Late Night Shenanigans: Closing Social

Due to the closing of another semester of school, the time has come for the annual winter Closing Social that the Cedar City Institute of Religion hosts.  

The Institute is a place where students can take religious classes concerning Latter-day Saint Doctrine and teachings.  Free to sign up and anyone can join.  You do not have to be a member of the LDS faith to take a class or even attend their events.  Free food is often provided.  For a college student, free food is free food.  

Focus for this post though is what the Institute is offering you this Friday: a well deserved break that is promoting fun, friends, and some of that delicious free food.  Get ready for your finals week and holiday season with this event put on just to give a bit of refuge from this stressful week.

The closing social will have soup and rolls ($free.99), a performance by the Institute Choir, a bunch of activities and also an ugly sweater dance.  

Come and enjoy some holiday fun that is completely free.  

The Institute provides activities year round and information about upcoming events can be found on their Facebook page.  Also, you can go in the Institute that is located just west of the J. L. Sorenson Physical Education Building and ask about on going activities or events.  So for some Late Night Shenanigans, have a little holiday fun at the Closing Social at the Heritage Center by Lin's.  

Secret Spots: the Theater!

The next secret spot of SUU is definitely off the beaten path.  Down the hall of a side exit in the Sharwan Smith Center lies a small theater used for presentations and conferences.  The secret spot though is not the actual theater.

 The hallway  is just west of the C-store and at the bottom of the stairs coming down from the Rotunda.  

 The entrance to the theater lobby is the secret spot.  The actual theater is closed for general use but the lobby is generally open during the day.

The lobby is furnished, has two uni-sex bathrooms, and wall plugins.  Privacy, quiet, and comfortableness can all be found in this SUU secret spot.  Enjoy.

Study Like a Boss: Sleep

The first thing to diminish for many college students is sleep.  Idioms like, "you can sleep when you're dead" or "sleep is for the weak" are pretty common among college students like myself.  Here is a few things about sleep.

info graphic curtesy of http://www.schools.com/visuals/student-sleep.html

Sleep is hard to come by but as a server who used to work graveyard shifts at Denny's, you come to value sleep.  Good luck with finals, get some sleep when you can and may the bell curve ever be in your favor!

At your Service: ELC 214

Finals are upon us!  Cramming, scrambling, and stress seem to be common things in the next two weeks.  SUU is here to help you the best it can by having one of the best computer labs on campus being open 24/7 starting Wednesday 12/3 and Thursday 12/4 Morning.  ELC 214

 The computer lab features dual monitors and the majority of programs needed throughout all of the majors.  

The ELC (electronic learning center) is best known for the Testing Center Location but just above on the second floor is this computer lab.  Access to the lab is the north western corner of the building by the sidewalk ramp.

 The ELC 214 also features color printer and regular black and white printing.  With study spaces if you want to bring your own laptop or a place to get away from your roommates.  

 If the studying goes longer or you run out of snacks, the ELC second floor also has vending machines.  Sometimes a mid-study snack is necessary for your success.

Also, from my biased opinion of the best water fountains on campus, the ELC 214 has made my top three favorite tasting water fountains.  Now featuring a water bottle filling station, your hydration shall no longer be wanting.

The ELC second floor also has a restroom.  The late night papers and last minute cramming sessions can be supplemented by the ELC 214, at your service!

Late Night Shenanigans: Alberto's

Late night availability is lacking in Cedar City.  For your late night shenanigans, you are going to need food.  If you are a fan of Mexican food, Alberto's is the quick late night fix your stomach needs.

In regards to the delicious Holiday that is today, a quick highlight about one of the few late night restaurants in Cedar city.  Alberto's is a Mexican Restaurant chain that provides large portions at a reasonable price.  Alberto's is open 24 hours a day.  My personal favorite is the breakfast burrito.  

The drive through is open all day and sometimes the lobby is open late as well.  Due to the small number of staff, the time waited is a bit longer than during the day.  I would recommend a late night Alberto's run for any and all that are in need of food.  

p.s. You may need a vehicle due to the location being on the northern end of town.   

Secret Spots: Library 3rd Floor

Where else can you get a view like this AND study?  Let me present to you the Gerald R. Sherratt Library's 3rd Flood.

 The library has several levels but this floor is one of the lease utilized floors.  Plenty of group study space, individually sectioned off study tables and a balcony study area.




 Here is the balcony study area.  Has that view outside the giant library window.

Plenty of large tables for study groups.  During finals there are usually more people but for the better part of the semester it is open for your study needs.

 Here is a picture of the individually sectioned off study tables.  

The entire third level is primarily dedicated to study space.  Here is a secret spot that not many know about. Hopefully this helps with finals looming at the horizon.  Good luck and enjoy another secret spot of SUU.

Get Involved: Acoustic Club

Ever wanted to play an instrument?  The best time to start was probably yesterday but the second best day is today.  If you fancy the acoustic instruments, the SUU Acoustic instruments Club is the club for you.  The club exists to help people hone their musical skills with acoustic instruments and gather together to Jam out on some week day nights.  

"To the beginner, we offer instruction and support. To the intermediate and advanced player, we offer collaboration, workshops and performance opportunities."- SUU Acoustic Instruments club

Quick information about the club.
Who: Kaeli Madsen is the President and Makenzie Vance is the VP of Involvement.  You can contact them through Facebook messages or even talking to them in person.
When: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Where: The Living Room

What to bring: Any acoustic instrument or just stop by and someone might let you try theirs out.  Depends on the person.  

For more information you can check out their Facebook page.  

At your Service: Speech and Presentation Center

Who wants to give a speech?! Or a presentation in front of class?! How about an interview... Doesn't that just get you psyched?  Well never fear, the Speech and Presentation Center is near!

Remember a few posts back about the Writing Center?  A similar place exists but for your presentations.  At the Speech and Presentation Center, you can set an appointment and receive one-on-one help with your speeches, presentations, or even interviews.  The interns working at the center have received training to help with PowerPoint, Keynote, and even Prezi.

The Speech and Presentation Center is located in the Leadership Engagement Center (same building where parking services is now located).  561 west University Blvd or just South, across the street from the LDS institute building and the JL Sorenson Physical Education building.  Here is the map if you need it.  

If you need to contact the Center, you can go in and make an appointment or call: (435) 586-5452.  The Center prefers if you make an appointment to cover your needs but walk-ins are a possibility.  

One of the biggest ways to improve your speeches is to practice and at the Center you can do that with one of the members of the Center to make your speech even better.  Delivery is a hard thing to master but the Speech and Presentation Center takes pride in helping you, the community and anyone that comes.

Filming is optional

If you have an interview for a scholarship or a job, the Center also provides mock-interviews (practice interviews).   

Their hours are Monday- Thursday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Fridays: appointment only

I have interned at the Speech and Presentation Center for two semesters in the past and have helped quite a few presentations.  A little extra help for your project won't hurt and will help in the long run.  As a bonus, depending on the teacher, you can get a few extra points on your presentation if you come in.  The Speech and Presentation Center, at your service.

Study like a Boss: Music

Music is powerful.  A simple string instrument or even dropping the bass because you are all about that, music has influence over us.  I have found in my internet exploration (I really should be studying) a fantastic little info graphic about music and how it can be an asset or a hindrance to your academic studies.

Courtesy of Online Schools

"Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and cannot remain silent." -Victor Hugo, Les Misérables 

I know each person is different when it comes to studying.  My roommate for example can watch something on Netflix while doing his homework while I sit transfixed with my book open on my lap.  Experiment and find what music helps you study.  

I am just going to put that right there.  This is a playlist I would use in my early college years to help me do homework and such.  What kind of music do you listen to when you study?  I am always on the search for some good music and experiment to see what can get those creative juices flowing.  Comment, Facebook message, tweet, or even let me know in person what kind of music you fancy for your study time.  Good luck and study like a boss my friends.

Late Night Shenanigans: Sheep Tunnels

Often I hear some people ask, "Is there anything fun to do in cedar city?"  Well the answer should be placed upon your imagination.  Daring sword fights, magic spells, a prince in disguise! Wait... that's Beauty and the Beast.  So maybe there is not an enchanted castle in Cedar City but there is a fantastic place you can go adventuring!  The perfect late night place for shenanigans known as The Sheep Tunnels.

http://www.suunews.com/photos/2014/apr/30/24878/

The sheep tunnels were constructed to herd sheep under the highway and freeway.  Sheep herders would take their sheep to either entrance and take them through these long concrete tunnels.  The tunnels have intermittent holes in the ceiling with metal grates  to allow light. 

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/391742867557470738/

The tunnels have some interesting decorations along its walls.  Graffiti runs rampant but compared to most graffiti I have seen, it is rather tame in its nature.  (I do not condone such behavior but I do realize that it exists).  The fun part of the Sheep Tunnels though lies in its late night activities.

http://brantincedar.blogspot.com/2012/04/sheep-tunnels.html

One activity in particular that I enjoy doing is glow in the dark fights.  Here is what you do: 1)you grab a few friends, 2) purchase glow sticks and something to cut them open with, 3) you venture into the tunnels until you reach a particularly dark spot, 4) you activate your glow sticks and open them up, 5) the last step is go crazy and start lighting up the place and your friends.  Be careful not to get any in your eyes or mouth but this is a guaranteed good memory to have.

 (Shout out to Jessica and Morgan for the good times in the sheep tunnels).

The possibilities are endless if you have the right people and enough imagination.   I have done this several times and with different people.  Once we played tag, another time we played red rover.  

Some would say going through the Sheep Tunnels is a rite of passage.  An item on your to-do list that should be completed whilst attending SUU.  Make sure you go with company, bring a flashlight and it wouldn't be a bad idea to have hobo-stab insurance (just joking on the insurance).  

I would recommend something warm to wear during the colder nights and be aware that water does drain through the tunnels when a good storm hits.  Other than that have fun and document your good times and let me know of any other places you tend to find a good time.  Message, comment or even talk to me in person.  

Let the Shenanigans continue!

Secret Spots: The Birdhouse

Campus is full of gems.  This weeks secret spot is the little known area called "The Birdhouse"

This little gem is often overlooked by passerby's and was actually closed for the first part of this semester due to some renovations.  Tucked away behind the living room in the Sharwan Smith Center is this secret little hangout that is great for studying, shooting pool, and catching up on some TV.

The Birdhouse has a wall completely made of windows with two exits (just in case there is a fire).  With naturally lighting, the birdhouse is an excellent choice if you need to read a chapter or two.  The treasures of this secret spot also holds a ping pong table and a pool table.

The devices necessary to use these tables can be checked out with a student ID with the latest sticker on it (a sticker that means you have paid all of your dues or have made a payment plan) from the Student Involvement and Leadership Center.  That is located right next to the Outdoor Engagement Center or across the hall from the SUUSA Offices.  Renting them out is free because not only are you a student but you can't put a price on a good time.  You can also rent them after 5 from the Facilities management which is located in the Sharwan Smith's Rotunda. 1st floor.

Lo and behold the crowning glory of The Birdhouse.  Round-about seating around a giant screen TV.  Perfect for football season and March Madness.  The channel depends on the crowds but you could probably "persuade" people to watch what you want to watch.  Electric reclining chairs with cup holders by some of the seats.  I may or may not take naps on this beautiful, soft, reclining heaven.

So to study, get away from roommates, or even a place to catch a few Zzz's, The Birdhouse is a perfect little getaway while never leaving campus.  See you there!

For your Service: The Writing Center

For some like myself when I first started out as a student here at SUU, I did not know that there was so many different ways to write.  Not only the structures of papers but also guidelines on how to cite and avoid plagiarism. APA, MLA, or even Chicago are all different types of writing styles and depending on your major will become your bread and butter for writing.  To make this transition easier and also make current writing even better, I would like to introduce to you the campus experts: The Writing Center.

A writing what you may ask?  The writing center is a place on campus located in the Braithwaite Center, Room 204 that helps students with their academic writing and foster better writers.

This is not the only thing that the Writing Center does.  The Writing Center also "serve(s) students and faculty by offering responses to a wide variety of documents written for a wide variety of purposes and audiences, as well as by sponsoring panel discussions, workshops, an annual essay contest, readings by visiting writers, and other literacy events (the writing center's Mission Statement).

The Writing Center is a fantastic way to improve your papers (not to perfect them during the session).  Tutors also help with specific things when it comes to writing:

• Brainstorming ideas
• Developing thesis statements
• Organizing thoughts
• Drafting papers
• Revising rough drafts
• Practicing grammar concepts
• Using and documenting sources 

(What Tutors Do)

Other benefits from using the writing center may also include extra credit (depending on the class) but the over all value is the growing of your writing capabilities.  It would not hurt to have an extra pair of eyes to look over your paper. 

So here is what you have to do: online you can make an appointment for a session to get help from one of the instructors.  The option is also open to go in and make an appointment.  The last way you can get help is by a Walk-in sessions but they are only available between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The cost of the writing center is $Free.99.  All you need is to arrive on time, a printed copy of your paper, a writing utensil, and some questions in mind. 

The hours for the Writing Center goes as follows:

Monday: 8:00-5:00

Tuesday: 8:00-7:00

Wednesday: 8:00-5:00

Thursday: 8:00-5:00

Friday: 8:00-5:00

Certain circumstances will have the writing center closed or close early (i.e. finals week, first week of classes, holidays).  This resource is for any SUU student and the tutors love to help.  Give yourself the chance to become a better writer and use this fantastic resource.

 For further information about the writing center you can visit their webpage at http://suu.edu/hss/writingcenter/index.html.

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernUtahUniversityWritingCenter?fref=ts

Phone: (435)865-8176

Get Involved: Country Swing Club

The best part about moving up the educational ladder is the freedom: freedom to do what you want, when you want to with whomever you deem worthy of your presence.  With all of this new freedom, you can now pursue interests that you did not have before or wanted to at least try.  I would like to highlight a certain club with this post that is fun, not time demanding, and is open to everyone.  SUU's Country Swing Dance Club.

This video was produced by one of the instructors at Swing Club.  I have been going for about 3 years now and would love to give you some quick information about this club.

Every Wednesday at 8 pm until 10 pm in the multipurpose gym on campus (located south of the Sharwin Smith building).  Instructors are there to help you learn how to swing dance.  Basic moves to some of the advanced moves above can be learned at Swing Club.  They have different areas for each varying degree of difficulty and the instructors love teaching moves to new people.

Easiest access for the gym is going to the north side of the building.

The Country Swing Dance Club is a place anyone (beginner to advanced) can come and learn how to swing dance.  All you have to do is show up, sign a waiver (for legality reasons) and if you can bring another person, do it.  No prior dance experience needed.  My partner in the video and I started going about 2 years and went until she graduated this last May.  We decided to go and just have a good time.

Give it a shot, there are other clubs that give you an opportunity to try something new.  Grab a friend or go by yourself, there are some great people that already go.  You will be in good company.

Late Night Shenanigans: Denny's

In the realm of Collegiate life (and life in general), late nights will happen.  Last minute cramming, a bad breakup, or even a celebration of accomplished debauchery; the reasons to be going anywhere at 2 a.m. in the morning are plentiful and varied and the places opened in Cedar City are varied.  So this post's highlight is Denny's America's Diner.

I was a server at Denny's for a  year and a half and my knowledge will become your power.  First and foremost, Denny's is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  When I say open all day everyday, they are literally open all day everyday.  Denny's is always open and is a perfect destination for late night shenanigans. 

TOP three things to order at Denny's

Hot Chocolate- 

Though seasonally delicious but available year-round, these little beauties are refillable and come with a topping of whipped cream.  Also the price, only $1.99

$2, $4, $6, $8- 

This little beauty is the go-to menu for any college student or person on a budget

Milk Shakes-

These succulent creations are my Achilles' heel.  You have several different options when it comes to flavors (Oreo, Vanilla, Strawberry, and Chocolate are their constant shakes but also have seasonal shakes.) $3.79

Some things to remember though when going to any restaurant: 

1) Your server is Human.  They make mistakes but let them do their best to fix those mistakes and be understanding
2) Refills for drinks may take time but the more a server keeps your drink refilled, remember to take that into consideration when leaving a tip.
3) A tip is not always 15%.  Servers make about $2.15 an hour so their income is decided solely on tips.  (the $2.15/hour is usually taken by taxes). Tip for the experience, not always the ticket.
4) Servers like to do things right and do their best. The greatest feeling in the world is knowing a table had a good time and wants to come back for that same server.  Don't be afraid to ask for certain servers by name or to give new ones a chance.

http://www.dennys.com/#/location

I Need to be Used! -SUU Library

Click bait you say? Nay nay!  The library WANTS you to take advantage of it.  It needs you to use it.

My buddy Tayce here is a Librarian at the good ole Gerald R. Sherratt Library.  Not only is he good looking today but he also can help with research questions.  Any librarian would be happy to help you search for articles or books within the walls of this great library or online.  

Not only does the library have books for leisure, books on tape, and certain lab kits but they sometimes have textbooks for your classes.  Stop by the check out desk and see if they have your textbook (just in case you are like me and forget to order books before the semester started).  Also, they have actual scholarly journals that can be checked out (this is not common among university libraries).  

        

We have a pretty awesome library and staff but wait! There's more!  There are somethings that can be checked out from the library, to be honest, that I never knew you could check out.   

White boards, video cameras, headphones, calculators, educational props, tablets, a Frisbee, and also a CD drive (not shown) that plugs into the computer.  All of these different items can be checked out and if you have any questions my man Tayce or any Librarian would love to answer your questions.

The library will have another cameo in this blog but there are two more things I want to let you know.  The first things is Study Rooms.  Study rooms are available for students for 2 hours at a time (they can be rechecked out if necessary).  These rooms either have a large screen TV (some have the Apple TV option) or a projector that is connected to a computer.  These rooms vary in size and can accommodate study groups, or just your lonesome if you don't want to be disturbed.  

Finally, there is one last things I want to share with you that is available to be checked out.  If you are walking home alone or to your car, the library has an Anti Mugging device that emits a loud sound if the pin is pulled.  This device can be checked out one week at a time.  (props to my roommate for holding the camera.

 The library has a lot of nifty things at your disposal.  If you have any questions, feel free to comment, send me a facebook message, tweet (@applebeesguy), or ask me in person if you see me on campus.  Also, http://www.li.suu.edu/ here is the library's homepage.  They have announcements and hours posted.  Hopefully this helps with putting the You in University and making this school a bit more yours.