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Best Ways for Freshman to Get Involved at Utah Tech University

Jul 28, 2022

Think you're too shy to get involved on campus? Think again. There are plenty of ways for freshmen to get involved at Utah Tech University, and most don't require you to speak up in front of a crowd.


From joining a student club to volunteering your time, there's something for everyone. Here are the best ways for first-year students to get involved at Utah Tech U!


Join a Student Club or Organization

One of the best ways to get involved on campus is to join a student club or organization. There are organizations for just about every interest, from business and tech to outdoors and recreation.


Joining a club is a great way to meet new friends, learn new skills, and get involved in campus life. It's also a great way to build your resume and prepare for your future career.


There are 88 other clubs on campus, including:


  • American Medical Women's Association
  • American Sign Language Club
  • Black Student Union
  • Chemistry Club
  • Chess Club
  • Dixie State Competitive Table Tennis Club
  • Dixie State Esports
  • Finance Club
  • Futsal Club
  • Garden Club
  • Healthy Trailblazers Coalition
  • Hot Commodities Club
  • InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
  • Institute of Politics and Public Affairs
  • Legal Clinic
  • LGBTQ+ Resource Center
  • Pixels and Halides Photography Club
  • Pre-Law Society of Dixie State University
  • Quantum Computing and Cryptography Club
  • Exploring Quantum Computing 
  • Cryptography
  • Radio Dixie
  • Resident Hall Association
  • Sigma Tau Delta
  • Students United for Reproductive Freedom
  • The Honors Club
  • Trailblazer Water Polo
  • Utah Tech Premedical Alliance
  • UTU Hiking Club
  • Women's Rugby
  • X Club


There's an organization for everyone, so take your pick and get involved. Check out this link for the full list of clubs.


Volunteer in the Community

Students who want to give back to the community and make a difference can do so by volunteering. At Utah Tech University, three major organizations coordinate volunteer opportunities:


United Way Dixie

The regional group United Way Dixie collaborates with several organizations in the neighborhood to offer volunteer and service opportunities for people in the St. George and Southern Utah regions. This society is currently focusing on building its COVID-19 Community Response Fund to help children, families, and vulnerable Utahns.


Chamber Serves

A new initiative from the St. George Chamber of Commerce, Chamber Serves, is a way for businesses and individuals to get involved in the community through service projects.


The Dixie State University Student Association (DSUSA)

Each year, the DSUSA collaborates with charities to offer outreach programs. Their initiatives aim to equip students with the tools they need to become community leaders, engaged citizens, coherent, responsible, innovative, professional, creative, and effective.

Likewise, the Utah Tech University campus annually holds a Volunteer Fair-Annual Event that connects students with local volunteer opportunities. The event also has a Donation List of items each organization is always in need of.


Enjoy Campus Recreational Facilities

There's more to do on campus than just attend classes and study. The Campus Recreation has a state-of-the-art facility that offers students many options to stay fit and have fun, making it the perfect place for students to get involved.


The recreation center has an impressive list of activities and facilities, including:


Outdoor Adventures

Enjoy the southern Utah landscape by taking advantage of the Outdoor Adventures program. Under the guidance of experienced staff, students can participate in various activities, including excursions and rock walls (climbing, bouldering, and sports climbing). Students can also borrow and use any available equipment. Anyone can reserve gear for camping, biking, fishing, climbing, hiking, water sports, and sand.


Fitness & Wellness

The Fitness & Wellness program offers many services and facilities to help students achieve their fitness goals. There are FAST academic courses to get credit for workouts, personal training for those who need a more hands-on approach, and free group fitness classes like yoga, spin, and Zumba.


Aquatics

Students who love the water can take advantage of the Aquatics program, which offers pre-made swim workouts, swim lessons, and stroke refinement. You can find the pool on the lower level of the Human Performance Center, which is open on weekdays (6 am to 10 pm) and Saturdays (8 am to 8 pm).


Intramural Sports

Anyone can compete against their fellow students in intramural sports. Many different leagues and tournaments are available, such as basketball, softball, flag football, pool, soccer, sand volleyball, ping pong, video games, and more.


Club Sports

If you're looking for a more competitive environment, check out the Club Sports program. It's an organization that students run that competes against other universities, colleges, and associations. Many different sports are available, such as table tennis, wrestling, competitive climbing, lacrosse, women's lacrosse, rodeo, men's volleyball, and weightlifting.


Be a Part of the Raging Red

No university is complete without its performing group. The Raging Red is the dance and song team representing Utah Tech University at various events. They perform at public schools (elementary, junior high, and high school), community and civic events, alumni gatherings, and care and rehab centers.


The Raging Red travels throughout California, Arizona, and Idaho. They also journey across the USA and internationally. In fact, the Raging Red recently returned from performance tours in China, Washington DC, New York, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and Philadelphia.


Anyone enrolled at Utah Tech University can audition for this organization. There are no experience or skill requirements. All that's needed is a willingness to learn and perform.


You'll receive a scholarship if you're one of the lucky few selected. You'll also get the chance to travel and perform at some of the most iconic locations in the world.

Being a part of the Raging Red is a great way to get involved at Utah Tech University. You'll make new friends, learn new skills, develop your talent, instill discipline, gain confidence, have experiences you'll never forget, and represent your school positively.


So if you're ready to unleash your artistic side, audition for the Raging Red. It may just be the best decision that you ever make.


Visit the Booth Wellness Center

Entering college can be a stressful time. There's so much to do and learn that it can be overwhelming. Thus, Utah Tech University has a Booth Wellness Center to help students with the transition.


Getting engaged with the Booth Wellness Center is a great way to get involved at Utah Tech University. The Booth Wellness team can help you with time management, stress relief, nutritional needs, and more.


Services are free for all currently enrolled students unless otherwise specified. You only need to book an appointment for the following services:


Medical Health Services

  • Sick visits (i.e., colds, flu, sore throats, etc.)
  • Minor wound care (i.e., minor cuts, bruises, sprains, etc.)
  • Medical testing (i.e., strep, mononucleosis, tuberculosis, drug, STD, UTI, etc.)
  • Medical lab work (i.e., glucose, hemoglobin, STI, etc.)
  • Medical exams (i.e., physicals, well-woman, etc.)


Mental Health Services

  • Individual counseling
  • Couples counseling
  • Group counseling


Resources For Students With Basic Needs Insecurity

  • Food & nutrition assistance
  • Mental health & medical services
  • Transportation, childcare, and living expenses
  • Housing assistance
  • Legal information & support
  • Mindfulness resources
  • Relaxation recordings
  • Meditating with YouTube
  • Anxiety relieving apps
  • Wellness-based websites
  • Other suggestions


Health Education and Prevention

  • QPR-Suicide Awareness & Prevention
  • Weekly Wellness Check-In


Work Part-Time on or Off-Campus

Extra money can help you pay for books, groceries, and other necessities. It can also alleviate some of the financial stress of college.


For instance, the bookstore hires students to help with tasks such as stocking shelves, working the register, and helping customers. The on-campus library is also always looking for student employees.


You can also find part-time jobs in the community. For example, many restaurants in town hire college students as servers, cooks, and dishwashers. Utah Tech University has a Career Center that can help you find a job that's right for you.


The key is to look for something you're interested in that will work around your class schedule. That way, you can earn money while also gaining valuable experience.


Join Cultural and Social Clubs

College is a great time to explore new things and learn about different cultures. And what better way to do that than by joining a cultural or social club?


Utah Tech University's Center for Inclusion & Belonging (CIB) is one such organization. The CIB is dedicated to promoting equity, inclusion, and belonging on campus and in the community. They have weekly meetings and encourage students of all backgrounds to join.


The CIB's clubs include the LGBTQ Student Association, Pagan Ideology, Dixie Hispanic Student Association, Black Student Union, Pacific Island Student Association, and Native American Student Association.


Below are all of CIB's programs and events that help students feel connected to the university and build a sense of community:


  • Hispanic Heritage Month
  • LGBTQ+ Awareness Month
  • Inclusion Week
  • Native American Heritage Month
  • Black History Month
  • Diversity Week
  • Women's History Month
  • Asian Pacific Heritage Month
  • Bingo Night
  • Club Rush
  • Cultural Celebration
  • Food Drive
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • CIB Open House
  • Native Fry Bread Making
  • Taste Around the World
  • Diversity Dialogues
  • Freshman Orientation
  • Open Mic Night
  • Parade Marching
  • Polynesian Luau
  • Salsa Dancing
  • Service Projects
  • Drag Show


Joining cultural and social clubs fosters a sense of belonging and community. It also helps students learn more about other cultures, leading to a more tolerant and understanding world.


Doing so also supports the university's commitment to inclusion and excellence. Students who join increase their engagement and success while at college.


Become a Student Leader

Student leaders are important in making Utah Tech University a great place to learn and live. They help create a positive and supportive campus environment.


Likewise, student leaders also have opportunities to develop their leadership skills, build resumes, and make connections. Thus, the Student Involvement & Leadership (SIL) Department always looks for talented and ambitious students to fill various leadership positions.


SIL offers many leadership roles in the Utah Tech University Student Association (UTSA), Spirit Squad (including Stampede, Cheer, Dance, and the Mascot), the Applied Leadership Program, and the UTSA Student Government Branches.


UTSA is the official student government at Utah Tech University. It is made up of the following:


Executive Council

The Executive Council is the governing body of UTSA. It consists of the Student Body President, Vice President of Academics, Vice President of Clubs & Organizations, Vice President of Student Life, Vice President of Marketing, and Vice President of Service.


Academic Senate

The Academic Senate is the governing body of UTSA for academic and general education policies. It voices the concerns of students to the faculty and administration. It consists of each college's representatives, the Vice President of Academics, and the Student Senate.


Clubs & Organizations

Clubs & Organizations are in charge of all the 70+ clubs and organizations on campus. They help students start new clubs, maintain old ones, and plan club events. Students who join this branch have the opportunity to work closely with other students and make a difference on campus.


Student Life

The Student Life branch is in charge of all things related to student life, including social activities and traditions. They introduce new activities and events each year to keep students engaged, which the Vice President of Student Life and three Event Directors oversee.


Marketing

The Marketing branch is responsible for communicating UTSA's message to the student body. The Vice President of Marketing and three Marketing Directors make up this branch. They use various marketing techniques, such as social media, graphic design, and storytelling.


Service

The Service branch helps students get involved in service projects on and off campus. The Vice President of Service and four Service Leaders make up this branch. They work with at least one of the university's 13 community partners each week throughout the semester and carry out two big Campus to Community service projects, a major monthly service project, and four Alternative Breaks service opportunities that fall on Fall and Spring Breaks.


Stampede

The Stampede is UTSA's cheerleading and dance team. They perform at all home football games, other sporting events, and university functions. Moreover, they are a highly visible and spirited group that loves to get the crowd pumped up and support the student-athletes.


Conclusion

All freshmen entering Utah Tech University have many options to get involved on campus. They can join one of the many clubs and organizations, enjoy recreational activities, become a student leader, volunteer in the community, join the Raging Red and cultural activities, visit the booth wellness center, and work on and off-campus. There are endless opportunities for students to get involved and make the most of their college experience, so get out there and have fun!


And, if you need a great housing option that is close to campus, check out our floor plans! 

What to Pack for Your College Apartment

By Jenn Handy • 26 Mar, 2024
Are you heading to college this year? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time with a lot to look forward to. For most people, this is their first time living away from home. If that’s true of you, you might feel unsure about how to begin packing for college–a task that can be more difficult than it sounds.  The key to success is to pack strategically. There’s much to consider when determining what to bring with you, including the weather, space limitations, and roommate preferences. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to packing for your college apartment so you feel ready to tackle the semester. Kitchen Items College apartment kitchens can be tricky. Because your space is shared and limited, you should communicate with roommates to avoid ending up with four toasters. Here are some essential items to bring with you: Appliances: toaster, blender, coffee maker, mini-fridge Cleaning supplies: dish soap, sponges, hand towels, trash bags Cookware: pots, pans, baking sheets, microwave-safe dishes Storage containers: reusable containers and zipper bags Tableware: plates, bowls, glasses, mugs, cutlery Utensils: knives, cutting boards, spatulas, wooden spoons, measuring cups, measuring spoons, can opener Some helpful tips for maximizing your kitchen space include: Investing in stackable and collapsible storage solutions Installing renter-friendly hooks and shelves Using drawer organizers to keep drawers clutter-free Consider your daily habits to ensure you bring everything you need. Whether you love a morning smoothie or baking on the weekends, bring the items that make you feel at home. Bedroom Items Your bedroom (or at least your side of it) is the area within your apartment where you will likely spend the most time. You want it to be both comfortable and functional! Don’t forget to pack these items to create a cozy, organized space: Bedding: sheets, pillowcases, pillows, comforter or duvet, blankets Laundry items: laundry hamper, clothes airer, coat hangers. Storage solutions: under-the-bed storage boxes, over-the-door-hooks, hanging organizers for your closet, drawer dividers If you suspect you might need extra storage space, pack multipurpose furniture like storage ottomans or baskets. Consider changing your wardrobe seasonally. Take what you need for the semester ahead and exchange your clothing when you visit home to ensure you have the right clothes for the coming months without overcrowding your closet. Bathroom Items Many college students will share a bathroom while living at or near their university. A shower caddy can make it easier to carry items to and from the bathroom, while travel-sized containers can also save some space. When using a shared bathroom, you may want to invest in shower shoes or sliders to protect your feet. Here are some other essentials to pack: Cleaning products: bathroom cleaner, toilet cleaner, surface wipes, rags/paper towels Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, skin care products, other personal hygiene products Towels: hand towels, bath towels, washcloths, loofah Study Materials Developing a good study routine is important during your early days at college. Forming good habits right away will help ensure you dedicate enough time to your studies while still enjoying the rest of your college experience. These items will contribute to a productive study environment: Organizational tools: file folders, binder clips, small bulletin board/whiteboard, phone for digital organization apps School supplies: notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, sticky notes, tape, stapler, scissors, calendar/planner Technology: laptop/device with charger and accessories, desk lamp/reading light, headphones Decor Remember to be considerate when decorating your college apartment. If you’re thinking about decorating a common area, you should discuss decor preferences with your roommates to help everyone enjoy a comfortable living space. These items are sure to add a little personality to your space: Alternative lighting: string lights, lamps, candles (if permitted) Art: wall art, removable decals, posters, tapestries, renter-friendly shelving Linens and furnishings: throw pillows, blankets, rugs, curtains Personal items: sentimental objects, photographs of loved ones Decorating with items that reflect your personality and interests will make your space feel like home. If you don’t know exactly how to decorate your space, gather ideas from Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok. Miscellaneous Items Many people forget to list miscellaneous items on their college packing lists because they are mundane, but these items can be some of the most important! Remember to pack these basic things for a smooth start to the semester: Additional cleaning supplies : trash cans, vacuum, broom, duster, mop Basic toolkit: hammer, screwdriver, nails, measuring tape, level, pliers, wrench Laundry supplies : detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, stain remover Sports equipment : yoga mat, resistance bands, or small workout equipment for staying active Contact Vintage Tabernacle There are many items to consider when packing for college. Building a home takes time, and you may not have everything you need right away. Keep a running list of items you are missing, and if times are tight, purchase them gradually in order of importance. Consider buying items secondhand as well. Items don’t have to be new as long as you have what you need. Your college apartment should be somewhere you feel safe and comfortable. Planning ahead and adding your personal touches can make a big difference as you settle into your new place. If you’re looking for the best student housing near Utah Tech, check out our availability at Vintage Tabernacle or contact us today to schedule a tour.

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Fall Activities For Students Living in St. George

24 Oct, 2023
Pair St. George and fall together and you have the perfect combination. Not only is the weather still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities, but the whole area is a rainbow of color. The changing seasons leave delightful yellows, reds, browns, and oranges everywhere you go. For students, the end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of all fun. There are tons of ways to enjoy yourself in St. George. With a jam-packed schedule of fall events, you won’t want to be anywhere else. Here are several of the many fun options you can choose to make the most of the autumn season in St. George.  Fall Festival and Thunder Junction Spook-Track-Ular Fall festival in St. George has now been merged with the traditional Thunder Junction Spook-track-ular. If you’re looking for something suitable for any age, this is where you need to be. The whole park is lit with spooktacular lights and decorated suitably for Halloween celebrations. There are rides, games, and crafts that people of all ages can enjoy. Come dressed to impress because the event holds a best costume competition that has high standards every year. To make sure you get tickets, purchase them online in advance- they sell out quickly. Try Fall Themed Treats At Local Restaurants One of the best things about fall is the seasonal delicacies. Pumpkins, squashes, spices, and more are plentiful on all menus and now is the perfect time to enjoy. So, if you’re in the St. George area, it can help to know where to go. First on the agenda is Utah Coffee, a quaint coffee shop where you can enjoy a wide selection of fall-themed treats. Don’t leave without trying their pumpkin pie in a cup at this time of year. Next, head over to Kneaders, a popular bakery and cafe in the area. They serve one of the best pumpkin steamers you’ll find anywhere. See A Tuacahn Show in The Crisp Weather If you’re searching for an inspiring and memorable experience while you’re in St. George, look no further than Tuacahn Center for the Arts. The center is full of shows that will entertain and inspire you. From Disney classics to Broadway favorites, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. The center also has a Saturday market on-site, as well as a cafe and dining facility. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend a few hours, a visit to the Tuacahn Center of the Arts is ideal. The St. George Marathon If you’re looking for a reason to challenge yourself, the St. George marathon runs every fall. The ‘marathon’ is suitable for almost all ages, because there are several options to choose from. You can opt for a 5k run, half a marathon, or the full 26.2 mile marathon. Other options include the mayor's one-mile walk and a fun “walk ‘n’ roll” event that is suitable for children from two years of age. There are also measures put in place for those with disabilities wishing to compete. Once the race is done, head over to Dixie’s Center’s park for games and live music to celebrate the achievement. Fiesta Fright Looking for something a bit more spooky? If you’re brave enough, why not take your chances at Fiesta Fun Center? During the fall, the center transforms into a haunted house. Guests follow two story trails and while listening, you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for things lurking in the shadows. The Fiesta Fright event recommends that this event is suitable for those 13 years of age and older. It’s perfect for students who want to relax a bit when the schoolwork is over. Staheli Family Farm If you prefer the more traditional way of celebrating fall, you’ll want to know where to find the best pumpkins. The Staheli Family Farm will provide everything you need! From a pumpkin patch to a field of screams, you’re sure to enjoy yourself. You’ll also find a petting zoo and wagon rides at the farm, along with wicked witch members of staff ready to take your photo at any opportunity. It’s a great fun day out and you’ll walk away with your very own pumpkin to carve. Huntsman World Senior Games If you can find the time while you’re in St. George, the Huntsman World Senior Games is a must-see. The competition is for those aged 50 and over, but spectators can watch for free. It attracts people from all over the world, so you can expect to see a diverse crowd. This competition is held in the fall and it includes spectacular opening and closing ceremonies. The competition continues to grow every year and is becoming something of a local tradition. It’s a fun sporting event to watch, and you may just leave feeling inspired! Red Bull Mountain Biking Competition That’s right – you’re in the right place at the right time. Southern Utah is home to this hugely popular competition during the fall and people travel from far and wide to watch it. Not only is it exciting to watch, but it’s also set in the Red Rock Mountain landscape! The view is spectacular and you could spend all day there, even if there weren’t talented mountain bike riders competing against each other. The competition is intense and you never know what might happen, so be prepared to see anything. Where To Stay If you’re studying in St. George, Utah, it’s important to secure student living before you arrive. At Vintage at Tabernacle , we’ve got you covered. Our new housing options are located just one block away from Utah Tech University. You’ll find our modern and spacious rooms ideal for student living. If you’re looking for affordable living with a great social atmosphere and fantastic amenities, come to us first. It’s easy to apply online . Just check our new resident availability and select the option that suits you best. If you have any questions, check our FAQs or send us a message via our convenient contact form.

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From the many national parks the state is known for to local attractions, you can make the most of the season by taking in the sights, learning something new, and making memories that last. So what are you waiting for? Adventure awaits the explorer of the glorious Beehive State.

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In this blog post, we’ll compile four different boxes that you might want to choose from. Each of them is different and can bring helpful essentials to a college student, and also help to alleviate some of the financial stress that they might be facing. Let’s take a look.

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Fall Activities Around St. George, Utah

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Here, in St. George, the color changes act as an invitation to set out exploring the great outdoors with fresh vigor, safe in the knowledge that the stifling summer months are far behind us. Whether you’re looking to embrace the season of Halloween or want to explore the incredible landscape, there truly is something for everyone. So grab your pumpkin-spiced latte and settle in for a guide on how to make the most of fall in St. George.

Best Ways to Study for a Big Exam

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Big exams are potentially a stressful part of the college experience. They often make up a large portion of your grade, and the pressure to do well on a major exam can be intimidating. With some careful planning and positive habits, you can ace your exams.

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