One class at a time, San Diego college students have gradually taken over many neighborhoods. From UCSD students living in the UTC area to USD attendees dwelling in Linda Vista and Mission Beach, businesses in these areas have flourished as a result of the social lifestyles of their number one consumers: students.

Having entered my fourth leg of the race to the SDSU finish line – not to mention having previously inhabited not one, but two separate pint-sized dwellings in the area – I myself have acquired some knowledge over the years as to what constitutes the “SDSU Lifestyle.” From flowing affordable pitchers of booze at Effin’s to the only place where you can find a Sigma Pi burrito in the wee hours of the morning and the off-campus hookah and coffee spots where we can cram it all in before the next test, discover the places where the students of one of Playboy’s Top Ten Party Schools spend their time.

Discover the top ten SDSU lifestyle businesses.

On-Campus

Cox Arena: Since opening its doors in 1997, Cox Arena has been providing the utmost in quality entertainment. From live performances by Motley Crue, the Black Eyed Peas and Gwen Stefani to academic conferences and Aztec basketball games, there is never a dull moment at Cox. cox-arena.com

Trujillo’s: As the designated late-night stop on the journey home from raging fraternity revelry or the third house party that was regrettably broken up by the cops, Trujillo’s is the go-to drunken eatery of the area. Having once been a part of the schmammered shenanigans in my former years at SDSU, I know Trujillo’s always provides for an after-hours party where everyone from that frat guy you hooked up with last weekend to the girl with the annoying voice who sits behind you in TFM 364 is guaranteed to be attending. Where else can you satisfy your Sigma Pi fix at 2am? 5119 College Avenue

The ARC and Aquaplex: I think most students will agree with me when I say that SDSU spent their money very wisely when they crafted these two health and leisure hangouts. The ARC, SDSU’s 24-hour fitness facility, boasts everything from a fully-equipped cardio and weight room to basketball courts, sweat-worthy group fitness classes and even a rock climbing wall. Across the way from the ARC, the Aztec Aquaplex houses a 50-meter pool for open lap swim and a variety of aquatic programs to get a quenching health kick. And for those looking to soak up some sun while nursing a hangover, the Rec Pool's floating lounge chairs provide for a prime way to spend your Saturday. arc.sdsu.edu

4.0 Deli: Sure you can always head over to Subway and get a $5 foot long, but why opt for the average meal when you can get a fresh sub and an ice cold draft beer to go along with it? With such signature favorites as the Godfather and the Miyagi, 4.0 Deli’s savory subs continue to attract not only SDSU-ers, but students from the surrounding campuses as well. But beware, it has been said that 4.0 just might be the culprit of the dreaded Freshman 15 for SDSU students. 4.0deli.com

Off-Campus

Tokyo Sushi Loha: If you have a hankering for eel, but don’t feel like emptying your wallet at RA in Gaslamp, Tokyo Sushi offers quality sushi at a quality price. While Tokyo may be a small restaurant, the loud music blasting from the speakers – 50 Cent and Vanilla Ice anyone? – and the signature Monkey Brain are only a few of the things that keep SDSU students coming back for more. Oh and of course, how could I ever forget to mention the gong sake bombs? 6784 El Cajon Blvd.

Effin’s: If you’re of the legal age of 21, or you have an extremely convincing fake ID, Effin’s has always been the go-to dive spot for the serious SDSU drinkers – which just so happens to be each and every one of us. Featuring pool tables, HD TVs, and live music on Thursday nights, Effin’s is a great place to kick back and hang out with friends. And hey, if you have yet to join the 21 club, Effin’s still lets you enjoy the bar scene until 9pm every night, minus the booze. 6164 El Cajon Blvd.

iTan: When you need a sun-kissed glow and don’t have time to hit up PB for the real deal, iTan is the place to acquire a counterfeit tan. Located on the corner of College Avenue and El Cajon Blvd., iTan offers everything from UV and Mystic tanning to FIT Body wraps which can help you slip into that little black dress just in time for Pref or get bikini body ready for spring in San Diego. itansandiego.com

Zodiak Hookah Lounge: Since opening its doors in August 2003, Zodiak has been the social chill out spot for SDSU students. From a lengthy list of flavored hookahs such as Banana Cream and Carmel Apple to lattes and sandwiches, Zodiak Hookah Lounge is the premier place to hang out with friends, play some board games or enjoy the art of belly dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. zodiakhookahlounge.com

Woodstock’s: There is no such thing as college without a local pizza and beer joint. Woodstock’s on El Cajon Blvd. offers a variety of tasty, topping-packed pizzas such as the Garlic Bird and the All Meat Orgy and boasts a daily Happy Hour from 2 to 6pm. But of course, while all the draft beer and cheesy delights are what the students come for, I have to admit that a trip to Woodstock’s is simply incomplete without an order of the simply sinful Cinna Bread. woodstockssandiego.com

The Living Room: When those late-night “lib parties” just don’t seem to have that satisfying feel anymore, the next best place to get in some quality study time before the next big test is at The Living Room. Open from 6am to 2am seven days a week, this quaint little indoor/outdoor coffee shop offers everything from specialty coffees and pastries to snacks, fresh sandwiches and salads. Who needs A Plus Review? livingroomcafe.com

Insider Tip: Although all these places are staple spots for SDSU students, the College Area is also home to many other businesses that define the lifestyle. Long lines not your style? Get the most chips for your buck at Mexican eateries like La Casitas and Senor Pancho. Want to satisfy your sweet tooth? Head over to Paradise Yogurt and serve it up yourself. Thinking ink? Aztec Tattoo and EC Tattoo II cater to any body art needs.

From the Graffiti Tunnels to The Loft and Porter's Pub, discover DSD Intern Choice: UCSD Lifestyle Favs.