Campus Amenities and Resources
The DragonCard is the official Drexel University ID card for students, faculty, and professional staff. Dragons Prep students will obtain their cards on the first day of the program. The card provides access to relevant campus buildings, including the residence halls, library, and recreation center. For more information on uploading a photo and receiving your card, visit our DragonCard page.
Once a student receives their ID card, they may open a DragonDollars account tied to the card and add funds to use it like a debit card for cashless convenience. Funds may be added by students and families online via the DrexelOne portal.
Students have a variety of dining options while attending Dragons Prep, including an optional five-week meal plan. Depending on the establishment, students can use cash, credit, or DragonDollars (on-campus and select non-Drexel establishments only).
Check out on-campus and nearby dining and retail establishments that also accept DragonDollars.
Optional residence hall housing is available to Dragons Prep students during the summer at an additional cost of $1,120. During the five-week program, students will be living together in the same residence hall and are assigned trained student Resident Assistants. Each room has a bed, desk, and chair for each student.
What to Bring
- Complete bedding (extra-long [XL] twin sheets fit beds)
- Bath towels
- Toiletries
- Clothing
- Laundry supplies and quarters
- School supplies
- Miscellaneous: alarm clock, hangers, power strips, lamps, Ethernet cord, water bottles, snacks and kitchen items.
Common kitchen facilities contain a freezer, stove, oven, and sink. The kitchen does not contain a refrigerator, microwave, cookware, dishware, or utensils.
DrexelOne is the secure gateway portal for members of the Drexel community to access personal records, class schedule, events calendar, and other customized information.
We highly recommended students bring a personal laptop, computer, or tablet for the duration of the program; however, it is not a requirement, as students have ample access to computing and printing facilities on campus.
On-Campus Access
- Shared computers are available for student use in the CIES office and student lounge, located on the first floor of Macalister Hall
- Computer Terminals (Hagerty Library)
- DragonFly Wireless Network
The office of Information Technology (IT) is the source for all things computing at Drexel. IT's website has helpful information about: specification recommendations for personal computers, discounts on computer purchases, and free and reduced-price software for purchase.
Campus Parking
Drexel University Parking Services offers permit and daily parking options. For your convenience, here is a parking map.
Non-Campus Parking Lots
Here is a parking lot locator. Enter ZIP code 19104.
Street Parking
Parking spots closest to academic and administrative buildings are metered. However, free or extended-time metered parking is usually available only a few blocks away, within walking distance of a few minutes.
You may also want to consider carshare and biking options.
Whether a commuter for Dragons Prep or for the entire academic year, it is a good idea to get familiar with Drexel's resources just for commuters. There are a number of services and networking opportunities that promote commuter involvement.
Of particular usefulness for students commuting during the summer program portion of Dragons Prep are the Lockers and Lounges where one can lighten one's load by storing personal belongings in a rentable locker or kick back and relax in one of the many campus lounges.
Drexel is easily accessible from various bus, trolley, and train routes in and around Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. Take a look at more in-depth information on transportation to the University.
It is just as easy to get from Drexel to the surrounding area for exploration. Whether already familiar with or just starting to discover Philadelphia and its environment, students can count on the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) to get around.
All members and guests of Drexel University who have a disability need to register with the Office of Disability Resources if requesting auxiliary aids, accommodations, and services in order to fully participate in Drexel University's programs and activities. Due to the accelerated nature of the Dragons Prep program, it is important for students who need accommodations to begin the process as soon as possible because accommodations are not made retroactively.
Once registered with the Office of Disability Resources, we request that a copy of all accommodation verification letters be submitted to the program manager at dragonsprep@drexel.edu. Under no circumstances should any medical documentation be given to anyone other than the professional staff in the Office of Disability Resources.
Dragons Prep participants will have full access to the Drexel University Libraries system throughout the summer. Beyond the wealth of scholarship available at one's fingertips, professional staff librarians are friendly and accessible in providing students assistance with their academic and research endeavors.
Pick up some Drexel gear and general supplies at the Drexel University Barnes & Noble Bookstore, which is on the corner of 33rd and Chestnut streets.
Want to rent a laptop? Have a flat bike tire? Need some change or SEPTA information? Drexel Student Centers have you covered. View a list of Student Centers, and services available at each.
Dragons Prep students will have membership to the centrally located Drexel Recreation Center during the program. Considered one of Philadelphia's premier recreational facilities, students can partake in a variety of physical fitness activities as well as health and wellness programs.
Visit the nearby Academy of Natural Sciences for free with a valid DragonCard. It is the oldest natural sciences institution in the Western hemisphere.
Drexel University and the adjacent University of Pennsylvania share in a wealth of retail, dining, and entertainment amenities located in the University City District of Philadelphia.
Here are some links to help one get acquainted with amenities in the immediate neighborhood:
Within walking distance of Drexel, just over the Schuylkill River in Center City, are: