<p>Information regarding aspects of student life at Columbia is almost exclusively restricted to forums. However, many of these threads have been locked up and are no longer searchable. With that being said, I have a few questions!</p>
<p>First, is Lerner Hall the equivalent of a "Student Union?"
From what I understand, there are lounges in Lerner as well as student mailboxes and the bookstore, but what else does it have to offer? Does Lerner get utilized or does everyone retreat to the libraries?</p>
<p>Also, what "amenities" are available to students!? Is there a fitness center? A print shop? Do students even get free software or do they have to use the computers in the labs?</p>
<p>If you can answer these and would like to add more information or even links, that would be great! Thanks!</p>
<p>Lerner is, in a way, a sort of student union. There are two cafes, a dining hall (operates on swipes and not money), the financial services center, the student advising center, a few computer labs, an open piano lounge, mail services, bookstore down below (though it’s not really a part of Lerner, the B&N is open to the public and is entered on Broadway). The building is very much utilized. Lerner is filled most of the time and you can usually find SOMEWHERE to sit and set up camp. However, this is not to say that every of the many libraries on campus is also greatly utilized.</p>
<p>In terms of “amenities”… not really sure. We have a gym and a few fitness centers at the bottom of dorms, we have piano practice rooms in one of the dorms on Broadway open to all students, we have a ton of libraries with different specializations (one is an engineering library so the computers have high specs and huge screens), etc. </p>
<p>Columbia pretty much has everything. First, most of the dorms themselves have lounges, fitness rooms, computer rooms, and piano rooms. Lerner, is a very large student center, with three cafes, the book store, lounges, auditoriums, theaters, counseling, post office, and many student services and clubs. Earl Hall also has many student services and clubs. Obviously, there is also many gym and fitness centers in the Physical fitness center. Computers are everywhere. But don’t forget, Columbia is on Broadway, with endless stores, restaurants, shops, services, right at your doorstep. </p>