraries provide access to endless learning and opportunities. Whether you need a quiet place to study, free Wi-Fi, or educational programs, the New York Public Library system has you covered.
What You Get:
- Free Library Card: Available to anyone who lives, works, attends school, or pays property taxes in New York State
- Access to Resources: Books, computers, Wi-Fi, and educational programs—all free of charge
3. Amazon Prime Student
Amazon Prime Student is a must-have for any college student. With benefits that go far beyond free shipping, this membership makes student life easier and more enjoyable. From ordering textbooks to streaming your favorite shows, Prime Student is the ultimate convenience package.
What You Get:
- Free Shipping: Fast, reliable delivery on textbooks and essentials
- Streaming Services: Access to Prime Video and Prime Music for entertainment on demand
- Exclusive Discounts: Save on textbooks, electronics, and everyday items.
4. Spotify for Students
Music is essential to student life, and Spotify’s student discount makes it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite tunes. With millions of songs and podcasts available, Spotify Premium helps you unwind after a long day of classes.
What You Get:
- Discounted Rate: Enjoy significant savings on Spotify Premium.
- Unlimited Access: Stream millions of songs and podcasts ad-free.
- Additional Perks: Hulu and SHOWTIME are included in the student plan.
5. Free Résumé Builder
Getting ready for the job market can be daunting, but with free résumé-building tools, you can easily craft the perfect résumé. These tools are designed to help you stand out in your job and internship applications.
What You Get:
- Free Services: Access to premium résumé-building tools for up to 180 days
- Eligibility: Typically available to students with a valid ID
6. Microsoft Office 365 for Students
Say goodbye to costly software subscriptions—Microsoft offers Office 365 Education for free to students currently enrolled in an educational institution. This suite includes essential tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Microsoft Teams, all designed to support your academic success.
What You Get:
- Productivity Tools: Access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Microsoft Teams at no cost
Don’t Forget Your Campus Resources.
As you explore all NYC has to offer, don’t overlook the valuable internal resources available at your college or university. These services are designed to support your academic success, personal growth, and professional development, making them essential tools for your college journey.
St. John’s University in Queens, NYC: Standout Internal Resources
At St. John’s University, the internal resources available to students are particularly robust, offering services designed to enhance the student experience.
Here are some of the standout resources to know:
Center for Student Success
The Center for Student Success serves as a comprehensive resource hub for incoming students, offering academic and career counseling, tutoring for academic improvement, mentoring, and various programs to assist with the transition into the first year.
University Career Services
St. John’s University Career Services provides resources to help students and alumni navigate their career paths. The office offers personalized career counseling, résumé and cover letter reviews, and mock interviews to prepare students for job opportunities. Students can also access free career tools for professional development, exclusive job and internship listings, attend career fairs, and participate in networking events that connect them with potential employers. The Career Services team also provides guidance on career planning, graduate school applications, and professional development.N
St. John’s Wellness Center
The University’s Wellness Center takes a holistic approach to student health, offering counseling, health education programs, and wellness workshops. The center also provides medical services, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and referrals to specialists. Additionally, students can access stress management resources, fitness programs, and peer support groups that promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle on campus.
St. John’s Fitness Center
The Fitness Center at St. John's University provides a diverse range of exercise options for students to support their physical health and well-being. Equipped with cardio machines, including treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes, it also features strength training areas with free weights and a CrossFit section. Fitness classes like Yoga, Zumba, and Pilates are available throughout the week to cater to different fitness levels and preferences, ensuring students have multiple ways to stay active and healthy on campus.
Office of Multicultural Affairs
St. John’s Office of Multicultural Affairs provides various free resources to support students in celebrating and exploring cultural diversity. The office offers workshops, programs, and events that promote cultural awareness and inclusivity. Students can also access mentorship opportunities, leadership development programs, and community-building initiatives designed to foster a sense of belonging and empower underrepresented groups on campus.
