Written by Emily Weber
A lot of the major renovation projects that IUP began in the past decade are finally complete. Many residence halls, the performing arts center, the HUB, and the library have been updated or completely redone. While many of the campus’ original brick buildings are still around, the administration is aware of the need for constant improvement and recently approved further renovations that will replace two older buildings and update the science facilities. In addition, construction on the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex is well under way.
The athletic center, located in the HUB, offers a lot of equipment, classes, and activities. A common complaint among students is that there are never enough treadmills and ellipticals during popular work-out times. The HUB is especially popular among students because it also houses the student Co-op store, the box office, a food court, and large meeting rooms. The Stapleton Library is a good place for students to meet, grab coffee, or study on their own. The first floor contains the coffee shop and a large lounge, while the upper floors are set aside for quiet study and offer soundproof booths and desks for students to study in. There are plenty of books and reference materials, and the staff is helpful.
The biggest complaint that IUP students have about the facilities is the lack of entertainment options on campus. IUP doesn't have a movie theater or bowling alley on campus, which tend to be popular activities for other colleges. While there are things to do off campus, some students think that a lot of the partying off campus is made all the more popular by the fact that there is so little to do on campus besides attend the occasional concert, work out, or hang out with friends in a dorm.