DUNMORE, Pa. — Students studying science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-related courses at Penn State Scranton now have a dedicated space to call their own.
A newly opened STEM lounge on the third floor of the Dawson Building is giving students in biology, chemistry and other science disciplines a place to study, collaborate and unwind. The lounge, tucked at the end of the third-floor Dawson Building hallway, was repurposed from a little-used conference room into a welcoming hub designed with student needs in mind.
Jennifer Gresham, assistant professor of biology, spearheaded the project after noticing a gap in student spaces within the third-floor Dawson Building hallway.
“The idea really started because I noticed we didn’t have any dedicated student space in the Dawson Building hallway, especially science students,” Gresham said. “There wasn’t anywhere for them to work or relax or even eat outside of the hallways or empty classrooms.”
The idea took shape after Gresham recalled a similar space she had seen at another university. Inspired by that experience, she began working with colleagues in the Science Department to reimagine the underused conference room as a student lounge.
An inviting and comfortable space for all
With internal funding secured, the campus’ science department outfitted the space with comfortable furniture, a coffee bar, and a variety of items aimed at both relaxation and academic support. Students will find puzzles, adult coloring books, Legos and a large monitor for practicing presentations. There’s also a whiteboard and Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) prep materials for those preparing for medical school.
“We wanted the space to be inviting and comfortable,” Gresham said.
The lounge’s proximity to faculty offices was also intentional. Gresham said she and other faculty members plan to spend time in the space regularly, so students get to know them and feel more comfortable asking questions.
“Our primary goal is to build a community among the science students by providing a space where they can collaborate and/or just hang out together,” she said.
The lounge is already drawing interest from students, and Gresham said she hopes it will become a central part of campus life for those in STEM majors. Beyond providing a physical space, she sees it as a way to improve student engagement, academic success and retention.
“Ultimately, we hope this will improve student experiences here, help them be more successful in their courses and major, and help retain students who might otherwise fall through the cracks.”