The Campus: Frequently Asked Questions

Coming to college, essentially, is a new life (thus the whole ‘student life’ title). That's why it's so important that your life-outside-the-classroom experiences at Emerson College are as memorable, fulfilling, and enriching as your studies in the classroom. The students who attend Emerson College are submerged in a very unique college culture. Here are a few frequently asked questions to help you avoid culture shock.

Having not lived in Boston before, how can I get acclimated to life in a big city?

Orientation, of course. Emerson's new student Orientation is a week long extravaganza — including trips into and around the city, workshops, and social events. Students will be assigned to their very own Orientation Leader (a current Emersonian) who will guide them through the ins and outs of life at Emerson and Boston. The idea is to make new students feel as comfortable with their new surroundings as possible.

What does Emerson offer to keep students safe?

Safety at Emerson is a combination of services, programs and common sense. During Orientation, students will be provided tips on staying safe in Boston through materials, programs and informational sessions. In addition to regular security posts, Emerson Public Safety patrols the campus and is on call 24 hours a day. We also offer an Escort Service and Taxi Voucher program to help our students get around the campus and in its surrounding environs safely.

How will I get around the city? Can I bring my car?

Most students living in on-campus housing do not bring cars since our campus is so contained and parking in downtown Boston is both limited and very expensive. That doesn't mean you're stranded though! The MBTA or “T” is the subway system in Boston, with a station right across the street from our campus. Most students use the T frequently to get around the city, and we do offer a semester pass program with extra savings. Some students off-campus do choose to bring a car if they are provided with parking, but even so, Boston is oftentimes coined the “Walking City” of the United States.

What amenities are offered to make my dorm room feel like a home?

Emerson will provide you with the basics. In addition to having a well maintained room in the heart of the City, you're provided with the furniture you'll need, too. Each student has access to their own bed, wardrobe, dresser, desk, and desk chair. You'll also be wired with a fast connection to the Web, a phone jack, and a cable jack. Each hall has modern bathroom facilities, common rooms, and laundry facilities. We recommend contacting the Office of Housing & Residence Life for more specific information.

What kind of city is Boston? Will I fit in?

A lot of students face this question, especially if they are moving far away from home or from someplace very different. Luckily, Boston is made for college students. The student population here during the academic year is 250,000, that's a lot of college students! Boston is the perfect city for all of them thanks to its rich history, advanced technology, and diverse population. Boston is a city of change, so what better place to start the newest chapter of your life?

What can I do for fun besides school activities?

While Emerson provides tons of entertainment for its students, sometimes you just have to venture off campus. There are lots of local music venues that house everything from nationwide acts to local bands and everything in between. Many times you'll find yourself wandering into a free live outdoor show. That's always a big hit. There is no lack of live theater or films to be seen (and we're usually the first to see them). You're Emerson ID card will be your ticket to museums, zoos, and aquariums (usually with a hefty student discount). Don't forget the touristy things like the Freedom Trail and many other historic sites. If all else fails, grab some friends and go to a coffeehouse. No matter where you are in Boston, you're sure to find something amazing to do.

How can I afford to live in the city and have a life? Are there jobs?

Yes! Emerson offers two kinds of employment, Federal Work Study and Emerson Employment. Even if you don't receive Work Study, you can apply for Emerson Employment. Many students choose on-campus jobs simply because they work best with class schedules. If you'd like to try your hand at something off-campus, there are tons of places to look around the city.