The Florida State University campus can be daunting to anybody, no matter if you’re an incoming or returning student. FSU is like its own city, always alive and moving, filled with architecture and activities that people may not even realize exist. While there is still so much of this campus that I’ve yet to encounter, I’ve loved the little pieces of it I have been able to stumble into. Some may be more well-known than others, but regardless, if you’re looking to explore, here are some of my favorite (not-so) hidden gems on campus that I think everyone should visit.
1. Dodd Hall
Along Legacy Walk, you will find Dodd Hall. Most people, unless they have a class inside, may not ever know about the unique, gothic architecture that you can find inside here. Until 1956, when Strozier was opened, Dodd Hall acted as the library for FSU students. Since then, it has become home to the College of Arts and Sciences, the Philosophy Department, and WFSU-TV. However, anyone is welcome to take a look around. For those looking for a quiet place to study, or an opportunity to learn more about historic FSU, there is no better location than the University Heritage Museum at Dodd Hall. The stained glass windows, entirely inspired by FSU scenery, are a gorgeous backdrop for studying or reflecting. Created by FSU alumni Bob and Jo Ann Bischoff, the window consists of over 10,000 glass pieces. Lined against the walls are historic artifacts which can be read and observed during business hours. As a memorial and a cultural landmark, visiting Dodd Hall is a way for students to better connect with their college and understand its rich history.
2. Paint-a-pot
The Askew Student Life Center, better known as the ASLC, offers dozens of fun activities for students to partake in. Every week, the ASLC hosts movie premieres (with free entry for students) and sells classic movie theater concession snacks. For video and board game enthusiasts, there are frequent game nights and competitions to take part in. And, on top of it all, there is an on-campus Paint-A-Pot. With a variety of mugs, frames and more, students can let their creativity shine. There is a variety of paints, brushes and stencils to pick from. Once the item is painted, it is left overnight to be put in the kiln, and it can be picked up a few days later. The Paint-A-Pot is a great place to go on a date, with friends, or by yourself. Whether you’re looking to create something for yourself or to give as a gift, this is a great resource for students to take advantage of, alongside the many other activities provided at the ASLC.
3. The museum of fine arts (MOFA)
The Museum of Fine Arts (MOFA) has a permanent collection of over 6,000 objects, as well as several rotating exhibits. As part of its mission, the MOFA strives to connect the FSU community to the arts, and it does so by providing a diverse collection of local, regional, and national artists. The MOFA is a great way for students to immerse themselves in the arts while also supporting the artists on display and the College of Fine Arts. Currently, as of February 2023, there are three exhibits on display including Cut Frames, Captured Pixels; Un sentimento di libertà | A Feeling of Freedom and Are We Free to Move About the World. These exhibits offer a thought-provoking glimpse into their respective themes and explore different mediums such as filmmaking, painting and digital art. At the MOFA, art takes shape in many forms. With so much variety, each and every person is sure to find something they resonate with.
Sometimes, it can be hard to fully understand just how much FSU has to offer. Just know that there is always more to discover here, whether it be these underrated spots, or somewhere else!
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