For many SJC Brooklyn students, identifying the best spot to hang out on campus is a no-brainer: the Bear Cave.
Arturo Franco, a freshman computer science major, said he likes to visit the Bear Cave — located downstairs in Tuohy Hall — at least once or twice a week with his friends to unwind between classes.
“It’s a really chill and cozy place,” Franco said, while playing Jenga at a table with his friends in the recently updated area.
The Bear Cave received a well-deserved facelift after a successful Giving Day campaign in 2019. Submitted by Christian Branch in the Office of Student Life, the campaign to revamp the recreation space raised $2,460 in a 24-hour fundraiser.
Lauren Purcaro, executive director of student involvement, leadership and intercultural engagement, said she is grateful for the generous donations to revamp the popular student space.
“We wanted to create a study, play and relax areas which I think we achieved,” Purcaro said. “The donations helped bring the students additional resources to areas they enjoy. The Bear Cave has been very busy each day with student enjoying the space in their down time.”
Hanging Out in the Bear Cave
Isabel Vital, a freshman nursing major, said the Bear Cave is one of her favorite places to socialize in between classes.
“I like to hang out here with my friends,” said Vital, as she waited for her turn in a round of pool with her friend, Robert Nichols. “I like that you can come down here and connect with people in person — especially after being home during Covid for so long.”
Sophomore nursing majors Sebastian Correa and Dymond Veve agree that the Bear Cave is a fun place to spend time on campus.
Correa visits the Bear Cave every day he is on campus. He often uses the space to relax on a couch or play games with his friends during common hour. Veve said she also likes to hang out with friends and play games in the Bear Cave.
“I like the relaxed atmosphere of the Bear Cave,” Correa said.
“It’s a good place to come to take a break from school during the day,” Veve added.
