With two conference rooms and three group meeting spaces, comfortable couches, and an unlimited supply of hot drinks, it’s no secret why students love the Honors Lounge. It provides a much-needed retreat from the rush of university life. From Seidenberg to Dyson, Honors students at Pace have come together to express their appreciation for the Honors Lounge.
For some students, the Honors Lounge provides a comforting escape. I know I appreciate having somewhere I can get away from the crowds that are common in One Pace Plaza. Macy Hayes, a sophomore, describes the Honors Lounge as “a place where time stops.” She says, “College can be stressful, but everything seems to relax when I’m in the Lounge. I can focus better and finish my work because of the peaceful and comforting atmosphere.” With dim lights and upbeat decor, the Lounge’s atmosphere stands out from many other spaces on campus. Macy isn’t the only student who finds the atmosphere comforting. Shania Foy, a junior, says the Honors Lounge provides “a moment of peace in between classes where I can catch up with friends who do not share the same classes as me or finish assignments.” Kelly Filipczuk, a junior, says, “I love having a place where I know I can go to see others, but also one where I can get some quiet while studying. I spend most of my breaks in between classes in the Lounge.”
Other students feel that the Honors Lounge is a core part of the Honors community. Heebah Khan, a junior, says, “the Honors College [is] a place of community and friendship that has always made me feel welcome. The Honors Lounge has an inviting vibe and is always a great place to out with friends or cram for a test.” The information posted in the Lounge about Honors events and the Lounge’s proximity to the Honors Office definitely solidifies its place as an inviting part of Pace’s honors community. Margaret Kelly, a junior, says, “community is the heart of Honors, and the heart of our community is the Honors Lounge! At any time, you can always hear laughter and conversation between friends that will always relate that connection to the hours spent in the lovely Honors space.”
I have fond memories of many breaks between classes spent relaxing in the Honors Lounge and catching up with friends. The Honors College hosts many events in the Lounge, and it’s always fun to drop by an event for an hour or two and meet new people. I really enjoyed the recent Rom-Com Movie Night. It was a great chance to unwind after class and connect with the Honors community.
Marianna Visbal, a freshman, echoes the sentiment of many students: “The Lounge is a quiet place for when you want to get away from the busyness of Pace University. It’s great for studying with some friends and it always has good snacks.” No matter whether they’re using the space to study or socialize, escape or seek out a community, students love the Honors Lounge.