Courier

Media Credit: Art Lemus New exterior features of the Campus Center include a clock tower and outdoor elevator.

As a result of Measure P, PCC is now home to a newly renovated Campus Center.

The Campus Center houses a Wi-Fi lounge with couches and tables for students to relax.

Scott Thayer, assistant dean of student affairs, said, "The students can be comfortable [in the lounge]. The learning environment is not just in the classroom."

There is a major problem with the Wi-Fi lounge: it does not have electrical outlets. Thayer said that he is "looking into the functionality of the room."

The Campus Center also houses a cafeteria with Italian-themed decor.

"It felt like [walking through] a gateway into Italy," said marketing management major Miles Canares, 21.

"The greatest thing [about the cafeteria] is that it creates an atmosphere where students can come and relax," said Jason Herbert, the associated students vice president of academic affairs.

In addition to the cafeteria, the campus center now houses the offices for the Associated Student Body. Herbert said he feels that it brings the "student board closer to the students."

Han Le, the associated students vice president of public relations, said, "I love [the Campus Center]. The students are really liking it. [There is] a lot of socializing."

Although many students are reaping the benefits of the Campus Center, Le feels that some students may not be aware of what the new building has to offer.

In addition to the cafeteria and AS offices, the building also has new classrooms, the Courier newsroom, and the Student Affairs Office.

It is widely known that PCC is experiencing budget cuts. Biology major Andres Trevino, 21, said, "I think [the building] is a boost to morale with classes being so tight…[it gives] almost a university feel. "

On the contrary, international business major Charlotte Flanagan, 18, believes the construction "is a waste of money, considering the administration is under budget cuts."

In the March 2002 general election, Pasadena Area Community College District voters approved Measure P. The measure authorized a $150 million General Obligation Bond in order to update worn out buildings and construct new ones.

Director of the Measure P Projects Jack Schulman said, "The total cost for all three projects is yet to be determined as we are still negotiating with the general contractor for some of the remaining change orders. We are still however, under budget."

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