The University’s EMU looms over the center of campus, a symbol of student interaction, service and community. The heart of campus life, this pivotal building offers many diverse opportunities and essential resources to students, ranging from food venues to study space to the student government and advocacy offices. It even houses the office of this publication. Needless to say, the EMU is an essential part of the everyday University experience. But what, exactly, can the EMU offer you?
A place to study

Every student has a special place on campus he or she can retreat to when that 20-page research paper is due or the bro throwing the house party next door simply refuses to turn down his subwoofer. The library is a common choice, but there’s something about dead silence that refuses to let me concentrate. My personal favorite study corner is the long hallway that runs along the EMU’s second floor, right next to the ballroom staircase. There’s a row of comfy chairs, a few carefully placed electrical outlets for my pesky laptop adapter and a row of giant windows that overlook the hustle and bustle of the amphitheater and let me still feel a part of the non-studying world. If that’s not to your fancy — or if your studying is slightly less portable — the EMU’s basement computer lab is another well-kept secret. If the sun’s out and you’re feeling like getting in touch with your natural side, the EMU lawn lets you catch some rays and get a head start on Steinbeck’s “Tortilla Flat.”
Getting your food on
Whether you’re looking to grab a bite before class, take a midday snack break or enjoy a well-deserved dinner after a long day, the EMU plays host to your cravings by providing the epicenter of campus eateries. Coffee withdrawals can be satisfied at The Buzz Coffeehouse. If you’re looking for something quick to eat on the way to class or give you a quick energy boost during halftime, you can pick up a snack at the Union Market, located on the EMU’s lower level. And if it’s a full-blown meal you need, go no further than the main level’s concourse, which offers Subway, Panda Express, Holy Cow and the rotating restaurants of the Marketplace – which range from Pita Pit to Bite of Mexico.
As copy chief I tend to work three late nights a week, and no day’s work is complete without my evening Subway foray: A tuna footlong with everything on it, a bag of Lays salt and vinegar crisps and a small Dr Pepper. Jamey Jannsen, a Subway shift manager, says I’m not alone.
“Monday through Friday, we serve between 650 and 700 (students). Saturday-Sunday, maybe 200 to 300,” Jannsen said.
As if that wasn’t enough sub service, Jannsen mentioned several developments that would make Subway even more accessible.
“I’m trying to set up delivery to on-campus buildings and telephone ordering.” Jannsen explained.
Ordering in via cell phone, then picking up the waiting sandwich would be yet another step toward streamlining a busy student’s day, allowing them to fuel up without having to stand in line.
Student services
Perhaps the most important resource the EMU offers is its range of student services. Student groups including the Arab Student Union, African Student Association, MEChA and the Women’s Center (to name just a few) call the EMU home, working diligently to make the University a place of diversity and tolerance, and providing students who identify with these groups with a support network. Additionally, these associations organize events to promote awareness of various issues, such as the Women’s Center’s “Take Back The Night” — an event that grants survivors of sexual violence an opportunity to rally together and speak out against continued sexual violence in their communities.
For those interested in student government, the Associated Students of the University of Oregon headquarters is located on the ground floor of the EMU’s east wing. Run solely by students, the ASUO plays an important role in campus life, looking out for student interests — tuition and textbook costs, housing standards, student rights — and working diligently to ensure that the student budget is used efficiently to fund student groups and important campus security, resources and transit needs.