There's no denying the fact that college is expensive. While there's no simple way to explain what every dollar of your tuition is paying for, it is pretty simple to showcase some of the lesser-known school-funded aspects of JMU. They're free to students and great in every way. So here are just a few of what I am sure is many hidden Madison gems:

1. The Arboretum

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is definitely a hidden gem of JMU's already beautiful campus. The 125 acres of botanical garden is filled with trees, trails, ponds, and bright flowers. Hold an event here, or just take a minute to relax, but the easily accessible natural serenity of this place is absolutely something every JMU student should experience at some time.

2. URec Programs

Even if you go to the gym every day, it would be hard to take advantage of everything our recreation center has to offer. From free exercise classes, to trips around the region, to cooking and nutrition classes, and even free camping supply rentals, URec offers such a wide variety of free opportunities for students at the school. Not to mention, the food there now, is definitely worth the hike.

3. The ISAT Rooftop Garden

During the school day there is no better way to escape the buzz of campus without leaving the beautiful scene of JMU than to retreat to the ISAT Rooftop garden. With plenty of places to sit and study or chat, the ISAT Rooftop is a quiet escape overlooking the rest of campus. Awesome place to watch the sunset, too!

4. The Planetarium

Located in the heart of Miller Hall, the John C. Wells Planetarium is something everyone passes, but so few visit. The school offers free shows in this breathtaking star-studded auditorium frequently, so next time you see a sign for a showing on the quad, head over and take in the vastness of the galaxy without leaving campus!

5. The Learning Centers in SSC

School is hard, there's no doubting that. But free help makes it a little better. Walk into the math tutoring center, the science tutoring center, the writing center, or the communication center to get help with any project from people who excel in it. Your tuition pays for them to sit there and wait for you to ask for help, so you might as well take advantage of it while you can!

6. The Oasis in SSC

After spending a few hours in those learning centers, stressing over homework, head over to the counseling center and alleviate the stress of being a college student in The Oasis. Equipped with yoga mats, massage chairs, noise canceling headphones, and even more relaxation techniques, this calming Self-Care Space could make any hard day better in a matter of minutes.

7. ETMC in Memorial

Surprise! Memorial isn't just for ROTC members and Education Majors! There's study space, offices, museums, a dining hall, and the Education Technology Media Center (ETMC)...maybe one of the coolest libraries JMU has. While the books may seem unconventional to non-Education majors, students would be surprised to find the large technology available to rent, the Mac computers to use, and the Green Screen room available to any student. Make any assignment a definite A by enhancing it with ETMC's resources.

8. Grafton

Cheap movies. Need I say more? Well, if I do, Grafton's low prices on top-hits are worth taking a night off from homework and having a good laugh with friends. Sometimes, UPB even hosts free events here with celebrities or scholars. These kinds of events won't be so easily available at any other time in your life, so do it while you can!

9. Madison Union Patio

Photo: JMU Technology and Design

My personal favorite place on campus, this hidden gem is the perfect place to do some homework in the sunshine and enjoy the peace and quiet the patio offers. The patio offers a beautiful view of campus and is the perfect place to do homework between classes on a nice day!

10. Athletics and Arts

Football is all the hype, and I get that...the games are so fun. But, low and behold we do have some other pretty awesome teams here at JMU and you can watch any of them for free. Likewise, our artists are truly phenomenal here and the galleries that get displayed around campus are worth taking a few minutes out of your day to really observe.

Everyone knows JMU is the best....who knew it could be even better?!