Campus Life Brings Varied, New Activities

While campus life at Southeast Technical College might look a little different compared with a four-year institution, there are plenty of ways for students to get involved this winter and spring.

“Student activities are such a good way for our students to connect with peers, make professional connections and have fun,” said Kally Jorgensen, student engagement coordinator.

This spring, STC’s student literary magazine, Our Story, will be in its second year. It has doubled its student staff numbers and is offering cash prizes to the top submissions. There are five categories: digital art, photography, graphic stories/comics, poetry and short stories. The magazine aims to provide a creative outlet for STC students.

This fall, the Our Story staff has focused on outreach for submissions. There are fliers displayed all over campus to encourage a wide variety of entries.

“Health care students are currently underrepresented in the entries we have, and we’d especially like to reach out to them,” said Patrick Frentz, a digital media instructor and one of the literary magazine’s faculty advisers.

During finals week, Our Story staff set up break areas on campus “with creative prompts to encourage personal expression and relaxation when students need a break from studying,” added Laura Cruse, English instructor and the magazine’s other faculty adviser.

For students who like to be more active, intramural sports will be resuming in January. Bowling and basketball are available to all students, and skiing and snowboarding will be kicking off their inaugural year.

“We have partnered with Great Bear Ski Valley to offer discounted rates for STC students to hit the slopes,” said Mike Ebbing, human resource management instructor and intramural co-adviser.

“We saw an area of opportunity based of the interest of students and are excited to offer intramural skiing and snowboarding this winter.”

Skiing and snowboarding will take place eight times throughout February. Students will have several options to bundle services like lessons, equipment rentals and lift tickets at Great Bear.

Additionally, STC hosts events like a talent show and Great Shots night throughout the year and offers clubs and academic organizations based on student interest.

Recently, students participated in the De-Stress Fest, a relaxation event held the week before finals that featured therapy dogs, hot chocolate and yoga.

To get involved in intramural sports at STC, including skiing and snowboarding, contact Jorgensen at kally.jorgensen@southeasttech.edu.