Since its establishment in 1851, Florida State University (FSU) has come a long way to become the school that we know and love. It started as the West Florida Seminary school before it absorbed the Tallahassee female academy, and then became the Florida Military and Collegiate Institute in 1863. In 1905, the education system was restructured again, and two universities of higher education emerged: The University of Florida in Gainesville for men and Florida State University for women. However, in 1947, the governor signed an act making Florida State University coed, leading us to where we are today. Because of its long and interesting history, there are many aspects of Florida State that many people probably don’t know about! Here are 5 interesting facts about FSU.Â
Florida State has a movie theater
The Askew Student Life Center (ASLC) right across from the Health and Wellness Center is home to plenty of unique opportunities for students, including pottery making, psychological counseling services and a movie theater! Movies are free to students when you present your FSU ID at the door. Concessions are available for purchase, and movie schedules can be viewed beforehand on the ASLC’s website. This is such a great perk for students looking to see movies in a theater setting with other students. Check your upcoming movies and events here.Â
More than 360,000 alumni are represented around the world
Florida State has an amazing alumni network, composed of every job imaginable from teachers, to musicians and even CEOs. All of these alumni came to study at FSU from over 130 different countries. Just think of all the connections!
Florida State is home to its very own soprano-alto acapella group
The AcaBelles, established in 2000, are women set on making a difference with their voices. Made up of 15 different voices, all with amazing vocals and killer talent, these stars have caught the attention of big names in media like CNN and Good Morning America. If you’re interested in learning more about their music, look here.Â
Ever heard of Quidditch?
The Florida State Quad Ball club, formerly known as Quidditch (yes, you read that right—like in Harry Potter), has been a great way to spend time on campus since 2011. A mix of sports like rugby and dodgeball, Quad Ball practices on the main campus fields three days a week, and the team travels around the state and country for tournaments. You can check out more information on the team here.Â
Both Richard Simmons and Burt Reynolds got degrees from Florida State
Richard Simmons, a public fitness personality from the 1970s, was known for his energetic and fun weight loss strategies, which became his career. Before he was a television personality, he graduated from Florida State with a bachelor’s in Art. Burt Reynolds, another celebrity television star, attended Florida State University on a football scholarship and played halfback in 1954.Â
Check out these organizations and their events to learn more about what Florida State has to offer!
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