Murray State University has many amenities and resources delegated to meeting the wants and needs of their students to the best of their abilities. Like most institutions, there are the basic buildings, such as a library, lecture halls, and lunchrooms, but there are a few places hiding in the plain sight that most students don’t think to take full advantage of.
1. Pogue Library
When a Racer thinks of "the library," they tend to assume Waterfield Library -- the largest and most used library on campus. Although Waterfield is a great place to study and meet up in between classes, it is not the only library on campus. Students often overlook Pouge Library, located off the quad. Home of special collections and university archives, Pouge doesn’t have as much foot traffic as Waterfield, making a great place to study quietly and an even better place to nap!
2. The Loop
Fitness seems to get higher and higher on students' priority list as each year passes. The Wellness Center is a great place to start, but a great alternative is the community walking track that students have nicknamed "The Loop." This is a roughly two-mile route around Murray State's academic side of campus that conveniently has finished sidewalks for patrons to maneuver on. The Loop is a great way to get outside and get active without having to fight the crowded gym.
3. Equine Center
Every Murray State student is required to take a certain number of credit hours towards electives. This can be within your major or just a class to let off some steam. Most students are unaware that you can actually take horseback riding classes as an elective, and for equine students, some will count towards your major. Yes, you can ride a horse three days a week and get college credit for it! The instructors are very helpful and knowledgeable, plus they offer classes for all levels and backgrounds.
4. Curris Center - Third Floor
Are you even a Racer if you don't visit the Curris Center frequently? Arguably the center of campus that Murray State revolves around, the Curris Center has anything you need and is made of three floors that offer an arrangement of services. The first floor has many student departments. The second floor has food, coffee, and the bookstore. And the third has not only ballrooms and lecture halls designed to host specific events but also a great lounge space that no one seems to know about. There is a spot on the third floor that has tables and chair that looks over the open layout of the remaining two floors below. It is an awesome spot to sit down, eat lunch or study between classes
5. Career Center
College is designed to prepare students for their future. It allows them to grow personally, as well as academically, and in most cases, students hope to land a job or pursue specific plans after graduation. Murray State has a specific department that aids students in getting jobs, as well as internships, which is known as the Career Center. Although this is a fairly popularized center that professors encourage visiting, most students don't know what their services include. They will not only help build a rock star cover letter and resume with proper professional formatting, but they will also help with applying for jobs and interviewing. If you are looking to land your dream job or even just need some help with where to start, paying them a visit is extremely beneficial.
6. Mason Hall - Basement
As selective as the program is, nursing is a popular degree of choice at Murray State. Mason Hall is the home for these students and prospecting ones alike. Many hours are spent there by nursing students who are learning, practicing and studying to be a nurse, but more importantly, pass the program. An awesome feature of Mason Hall is the basement. There is a full-blown study lounge with tables, chairs, and couches available for students to use in between or after classes. This can save nursing students a trip between Mason and the library when preparing for exams and practicals.
7. Roy Stewart Stadium
Football is a staple of any school in America really and with that comes the stadium. Roy Stewart Stadium is one of the first things you see when you hit that first city limit stoplight in Murray, KY. It's big, it's bad and it's open for students to use. Not only is there a full-sized track, but also the bleachers are open for exercises, such as stadium runs. It is a great alternative to getting outside and getting more active.
