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Ways to Get Around Campus

Mar 02, 2022

Going to college can be costly. Every semester, you have to pay tuition for your classes, required student fees, and textbooks that you will never use after you graduate. You also have to account for the simple necessities of life: rent, food, clothes, toiletries, and other basic supplies.


For many college students, a car is not one of those necessities. After all, it costs money to own and operate a vehicle, even if you don’t drive it very often. According to AAA, in 2016, the average cost of maintaining an average sedan was $8,558 annually. This included fuel, car insurance, maintenance, license and registration fees, tires, and depreciation. This works out to be $713 a month.


Even if you do own a car that you bring with you to campus, you might choose not to drive it every day to help cut down on some of those costs. You might decide to only drive it once a week to the grocery store or to drive back home during a school break. 


You might be a student here without a car or a student who wants to limit how much you drive your car. Regardless of your car status, it is important to know other ways to get around campus at Dixie State University. 


Whether you live at Vintage at Tabernacle or another Dixie Statue housing option, consider these ways to get yourself around campus and St. George.


Use the public transit system

The city of St. George has a great public transit system, known as SunTran, that is available to its residents and visitors. Serving the area since 2003, SunTran provides an inexpensive way for riders to get around the city whether they need to get to work, school, or someplace else.


SunTran has seven routes around St. George. The three routes that have stops around the campus are route #1 (Red Cliffs), route #2 (Riverside), and route #3 (West Side Connector). Buses come every 40 minutes. You can check out the schedules online.


Free for Dixie State students

We have some great news! SunTran is free to ride for Dixie State University students. Students just need to show their official student card when hopping on a SunTran bus.


This allows you, as a student, to easily and cheaply get around town. You can take the bus to go shopping or to grab a bite to eat with friends. You can also use it to get to and from a part-time job.


SunTran mobile app

SunTran now uses a free app (Ride Systems) that you can download for your IOS or Android phone. You can use the app to track a bus to see when it will arrive at your stop. You can also use it to find the closest stop to your location. 


A fun fact is that the Ride Systems app was developed by Utah college students according to SunTran’s website. Besides St. George, it serves other communities and over 300 transit systems in the country 


ADA compliant 

In addition to being a comfortable and convenient option to get around town, all SunTran buses are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policies. This means that their buses are wheelchair accessible.


They also provide a service, for an additional fee, to those who might not be able to get to and from the bus stop. For information, you can contact SunTran at 435-673-TRAN.


Ride a bicycle

If you own a bicycle, Dixie State University encourages you to bring it with you to campus. Biking is a great way to get around campus while burning some energy. 


Whether you need to ride your bike to class, the library, or the student activity center, you will find a number of outside locations where you can chain up your bike. 


In fact, Dixie State University was nationally recognized in 2021 as being a bicycle-friendly university. They were one of 38 schools across the country honored by The League of American Bicyclists. The school is continuing to look for other initiatives to build on the healthy and safe bicycle environment that already exists on campus.


It is important to keep your bike locked up. Dixie State University student housing apartment complex, Vintage at Tabernacle, has a locked and secure bike room on the property for storage. It is a safe room that is only accessible by current residents. There are bike racks in the storage room as well. 


Other things with wheels

Maybe you do not have a bicycle. Instead, you might have a skateboard, rollerblades, or some other form of wheeled transportation. Use them! 


In addition to bicycles, Dixie State University allows the use of scooters, skateboards, longboards, and rollerblades on campus. Just remember that they should only be used outside. When inside, these items should be carried. If needed, refer to the current Resident Life Handbook for the regulations around using and storing these items.


Take a walk

Sometimes, nothing beats a good old-fashioned stroll down the road. It is a great way to get from point A to point B while enjoying some fresh air and soaking up some sunshine. 


Whether you live at Vintage at Tabernacle or other Dixie State housing, it is a short walk to most places on campus. For example, it is a half-mile walk from Vintage at Tabernacle to the student activity center. It would take you about eight minutes to walk it. The Greater Zion Stadium is a little over ¾ of a mile and would take about fifteen minutes to walk to.


Besides walking around campus, Dixie State University has several great shopping centers and restaurants all within about a mile radius. 


Going Beyond Campus

While at school, you might want to travel home for the weekend, during a break, or for the holidays. Using a shuttle service allows you to travel throughout Utah and a few surrounding areas for a reduced rate. 


St. George Shuttle offers routes from St. George to Las Vegas as well as several cities throughout Utah, including Orem, Ogden, and Salt Lake. They also have connections to Northern Utah cities and towns around Zion National Park. They have charging stations that provide individual USB ports in most of their vans. They also provide you with a free bottle of water.


Salt Lake Express provides routes throughout Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Utah. They also have a few stops in Western Wyoming. They provide individual outlets to keep your mobile devices charged throughout the journey. They also include a bottle of water and a complimentary blanket. Their website also states that they have plenty of storage space and legroom.


Both St. George Shuttle and Salt Lake Express have pick-up stops on campus to make it even more convenient for Dixie State students. If you’re interested, you can book on their website or give them a call.


Regardless of how you choose to get around campus, we encourage you to make the most of your time at Dixie State University. Enjoy the campus and all that it has to offer you!


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.
04 Jan, 2024
It can take time to truly settle into your new college life. Whether you travel from home each day or live on campus, 2024 could be the year in which you fully spread your wings and experience everything college has to offer!
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.
27 Jun, 2023
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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To reach your goals, it is essential to cultivate a positive attitude and mindset and develop effective strategies for maintaining focus and staying motivated. Here are some tips to help you maintain your goals and how Vintage at Tabernacle housing can help
20 Sep, 2022
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.
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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!
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