One of the most important books Philadelphia-area college students have cracked during their first weeks of classes is only 86 pages and didn’t cost them a dime. The 2009-10 Notebook, a guide to all things Philadelphia, is expected to reach close to 300,000 students at 20 colleges in the region from University of the Arts in Center City to suburban Cabrini University at the end of the Main Line.
Campus Philly, the non-profit organization funded largely by the City that encourages college students to study, live and work in Greater Philadelphia, released the publication’s fifth edition last month, but the process began last September with focus groups talking about improvements.
“We got some great feedback and started thinking about the book conceptually,” says Melanie Rago, senior director for Campus Philly.
That includes making its maps more comprehensive and including listings by neighborhood, especially useful since many students visit friends at other schools throughout the region.
The 2009-10 Notebook, which is produced by student interns, explores Greater Philadelphia in a way that helps students easily access attractions, institutions, and services. There are helpful tutorials on public transportation, staying safe, and careers. The guide breaks the city down into neighborhoods and helps students find study spots, outdoors enjoyment, arts and culture and other neighborhood staples available to the budget-conscious student.
There’s also an educational element, briefing students on Philly slang, famous sons and daughters, songs featuring the city and notable info on each partner college. What’s not included? Party pointers or where to find the best neighborhood bar.
“It’s very PG-13,” says Rago. “It’s family-friendly and parents really enjoy seeing that. It’s not geared toward them, but it’s nice to know they like it.”
Source: Melanie Rago, Campus Philly
Writer: Joe Petrucci