What’s new USD?

Jamie Eddy | Feature Editor | The USD Vista

 

The University of San Diego has seen many changes this year. Some of these changes include the relocation of the Torero Store, 32 new part-time and full-time professors, updates to Tu Mercado, and the establishment of the new Nursing building.

Many of these changes are visible, however there are a number of new advances on campus that the majority of students, teachers, and staff still may not be aware of.

AS President Katie Coutermarsh and other involved students have implemented a number of new changes regarding on-campus technological advances and outdoor activities. Over the years, students have voiced their opinions about keeping off the lawns around campus because of how much time and money is spent on preserving them. This year, one of Coutermarsh’s goals is to get people on the grass.

Associated Students have placed bins near Founders, Aromas Café, and the Vistas, filled with all sorts of outdoor equipment. Some of these include volleyballs, soccer balls, Frisbees, and soon to be added, slacklines.

This movement toward a more interactive and health conscious campus environment has gained a lot of support from students, and it is clear they are enjoying it. Students have even brought their own toys and hammocks out on the lawns, relaxing and enjoying the beautiful weather that San Diego is known for.

The USD app has been updated within the last few years, giving students the chance to view their concise schedule, class roster, tram services, and more. As of this year, students can sign into their USD app and access their ID, which can be scanned for campus cash or dining dollars. In addition, students can check into campus events, such as sorority or fraternity events, concerts, or sporting events. No more, “Oh, I forgot my ID.”

One of the largest changes to campus was moving the Torero Store from Loma Hall to outside Tu Mercado. USD expanded this area, making room for a new, high tech, interactive, store for students, staff, and visitors. The Torero store offers 3D printing, a virtual dressing room, and a do-it-yourself screen printer for students to make their own t-shirts and clothing designs.

 

Another addition within the last couple years is free LinkedIn premium accounts for all seniors. USD has provided this service for a few years, with career services encouraging seniors to take advantage of it as they enter their final year. LinkedIn premium gives students the chance to make new connections with professionals, allows access to view everyone who has checked out their profile, and enables the messaging component. Also, the usual cost per month for premium is incredibly high, anywhere between $60 and $120.

Bay Area Torero Treks is a collaboration between USD and some major companies in the Bay Area such as Adobe, LinkedIn, and Williams Sonoma, offering both juniors and seniors a chance to tour Northern California and meet with some top executives. This is a rare chance for soon-to-be-graduates to explore diverse employment options and get to know the Bay Area atmosphere. There is limited space so register quickly for one or both of the Treks, which will take place on October 23rd.

Although we’ve only been in school for six weeks, the USD campus has seen numerous changes this year. There will continue to be more changes throughout the year, so look out for student emails and posters around campus for updates.