Welcome Back from the Advocates
Whether you’ve been virtual for the last few semesters or you’re new to Governors State University, a lot of Jaguars will be on campus for the first time this fall! The advocates at GSU want to welcome everyone by sharing their tricks and tips (and hidden study spots) for navigating campus!
Accounting major Colton Krska encourages other students to come to campus early or the day before their classes to get their bearings. Keep an eye out for the maps pinned around campus!
“These maps will tell you where you are and point you in the right direction. If you still have trouble, stop inside the nearest office and ask. GSU staff and faculty will be more than willing to help you get to your destination,” he said.
When it comes to study spots, every student at GSU has their own personal preference. Don’t be afraid to explore campus to find your favorite spot! For Elementary Education major John Ruiz, the Cube in the computer lab keeps him on track with a quiet atmosphere and access to computers.
Eman Samra, who is working towards a master's degree in accounting, is looking forward to returning to her favorite spot.
“Studying is going to be so much easier for me having GSU's library open again. My favorite place to study is on the couches in the corner of the library where the study rooms are located,” she said.
Community Health major and Psychology minor Logan Krska’s study spot is off the beaten path as he enjoys the relatively low traffic, great view of campus, and whiteboards available on the second floor of the F Building. Colton agrees and notes that it’s also a scenic spot.
“This hallway overlooks the GSU pond and provides a great deal of natural light for studying.”
With their collective years at Governors State, many of the advocates have found a number of hidden gems on campus.
John encourages students to check out the resources available at the Center for the Junior Year, on the first floor of the C-Building, where he’s a peer mentor.
“We help students with resources and information that will help on their educational journey. This includes academic, personal, and financial support, and so much more.”
Logan reminds new and returning students about the Jaguar Den.
“I feel a lot of students forget about the Jaguar Den located in the A Building (A2100). This is a great place for students to meet, hangout, and work on assignments or projects.,” he said.
The advocates know all the most beautiful areas of campus too. Rama Diab, education major, says anywhere there’s a view of the lake is a beautiful spot.
“There's a door right by the cafeteria to go outside. It's so beautiful and is great for a lunch break or a quick break between classes. It has tables and is a great spot to study, relax before or after classes, or for a cup of coffee with a friend.”
Colton always makes sure to pick a seat in the Jaguar Dining Center that you can view the lake from.
“Every time I eat lunch at the Café, I make sure to eat facing the pond so that I can take in the view. The beauty of the pond is even more magnificent during the evening when the sunset reflects off the water, shining the campus in orange light.”
Logan also notes the art around campus including the Visual Arts Gallery and the award-winning Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park where students can take self-guided tours of the 100 acre park 365 days a year.
“theNate is a great way to get outside and explore the beauty of campus.”
Overall, Jaguars are just excited to be returning to campus, like Eman, who is looking forward to finishing her degree surrounded by campus life.
“The Fall 2021 semester is my last semester, and it would not have felt like a proper goodbye without having classes on campus and events to attend. I am happy new GSU students can now experience campus life!"