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Where to Hang Out in the Student Union

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By now you’ve probably heard the news: there’s a new Student Union on campus. If you have visited the Student Union, you may know about all of the UT traditions it holds and if you haven’t there are some things you may not have known you could do there. But where are the top places to hang out in between classes or meetings?

Dining

Students study and talk in the Student UnionBoth phases of the Student Union offer a wide variety of dining choices. Options like Panda Express, Steak ‘n Shake, and Subway provide you spaces to not only enjoy your favorite on-campus dining, but also a place to do some homework, catch up with friends, or just relax for an hour. With plenty of seating choices in each dining location, you’ll find that this is one of the top spaces to see your fellow Vols.

Open Seating Areas

Sofas in a lounge area in the Student UnionThroughout the Student Union, you will find common spaces with plenty of seating options. These seats were placed with collaboration in mind. You and your friends are encouraged to sit with your fellow Vols and engage and interact with others whom you might not normally. These common spaces provide you with the opportunity to do some reading, chatting, or relaxing and can be found on every floor.

Union Station and Other Student Spaces

While you might consider the whole Student Union to be a student space, there are spaces that are specifically designed with the student experience in mind. Did you know that there is a recreation room just for you? Union Station is equipped with billiards tables, cards games, table tennis, and a TV with cable. Additionally, four Xbox stations and cornhole are coming soon to complete the space. You and your friends can host events like trivia nights, Xbox tournaments, and open mic nights.

Two students interacting on a couchThere are 11 different offices, centers, and resources now found in the Student Union, including the Office of the Dean of Students, Center for Student Engagement, Sorority & Fraternity Life, Jones Center for Leadership and Service, SGA, Center for Career Development and Academic Exploration, Visitors Center, VolShop, VolTech, UCopy, Central Ticket Office, Union Station, information desk, and much more. To say that the Student Union is a one-stop-shop is an understatement!

There is no shortage of spaces to relax, talk with friends, and grab a bite to eat in the Student Union. The next time you’re there, don’t be afraid to visit an office or space you’ve not been to yet. The Student Union is a place meant for collaboration and community building, so branch out from the usual and find your new favorite space!