While at the University of Utah there are some things you really shouldn’t miss out on. From visiting museums to being apart of the cheering crowd at a football game there are many special events and groups on campus to enjoy. The following list will help you get started with a few of the important things you shouldn’t miss during your time at The U.
1.) The Dorms
This should be on the list no matter what college you attend. Living in the dorms is a bit crowded and confined. But, you are around many like minded people your age, and the college experience is a time to make lifelong friends. Luckily, at The U the dorms are much more spacious than many other schools.
Built for the athletes during the Winter Olympics hosted in Salt Lake City the freshman dorms are structured with two shared rooms connected via a bathroom, instead of the usual communal bathrooms. There really is no better way to meet an amazing number of people than spending your first year in the dorms. You will also learn a lot about yourself living in a situation that is very different from what you are probably used to.
2.) Intramural Sports
Once you’ve made some friends at the dorms figure out a sport to play and sign up for one of the many intramural sports leagues. Two favorites during my time there was sand volleyball and soccer. Today there is a large list of options from canoe battleship to ultimate Frisbee to choose from.
Intramural sports are a great way to further develop the friends you have made and relax after a busy day of studying. They are also an excellent way to stay in shape when much of your time is spent sitting down focused on school.
3.) The MUSS
Everyone should go to at least one of the sporting events on campus. Football is probably the biggest event on campus and you will learn quickly the dedicated following it has by students and alums alike. To really experience the game at its most energetic sign up for The MUSS and get right up in the action.
The MUSS section is an area of the stadium dedicated to the most loyal fans and next to the field itself is where most of the action is. It has been called one of the top student sections for football fans in the country by ESPN. Sign up early space runs out quickly in the MUSS section.
4.) Natural History Museum of Utah
The Natural History Museum of Utah is definitely a must see while attending The U. The recently built Rio Tinto Center alone is a sight to behold. But, what you find inside is breathtaking. From the beautiful mineral display to the largest collection of horned dinosaur exhibit the NHMU has something for everyone.
Even just taking the short walk from the dorms up to the museum to watch the sunset from the top floor is very enjoyable. The NHMU is free to visit with your student identification card.
5.) Redfest
Redfest is a yearly fall concert that ASUU (student government) puts on. Many award-winning performers have played for Redfest. Situated right in the middle of campus at the Union Plaza Redfest is both easy to get to and very affordable. It is a free event for students to attend and if you want to bring a friend you can purchase an extra ticket for $5.
Beyond the concert there are also many activities going on during the day. Student organizations and university departments set up booths to recruit or promote their groups. You may just find the group or calling of your dreams while enjoying the company of thousands of students.
EXTRA: Though this isn’t a specific event I think it is so important that I added it to the list. While at The U remember to check the University events webpage at where you can find all sorts of activities. Workshops, conferences, and guest speakers and much more is listed there. By checking their website often you are sure to find many great events that fit your interest or expand your worldview.
Resford Rouzer went to the University of Utah for both his undergraduate and masters degrees. He holds a bachelor degree in Anthropology and Environmental Studies, as well as, a master’s degree in Environmental Humanities.