Things to Do around Stan State

As a student who does a 20-minute commute to campus, I understand the inconveniences that may come with it. Apart from the gas, the mileage, the waking up extra early, and the long search for a parking spot, one of the main disadvantages of living far from campus is the disconnection you may feel. From my experience, living away from campus can sometimes feel like I may be missing out on the true college experience. You know like the one you saw in those movies that have 30-year-old-looking actors playing teenagers going off to college. Growing up I fantasized about living on campus and meeting new people that would be with me when I graduated and have kids. I would imagine that by now I would have made new memories with my new college friends. Fast-forward to now, I have only made one college friend and I am only on campus twice a week. Due to this, I have a difficult time adjusting to the college lifestyle because at times it doesn’t even feel like I am part of it.

Before college, I visited Turlock perhaps once or twice and that was probably for Forever 21 to buy some socks. But if you are in the same position as me where you don’t feel like you belong at times, there are places we can visit in the area to feel more connected to our college experience.
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At Stan State, we have students commuting from other counties nearby including Calaveras, Mariposa, Merced, and Tuolumne. Not only that but we also have some students who are from out of the country. For the people who are unfamiliar with the Turlock area, I have compiled a list of places to familiarize yourself with while you’re in college. I tried to make it fair for everyone, ranging from different prices, and preferences.
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If you’re competitive and like a challenge, I suggest visiting Ten Pin Fun Center. Although this place is fairly known I still think it’s important to mention it. Ten Pin Fun Center features a full-service restaurant, 3 full-service bars, laser tag, an outdoor beer garden with fire pits, an arcade, and private party spaces. At this entertainment destination, you also have the option of hosting a party or an event!

During the Halloween season, R.A.M Farms Inc organizes a pumpkin patch and a corn maze. Something special about R.A.M Farms Inc. is the way they change their corn maze design every year. In the past years, they have done a cow design, a spider web, and a castle. This place is family-friendly too, so I recommend bringing your loved ones to make it even more memorable.

If you are someone who is more introverted and enjoy a quitter ambiance, I highly suggest stopping by the Turlock Historical Society Museum. This museum in particular is completely funded by membership dues and donations and admission is free! The Turlock Historical Society Museum showcases 25 display areas devoted to Turlock’s founding, cultural history, economic progress, religious diversity, civic and community service, and family and community life over the course of time. This museum is also a great opportunity to learn about the history of Turlock, the home of your university.

Want to experience a pleasant view and be in presence of nature? Try the Donnelly Park. This park is known for its old-fashioned wooden-style look, it features a lot of seating areas and shade as well as bathrooms, BBQ areas, and a beautiful pond. Donnelly Park is a wonderful place to enjoy the sunset or simply disassociate yourself from the chaos. Although a park is not unique, its timeless. If you are ever having a bad day, visit a park nearby and notice how you will feel after.
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These options are just a few of the many that exist in the Turlock area so get out there and explore!

author

Tania Gutierrez Medina