University of South Florida - Local Atmosphere

College Prowler Take

There are tons of attractions for students looking for something interesting to do in Tampa. The area surrounding the school is dotted with bars and restaurants, and there are two awesome amusement parks a short bus ride away from the school. Those interested in veering a little farther from campus can visit Ybor City or Channelside, two large complexes that are excellent for shopping, dining, and watching movies. International Plaza, which opened recently, is the city’s upscale shopping center, featuring stores such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Christian Dior. Some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches are less than an hour away from the Tampa campus. Tampa is also nationally known for its strip clubs that are scattered around the area, but none are located close to USF. Downtown Tampa is not very exciting at night, but during the day, students can visit the art museum, the performing arts center, and the city’s historic buildings at discounted rates.

In Tampa, the partying continues whether or not college is in session. The city is growing quickly, and it seems that there are more things for college-aged students to do every year. What remains a problem is that most of Tampa’s exciting destinations are only accessible for those who have their own method of transportation, as the city buses are infrequent and often stop running early.

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Students Speak Out

USFAS says: University of South Florida 2013 Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Tampa is not a college town, but... Tampa is not a college town, but there is a lot to do here: beach, Busch Gardens, the aquarium, great parks. 12345 Local Atmosphere: March 24, 2009 Report

spinntwirl19 says: University of South Florida 2011 Other

The Life Near Campus A Tampa is a huge city where there is a lot to do. Living near the University of South Florida is great. There are many restaurants and attractions near by. The campus is a place where you can go and take a stroll, or run, sit on a bench and read a book. A few highway exits away, there is a huge mall and Raymond James Stadium where the Tampa Bay Bucs and the USF bulls play. 12345 Local Atmosphere: November 19, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

The atmosphere in Tampa is very... The atmosphere in Tampa is very inviting. There is not much to stay away from, except for the strip clubs. Busch Gardens and Adventure Island are the two main attractions in this city. There is also Clearwater Beach that is about one hour south of Tampa. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Tampa is a borderline hick town.... Tampa is a borderline hick town. There is Ybor City where a lot of people ages 16–35 go clubbing. Tampa is only an hour away from some decent beaches. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

I think the atmosphere around here... I think the atmosphere around here is great, and it’s getting better all the time. I’ve been here for five years, and it has changed very much. When you go out to any store or restaurant, you know that you are near USF because they have all of the ‘This is Bull Country’ stuff around now, so it’s definitely more of a USF feel. The University of Tampa is another school in our area, but you never really hear of it too much. Busch Gardens is probably the closest attraction to visit, but I’d rather drive to Orlando, which is not too far, and its parks are better. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Facts

Did You Know?

5 Fun Facts about Tampa Bay:
• After 27 years, the Buccaneers won their first NFL title in the 2002 Super Bowl.
• The Punisher, starring John Travolta, based on the Marvel Comics character who wishes to avenge his family’s murderers, was shot in the Tampa Bay area.
• Every February, pirates invade Tampa for the month-long Gasparilla Festival. The festival kicks off when the Coast Guards surrender Tampa city keys to the mythical pirate leader, Jose Gaspar. Activities include the Battle of Tampa Bay, a day parade, a children’s parade, and concludes with the night parade, featuring more than 100 extravagantly decorated floats.
• Tampa is also known as “Cigar City” because of the city’s once-booming cigar industry.
• In 2004, the Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley Cup for the first time ever.

Famous People from Tampa:
Julian Cannonball Adderley Butterfly McQueen
Wade Boggs Lou Pinella
Dwight Gooden Gary Scheffield
Al Lopez Brittany Snow

Local Slang:
Hater – A person who finds a reason to dislike everyone
they meet.
Hurting – Bad.
Over it – Ready to leave.
Stee – Style.
Wheef – A small person.

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