When walking around the UConn campus, it is evident that there is a lot of Husky pride. From the upbeat atmosphere of Gampel Pavilion to the out-the-door line at the Dairy Bar, UConn is filled with something for everyone. Coming to Storrs can be daunting, especially if you come from out of state or do not know anyone else coming here, but there are endless opportunities on this campus. Here are some of the ins and outs of Storrs for someone who may be a new student, or just looking for things to do.
1. Attend Sporting Events.
If you’re a sports fan in Connecticut, or even in the U.S., chances are you know who the 2023 Men’s Basketball National Champions were. Both basketball teams here at UConn continue to make history that we get to witness. But UConn is home to many great sports teams, not just basketball. It is definitely worth going to a game with some friends or even alone. Aside from football, the home games are right on campus making it convenient to attend, even if you just want to drop by quickly. The best part? Tickets are completely free to students.
2. Get Involved.
UConn is home to hundreds of clubs and organizations, along with Greek life and club sports. Spanning all the way from the Horror Movie Club to the Karate club, it is easy to find people who share your interests. UConn also has groups for certain majors as well as different nationalities to allow students to become closer to people they are similar to. Aside from the amazing Her Campus group, Confetti for Kids is one of my favorite clubs on campus. Confetti for Kids is a group that hosts fundraisers throughout the semester to buy gifts for foster care kids. Check out what other clubs UConn has to offer here.
3. Check out Downtown.
UConn can definitely feel like the middle of nowhere. It pretty much is, especially if you don’t have a car or know someone who does. Downtown Storrs is a great place to check out if you are sick of dining hall food or want something late at night, like Insomnia Cookies. Personally, my friends and I love going downtown on the weekends to get boba from Whale Tea. There are a variety of food places as well as CVS and Barnes and Noble. They also have an urgent care and a physical therapy office (which came in handy when I broke my arm on Horsebarn Hill).
4. EMBRACE THE REC CENTER Classes.
Working out can be challenging. Whether you’re a gym expert or starting for the first time, the UConn Recreation Center can be intimidating for everyone. If you aren’t looking to go to the first-floor weight section, I don’t blame you, especially when it is overtaken by the campus “gym bros.” An underappreciated aspect of the Rec Center is the group fitness classes. They offer spin, yoga, barre, HIIT, core, dance fit, pilates etc. These classes are led by a UConn Rec faculty member and are a great way to get a workout in without having to navigate the gym yourself. Download the UConn Rec app and take it from there.
Everyone at UConn has a place for them, it is just a matter of finding it. Try out these suggestions and slowly watch yourself get more acclimated to living in Storrs. Go Huskies!