Listen to Liv’s blog here.
One of the reasons why I chose to come to URI is because of the campus. I remember visiting campus for the first time the summer before my senior year of high school and I immediately fell in love. I had always wanted the real college experience and after my tour of URI’s campus, I was sold.
When freshman year finally came around, I was so overwhelmed. The campus that feels so small to me now, felt like a whole new world. My freshman year roommates and I would explore campus with absolutely no idea of what we would find. There are so many cool spots around URI that I didn’t even know existed until my junior year.
Our campus has so much to offer and there are so many great places that are perfect for all kinds of activities such as studying, working out, relaxing, hanging out with friends and so much more. I personally have my favorite spots that I go to almost every time I come to campus and it made me curious, what are other students favorite places on campus? So, to answer this question I went around campus asking students what their go to spots were around URI. The responses ranged from their favorite places to do homework to where they go when they need to take a mental health break. Here are some of their answers.
The Green Houses. One of the most popular responses, and one of my favorites, was URI’s greenhouses and botanical garden. This is a very popular spot for students to hang out and relax as well as to escape from the busyness of the rest of campus. The greenhouse showcases different exotic plants and even has a pond with fish! It is a quiet and relaxing area that is perfect for reading a book, journaling, or even just sitting and observing the beautiful area. The greenhouses and botanical garden is a must visit for all students who need to take a break from their busy college life.
The Rams Den. Another popular response was the Rams Den. The Rams Den is a completely different vibe compared to the greenhouses. It is the hub for student life! It is a great place to eat lunch, catch up with friends, do homework, and get coffee. There are many different food options and as a commuter this is my favorite place to go between classes. It is a very positive atmosphere, but be warned, it’s hard to refrain from buying a burrito bowl!
Anna Fascitelli and Mackal. The URI gyms are a hot spot for students who want to stay active and work out. Both gyms have so much to offer and allow a safe and comfortable space for students to feel their best. Anna Fascitelli is a spacious facility that offers a wide variety of equipment, a cardio theater, group classes, and a wellness resource center. Mackal Field House also has a variety of equipment and group classes. It also has an indoor track and four basketball courts. Students come to the gyms to stay fit and clear their heads.
The Bike Path. Students love to walk, run, bike, rollerskate, and more on URI’s bike path. It is the perfect location to move your body while getting some fresh air. The path is two miles long and connects to the William C. O’Neill Bike Path. No matter how far you go, it is a healthy way for students to take a break and take in the scenic woodlands that Rhode Island has to offer. I recommend checking it out during the fall to see the incredible foliage.
The Library. The library is a go-to spot when it comes to the best places to study on campus. There is a spot for everyone to help them be productive and get work done. If you need a quiet space to study, the third floor is a great option. It is a quiet environment that will encourage you to get your best work done. If you are looking for a more social space for group study sessions or just to chat with friends while doing homework, the 24 hour room on the first floor is also an option. It is also the home to The Daily Grind so you can get your caffeine fix!
Hi everyone! My name is Liv Mott and I am from Cheshire, Connecticut. I’m a senior communications and 
public relations major with a minor in writing and rhetoric. On campus, I am also involved in Greek Life. When I am not writing or watching the sunset with my sisters, I am probably going on long car rides and exploring Rhode Island with a Starbucks pumpkin spice cold brew in hand. I love the beach and even in the winter, I can be found eating a Cool Beans acai bowl in the Narragansett Town Beach parking lot. This is my first semester as a blog writer for Campus Rec and I am super excited to share my voice with the Rhody community!