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Birmingham HBCU — (L-R) Lawson State’s student ambassadors Peyton Eldridge, Jillian Burrell and Christian Malone. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Choosing a college isn’t just about classes—it’s also about finding a place that supports you when life and deadlines get real. As an HBCU (Historically Black College or University), Lawson State Community College has been part of Birmingham for generations, so it’s no surprise the campus knows what students need to succeed.

We caught up with three student ambassadors—the school’s biggest cheerleaders—who showed us a few go-to spots on both the Birmingham and Bessemer campuses that make a big impact, from calm study spaces to central resource hubs.

1. The Library: more than just books

Your phone might be your main research tool, but college is the perfect time to use a library.

Lawson State’s library has been supporting students since 1965, growing alongside the college, which has campuses in Birmingham and Bessemer.

It’s making history, too:

In 2023, it became the permanent home of a rare 1880 edition of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” donated from Italy to preserve it at an HBCU.
In 2025, the library partnered with the HBCU Digital Library Trust to digitize and preserve historical resources.

The library also hosts cultural events, including its most recent art exhibition featuring Birmingham muralist Dewon Moton.

For students, the library is about everyday support. It offers:

24/7 access to digital resources—eBooks, audiobooks, magazine + Open Educational Resources
ProQuest One multidisciplinary research database offering access to wide range of academic resource—books, journals, video + dissertations
Computers, study spaces, learning aids, reserve items + loaner laptops

“The library is such a peaceful place to study, read or hang out with friends, and the staff are always helpful. You can even print what you need before class quickly.”
Peyton Eldridge, Student Ambassador, Lawson State Community College

The Nook: a central spot for studying + more

The Nook, on the second floor of the Academic Success Center, is where students go to get work done—and everything they need is just steps away.

Here’s why students love it:

Quiet tables + comfy couches are available to focus on homework, projects or group work.
The bookstore is nearby for snacks, notebooks, pens or school gear like t-shirts—plus vending machines filled with all your favorites.
Departments like Advising, the Dean of Students, Student Records + other campus services are all located here.

“The Nook is a great place for students because it’s so convenient. The cafeteria is downstairs, advising is across the hall and the S.P.A.C.E. Center is just down the hall. It’s the perfect place to study or take breaks between classes.”
Christian Malone, Student Ambassador, Lawson State Community College

The S.P.A.C.E. Center: free tutoring, no sign-up needed

Also located on both the Birmingham and Bessemer campuses is the S.P.A.C.E. Center (Strengthening Student Persistence through Advising, Collaboration and Engagement). It’s a go-to for free tutoring and focused study.

Here’s why it stands out:

Tutoring is available every day—no appointment needed, just show up!
20+ computers are ready for use in a quiet, welcoming space.

“Students should check out the S.P.A.C.E. Center because it’s a great support system.

Whether you need help understanding class materials, studying for exams or just a productive place to work, it makes learning less stressful.”
Jillian Burrell, Student Ambassador, LSCC

Lawson State has been part of Birmingham since 1949, and now—with campuses in both Birmingham and Bessemer—the college continues to find new ways to help students succeed.

Exploring opportunities for next semester? Apply to Lawson State Community College now.

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