As the 2011-12 school year begins in Eugene, University students hit the streets and the books for new possibilities and opportunities. The much-anticipated sunshine in the weeks of September has created many possibilities for students to get acquainted with Eugene, yet again. As you return, here are 10 things you should do.
1. Take advantage of the top-of-the-line Student Recreation Center on campus. Being a busy college student, you might find that it is hard to make time to work out. However, with its easy access and great location, it makes finding time to work out between classes convenient.
2. Take a walk over to Yogurt Extreme for some delicious yogurt and a night of Dance Dance Extreme. The pink walls and fun atmosphere serve as a common ground to meet people, dance and enjoy some delicious frozen yogurt.
3. Pay a visit to Pre’s Rock. Not only is the hike to Pre’s Rock a beautiful sight but it’s a great run. Steve Prefontaine made Eugene “Tracktown, U.S.A.” His runs were inspirational not only to Eugene but to our country. His legacy remains unforgotten and admirable to our university and our city.
4. Go to a volleyball game in Matthew Knight Arena. If you feel small at Autzen Stadium, then you have not seen the Matthew Knight Arena. Join the student section as the fight song and cheers suffocate the colossal walls of the arena. Outdoor games are fun, but nothing is louder or prouder than the echoing noises of rowdy Duck fans in the new arena. @@I hate you.@@
5. Take in a movie at the dollar theater at the Gateway Mall. Being a poor college student, anything with the words “one dollar” before it is always good.
6. Go all out in your highlighter-covered, white t-shirt to “Ducks in the Dark.” On Thursday, Sept. 22 the Student Orientation Staff is hosting the dance in the EMU Fishbowl. A live DJ, black lights, and free food kick off the 2011 school year with a glow!
7. Cheer on your Ducks at the Oregon Tailgater. For those not traveling to Tucson for the Oregon versus Arizona football game, there will be a tailgate on the Humpy Lumpy Lawn on Saturday, Sept. 24 that students and faculty can attend. The tailgate is a great chance for students to meet people and to enjoy free food, music, prizes and, of course, Duck football.
8. Take advantage of free gifts with Freebies at Freddy’s. Being in college can only mean one thing: a limited supply of almost everything from food to storage room. On Sept. 24, Fred Meyer will be opening its doors after hours. Join your fellow students for a night of games, food, discounts, and, best of all, freebies.
9. Celebrate the beginning of school with a free electronic dance music festival. Ascension will be held in the EMU Amphitheater, so you don’t have to travel far from campus and you can meet some great people through dance. It’s time for you to celebrate that school is finally upon us!
10. Get to know the faculty at your university. University President Richard Lariviere will deliver this year’s convocation address Sunday, Sept. 25, on the Gerlinger Lawn. This address is the University’s official welcome to all its members. Students are invited to attend the picnic after the address where they have another chance to mingle with faculty and other students.