Five Things To Fall In Love With On the UW-Eau Claire Campus
Matt Kaiser
As a student at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, I’ve had the opportunity to experience many amazing aspects of UWEC and its beautiful, campus. Here are five things I’ve fallen in love with during my time at UWEC.
Nature
Ok, this may be a little obvious, but how often does a college campus have a glistening river running through it? The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is situated on the banks of the Chippewa River, providing an inspiring view from most every angle. Various outdoor classrooms line the river, as well as several plazas worth of outdoor seating—perfect for soaking up a little natural beauty as you write or sketch. For a closer look at the river, take a walk down Putnam Trail toward Little Niagara Creek, a miniature waterfall sure to take your breath away.
2. Hidden Gems
UWEC is full of hidden gems. Obviously, I can’t give them all away, but I’m willing to share two of my favorite places to settle in with a good book and a beautiful nature view.
“Favorite Place #1: a quiet nook in a secluded area of McIntyre Library. Located in the middle of campus, the library offers a quiet space (duh, it’s a library…) where, on a sunny day, you can daydream while watching tubers drift down the river . ”
Favorite Place #1: a quiet nook in a secluded area of McIntyre Library. Located in the middle of campus, the library offers a quiet space (duh, it’s a library…) where, on a sunny day, you can daydream while watching tubers drift down the river .
Favorite Place #2: the top floor penthouse in Hibbard Humanities Hall. Unknown to many students, this secret study lounge offers solitude and quiet coupled with spectacular views of the Chippewa River from several stories up. In fact, it’s the best spot on campus to enjoy the full splendor of our campus. Pro tip: go up there in the evening to catch an amazing sunset views.
3. Arts Facilities
UWEC is an artist’s dream. Offering high-quality facilities and studios, UWEC’s Haas Fine Arts Center inspires students of all artistic disciplines. UWEC takes pride in its students and allows them to display their work or even curate an outdoor sculpture exhibit. Who knows, maybe one day you’ll have your own work on display at the Foster Gallery or be performing in the Schofield Auditorium.
4. Proximity to Downtown
Okay, technically “downtown” isn’t “on campus” but close enough. I mean that in terms of proximity.
“Eau Claire is a city of bridges, which means traveling from campus to downtown or Water Street is easy, even on foot”
Eau Claire is a city of bridges, which means traveling from campus to downtown or Water Street is easy, even on foot. Within a few minutes’ walk you can easily arrive at Racy D’lenes, Shift, or any number of other perfect coffee shops. Walk a few minute more and you can even check out our nationally renowned artists performing at our brand new Pablo Center at the Confluence—where you, too, will perform on the final night of our program!
5. Campus Music
Eau Claire’s downtown area offers a lot of great artistic venues, but don’t start thinking that you must leave campus in order to experience Eau Claire’s culture. Live music is regularly performed at The Cabin inside UWEC’s Davies Center, offering you a chance to see talented musicians in an intimate venue. If you are looking for a more spontaneous experience, taking a walk through the Haas Fine Arts Center always offers a chance to see art being made or music being played by students perfecting their craft.
And this is just the beginning! This summer, come fall in love with these places, too! Or better yet, find your own hidden gems! What are you waiting for? Tell a friend and apply today!