Aside from its astounding academic reputation, Kent State University also has an active student presence. Whether you’re an incoming freshman wanting to make the most of your college experience, a transfer student looking to meet new people on campus or a seasoned Kent State student looking to get more involved in student life, there are countless things for students to do at Kent State. Here are just a few things to keep you occupied on campus this semester:
Join a Student Organization
With more than 350 student organizations ranging from media outlets and political or religious organizations to special interest groups, there is bound to be something on campus for everyone. Joining a student organization is a great way for students to meet new people, get to know Kent’s campus, put into practice their particular interests and passions and gain new experiences. Blast Off and Black Squirrel Fest occur at the beginning of each fall semester, when many of Kent’s student organizations set up tables to support student involvement, and are great ways to find something you’re interested in. Still looking for an organization to join? Visit the Student Organizations page for a full list!
Go Greek
Students have the option of joining one of seven integrated greek councils, 19 fraternities and now eight sororities on campus (Welcome Sigma Delta Tau!). Going Greek is a great way to meet new people and to get involved in academics, community outreach and philanthropy. Last year, over 2,200 students participated in Kent’s Greek community, making this the highest number of students involved in Greek life in KSU history.
Rent a Bike with Flashfleet
Kent State’s Flashfleet allows students to rent a bike to ride anywhere around campus and downtown Kent. With kiosks available all over, including the Rec Center, Eastway, Tri-Towers, Terrace Hall, the Student Center and PARTA in downtown Kent, this is a fun and easy way to get out and explore Kent State University, especailly when the weather is nice. Plus, it’s a great workout!
Go Ice Skating
Speaking of a great workout, check out Kent State’s Ice Arena. It offers birthday parties, public recreational skating and private rentals. In addition to supporting Kent State’s Hockey and Figure Skating Team’s, the Arena also supports six area high school teams, a figure skating club and a youth hockey program.
Attend a Sporting Event
Show your KSU pride and support Kent State’s athletic department! Whether you follow football, basketball, gymnastics, soccer, or baseball, get out and show some love for the KSU Golden Flashes. Don’t forget that students get in free with their studen ID!
Grab a Bite
Kent State offers dining services all throughout campus; like Eastway Cafe, located on the second floor of the Eastway Center. Summit Street Cafe, located in the Rec Center, offers a range of healthy foods. Fork in the Road is Kent State’s food truck that can be found all over campus, typically with a line of people surrounding it.
Rosie’s Diner, offering a variety of diner foods and desserts, is conveniently open 24/7 and located in the Tri Towers Rotunda. The Hub, located on the first floor of the Student Center, has some of the most popular dining options on campus. The Schwebel Room is located on the third floor of the Student Center and offers a great view of campus. It is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Also, be sure to check out the lower level of the Student Center, which houses Quaker Steak and Lube, Jazzman’s Cyber Cafe; a great place to grab a cup of coffee and sweet treat and Rathskeller; perfect for watching a big game or playing games with friends.
Explore Downtown Kent
Kent State University is located just minutes from downtown Kent. It is home to a number of local business. Hot spots include: Tree City Coffee, Scribbles Coffee, Baked in the Village, 157 Lounge, Stahl’s Bakery, Figleaf Boutique, Silver & Scents, Kent Cheesemonger, Ray’s Place, Twisted Meltz, the Local Public House, Water Street Tavern, Wild Goats Cafe, Last Exit Books Coffee House, Bar 145, Popped! and Insomnia Cookies. With the variety of places to explore, there is bound to be a place for everyone. There is also a number of downtown festivals that typically occur throughout the year that you won’t want to miss!