Orienter New Student Guide 2026

NEW STUDENT GUIDE 2026 ORIENTER ORIENTER

INSIDE

Campus traditions every student should know

Best study spots on and around campus

Your guide to IU sports: Free events to watch, teams to follow, a guide to the Little 500 ... and more!

IDS

39

40 5 of IU’s most

Where to find academic resources

42 How to stay on top of your schedule

43 Applying for financial aid and

44 4 tips for staying safe on campus

45 The art of roommate bonding

46 5 local restaurants to eat at

47 3 apps all IU students should have 48 How to navigate mail at residence hall

49 Useful terms to know on campus

50 Hoosier sports through the years

52 How Little 500 became ‘The World’s Greatest College Weekend’

Little 500 through the years

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

Hello, Hoosiers! Welcome to Bloomington! We are proud to be some of the first to welcome you to Indiana University. You’re reading a publication from the Indiana Daily Student, IU’s preeminent newspaper serving the campus and the city of Bloomington alike since 1867. You’ll see our publications wherever we can put them, from walls to windows to newspaper stands. We are entirely student-run, from the top down, and the words of wisdom in this guide come from folks who once stood exactly where you stand today.

You all come from vastly different backgrounds, and you’ll all end up scattered across the world once your time here is done. But as long as you’re here, we all share the same proverbial roof. If we can impart some “seniorly” advice, it would be to treat each other with patience. Maybe you’ll have a roommate in the dorms who can’t keep their side clean. (Yes, that was once one of the authors of this note.) Maybe you’ll encounter a classmate who refuses to do their group-

work. Maybe a worker at the local coffee shop can never get your order right.

Just remember that everyone you meet is trying to make their own way in this city, and everyone is just as scared as you are — if not more. This community is a wonderful, welcoming space, and if you treat it with kindness, it will pay you back tenfold.

IU has produced billionaires and businessmen, athletes and architects, goofballs and geologists. They all took their own paths to success. Whatever your years at IU look like, make sure to remember you are the one who determines what your success looks like.

Bloomington is a land of opportunity. Enjoy your time here, and when it’s over, we hope you remember the first people to say hello.

Have fun, Hoosiers!

Jonathan Frey and Mateo Fuentes-Rohwer IDS Co-Editors-in-Chief Summer 2026

What we wish we knew before attending IU

There’s a lot of pressure to be social all the time freshman year. Maybe that’s sustainable for some people, but it definitely wasn’t for me. I loved hanging out in my friends’ dorms, but I also made sure to set aside time by myself to recharge. For me, that meant eating lunch alone in a corner of Forest Dining Hall while watching my favorite TV show.

At the same time, get out of your comfort zone and talk to new people. Hang out in your dorm floor lounge, get coffee with a classmate and go to group events like Late Nite. Not everyone you meet freshman year will stay in your life forever, but it’s so special to be able to spend your last week in Bloomington with the people you met during your first week here.

I grew up hearing parents and teachers say college would be the greatest four years of my life, and it felt crushing when my first year didn’t feel quite so great. I wish I could tell my younger self to take my time.

Freshman year is the slowest life will ever be for you in college. I know it will feel like you’re falling behind or running late if you don’t join seven student orgs and go to five frat parties in your first week, but I promise you life will be fast and stressful enough in the years ahead.

If you do find your best friend right away, great. If you don’t, you’ll be okay. The more you rush into things and try to be the model freshman, the less likely you are to find the things and people you truly love. All great things take time. College can become everything you dreamed it would be; just don’t expect it to happen all at once.

It’s hard coming to a new place. You have to make new friends, adjust to a new environment and learn how to live independently. You may feel some imposter syndrome at first, but that is totally normal! Be patient with yourself. This is a really big change, and it can be scary but also exciting. You may not feel like you fit in right away, but with time, you will find your people, trust me. College is a fresh start and, as cheesy as it sounds, it’s a

As cliche as it is, step out of your comfort zone. My freshman year, I had the attitude that I had friends at home and it was only 45 minutes away, so I was good. I took a gap year to complete Army training and, as silly as it sounds, I felt like I had too much life experience and was too old to be friends with other freshman. I’d already been on a self-discovery journey and felt like I had found myself already. I hadn’t. Four years later, I now realize I was just scared. I’m not the most outgoing person and was afraid to put myself out there. I used my gap year as an excuse. Don’t be afraid. Everyone is new and is trying to make friends. So, go hangout in the lounge with people and get to know the people in your dorm. As the saying goes, everyone wants a village, but no one wants to be a villager. Be a villager; be involved.

good opportunity to discover who you are.

It can be challenging but try to push yourself outside of your comfort zone. Join clubs, go to networking events, talk to your professors and classmates — anything that will get you talking to people more. Not only will this get you more comfortable with talking to people you don’t know, but you will also make friends! In high school, we are placed in a bubble of proximity,

Academics! It’s a big piece of the pie. Bigger than the classes, though, is the professor. I’m sure most people have heard this a million times, but it’s true — the professor makes the class. Usually this comment is cynical, but it can also be guiding. Looking back, I wish I had made a better effort to research professors whose work I respected or whose academic interests mirrored mine.

Obviously, there’s a certain extent to which your freedom of choice is restricted — that is, required classes — but I wish I had initiated and pursued relationships with professors at the beginning of my college career as well as I do now! Or, at least, with the same purposeful intent. You’d be surprised how much guidance a chat with a mentor who understands your circumstances can provide.

where we become friends with people we see every day simply because we grew up around them. College is different because you get the chance to meet people from completely different backgrounds and choose friends who have similar interests and goals. So, talk to as many people as you can, and you will find your people along the way.

Natalie Cartmel

Alayna Wilkening

Briana Pace

Odessa Lyon

Jonathan Frey

Do you know IU’s weirdest traditions?

By Zoe Reed reedzoe@iu.edu

When you combine thousands of young adults across nearly 2,000 acres of IU Bloomington’s sprawling campus, you are bound to hear some interesting stories. Here are some of IU’s weirdest traditions, ranked from the most well-known to the best-kept secrets.

Herman B Wells statue handshake

One of the most famous traditions on IU’s campus is shaking hands with the Herman B Wells statue located near the Rose Well House and Owen Hall. The statue depicts the 11th president and first chancellor of IU on a bench with his hand extended, commemorating the accomplishments Wells brought to the university.

The tradition, passed down each year to new students, goes like this: Before an exam or the start of a new semester, if a student shakes Wells’ hand, they will be gifted with academic success and luck.

Whether it actually works is up for debate, but it never hurts to take your chances with a bronze handshake.

Eskenazi’s color show

Another common IU tradition involves the IU Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art. Every night, students can expect the Light Totem, an art piece created by Rob Shakespeare, to display an array of color on the exterior wall of the museum.

During welcome week, you’ll see students gathering in front of the museum, lying on the ground,with their feet against the wall to watch the color show in action. It’s the only art show on campus where the concrete is the best seat in the house.

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to be on campus. Alongside the changing leaves, you can catch the annual Ghost Walk. Created and hosted by the IU Folklore and Ethnomusicology Student Association, the tradition takes students on a tour across campus, telling spooky stories and legends of IU.

The tradition is relatively new, starting about 14 years ago and returning every October. Think of it as a IU history class, just with better lighting — or worse, depending on how you look at it.

Rose Well House kiss

When two people love each other very much, you might find them in the Rose Well House, one of the oldest remaining structures on IU’s campus. Built in 1908, it was originally made over a cistern, or an underground container made to store and supply water, but quickly became a place to hang for

young couples.

Legend has it that couples who share a kiss inside the house at the stroke of midnight are destined to be together for life. Love may be blind, but apparently, it’s also very punctual.

Hep’s Rock

Behind the north end zone of Memorial Stadium sits a limestone boulder known as “Hep’s Rock,” a tradition deeply rooted in IU football. The limestone rock, initially called “The Rock,” was changed to “Hep’s Rock” to commemorate former IU football coach Terry Hoeppner, who died in 2007.

The rock is believed to symbolize the team’s strengths and unity, and at each home game, IU football players and coaches touch the rock before taking the field. Fans with a Hoosier Pregame Pass can tour the stadium and see the rock up close — just don’t try to take it home as a souvenir.

Ghost Walk

ILLUSTRATION BY BRI SUCH

How to get involved on campus

Indiana University is home to more than 750registered student organizations

By Jack Davis jjd5@iu.edu

Indiana University is home to more than 750 clubs and student organizations. You can participate in intramural sports, student government and so much more. The variety is impressive, but it can also be overwhelming for students new to IU. However, you’re not alone in this journey and plenty of other students are going through the same thing. IU also has resources and events tailored to help students find ways to get involved on campus.

Student Involvement Fair

One of the largest events of the first week of school, usually on Thursday, is the Student involvement fair. It hosts nearly 400 different organizations on campus. If you miss the fall involvement fair, the winter involvement fair happens after winter break and hosts over 160 organizations.

BeINvolved

If big crowds aren’t your thing, that’s okay! The website BeINvolved is IU’s one-

stop shop for all student organizations and other fun events happening on campus. Even if you don’t use it to find events, you’ll probably have to use it to get in. You’ll undoubtedly use it during your time at IU and I highly recommend getting familiar with it.

Ask around

IU has so many resources on how to get involved, but I’ve found the most effective method for students is just talking. Most activities and events I’ve participated in or attended have happened through communicating with my peers and figuring out what they’re into. In my opinion, there’s no better way to discover what this campus offers than just talking and listening to your fellow students.

IU has much to offer regarding getting people involved on campus. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say, “You can make a big campus feel small!” But unlike some other clichés, I believe this one. The first step is always the hardest but I promise you can find your community here once you take it.

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GPS-monitored safe travel experience.

Reliable trips to/from campus

www.catcharide.com to view routes or book in minutes from your phone!

IDS FILE PHOTO

Students wade through the crowds at the Student Involvement Fair on Aug. 26, 2021, in Dunn Meadow.

The ultimate IU dorm move-in checklist

From dorm essentials to move-in tips, these items can help IU students prepare

By Will Tallackson wdtallac@iu.edu

Leaving home and moving into a dorm for the first time can feel both exciting and intimidating for new IU students. I remember how nervous I felt as an incoming freshman trying to organize everything I needed before move-in day.

Between dorm supplies, move-in preparation and adjusting to campus life, having the right essentials and planning ahead can help students feel more prepared for their first year in Bloomington.

Bedding essentials

After long days of classes and campus activities, having a comfortable bed setup can make the transition to college life feel less stressful. A mattress topper, pillows, comforters and extra sheets can make residence hall beds feel more comfortable.

Bringing my personal blankets and pillows from home also helped my dorm room feel more personal and made adjusting to college easier during my freshman year.

Storage and organization

I quickly realized how small dorm rooms can feel, especially when sharing space with a roommate. Without enough organization, rooms can become cluttered quickly.

Under-bed bins, storage drawers, laundry hampers, desk organizers and closet hangers helped keep clothes, school supplies, snacks and personal belongings organized.

School supplies and technology essentials

College classes can feel overwhelming during the first few weeks of the semester without the right school supplies and technology. Laptops, chargers, notebooks, folders, pens, pencils and planners can help students stay organized as classes begin.

Items such as extension cords and power strips are also useful in dorm rooms with limited outlets, especially when you need to charge laptops, phones and other electronics all at once. Time-management tools such as an alarm clock also helped me stay on schedule and wake up on time for early morning classes.

Bathroom and cleaning products

Sharing communal bathrooms and living spaces can be one of the biggest adjustments for freshmen living in residence halls. Shower shoes, shower caddies, towels, toiletries and hand soap are everyday essentials for dorm living, especially when using communal bathrooms.

I found that keeping everything in a shower bag made trips to and from the bathroom much more convenient. Cleaning products such as disinfecting wipes, paper towels, laundry detergent and air freshener also helped keep my dorm room clean and comfortable.

Personal items and decorations

One of the most difficult parts of leaving home for college can be adjusting to a new environment without the familiar decorations and comforts of home. Bringing personal items such as your favorite posters, throw pillows, blankets and photos can help dorm rooms feel more welcoming during the first few weeks on campus.

One item I especially enjoyed having was a whiteboard on my door, which allowed

people on my floor to leave positive messages, answer fun questions and get to know one another better throughout the year.

Move-in dates and check-in information

Incoming freshmen will move into campus housing Aug. 18–19 and will receive additional information through their IU email accounts about scheduling move-in appointments. Students must first check in at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, located at 1001 E. 17th St., before heading to their assigned residence halls. Preparing ahead of time for check-in can help move-in day feel less stressful for students and families.

Move-in day tips

Before arriving on campus, students and parents can view room dimensions and layouts for assigned residence halls through the IU Housing website to better prepare for move-in day. Reusable moving bags or blue IKEA-style bags can make the movein process faster because they are easier to carry through residence halls than large cardboard boxes and help keep belongings organized while unloading.

ILLUSTRATION BY EVELYN STRAUSS

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Campus through the seasons

IU is known for its lush scenery. It’s ranked among the most beautiful college campuses in the country. Here’s a sneak peek at the seasons to come.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY ETHAN LEVY

Then-freshmen Madeline Herman and Emma Gagnon chat at the Herman B Wells statue in February 2021. Average high temperatures during the winter months are in the upper 30s and lows are in the 20s, but they go lower — and can feel much lower with a wind chill. It’s important to wear hats, gloves and layers of clothes for long walks through campus.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

Students walk through the Sample Gates in the fall of 2010. There are an estimated 12,000 trees on the IU campus that create a beautiful and changing backdrop for students out for a walk during every season of the year. Workers at IU’s Landscape Services care for the trees and plant flowers throughout the year.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

Each spring, red and white tulips are planted in the Old Crescent area of campus by the Sample Gates and the Student Building clock tower. This is a popular spot for graduating seniors to have their pictures taken. During March, April and May, high temperatures can range from the 50s to the 70s.

IDS FILE PHOTO

One of IU’s four red clock towers stands among the fall foliage in 2024. Southern Indiana is known for it’s beautiful display of fall leaves each year with peak color coming in October. Temperatures can vary substantially during the autumn months from highs in the 60s-70s and lows in the 40s-50s.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT

A student walks through Dunn Meadow after a snowstorm in January 2010. Snowfall in Bloomington is not as heavy as the northern part of Indiana. But there can be significant accumulations. In January 2026, the area saw 10-14 inches fall in 24 hours.

IU students Leah Allsion and Brandon Myers converse at Showalter Fountain and enjoy the cool breeze as the seasons start to shift. Summers in Bloomington can be hot and humid with average highs in the 80s and average lows are in the 60s. In September, temperatures become cooler.

Trees begin to blossom around Dunn

in 2004. Herman B Wells, the long-time 20th Century president and chancellor of IU, was a strong advocate for green spaces. “To cut a tree unnecessarily has long been an act of treason against our heritage and the loyalty, love and effort of our predecessors who have preserved it for us,” Wells said.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY SEVIL MAHFOOZI

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO BY ANDREW WILLIAMS

Meadow

IDS FILE PHOTO

BY ODESSA LYON

How to experience Bloomington as B-town

By Odessa Lyon oolyon@iu.edu

Let’s get something straight. “Bloom is a magazine,” as one Reddit user put it. “Btown is where I live.”

So, what do B-towners do — often during “townie summer,” once most students move out — that Bloomers are missing? It’s behaviors, hole-in-the-wall spots, whole sides of town and events they’re skipping out on. These differences are what create such a seemingly impenetrable wall between campus and townie communities, but they can be practiced by anyone, any time.

Seeing Bloomington as B-town is about upholding Midwestern manners. You tip — and tip well — for services provided. You thrift for yourself and for your budget, not to resell. Real ones are looking through dishware at The Salvation Army, not donating Shein to Plato’s Closet or checking for brand-name tags at Goodwill to upcharge on Depop.

You read “one-way” signs and respect right-of-way laws at roundabouts. You know where you’re going and how to get there. I’d like to say B-towners stop for pedestrians, but that’s a little too generous. One big Bloomer mistake is jaywalking, not inherently, but at inopportune intersections. Don’t worry, you’ll figure it out, but it’ll take looking up from that finicky GPS and reading signs with your bare eyes (sunglasses optional).

If you’re only eating on Fourth Street, campus and around the mall, you’re definitely not taking a big enough bite out of Bloomington’s foodie scene.

B-town is burgeoning with specialized markets like 4th Street International Market for Mediterranean foods, Little Italy Market and World Foods Market — formerly known to townies as Sahara Mart — downtown, BTown International Market for East Asian foods and Apna Bazaar International Market for South Asian foods on the east side or

Bloomingfoods Co-op Market for fresh deli on both sides of town.

Sprinkled across the cardinal directions are smaller, local alternatives to avoid biggername restaurants. Line of drunk IU students at Jimmy John’s on Kirkwood? Walk just a few blocks south to Rush Hour Station for a fresh bánh mì sandwich. Tables full of loud IU families at My Thai Downtown? Take a short drive east to Bangkok Thai Cuisine.

While IU and its students host events on campus and downtown, there’s so much to explore in a town where you can drive from north to south or east to west in 15 minutes. Students gravitate to Fairfax Beach and Lake Monroe on the south side, but miss out on what’s going on up north — where you could be renting a canoe or kayak for a few hours on Griffy Lake or playing volleyball in the sand at Lower Cascades Park — and out west — where you could be throwing a discus or taking a hike around Karst Farm Park.

By staying holed up in familiar places like campus, Kirkwood Avenue and Kirkwoodadjacent areas, students often miss out on the beating heart of Bloomington: its people.

Events including all residents of Bloomington like the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning April-October, the Bloomington Winter Farmer’s Market same time from NovemberMarch or the People’s Cooperative Market every Saturday. Two clicks on the Monroe County Public Library website under “Programs” and then “Community Events” will give you an overview of community events every day.

While changing your residence to Bloomington won’t make you a townie by blood, there are many ways to engage with the townie community and see B-town as it truly is during townie summer. Simply explore your community with curiosity and allow the townie spirit to enter your heart.

ILLUSTRATION

3 things to help you adjust to dorm life

If it is your first time living independently, you may have some concerns

By Steven Leatherwood sjleathe@iu.edu

For many incoming students, college means living in a dorm — and possibly with another person — for the first time in their lives. While figuring out dorm life can be a bit tricky, here are some practical tips for navigating the change at IU.

Communicate with your roommates

To start, go to your housing assignment in the IU Bloomington Housing Applications section of One.IU and find your roommates’ contact information. Your roommate assignment will probably be available sometime later in the summer and reaching out to them as soon as you can is important for a

couple of reasons.

First, you and your roommates probably do not want to bring duplicate items. You don’t need two microwaves, two fridges or multiple rugs. To prevent these duplicates, communicate beforehand.

Second, I recommend establishing ground rules for your shared space. It’s important to ask questions such as “What time do you go to sleep? Do you mind if people stay over late? When do you wake up?” Although it may feel awkward, setting these boundaries will greatly help you avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Find the closest dining location

You’ll soon realize that food is one of your most crucial necessities, and knowing where

the best and closest place to eat on campus is very important. Whether it is in one of the dining halls, campus restaurants or cafes, there are many options to choose from.

If you go to the IU Mobile app and hit the “Campus” icon at the bottom of the page, there is a “Food” section that shows all of the campus food locations. From there, you and your friends can explore the locations closest to you and find your favorites.

If you need something even more convenient, IU students get a free Grubhub+ account to save on costs for ordering food.

Know where to do your laundry

Every dorm will have a laundry space. For most freshmen dorms, the laundry room is most likely located on the ground floor.

Laundry costs are included in the price of your housing, and you will need to scan your CrimsonCard in order to use the washers and dryers.

Finding a time where the laundry room isn’t busy can be stressful. Try different times each week until you find a time that works for your schedule and is usually empty.

Additionally, you can find the Bloomington Laundry Alert on One.IU. This can be used to set notifications for when your washing and drying cycles are finished. Living on your own for the first time is a big deal, so you probably won’t get everything situated immediately. Just breathe and enjoy the independence, taking what you’ve learned to improve your dorm experience.

Your guide to health resources at IU

By Jonathan Frey jonafrey@iu.edu | @byjonathanfrey

It’s always important to familiarize yourself with local health resources whenever you move to a new place. No time is this more important than moving to a new school, where freshman mishaps and unexpected obstacles are prominent. IU provides several resources for both mental and physical health and well-being, so we’ve compiled a guide to get you started.

Emergency resources

If you are experiencing an emergency, your best bet is the Emergency Medicine clinic located at the main IU Health Bloomington Hospital.

IU Health Hospital — 2651 E. Discovery Pkwy.

Alternatively, if you need medical care without an appointment but are not in immediate danger, the Urgent Care clinic is another good option.

IU Health Urgent Care — 326 S. Woodscrest Drive.

For mental health crises, in addition to the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, IU’s Counseling and Psychological Services provides a crisis line staffed 24/7 which will be listed below.

From the IU Bloomington emergency contact site, this list of phone numbers should cover most crises that may occur in your time as a student.

• Emergencies: Call 911

• IUPD: 812-855-4111

• Safety Escort: 812-855-SAFE (7233)

• IU Emergency Management & Continuity: 812-855-2004

• Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 812-8558900

• Crisis and Suicide Hotline: 812-8555711

Medical care

For general care cases, the Student Health Center is a crucial resource for all students. It is the only campus health resource covered by the health fee you pay as part of tuition. The health fee entitles you to free or reduced care costs at the SHC.

Student Health Center — 600 N. Eagleson Ave.

IU Health has several clinics across the city for both general and specialized care. In addition to the wide range covered just inside the hospital, here are a few other specialized clinics likely to be of use during

your time at IU:

• IU Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine — 2605 E. Creeks Edge Drive.

• IU Health Cardiology - Bloomington — 1302 S. Rogers St.

• IU Health Primary CareBloomington — 995 S. Clarizz Blvd.

Mental health resources

IU’s Counseling and Psychological Services is the main mental health resource provided by the university. CAPS provides a free 45-minute mental health consultation, after which they will assess your needs and set you up with a personalized care plan.

To schedule a first appointment, call 812855-5711.

If a student you know appears to be struggling with their own mental health, you can also submit a Care Referral through its page on the Student Life website. For assistance making a referral, you can also call 812-856-2273 or email iucare@iu.edu.

Pharmacy

needs

There are numerous pharmacy options in Bloomington. The previously mentioned Student Health Center also has a pharmacy with over-the-counter medication and prescription medication.

Outside of the SHC, it will probably be most convenient for you to use a chain option such as CVS. There are two convenient CVS locations in Bloomington that you’ll find useful:

• 121 E. Kirkwood Ave.

• 2701 E. Third St.

In addition to both prescribed and overthe-counter medications, CVS provides vaccines, including updated COVID-19 boosters.

Germanic Studies

Your passport to a global future

Acquire cultural and language skills in our top-rated program!

Major or Minor in German

A German degree will provide students with  options for careers in the private or public sector.  Advanced competence in the language, history, and culture of German-speaking Europe will make students highly competitive for employment in the global economy, green technology, teaching, the military or foreign service.

With the five-year BA/MA German Pathway option, easily combined with College programs such as LAMP, PACE, or coursework in the School of Global and International Studies, students will be positioned for jobs in US-based multinationals as well as industries, banks, and research and cultural centers in the United States and abroad. The BA/MA degree is also an ideal preparation for advanced degrees in international law or schools of public policy and business.

Dutch, Norwegian, Yiddish

We have one of the oldest and largest Dutch programs in the US. As global models for healthcare, education, and economics, Scandinavian countries inspire policy-makers and global leaders. As a major American heritage language, Yiddish is a cornerstone of Jewish Studies and American Cultural Studies.

Study Abroad

Our overseas programs in Freiburg and Bayreuth are custom-designed living-learning experiences that change students’ lives. We work closely with the Office of Overseas Study, which offers additional programs in Berlin, Vienna and other destinations in German-speaking countries. The IU Europe Gateway Office in Berlin opens new opportunities for international education.

Check out our Business German Certificate and our other minors and certificates: germanic.indiana.edu/

JACK JERNIGAN | IDS

The IU Health Bloomington Hospital is seen Feb. 13, 2026, in Bloomington. It is the premier health service provider in Bloomington.

By IDS Staff

Culture and faith centers guide

Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center

The Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center was created after a wave of campus activism in the 1960s. Herman Hudson became the first chair of the Afro American Studies, which is now the Department of African American and African Diaspora Studies. Hudson then created the NMBCC, officially named after the first African American man and woman to graduate from IU: Marcellus Neal in 1895 and France Marshal in 1919. NMBCC’s website offers several different student organizations that celebrate Black culture.

The NMBCC is also home to The African American Arts Institute, a center for the performing arts. The institute houses three arts ensembles: The African American Choral Ensemble, African American Dance Company and the Soul Revue, all celebrating Black arts and culture. Raymond Wise took over as executive director of the institute when Charles E. Sykes retired after 34 years of service.

The NMBCC is located at 275 N. Eagleson Ave.

Asian Culture Center

The Asian Culture Center was initially envisioned by a group of students in 1988 who inspired many other students and faculty to officially establish the center in 1998. The center’s goals are to inform and promote awareness, support coalition building and unity, build a more inclusive and welcoming community and listen to the needs of students. The center hosts “Over a Cup of Tea,” a monthly discussion about issues concerning Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The center is located on the northwest corner of campus, at 807 E. 10th Street.

First Nations Educational and Cultural Center

The First Nations Educational and Cultural Center was created to support American Indian and Indigenous students on campus and in the community. The center hosts an annual Powwow in the spring to bring together people of all tribal backgrounds to celebrate their culture through dance and ceremonial gatherings. The center is located at 712 E. Eighth St.

Jewish Culture Center

The Jewish Culture Center is also recognized as the Helene G. Simon Hillel Center, located at 730 E. Third St. The center was founded in 1938 to celebrate Judaism and Jewish life and provide a safe and welcoming atmosphere for Jewish students on campus.

Hillel offers a weekly Shabbat dinner on Fridays throughout the academic year. The center also promotes leadership development and provides study abroad, academic and community programs for students to join.

La Casa Latino Cultural Center

La Casa Latino Cultural Center supports students with a cultural connection as well as a place for academic and professional growth. The center was founded in 1973 to build a stronger campus community for students. La Casa also teaches cultural awareness through educational and social programs.

Each year during National Hispanic Latine Heritage Month, La Casa collaborates with other departments to recognize the contributions made by Hispanic and Latine communities. The center is located at 715 E. Seventh St.

LGBTQ+ Culture Center

The LGBTQ+ Culture Center, located at

705 E. Seventh St. next to La Casa, was created to support students a part of the LGBTQ+ community in their transition to college and adulthood. The center advocates for diversity and multiculturalism on all fronts. The LGBTQ+ Center’s website links to a plethora of student groups to join, as well as scholarships and other opportunities for students to thrive.

Faith Centers in Bloomington

The locations listed below are some of the faith centers near campus.

• Korean United Methodist Church, 1924 E. Third St.

• Islamic Center of Bloomington, 1925 E. Atwater Ave.

• Rose House LuMin- Lutheran Campus Ministry, 314 S. Rose Ave.

• The Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints, 333 S. Highland Ave.

• Trinity Episcopal Church, 111 S. Grant St.

• First United Methodist Church, 219 E. Fourth St.

• First Christian Church, 205 E. Kirkwood Ave.

• First Presbyterian Church, 221 E. Sixth St.

• First Presbyterian Church, 221 E. Sixth St.

• University Lutheran Church, 607 E. Seventh St.

• Chabad at Indiana University, 703 E. Seventh St.

• The Episcopal Campus Ministry at IU, 719 E. Seventh St.

• St. Paul Catholic Center, 1413 E. 17th St.

• Christian Student Fellowship, 1968 David Baker Ave.

• St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 2222 E. Third St.

• Christ Community Church, 503 S. High St.

• Beth Shalom Congregation, 3750 E. Third St.

CHLOE LAVELLE | IDS

The African American Choral Ensemble performs for the attendees of the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center pinning ceremony Sept. 19, 2025, at the Ruth N. Halls Theatre in Bloomington. The ensemble performed in celebration of its 50th anniversary.

EMERSON ELLEDGE | IDS

An event attendee holds her arm steady while her friend pipes a henna design on her wrist while attending the Asian Culture Center’s henna workshop Feb. 25, 2025. The event was the first of the semester, but the center has hosted variations for a few years.

KATHERINE MANERS | IDS

People sit on the patio of the LGBTQ+ Culture Center during its re-opening ceremony Oct. 17, 2024, at 705 E. Seventh St. The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and opening remarks from Director Bruce Smail.

AARON SMITH | IDS

A crowd of IU students raise their hands in the air during the Night With the Son event April 8, 2026, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. The Assembly Hall court floor was filled with seats reserved for IU students only.

Campus dining options you won’t want to miss

By Josh Baskin joshbask@iu.edu

From all-you-care-to-eat dining halls to cafés for quick bites between classes, Indiana University has an extensive range of places to eat. Here are my top five campus spots to grab a delicious meal.

McNutt Dining Hall

For those living in IU’s Northwest neighborhood, McNutt is the go-to dining hall to satisfy your cravings. It’s an all-you-care-toeat location, which includes sandwiches, pizza and a variety of international cuisines. My favorite spot in McNutt is Heartland, which always serves a hefty protein like steak or chicken, alongside potatoes or other sides.

McNutt also stands out because of the Starbucks located below the dining hall and Campus Store. The Campus Store sells food and beverages that you would typically find at a convenience store, removing the hassle of driving into town just for a quick snack.

Both Starbucks and C-Stores accept Dining Dollars, a currency included in all meal plans.

Bookmarket Eatery

Located on the lower level of the Herman B. Wells Library, the Bookmarket Eatery is the perfect place to grab something to eat after a long day of studying.

It has several restaurants, including The Greenhouse, which serves salads; BlenzBowlz, which offers smoothie bowls; and The Meltdown, which has sandwiches. Their newest addition, King’s Hawaiian, is my favorite spot because their chicken sandwiches are made with delicious King’s Hawaiian rolls.

While the Bookmarket Eatery might not have as many food options as a regular dining hall, it excels in terms of convenience. As a college student, it can be difficult to find time to study, so being able to take a meal break without having to walk to a dining hall is very practical.

Poke by Sushi King

This restaurant can be found in both Hodge Hall and Read Hall and features customizable poke bowls, sushi and boba tea. Having locations on opposing sides of campus, Poke by Sushi King is one of the most accessible places to use a combo meal. The poke bowls have a wide variety of protein options and add-ins, and they’re all incredibly delicious.

For business students, Poke by Sushi King is incredibly convenient because of its location at the heart of the Kelley School of Business. The bowls are also prepared in resealable plastic containers, making them easy to take with you.

Forest Dining Hall

Another excellent dining option with unlimited all-you-care-to-eat meal swipes is the Forest Dining Hall. Located on the southeast side of campus in the Forest Quadrangle, this dining hall features many of the same restaurants as those within McNutt.

Two options I enjoy are Caliente and Just Desserts. Caliente offers Mexican cuisine like burritos, bowls or nachos, and my favorite, chipotle chicken. As its name suggests, Just Desserts serves options such as cookies and ice cream, which are all delectable.

Indiana Memorial Union

The Indiana Memorial Union is at the heart of IU’s campus, featuring a bookstore, restaurants and even a bowling alley.

The IMU’s restaurants include Lantern, which serves Pan-Asian cuisine; Quarry Pie Co., which offers pizza; and Whitfield Grill, which serves burgers and other grilled foods. Whitfield has quickly become my favorite spot to eat on campus, as I would enjoy a delicious cheeseburger and fries after my afternoon class.

While these are some of my favorite places to eat on campus, IU offers several other dining options. A complete list of IU Dining locations can be found on their website, including dining halls, cafés and restaurants.

IDS FILE PHOTO

A student grabs lunch inside Forest Dining Hall on Oct. 9, 2024, in Bloomington. Forest Quadrangle was completed in 1966.

Everything to know about on-campus dining

By Lily Saylor saylorl@iu.edu

Navigating on-campus dining as an incoming freshman can be overwhelming. Between the various dining halls, campus cafes and different meal plans to purchase, it can seem like an information overload. Here is a simple, easy to understand guide to on-campus dining to answer all your questions.

Meal plans

There are three options for seven-day meal plans, which are required for first-time Residential Programs and Services residents in residence halls or furnished apartments. The classic meal plan costs $4,233 per year and has unlimited meal scans, three combo meals a week and 50 dining dollars per semester. The expanded meal plan costs $4,790 per year and has unlimited meal scans, four combo meals a week and 250 dining dollars per semester. The max meal plan costs $5,347 per year and has unlimited meal scans, five combo meals a week and 450 Dining Dollars per semester.

With the purchase of a seven-day meal plan comes three components: meal scans,

combo meals and Dining Dollars. Meal scans give you access to All-You-Care-To-Eat dining halls. Combo meals and Dining Dollars can be used at Pay-As-You-Go locations around campus.

CrimsonCash

CrimsonCash is money deposited to your Crimson Card account and can be used to purchase food on campus. Select locations off-campus in Bloomington also accept CrimsonCash, including restaurants like Qdoba Mexican Grill and Subway. CrimsonCash is also applicable for things other than food, such as select bookstores and parking meters.

Dining halls

Forest Quad Dining Hall, Bookmarket Eatery, Collins Eatery, Goodbody Hall Eatery and McNutt Quad Dining Hall are All-YouCare-To-Eat dining halls. The dining hall at Wright Quad is also scheduled to re-open this fall following renovations. Using a meal scan allows you unlimited access to the food at these locations.

Campus cafes

Campus cafes offer a wide range of prepackaged sandwiches, snacks and drinks. You can find them in Ballantine Hall, Eigenmann Hall, Eskenazi Museum of Art, Godfrey Graduate and Executive Education Center, Hodge Hall, O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and Wright School of Education.

Food at the campus cafes can be purchased with CrimsonCash, Dining Dollars, meal exchanges or credit cards.

The campus cafes are also great places to study. They are typically not as busy as study spots like the IMU and can be valuable study commodities during exam weeks.

Indiana Memorial Union

The Indiana Memorial Union features plenty of dining options. The food court fea-

Food options tend to include burgers, pizza, salad, Asian and Mexican cuisines, desserts and more. Allergen friendly and vegan options are generally available as well. The menus at these locations change daily, providing plenty of dining variety for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

tures several restaurants that serve Pan-Asian cuisine, salad, pizza and more. The IMU also features The Globe, which highlights local Bloomington restaurants like Taste of India and Lotus Garden. With a combo meal, you can purchase an entrée, side and drink from these locations.

The IMU also houses a Starbucks next to the Tudor Room. Starbucks items can be purchased with dining dollars.

TRINITY MACKENZIE | IDS

The Indiana Memorial Union is pictured Feb. 13, 2025, on campus in Bloomington. The IMU, which opened in 1932, was built using Indiana-quarried limestone.

Events to check out during IU’s Welcome Week

By Hope Bernard hbernar@iu.edu

After what can be a stressful, chaotic movein for many freshmen, it is important to destress and have fun making new connections. This fall semester’s move-in days, Aug. 18-19, are promptly followed by many of IU’s classic Welcome Week events. Here is the lineup for what activities are ahead:

Thursday, Aug. 20

New Student Induction Ceremony: Starting with the induction of incoming students in Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall at 10 a.m., this IU tradition kicks off Welcome Week’s celebration of student life. New students hear speeches from IU President Pamela Whitten as well as the president of IU Student Government, followed by reciting the “Indiana Promise” to uphold the university’s esteemed values.

When I attended as a freshman, I was given a small golden “IU Promise pin” that I pinned to my shirt, symbolizing my IU commitment. After this, I, as well as the rest of my incoming class, had to sing the IU alma mater, “Hail to Old IU.”

CultureFest: Participate in various cultural activities and traditions at the Fine Arts Plaza from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., celebrating campus diversity with food, performances and cultural resources. Activities include global food tastings, traditional song and dance performances, educational booths, and art workshops.

I enjoy the traditional Mexican dances performed by Ballet Folklórico de IU, a dance group that performs folk dances from across Mexico.

Friday, Aug. 21

Culture Center Open Houses: Explore IU’s six culture centers, connect with your communities, and find resources to better support your college experience. These open houses feature many of the same activities from CultureFest, but feature cultural activities specific to the center.

For example, La Casa, IU’s Latino Cultural Center, provides members with academic support resources, community networking, and celebrations of heritage through food and entertainment.

The open houses vary by specific center but usually start with the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This day of discovering diversity ends with the Asian Culture Center open house from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Part-time Jobs Fair: Hosted by Career Exploration and Student Employment from

12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Indiana Memorial Union’s Alumni Hall, the fair helps students looking for a part-time job connect with a variety of employers within their first week on campus.

RecFest: Explore the recreational sports scene at IU in Bill Garrett Fieldhouse and check out IU’s club sports while engaging in giveaways, listening to live entertainment and eating free food. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., you can discover IU’s range of athletics, including intramurals, club sports and open recreation.

IU athletics include sports like soccer, rugby, and cycling, totaling more than 50 intramural sports and over 40 Club Sports.

Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll: Learn more about the Student Health Center and other student resources while interacting with educational booths that cover topics such

as sexual health, mental health and violence prevention at the Fine Arts Plaza from 1p.m. to 4p.m.

Traditions and Spirit : Discover some of the history behind IU’s iconic traditions by learning IU’s fight songs and cheers at IU’s Memorial Hall starting at 7:30 p.m. This event is a great way to experience the high-energy excitement of football and basketball game days and the Hoosier spirit.

Bloomerang Festival: Make your first memories from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the IMU by dressing in weather-appropriate summer festival attire, listening to live music and participating in various photo opportunities. Within the IMU’s solarium, there are various interactive opportunities to learn about campus technology tools and services all while having fun.

Monday, Aug. 24

First Day of School Photos: Capture the first day of the school year and the start of your college journey from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Indiana Memorial Union’s Centennial Patio.

Thursday, Aug. 27

Fall Student Involvement Fair: Discover hundreds of campus organizations and groups from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m at the Fine Arts Plaza. Whether you know what groups you want to join or you’re just looking to find your place at IU, the Student Involvement Fair is a great way to explore your interests. The event doesn’t require an official sign-up, but you will likely need to use the beINvolved portal to check in and out.

For more information, visit First Year Experiences on the Office of Student Life website.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY IZZY MYSZAK

Students watch live performers Aug. 19, 2021, at CultureFest. CultureFest is an annual event that takes place during Welcome Week. CultureFest is one of many recurring Welcome Week activities students can participate in.

How to get involved in Bloomington’s arts scene

By Stella Klaus ssklaus@iu.edu

Bloomington is full of opportunities to get involved in the local arts and culture scene. With events ranging from concerts to art workshops, there is something for everyone in Bloomington.

Whether you enjoy playing an instrument or simply listening to live music, IU has plenty of opportunities. For musicians that want to continue playing in college, Bloomington Delta Music Club is a popular option.

The club allows all IU students to get involved in IU’s music scene. They host many events throughout the school year from small jam sessions to large concerts and offer varying levels of involvement for those interested in joining. Many local bands such as The Free Riders who frequently play at The Bluebird and Always Late began through the club.

Outside of BDMC, IU also holds many live music events at the Musical Arts Center, located on Eagleson Avenue, which frequently hosts talent from the Jacobs School of Music. There are often recitals and concerts from students and professors in the school. Some events are already scheduled for next semester, but more will be added to their calendar throughout the summer.

Looking off campus, there are many other opportunities to listen to live music in town. Though you must be 21 or older, The Bluebird, which is a bar and music venue, regularly hosts both local and touring

SUMMER

musicians. Another option The Bishop is a great alternative that often hosts 18-andup shows with smaller regional or local musicians.

Bloomington also hosts a variety of art and cultural events. Many of which take place at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. They hold different events, from concerts to theatrical performances.

Bring Your Own Business is an IU club that allows students to sell items at the club’s monthly events. While many students choose to sell secondhand clothing, some booths sell handmade items like wood carvings, jewelry and knitted goods. For those interested, this regular event provides many opportunities to either sell handmade items or purchase crafts locally. Interested students can sign up from the link in their Instagram bio.

Similar to BYOB, the IU Arts and Humanities Council hosts First Thursdays, which includes art vendors, food trucks and performances from local groups. True to its name, the event takes place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month, from September through November and then February through April.

The Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art is another on campus destination for those interested in visual art. With seven different galleries visitors can take a self-guided tour through the museum or participate in one of their events and workshops.

No matter what your interests are, Bloomington likely has something that will pique your interest.

CHLOE LAVELLE | IDS

Bloomington community members shop at the Bring Your Own Business event on Feb. 2, 2025, at the Indiana Memorial Union Alumni Hall. The event is one of many that bring Bloomington artists and business owners together.

5 local Bloomington shops to explore

By Lexi Bunting lexbunti@iu.edu

Bloomington can feel overwhelming when you first arrive. Between campus, downtown and the different neighborhoods, there is a lot to explore. But whether you are looking for a new place to study, shop for gifts, thrift clothes or spend an afternoon with friends, Bloomington really does have something for everyone.

Here are some great locally owned shops to check out in Bloomington.

Bonne Fête

Located at 112 W. 6th St., Bonne Fête is a great spot for finding fun and somewhat odd gifts. From puzzles, books, stationary and board games to funny little trinkets and decorations, you can spend quite a while exploring it all.

One of my favorite parts about Bonne Fête is the shop’s atmosphere. It’s bright, colorful

and cheerful without being overwhelming. Every section of the store feels carefully put together, and you always notice something new each time you visit.

oak.

At 116 W. 6th St., oak. specializes in home décor with an emphasis on plants. If you are looking to add a little greenery to your space, this is definitely the place to go. The shop also has a café inside with a wide range of unique drinks you won’t find at a typical coffee shop. oak. also hosts community events, ranging from succulent planting workshops to tarot card readings, making the store feel even more interactive and welcoming.

The Cat’s Closet

For great thrifted finds, The Cat’s Closet at 223 S. Pete Ellis Dr. is always worth a visit. The shop has a diverse range of vintage clothing and unique décor that can spruce up your dorm or apartment. From my experience,

the employees make the shop memorable; they always take the time to chat with customers and are some of the kindest people you will meet in Bloomington.

The Cat’s Closet doubles as a space where visitors can spend time with cats available for adoption, making it a must-stop shop for any cat lover in the city.

Homefield at Tracks

Right in the heart of Kirkwood, Homefield at Tracks is one of the best places to pick up IU merch and explore a selection of vinyl records that range in genre with a focus on indie and pop music. The store has unique design options for IU-themed clothing and accessories that you can’t find at just any IU bookshop, with their specially designed Little 500 clothing collections always standing out.

The shop partners with Homefield Apparel, which was founded in 2016 by Tracks, a record store open since the late 1980s. Together, the two brands created Homefield at

Morgenstern Books & Café

Morgenstern Books & Café, located at 849 S. Auto Mall Rd., is one of the best bookstores in Bloomington. As Indiana’s largest independent bookstore, it offers a wide selection ranging from local authors to bestselling novels.

The shop doubles as a café, making it a great place to study, sit down with friends, or just enjoy coffee. Morgenstern Books & Café also hosts a variety of community events, including book clubs, author meet-ups and open poetry nights, making it a great place to visit on your bucket list.

Bloomington has a wide range of local shops that each offer something different but highlight the city’s creative culture. Whether it’s your first time in Bloomington or you have been here a while, these shops are a great way to try something new and support the local community.

Tracks, which opened in August 2025.

MIA HILKOWITZ | IDS

The local author section at Morgenstern Bookstore & Café is pictured Aug. 8, 2024, at 849 S Auto Mall Road in Bloomington. Bloomington’s top local shops offer a wide range of shopping experiences.

time, save money, and stand out with Accelerated Master’s Programs (AMP).

—Lalita Durbha, Nonprofit Management B.A., Master of Public Affairs M.P.A

Campus arts through the years

IU is home to a vibrant arts community filled with performances and exhibits for students to experience

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

1957 The IU Auditorium showcased a number of outstanding Broadway productions during the 1956-57 season, including “Romeo & Juliet” starring John Neville and Claire Bloom.

IU ARCHIVES

1979 Camilla Williams and Charles Webb prepare for their concert performance in 1979 at IU. Williams was a renowned soprano and a professor of music at IU. Webb was the School of Music dean.

1983 Alumnus Dennis James poses in front of a poster promoting his performance at IU in 1983. James, a musician and historic preservationist, has regularly returned to campus to accompany silent movies with live organ music. His Halloween performances are an IU tradition.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO BY TERRY JOHN

IDS FILE PHOTO BY JONATHAN STREETMAN

2011 Macauley Richards and Andrea Mellos, playing the roles of D’Artagnan and Milady, perform “The Three Musketeers” in 2011 at the Ruth N. Halls Theatre.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY CHRIS PICKRELL

2007 Lt. B. F. Pinkerton, played by tenor Adam Diegel, and Cio-Cio San, played by soprano Jing Zhang, perform during a rehearsal for the opera “Madama Butterfly” at the Musical Arts Center.

IDS FILE PHOTO

2018 Members of the African American Chorale Ensemble perform in 2018. The AACE was founded in 1975 and is a course offered for academic credit. The group preserves the legacy of African American chorale music by performing spirituals, folk forms, traditional and contemporary gospel music and works by African American composers.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT

Lillian Smith, who plays Drosselmeier, prepares

nutcracker to

child during “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 3, 2025, at the Musical Arts Center. The ballet is an annual tradition at IU.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY KATHERINE MANERS

1974 Rock legend Bob Dylan performs at the IU Auditorium in 1974. The campus has hosted a wide array of musical acts over the years.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

2006 Visitors view an MFA painting exhibit in the former SoFA Gallery. The gallery was renamed Grunwald Gallery of Art in honor of John A. Grunwald, thanks to a significant endowed gift from his widow, Rita Grunwald.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY BRIAN MAY

1941 Artist Thomas Hart Benton speaks with students in a fine arts class in 1941. The famous painter’s murals can be viewed in the IU Auditorium and Woodburn Hall.

ARCHIVES

By Will Tallackson wdtallac@iu.edu

Adjusting to life away from home during my first year at IU required quickly building routines to manage coursework, deadlines and daily schedules. A key part of that transition was developing consistent study habits by setting aside regular study times and choosing spaces that support your focus.

Finding quiet, accessible study locations across campus helps students stay productive and manage their time more efficiently. From libraries and low-traffic areas in academic buildings to lounges designed for longer study sessions, knowing where to study can reduce distractions and improve focus throughout the semester.

Get out of the dorm room

Dorm rooms work well for brief homework assignments or assigned readings, but they are rarely ideal for studying for exams or writing longer papers. Noise from shared living spaces and frequent interruptions can break concentration, and the presence of a bed often encourages resting rather than sustained focus.

Dedicated study spaces reduce these common distractions and provide an environment better suited for longer periods of focused reading, writing and studying.

Find an area with lighting

Lighting plays an important role in maintaining focus during longer study sessions. Studying in dark or dim areas can lead to fatigue and drowsiness, making it harder to stay engaged. Choosing locations near windows or with consistent overhead lighting supports more effective study habits.

One reliable option is the first floor Learning Commons, located in the West Tower of Herman B Wells Library, where bright overhead lighting and large exterior windows provide steady light throughout the day. Sitting near a window adds natural light and outdoor views, helping you stay alert while working.

Restful studying

Not all studying requires complete silence or rigid structure. Several campus lounges allow students to remain comfortable while still staying productive.

One go-to location for relaxed study-

Where can IU students find the best study spots?

ing is the South Lounge inside the Indiana Memorial Union. While it is not as brightly lit as library study areas, the lounge’s sofas and chairs make it well suited for reading, reviewing notes or outlining papers. The low-noise, low-pressure atmosphere supports productivity without the strict silence of a library.

The lounge’s proximity to Starbucks and nearby dining options such as Whitfield Grill and Quarry Pie Co. also makes it a convenient choice for longer study sessions.

Focused studying

For tasks that require sustained concentration — such as exam preparation, problem sets or long-form writing — quiet and structured environments are most effective. Spaces with minimal foot traffic and limited conversation help reduce distractions and make it easier to remain engaged for longer periods.

Upper floors of the East Tower and West Tower of Herman B Wells Library are well suited for focused studying due to their quieter atmospheres and individual seating. These areas work best for intensive tasks that require extended periods of con-

centration with minimal interruptions.

Resources and tips

Finding the right study space often takes trial and error, and what works best can depend on the task and time of day. Rotating between different locations — such as libraries for focused work and lounges for lighter studying — can help prevent burnout and improve productivity. Exploring study spaces across campus allows students to build routines that support both academic success and balance throughout the semester.

Studying does not have to be done alone. Group study sessions are ideal for reviewing material, preparing for exams and working through difficult concepts, especially in collaborative-friendly spaces. In addition to study locations, IU offers free academic resources that support students beyond independent or group work. Services such as the Academic Support Center and Writing Tutorial Services provide structured assistance that can strengthen study habits and improve understanding throughout the semester. Residential tutoring services are also available in Forest, Briscoe and Teter quadrangles.

ALAYNA WILKENING | IDS

Library shelves are seen Jan. 13, 2026, in Herman B Wells Library in Bloomington. The building was renamed after Wells in 2005.

COLUMN: The best photo spots on campus

By Sophie Albert soalbert@iu.edu

IU Bloomington’s campus is gorgeous, and as someone who loves photography, it’s been a great place for me to get creative with my hobby. I’ve been able to play around with new framing techniques, experiment with photographing architecture and practice taking portraits through shooting my sister’s graduation photos on campus.

If you’re looking for a great photo opportunity — whether it is a picturesque scene or an iconic landmark — here are five of my favorite photo spots on campus.

Sample Gates

As a symbol of IU, not only is Sample Gates an iconic place on campus, but I also think it is just one of the many gorgeous campus structures.

The Sample Gates themselves offer great opportunities for headshots, as well as group photos. And the gates perfectly frame the bustling Kirkwood Avenue, allowing anyone to capture Bloomington life.

Following the gate’s red brick road into campus are even more photo opportunities. There are some beautiful, old buildings such as Franklin Hall, Maxwell Hall and Kirkwood Hall worth checking out. Around these buildings are historic landmarks like Rose Well House and the Herman B Wells statue.

Showalter Fountain

Among IU’s most well-known landmarks, the Showalter Fountain lies at the heart of the Showalter Arts Plaza.

I especially love this photo spot during the summer when the water is on. I think it’s a great place for portraits or capturing the landscape. I recommend checking it out at sunset when the sun sets perfectly down Seventh Street, which stretches out from the plaza, allowing the sun to frame itself beautifully by the fountain.

If you explore the area around the Fine Arts Building and IU Auditorium, there are some great photo spots with colorful flowers and sculptures of prominent musical artists from Indiana, including Hoagy Carmichael and John Mellencamp. I highly recommend taking a seat by Bloomington’s own Carmichael at his piano and snapping a fun shot with the statue.

Eskenazi Museum of Art

Located next to Showalter Fountain is the

Eskenazi Museum of Art. This museum has many great galleries and exhibitions where you’re sure to find something worth taking a picture of.

Outside the museum is the Light Totem, which casts an array of colorful lights up the side of the building at night. The tradition of lying on the floor with your legs against the lit-up wall offers another great photo opportunity.

This location’s hidden gem is a colorful window mural just beside the museum. It can be a little difficult to find, but if you go behind the museum there is an entrance to the Fine Arts Building. It is a glass hallway decorated with a colorful abstract mural that can be seen from outside. I highly recommend using the distinctive artwork as a backdrop for taking photos.

Cox Arboretum

The Cox Arboretum is a beautiful area of greenery with many trees, a stream and the Metz Bicentennial Grand Carillon. While the Carillon looks like a tower, it is actually a playable musical instrument and another wellknown campus landmark, adding a futuristic look to these photos.

The fairy-like stream and gazebo area create a magical setting for those who enjoy campus wildlife. I loved taking portraits for my sister’s graduation photoshoot here as it produced some whimsical and distinctive photos.

Third Street

I walk down Third Street practically every day to get to class, and I must say, it is one of my favorite streets on campus. It has many historic and beautifully crafted buildings like the Biology Building, Swain Hall and the Maurer School of Law. I especially love Memorial Hall as I have had a lot of fun photographing different parts of the building’s castle-like appearance.

In the Biology Building’s greenhouse, you can take pictures of diverse plants from all over the world. Additionally, there are quiet green spaces by Merrill Hall that have beautiful pink trees and squirrels roaming about.

Overall, I’ve loved living on IU’s campus because at every turn I find something that inspires me to take a picture. If you’re looking for some great photo spots to get started, the locations on this list are sure to inspire you, but I’m sure there are also plenty more hidden gems on campus that are just waiting to be discovered.

Learn /languages/ IU

and add a global edge to your degree.

50 languages each academic year. In Fall 2026, you can take:

Akan/Twi

American Sign Language (ASL)

Arabic (MSA)

Arabic (Levantine)

Arabic (Moroccan)

Bamana

Bengali

Bosnian/ Croatian/

Serbian

Burmese

Catalan

Chinese

Czech

Dutch

Egyptian (Demotic)

Egyptian (Hieroglyphic)

Egyptian (Middle)

Estonian

Finnish

French

German

Greek (Classical)

Greek (Modern)

Haitian Creole

Hebrew (Modern)

Hindi

Hungarian

Indonesian

Irish

Italian

Japanese

Kazakh

Korean

Kyrgyz

Latin

Maya

Mongolian

Norwegian

Slavonic

Persian

Additional Less-Commonly-Taught-Language courses are available through the Big Ten Academic Alliance CourseShare , earning you IU credits including: Western Armenian | Ladino | Nahuatl | Quechua | Romanian | Swedish Inquire about additional languages.

• Most of them can • Explore languages taught almost nowhere else in the US • IU is home to three Language Flagship programs for

Questions? Email celt@iu.edu For more language information and resources, visit: https://go.iu.edu/4Nc6

Student life through the years

You’ll study a lot, but there’s much more to being a Hoosier. Here are some experiences of those who came before you.

IU ARCHIVES

1967 Students rally on campus in 1967 to demonstrate against a visit by Secretary of State Dean Rusk and the Vietnam War. Over the years, students have participated in a variety of protests and vigils for and against different causes and issues.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY MARK FELIX

2012 Then-senior Justin Zheng of the IU break dance club warms up before CultureFest in 2012. CultureFest is an annual event that takes place during Welcome Week where students can enjoy food, entertainment and learn about different groups at IU.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY BRYAN VAN DER BEEK

2008 Cadet Kristine Bucklew belays for cadet Rosemarie Hirata during an exercise in rappelling. The training session was held by the Indiana University Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), which prepares college students to become officers in the U.S. Army.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

1949 Members of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority work on decorations for the 1949 Homecoming. The annual homecoming celebration takes place each October and includes a parade, football game, returning alumni and more.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

2008 Then-sophomore Brittany Uphus shares a kiss with her boyfriend Sterling May at the Rose Well House on Valentine’s Day in 2008. May, a member of the Navy, was scheduled to leave for boot camp six days later. It’s a tradition to share a kiss with your significant other at midnight on Valentine’s Day in the Rose Well House.

IU ARCHIVES

1949 Raymond L. Reed poses with books in 1949. Reed received a bachelor’s degree in 1948 and a medical degree in 1953.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY TRINITY MACKENZIE

2026 A graduate talks on her phone at the undergraduate commencement on May 9, 2026, at Memorial Stadium. Many graduates decorate their caps for the event. This cap refers to a quote by Indiana football head coach Curt Cignetti after he was hired by IU in 2023: “It’s pretty simple. I win. Google me.”

IDS FILE PHOTO BY KYLE KANIA

2008 The IU Indian Student Association celebrates the Hindu New Year, Diwali, in 2008 at Jackson Creek Middle School in Bloomington. Festivities included dancing and an Indian banquet. Students can find a diverse range of groups to join at beinvolved.indiana.edu.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

1973 Students lounge and share M&Ms in their dorm laundry room in 1973. Students are required to live on campus during their first year at IU.

IU ARCHIVES

1965 Little 500 Festival Queen Cassandra Lee Kamp poses with a phone in 1965. Before cell phones, landline phones were the only way for students to make calls.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY ETHAN LEVY

2021 Members of the Marching Hundred run onto the field for their pregame show prior to the football game against Idaho on Sept. 11, 2021, at Memorial Stadium. Indiana defeated the University of Idaho 56-14. The Marching Hundred began as a 22-piece band in 1896.

IDS FILE PHOTO BY ANNA BROWN

2019 Then-junior DeAndre Crenshaw takes a selfie with the statue of George Taliaferro on Nov. 1, 2019, in front of Memorial Stadium. Crenshaw attended the dedication ceremony because he loves football. Taliaferro was a legendary athlete at IU in the 1940s and was the first Black player drafted into the NFL.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

1958 For decades, you could recognize what group or club some students belonged to based on what kind of cap members wore. Members of the Flame Club, for instance, wore light beanies.

1996 Then-junior Shanla Sponhauer and then-sophomore Melissa Shikany exchange a tearful embrace during the 1996 Dance Marathon, an annual event that raises money for Riley Hospital for Children, Sponhauer worked as a morale captain planning activities for the dancers. That year, students raised $152,760. In 2025, students raised more than $3 million.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO BY KEVIN STUART

COLUMN: The ultimate bucket list for IU students

Here’s a list of everything you need to do while you’re at IU

By Briana Pace bjpace@iu.edu

I just finished four years at Indiana University, and while I did almost everything I wanted to do during my time here, there are a few things I missed. Make sure you don’t make the same mistake with this bucket list:

• Tailgate before a football game : Listen, you don’t even need a car. My sophomore year my friends and I dragged a wagon full of chairs, a folding table, food and drinks to the tailgating fields and had a great time hanging out before the game.

• G o to a football game: The Hoosiers are flippin’ champs! Even if you just go to a non-conference game or you only go once, it will still be fun.

• Jump in Showalter fountain : During Welcome Week, many freshmen jump in the fountain, but I never did because people told me that I’d get ringworm. After graduation however, my friends and I all got into the fountain and none of us have ringworm. Take it from someone that was worried about the possibility and trust that you’ll be fine, so jump in the fountain.

• Eat at different restaurants on Fourth Street: There’s Thai, Bur-

mese, Cajun, Greek, Tibetan, Indian and many more cuisines offered on Fourth Street. While there are many great options, if you can only try one, you have to eat at Siam House.

• Attend a basketball game : Our basketball teams may not be the talk of the town like they used to be, but people are excited about the transfers we have. Even if you go to a game and we lose, Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is still an iconic place that you need to visit at least once.

• Visit Griffy Lake : Just a short drive from campus, Griffy Lake offers a quiet escape from town. I love to sit and watch the sunset behind the trees on the lake and if you’re interested in hiking, they also have many trails for you to try.

• G o shopping on Kirkwood: There are so many good shops, especially for IU gear. My personal favorite is Greetings, a store that offers lots of reasonably priced IU merch that’s perfect for a gameday outfit or adding a little school spirit into your home.

• Tr y Bruster’s Real Ice Cream : This is hands down the best ice cream in Bloomington. People might say Chocolate Moose this or Hartzell’s that — no. It’s Bruster’s all the way. Although it is way out on the

east side of town past the mall, it’s so worth it. They do close for the winter, usually around Thanksgiving, and open back up right before spring break.

• Study in the Indiana Memorial Union’s South Lounge: This space has a cozy, quiet atmosphere, and during my time at IU, I loved sitting at one of the desks by myself and studying under a table lamp. Starbucks is right there too, so you can grab a snack or drink if you need something to get you through studying.

• G o to a men’s soccer game: The men’s soccer team doesn’t get the love they deserve. They have won eight national championships, the most of any sport at IU, and all regular-season games are free for students.

• Attend the women’s Little 500 race: I have found that the women’s race is so much more fun than the men’s. There is so much more energy at the women’s race. Everyone is so excited to watch their friends race, but at the men’s, they take it so seriously it seems like they’re forgetting to have fun. So, if you can only make it to one, go to the women’s.

• Take a photo in front of Sample Gates: You just have to. It’s iconic for a reason.

• Go to a group exercise class at the Student Recreational Sports Center: I wish I started going to SRSC classes sooner. My favorite was a cycling class, lit only by black lights. Not only are they completely free for students, but there are so many to choose from every day. The class schedule is available on the Recreational Sports website.

• Go to the bars once you turn 21: You need to, at least once, wake up super early for Breakfast Club at Kilroy’s or Upstairs, play Sink the Biz at Nick’s, go to a concert at the Bluebird, dance at the Jungle in Kilroy’s Sports, sing karaoke at Root Cellar and spend an afternoon soaking up the sun on Upstairs’ patio.

• See a Broadway show at the IU Auditorium: I saw Les Misérables and Kinky Boots there. Both were phenomenal, and there are often student discount tickets. The 20262027 schedule has not been released yet, but it is usually released around the middle of May. All the shows and dates will be available on IU Auditorium’s website.

• Eat at BuffaLouie’s at The Gables: They really are worth the hype. Comedian Caleb Hearon even said he ate there before his event at the IU Auditorium in April. My favorite is the buffalo chicken salad but with honey garlic sauce instead of buffalo.

BRIANA PACE | IDS

Indiana football fans wave towels as they cheer on the Hoosiers during a game against Illinois on Sept. 20, 2025, at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington. The Hoosiers won the 2026 College Football Playoff National

Learn IU’s school songs!

Indiana, Our Indiana Hail to Old IU

Indiana, Our Indiana

Indiana, we’re all for you

We will fight for the Cream & Crimson,

For the glory of Old IU

Never daunted, we cannot falter

In the battle, we’re tried and true

Indiana, Our Indiana

Indiana, we’re all for you!

Come and join in song together,

Shout with might and main;

Our beloved Alma Mater, Sound her praise again.

Gloriana Frangipana, E’er to her be true.

She’s the pride of Indiana, Hail to Old IU!

Looking for research experience in a supportive, collaborative environment?

Apply now to our Emerging Scholars Research Experience for first-year and second-year students! No experience necessary.

Who’s who: Meet the statues on campus

By Mateo Fuentes-Rohwer matfuent@iu.edu

I’ve lived in Bloomington my whole life, but rarely did I stroll around the Indiana University campus. That obviously changed when I became a freshman at IU in fall 2023, yet my lack of experience on campus led to little knowledge about the people who stand — or sit — for eternity.

As a townie, it’s disheartening. But I’m here to impart the knowledge I wish I had when I became a Hoosier, so you don’t have to be embarrassed.

Herman B Wells

Sitting on a park bench with a golden hand outstretched for a handshake, Herman B Wells has welcomed Hoosiers since the statue’s creation in 2000. He’s situated next to the Rose Well House in the Old Crescent part of campus, and his hand has developed rust since legend says shaking it brings good luck.

Wells held the office of the presidency at IU from 1938-1962 and became the university’s first chancellor — a position created

for him — from 1962 until his death in 2000.

As president, Wells oversaw IU’s increased student body from 11,000 in 1938 to 31,000 in 1962, and he’s often credited with transforming the university into a world-class institution.

George Taliaferro

Indiana football's first conference title came in 1945 — George Taliaferro’s first season on the team. He forever remains running in George Taliaferro Plaza outside Memorial Stadium, where he’s been since 2019.

Taliaferro was a three-time All-American with IU, and in 1949, he became the first African American player to be drafted in the NFL. His success transitioned to the pros, where he made the Pro Bowl three times from 1951-53.

Hoagy Carmichael

A Bloomington native, Hoagy Carmichael has played his piano in the northeast corner of the IU Auditorium since 2008. Carmichael is an IU alumnus best known for composing “Stardust,” “Heart and Soul”

and “Georgia on My Mind.” He won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1951 for his song, “In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening.”

John Mellencamp

Adjacent to Carmichael and his piano is John Mellencamp, whose statue joined the Bloomington campus in 2024. Mellencamp is a Seymour, Indiana, native and IU honorary alumnus. The 2008 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee’s best-known songs include “Jack and Diane,” “Small Town” and “Hurts So Good.”

Elinor Ostrom

Residing on a park bench just like Wells, Elinor Ostrom welcomes people to join her for a seat behind Woodburn Hall. The statue was commemorated in 2020 for Ostrom, who cemented herself in history for becoming the first woman to win the Nobel Memorial Prize for Economic Sciences in 2009. Ostrom was a faculty member at IU for 47 years, and her statue stands — or sits — alone as the only one dedicated to a woman on IU’s campus.

Ernie Pyle

Just outside Franklin Hall and the Media School sits Ernie Pyle, writing at a makeshift desk wearing clothes fit for the front lines. Pyle never graduated from IU as he dropped out during his junior year to pursue a career in reporting, but he was a summer editor-in-chief of the Indiana Daily Student, and his desk remains in the newsroom inside Franklin Hall. His work as a war correspondent brought him to the European and the Pacific Theater during World War II, and he won the Pulitzer Prize in 1944. Pyle was killed by enemy fire in 1945 at the age of 44.

Alfred Kinsey

In 2022, IU installed an Alfred Kinsey statue to honor the 75th anniversary of the institute bearing the same name. Kinsey is known for his work studying human sexuality, including two books that are known as the “Kinsey Reports.”

A white seat is situated next to Kinsey, welcoming a visitor to sit and talk with him. At night, Kinsey’s chair and code sheet light up, as if Kinsey himself is still studying the person opposite him.

CHLOE LAVELLE | IDS

The Herman B Wells statue, pictured March 29, 2026, located near Sample Gates, is a tribute to IU’s 11th president made by Harold “Tuck” Langland and was unveiled in October 2000. The statue is meant to demonstrate Wells’ bright personality.

By Sean Gilley spgilley@iu.edu | @spgilley729

Herman B Wells was the 11th president and first chancellor of Indiana University, but he was more than that. Wells served the university, its faculty and its students in many different capacities to transform a once small and locally focused college into a nationally ranked and accredited institution.

Born on June 7, 1902, Wells was very active in his high school, where he was voted “Funniest” and “Best All-Around Boy”. He served as the treasurer for his high school’s yearbook, wrote for the school newspaper and took part in theater productions and various fundraisers.

Wells initially attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign before transferring to Indiana University Bloomington after his freshman year. He then went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in commerce in 1924 and, later, a master’s degree in economics, also from IU.

He began teaching economics at IU in 1930 until then-IU president William Lowe Bryan appointed Wells as dean of what would become the Kelley School of Business. Wells was Bryan’s protégé and would later succeed

Who was Herman B Wells?

him as the university’s president in 1937 following Bryan’s unexpected departure.

It was under Wells’ presidency that the university expanded and prospered. Through his lobbying efforts in Congress and Indiana’s State Legislature, as well as his fundraising campaigns among alumni and local businesses, he was able to undertake what he considered the “greatest single period of expansion” in the history of the university, according to his autobiography.

Wells led the development of 15 new buildings, attracted a large cohort of new faculty and budding scholars, broadened university arts and science programs and developed the university’s international study programs. Following the end of World War II, Wells also fought to end institutional segregation, to advance academic and intellectual freedom and to protect the local environment on and around campus.

After his retirement as president in 1962, Wells was appointed to the specially created position of chancellor. He held this position — overseeing special projects, fundraising and advising the university — until his death in 2000. Although no longer with us, the fruit of his labor will continue to bloom long into the future.

IU ARCHIVES

Herman B Wells sits at his desk in 1959. Wells served in many roles at IU, including president. He was appointed president of the university in 1937 and served in that role until 1962, becoming one of Bloomington’s most beloved figures. He was appointed chancellor after retiring, and served the university until his death in 2000.

How to settle in when you’re far from home

By Ursula Stickelmaier ustickel@iu.edu

Starting college can be a fun and exciting chapter in life for any student. But unfamiliar routines, new faces and living away from home can also bring an unexpected sense of loneliness and homesickness.

Although homesickness is a common feeling for many students, there are plenty of things you can do to help combat that feeling once you get to college. Here are some of my favorite ways to feel close to home when you’re living far away.

Make your room feel like home

One of the best methods I’ve found to deal with my homesickness is by using decor to make my space feel cozier. There are lots of ways you can do this, such as bringing your favorite throw blankets from home to decorate your bed or hanging cute posters on your wall.

Putting photos on the wall of my friends and family back home has worked best for

me. When I first moved into my dorm room freshman year, one of the first things I unpacked was an envelope full of photos to hang up. They served as a nice reminder of all the people I loved and helped combat the occasional longing I would feel by bringing a little bit of home to me.

No matter how you choose to decorate, making your dorm feel more like your safe space is one of the easiest ways to combat homesickness while you’re at school.

Keep yourself busy with clubs

One of the worst things you can do as a new student is let yourself wallow in loneliness. Joining clubs and organizations around campus can be a great way to combat your homesickness while also getting to know new people and keeping active. I have joined plenty of organizations since coming to IU, and they’ve all played a massive role in helping me find my place and people at school.

You can find a list of clubs on the IU Hoosier Life website under Student Organizations or on IU’s beINvolved site. IU also runs

a Student Involvement Fair during Welcome Week, where students can walk around and talk to representatives from various campus clubs.

Whatever you’re interested in, there is sure to be a community waiting for you. The more connected you feel on campus, the easier it will be to adjust to life away from home and finding your people is just the first step.

Keep in touch with your hometown friends

Going to college doesn’t mean cutting ties with everyone from home. In fact, I’ve found that keeping in touch with my friends from home is a great way to prevent homesickness. Whether that means the occasional call or just a quick text when I see something that reminds me of them, this time with my friends helps remind me that home isn’t as far away as it might feel.

It’s also a great reminder that I’m not the only one feeling homesick. I have plenty of friends that also moved out of state for college and experience moments where they miss home too. When you have the chance

to talk with people that have known you for years and you get to work through those emotions together, it’s a reminder that you aren’t alone.

Explore Bloomington

If you want Bloomington to feel like home, you need to get to know it better. This can mean trying new restaurants, walking around the square or attending various events in town. Not only does exploring town help you get familiar with the place you’re about to call home, but getting out of your room and going outside can help reduce any loneliness you might be feeling.

Especially for freshmen, it can be easy to keep yourself in the confines of campus, but Bloomington has so much more to offer. Even if it’s just for a short walk down Kirkwood Avenue or a weekly study session in a local coffee shop, I encourage you to explore town as much as you can. If you feel like Bloomington is a place you can call your second home, being away from your first home won’t feel so difficult.

ILLUSTRATION BY CHLOE LAVELLE

An out-of-stater’s guide to Bloomington

By Jonathan Frey jonafrey@iu.edu

Known as the “Crossroads of America”, Indiana is a state in a weird purgatory between the south and the Midwest with tons of east coast cultural influence. They call New York the melting pot of cultures, but don’t overlook Indiana — and specifically Bloomington — as a place that both plays host to and is influenced by a myriad of cultures.

Whether you’re a born-and-bred Midwesterner from Minnesota like myself or a transplant from Bangladesh or Belarus, coming to a new place and embedding yourself in a new culture is an extraordinarily hard thing to do. But as someone who has planted roots in three states and a foreign country throughout my life, I can promise you there are ways to make this place your home without losing your individuality.

Your crowd is here; don’t give up on looking

During my freshman year, I became convinced I would never find my people. I came to college with a very strong and insular friend group from home, and it seemed impossible to find people who I related to as much as I did with my Minnesota friends. I thought I

would either have to change who I was in my heart or go through college totally alone.

I was wrong.

I joined two student organizations and really started participating in them in my sophomore year. One was the producer of the magazine you’re reading right now. I learned that people really would accept me as I was, and even though I didn’t grow up with them, I share more in common with them than a lot of people I left at home.

Whatever it is you like, and whoever it is you are, there are people here for you. In this town more than most, you can find what you’re looking for and you don’t have to look too hard to do it.

Politically invested? The IU College Republicans and College Democrats are wellrespected chapters statewide, and there are plenty of niche political organizers who host events across campus. Musically inclined? The local scene in Bloomington is diverse, and acts of all genres can find places to play without too much trouble. Interested in charity, partying or both? Bloomington has an active and influential Greek life scene.

Never assume nobody will get you. Someone always does.

Find a local haunt

Third places are always important, but perhaps never more than when you move to a new place. Dorm life can feel suffocating, and the daily grind of classes can drain you. Under those circumstances, it can prove difficult to find the time and desire to go out and see the city.

My best advice to combat any homebody tendencies is to find a place off campus where you can sit down and do what you need to do. There are plenty of coffee shops and cafes downtown and on the south and east sides; pick your favorite and stick to it.

When you force yourself to go somewhere off the beaten path every day, you forge a new path. You’ll find yourself stopping into new stores or admiring natural beauty you hadn’t noticed before, and little by little, you’ll expand your mental map beyond campus. The bigger a place is, the easier it is to make parts of it feel like your own space.

Learn the bus schedule

This might seem obvious, but learning how to use the public transit in Bloomington will open your world to so much more. Mobility is the opposite of confinement, and there is no better way to mobilize yourself than by

using the bus.

Granted, you can walk or bike anywhere in town if you budget the time. I’ve walked from my eastside apartment to downtown and back countless times. In fact, I advise biking and walking around whenever you have the time. Touch some grass.

But the buses are extremely efficient, and IU students can ride them for free. Once you learn how to get anywhere on campus quickly, you open yourself to social gatherings and events that you might have skipped otherwise.

Specifically, a lot of club leaders are upperclassmen who live on the south, north or east side of town. Going to club social events is a great way to meet friends and find out what you like or don’t like, and there’s the added benefit of scouting future neighborhoods once you move out of the dorms. Bus stops like the one on Third Street and Eagleson Avenue or on Indiana Avenue by the Sample Gates host routes that can take you where you need to go and probably aren’t too far out of your way.

Knowing the bus routes also teaches you the geography of the city, and once you know how to get yourself from place to place without looking at a map, you go from a Bloomington visitor to a real resident.

KATHERINE MANERS | IDS

An all-electric Bloomington Transit bus drives down 10th Street on Aug. 30, 2025, in Bloomington. IU students can ride city buses for free.

IU Admin 101: Who runs Indiana University?

By Emerson Elledge eelledge@iu.edu

When first arriving at Indiana University, you will hear a lot of names that you don’t know, especially regarding IU administration. Names and roles will be thrown around as if they are common knowledge, and you might begin to feel overwhelmed.

Fear not, because this guide will cover the figures who will be most relevant in your education. Here’s a list of some of the most important people in the administration.

The Board of Trustees

The trustees are the legal owners and final authority of the university. Each trustee traditionally serves a three-year term, except for the student trustee, who serves for one year. Trustees cannot serve more than three terms.

There are nine members of IU’s Board of Trustees, and they meet four times a year to discuss new university-wide policies. The members are selected by the Indiana governor, following a state budget last year which resulted in the removal of the board’s three alumni-elected members.

President Pamela Whitten

Whitten has served as president since July 2021, the first woman to do so in IU's history. She oversees all nine campuses and sits on the boards of IU Health and the IU Founda-

tion. Her base salary is $1 million, after a February raise.

She helped create IU Indianapolis after its separation from Purdue University in Indianapolis.

Whitten works directly with the trustees.

Chancellor David Reingold

is IU Bloomington’s first chancellor since 2006. Whitten hired Reingold in early 2025 from Purdue University. Reingold oversees finance and administration, student life, community engagement, campus research, creative activities and enrollment management, in addition to the Office of the Provost. Reingold functionally serves as the head of the flagship location, only underneath Whitten and the Board of Trustees.

Ciorciari became interim provost in February 2026 after the sudden departure of previous Provost Rahul Shrivastav.

Ciociari’s role as provost includes serving as chief academic officer for IU Bloomington and leading academic operations, faculty affairs, ensuring compliance with university policies and overseeing strategic planning.

There are a number of other high-ranking administrators at IU, but these four are the most important for you to know.

IUB

Reingold

Interim Provost John Ciorciari

FILE PHOTO | IDS

The IU Board of Trustees sits during a meeting June 13, 2024, at Henke Hall of Champions in Bloomington. The Board of Trustees are the owners of IU and final authority on university decisions.

TRINITY MACKENZIE | IDS

Indiana University president Pamela Whitten speaks during undergraduate commencement May 9, 2026, at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington. Whitten was welcomed with a mixed reaction from the crowd.

ZOE REED | IDS

Indiana University Bloomington Chancellor David Reingold delivers the State of the Campus address April 7, 2026, inside Presidents Hall in Bloomington. Reingold spoke on faculty excellence and campus developments.

JIMMY RUSH | IDS

John Ciorciari is pictured during a Bloomington Faculty Council meeting Feb. 10, 2026, inside Franklin Hall in Bloomington. Ciorciari was named interim provost at IU Bloomington.

By IDS Staff editor@idsnews.com

What is IUSG?

What to know about student government

Founded in 1912 as a student council, the group was dedicated to “student welfare and self-governance.” Having undergone several transformations since its creation, the student organization was known as the IU Student Association (IUSA) for nearly 45 years before adopting the name IUSG in 2018.

As stated in the preamble to its constitution, “IUSG exists to give voice to our common grievances, concerns, and hopes, and to take action to realize an ever-stronger University. We work to protect student rights, enrich student life, and improve Indiana University.”

What do they do?

Just like the US federal government, IUSG has three branches – the Executive, the Student Body Congress and the Student Body Supreme Court.

The Executive Branch is made up of the student body president and vice president, who campaign together in the spring dur-

ing an election all students can vote in. Their administration includes a chief of staff, executive secretary, congressional secretary and several departments, offices, and executive advisory groups, including the student rights department, grants management office and the multicultural advisory council.

Members of Student Body Congress are the policy makers. Among many other responsibilities, the congress reviews the student body president’s cabinet and judicial nominees and passes the IUSG Budget Act each spring, in which they determine how their six-figure annual revenue will be spent. The money comes from a portion of the Student Activity Fee, which all students are required to pay each semester. The branch is led by the speaker, then congressional press secretary, recorder and parliamentarian.

The supreme court is led by one chief justice and 10 associate justices. According to their website, justices work “on behalf of students to keep elections honest, represent the student voice on university committees, and hear cases from the university judicial system.”

Legislation and programs put into action previously by IUSG include free emergency

contraception at the IU Student Health Center, a mock exam day — offering free proctored mock exams for the LSAT, MCAT, DAT and GRE — and the calculator loaner program.

Several IUSG students are also appointed to serve on university committees where they participate in shared governance, meaning students provide insight into university decisions alongside faculty, staff and administrators. Committees include the Hazing Prevention Coalition, IUB Substance Use Coalition and the Climate Action Plan Implementation Committee.

Who represents me?

The EMPOWER Administration — Student Body President Alexa Avellaneda-Yonamine and Student Body Vice President Anna Sofia Nguyen Loeb — took office in April and will serve for one year. They campaigned on three pillars.

As for congress, there are 20 elected student representatives from academic districts and 20 elected from residential districts. This means there are a certain number of students who represent each school and students who represent each of the

three neighborhoods on campus, as well as Greek life housing, on-campus apartments and off-campus living. The number of seats per district is determined by student population.

There are also multicultural representatives appointed by their organization, including the Indonesian Student Association, Multicultural Greek Council and the Muslim Student Association.

Representatives serve one-year terms.

How do I get involved?

IUSG holds general elections in both fall and spring, which all students can vote in through BeINvolved. Details on the fall 2025 general election are not yet available. Students are also encouraged to apply for any vacant congressional seats, both residential and academic, which were not filled during elections.

Freshman can be paired with an IUSG executive branch member to shadow and work toward implementing a project of their own through the First-Year Internship Program.

More information on IUSG can be found at iustudentgovernment.indiana.edu.

MAJOR IN SOCIOLOGY

By IDS Staff editor@idsnews.com

A brief history of Indiana University

In 1820, IU was founded as a state seminary. At the time, a seminary typically referred to a place of general learning, and not necessarily a religious institution. Classes began with an enrollment of 10 male students on April 4, 1825, with only ancient Greek and Latin being taught. In 1828 it was renamed from “state seminary” to “Indiana College,” and in 1838 it adopted its permanent title of “Indiana University.”

Baynard Rush Hall was the first professor to teach classes in 1825. In 1829, Andrew Wylie became the first IU president. During this time, he established a curriculum for the school and introduced a form of faculty government which was progressive, realistic and led to amicable student-faculty relations. Wylie Hall is named after him and currently houses the department of economics

In 1886, IU created the men’s football team. After a rocky start and many losses, the team began to improve in 1895 when they had their first winning season at 4-3. In 1899, Indiana and Iowa joined The Western Conference, now the Big Ten Conference, which was formed in 1896. The “Old Oaken Bucket,” a trophy for the victor between rivals IU and Purdue, made its first appearance during the IU-Purdue football game in 1925. The game ended in a 0-0 tie. The Seventeenth Street Stadium, now known as Indiana Memorial Stadium, was completed in 1960, giving the IU football team a new home stadium to play in.

The men’s basketball team was founded in 1896 and has since won five NCAA championships, tying for third in the NCAA in total championship wins. The banners hang in Assembly Hall on 17th street, the most recent one being from their 1987 victory over Syracuse. The women’s basketball team was formed in 1972. They started hot with multiple successful seasons leading to invitations to the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women’s 16-team National Championship tournament.

Other notable IU sports history moments include:

• The men’s wrestling team won the NCAA championship in 1932, giving IU their first NCAA title.

• The first Little 500 bike race in 1951.

• The men’s swimming team won 20consecutive Big Ten championships starting in 1961, along with six NCAA championships.

• The women’s Tennis team won the AIAW championship in 1982, giving

IU their first national women’s title.

Many notable figures have shaped IU into the campus it is today. The IU Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center is named after Marcellus Neal and Frances Marshall, the first Black male and female students to graduate from IU. Neal graduated in 1895 and Marshall later on in 1919.

In 1938, Herman B Wells became the 11th president of IU. Wells made a huge impact on IU, increasing its student body from 11,000 students in 1938 to more than 31,000 in 1962. He was also very involved in student life, frequently greeting students on his walks through campus. Wells transformed IU into an internationally recognized center of research, not only bolstering the student population but also encouraging many reputable figures to join faculty.

A statue of Wells was installed in 2000 to commemorate his accomplishments and

impact on the university. It’s tradition at IU to shake the statue’s hand before the semester or an exam, supposedly granting students academic success. It is located in the west part of campus near the Student Building.

Ernie Pyle, a former IU journalism student, won the Pulitzer Prize for Correspondence in 1944 for his work as a World War II correspondent. Pyle also earned an honorary degree of humane letters in 1944 which was the first honorary degree given by IU. He has a statue as well located outside of Franklin Hall.

Hoagy Carmichael, IU alumnus and composer was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971 for his inventive and adventurous songwriting. Additionally, he was awarded an honorary doctorate in music from IU in 1972, and his song “Chimes of Indiana” was adopted by the alumni asso-

ciation in 1978 as an alma mater song. Charmichael has a statue on campus near the IU Auditorium.

IU’s campus is full of historical buildings and architecture. Named for donor Edson Sample, the Sample Gates were built in 1987 and serve as an entrance to the oldest part of campus known as the Old Crescent. The Old Crescent is the area between Third Street and Indiana Avenue that holds the oldest buildings on IU Bloomington’s campus. Some of the buildings in the area include Wylie Hall, Owen Hall, Rose Well House, Frances Morgan Swain Student Building, Franklin Hall, Kirkwood Hall, Lindley Hall and Swain Hall East.

IU has a robust history full of many notable figures, beautiful buildings and traditions unique to the university. Make sure to take it all in and learn as much as you can about the beautiful campus in your time here!

IDS FILE PHOTO

The IU Kelley School of Business is pictured Jan. 29, 2026, at 1275 E 10th St. in Bloomington.

Get to know these IU urban legends

By Madelyn Hanes mrhanes@iu.edu

Legends are told across the world. Indiana University holds many of them. Here is a list of rumors you may hear around campus.

Showalter Fountain Fish

The fountain that sits right in the heart of campus was gifted in memory of Ralph W. Showalter, and encourages the campus to remember the importance of the fine arts. Many of the fish have disappeared and gone missing. While most of the fish have been reinstalled, it is rumored, that Bob Knight, former basketball coach, has one of the fish. After winning a championship game, the men’s basketball team allegedly stole some of the fish and gave one to Bob Knight.

Wells Library Sinking

It is rumored that the Herman B. Wells Library has been slowly sinking since it was opened in 1969. Legend says that the architects didn’t realize how much the books would weigh that were stored. The library was built on Limestone that will likely never go under, but it is still rumored that one day the library will sink.

IU underground “tunnels”

Walking around campus you will notice much steam coming from the ground. That is because a tunnel system is placed under campus to carry steam lines for air conditioning. It is said that some IU students have taken the underground tunnels to get to class quicker and came out with just a few scratches and burns.

Girl in the yellow nightgown

It is reported that the spirit of a girl in a yellow nightgown haunts the underground tunnels after she was strangled by her boyfriend and thrown into the tunnel. It is rumored that she lurks on campus, specifically at Read dorm looking for her revenge.

Elephant who roams IU

In early times, trains transporting goods would stop in Bloomington. One train carrying an elephant bound for the circus was severely injured in the process of stopping. The only option for the elephant was euthanization. It is said that the body of an elephant was given to IU, but after it randomly disappeared, rumor spread that it was hidden in the underground tunnels.

LILY WELCH | IDS

Showalter Fountain stands without its iconic fish sculptures on April 21, 2026. The fountain’s disappearing fish are one of many IU legends and mysteries.

By Hope Bernard hbernar@iu.edu

COLUMN: Get to know 5 of IU’s most distinguished alumni

IU’s alumni network of over 805,000 living alumni spans 165 countries, making it the single largest living alumni community in the country. With such an impressive network, it is no wonder that many alumni have achieved remarkable success. Here are just five of IU’s most distinguished alumni:

Mark Cuban

After graduating from IU’s Kelley School of Business in 1981, Mark Cuban established himself as a successful multidisciplinary entrepreneur. Cuban first made billions by cofounding the internet radio company Broadcast.com, which he later sold to Yahoo! for over $5.7 billion.

Cuban purchased the National Basketball Association’s Dallas Mavericks in 2000 and helped the team win their first NBA championship in 2011. Cuban has been credited with directly contributing to the team’s success by revamping its working conditions and using data analytics to assess team strategy.

You might know Cuban best for his role in the hit show “Shark Tank,” in which he and other entrepreneurs decide whether to invest in start-up companies. Cuban’s techfocused outlook and emphasis on the longterm goals of each company have made him a bold but successful investor.

Cuban has donated millions toward IU academics and athletics. He also funds the Mark Cuban Center for Sports Media and Technology at IU. He has made several large donations to other student media organizations, such as the Indiana Daily Student.

Suzanne Collins

Best known for her book series “The Hunger Games,” Suzanne Collins graduated from IU in 1985, where she double majored in theater and telecommunications and became heavily involved in campus radio and theater.

Collins first wrote for the children’s television show “Hi Honey, I’m Home” and was a novelist for a series of children’s fantasy books called “The Underland Chronicles.” She later transitioned to more intense themes present in her series “The Hunger Games,” where Collins was inspired by her father’s involvement in the Vietnam War.

Michael Uslan

During Michael Uslan’s time at IU, he first received a Bachelor of Arts in History in 1973. After that, he received a Master of Science in Urban Education in 1975, and a Juris

Doctor in Law the following year. He also created and taught the first accredited college course on comic books at IU.

After purchasing and securing the film rights to the “Batman” franchise in 1979, Uslan developed a darker interpretation of the classic story of Batman. His version takes a more serious and gritty approach to the character than its previous campy renditions. Under Uslan’s stewardship, Batman has become an established superhero and a serious franchise with name value rivaled by few.

Since 1989, Uslan has worked as the executive producer for over 50 Batman-related films. As a current IU Media School professor of practice, Uslan teaches students about the business of filmmaking through classes like “The Business of Producing Motion Pictures.”

I attended the Student Cinema Guild’s Oct. 6 event where Uslan answered film-related questions and, as someone majoring in cinematic arts, hearing his thoughts on the reality of the film industry was insightful and interesting.

Jamie Hyneman

Hyneman graduated from IU in 1981 with a degree in Russian language and linguistics. With an oddly diverse job background as a boat captain, animal wrangler and special effects technician, his ability to create props and movie robots landed him a position as co-host in the Discovery Channel series “MythBusters.”

In “MythBusters,” Hyneman acted as the calm partner to Adam Savage, allowing them to use his workshop to safely test out myths. For example, the duo tested if eating poppy seeds before a drug test could result in a false positive or whether an escape from Alcatraz with a makeshift raincoat raft was really possible.

“MythBusters” was essential in shaping my childhood interest in science, so I was surprised to find out that the co-host of one of my favorite shows as a kid happened to be an IU student just like me.

Jimmy Wales

Jimmy Wales is best known for co-founding the digital encyclopedia Wikipedia, a nonprofit

platform that allows users to access a wide range of information for free.

After leaving before he could receive a doctoral degree from the University of Alabama, Wales pursued a doctoral degree in Finance at IU. He later worked as a finance instructor during his time in the doctoral program. Wales then left IU to become a financial trader in Chicago.

After working as a trader for Chicago Options Associates, Wales began his journey with internet entrepreneurship. He now serves as Chair Emeritus for the Wikimedia Foundation and speaks about the complicated use of AI, as well as other issues concerning the digital future.

IU’s alumni network includes many influential people in various fields, many of whom, such as Mark Cuban and Michael Uslan, have used their growth and economic stability to provide academic resources and classes to IU students. But to me, the most inspiring aspect of the IU alumni network is how its vastness creates a community of supment for every Hoosier.

TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE | IDS

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban speaks to reporters after the Mavericks beat the Denver Nuggets on March 11, 2020, at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

By Theo Hawkins sohawkin@iu.edu | @bytheohawkins

Where to find academic resources

Every student, whether they’re totally new to college or pursuing a master’s degree, needs help sometimes. The best thing to do is to reach out for support. Fortunately, IU students have access to a number of academic resources that can help students succeed.

Academic Support Center and tutoring

The Academic Support Center serves as a free academic resource in IU residence halls and culture centers. The ASC offers online and in-person individual or group tutoring, workshops, review sessions and other services.

The ASC is primarily located in Briscoe, Forest and Teter residence halls, with satellite locations inside La Casa Latino Cultural Center, the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center and 300 N Eagleson Ave. across from the Neal-Marshall Center. Students interested in ASC tutoring may visit academicsupport.indiana.edu/tutoring-services to view specifics on drop-in subject area support and may also email acadsupp@iu.edu for more information. The ASC also helps direct students toward other academic support re-

sources on campus.

Students looking for more subject-specific tutoring services may also visit tutoring. indiana.edu to search for course tutoring, or search for resources through specific academic departments.

Writing Tutorial Services

Writing Tutorial Services provides students with free one-on-one or group support for all kinds of academic writing, including essays, research papers, cover letters, scholarship applications and more. WTS also hosts a drop-in undergraduate writing group at its Wells Library location and provides guides for a variety of writing skills on its website.

WTS is located on the first floor of the Learning Commons in the Wells Library with secondary locations inside the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, La Casa Latino Cultural Center, 300 N Eagleson Ave., Briscoe Quad, Teter Quad and Forest Quad. More WTS information can be found online at wts. indiana.edu or requested via email at wts@ indiana.edu.

Advising and Major Exploration Services

All students are assigned advisors

through their major and other programs, but may speak to academic advisors from other departments or at AMES at any time. Advisors at AMES are always available to help students with navigating their major, finding and moving to a new major and other transitions such as transferring or returning to IU. AMES is also responsible for the Majors, Minors, and More fair near the beginning of each semester, where students can visit booths to learn about a variety of academic opportunities.

AMES is located at Forest, Teter and Briscoe residence halls as well as the Wells Library. Pre-Nursing, Pre-Business and Exploratory students are automatically assigned advisors at AMES, but all students may make an appointment with an AMES advisor through the Student Appointment Scheduler in One.IU. More information about AMES can be found at ames.indiana. edu.

Student Academic Center

The Student Academic Center offers resources to help people become better students. This includes classes such as EDUC-X

“Becoming a Better Student”; coaching on habits and skills, such as organization, time-

management and test-taking; and Peer Assisted Study Sessions (or PASS) with other undergraduates who previously excelled in a class.

The Student Academic Center is located inside the Student Central building at 408 N Union St. More information can be found online at sac.indiana.edu.

Accessibility Support (web/tech accessibility and AES)

Students seeking accessibility support may find it through University Information Technology Services and the office of Accessible Educational Services.

UITS offers a number of resources for students to better access computer-based materials. This includes assistive hardware, such as specialized keyboards, and software, such as dictation software. UITS consultants are also available to speak to students about course accessibility, developing a remediation plan, coordinating accessible resources with professors and more. More information can be found at uits.indiana. edu/services/accessibility, over the phone at 812-855-6789, via email at ithelp@iu.edu or the UITS office on the fourth floor of the Wells Library.

Here’s how to stay on top of your schedule

Schedule advice from an anxious, procrastinating student

By Zoe Reed reedzoe@iu.edu

College is the first time many students are fully in charge of their own schedules — no parents to help and no curfews to abide by. That freedom is what brings many teenagers to college and what helped me decide to choose a school three hours away from home.

But that freedom has also led to missed deadlines and all-nighters. Here are four things I wish I’d known sooner to stay on top of my schedule.

Write it down

It may seem obvious, but when I finally started doing this my second year at IU, my work ethic changed. Every day, I take a sticky note and write down what I need to do, setting alarms on my phone for anything with a specific due date.

Whether it’s a planner, a notes app or

sticky notes on your desk, writing down assignments and deadlines makes them harder to ignore. At the start of each semester, go through your syllabi and add major deadlines right away. That way, nothing sneaks up on you.

Color-coding by class can also help you quickly spot what needs attention. Setting phone alarms for due dates and class times is a great way to turn a chore into a routine.

Build in breaks and rewards

I am an avid procrastinator. Up until my sophomore year, I would wait until the very last minute to work on a project, potentially staying up for hours to finish an assignment.

I quickly found that studying for hours without stopping is a fast track to burnout. I like to use what’s known as the deep work block method. This is a pre-scheduled, distraction-free period, usually around an hour, where I dedicate my time to a single task.

Finished a tough assignment? Treat yourself to something you enjoy before moving on.

Set small, specific goals

My to-do lists used to look a lot like “study” or “work on essay,” which, looking back, was no real plan at all.

“Study for the exam” is vague. “Read chapters four and five by 8 p.m.” is actionable. Breaking larger tasks into smaller goals makes them less overwhelming and gives you a clear sense of progress — and honestly, there are few feelings better than crossing something off a list.

When you’re building a to-do list, prioritize by deadline and weight. A reflection due tomorrow matters more than starting a project due next week. But, if that project is worth 40% of your grade, it should be on your radar early.

For bigger assignments, work backward from the due date: if a research paper is due

in three weeks, your goals might look like “find five sources by Tuesday,” “outline by Thursday” and “finish draft by next weekend.”

Make the goals easy enough to actually finish, then keep going.

Run your own race

As someone with anxiety, it’s easy to measure yourself against classmates and peers. But everyone enters college with different backgrounds and demands on their time. Focus on personal growth and don’t let someone else’s success define yours. Your timeline is not their timeline, and that’s OK.

Staying on top of a college schedule isn’t something most people figure out overnight; I definitely didn’t. But small habits, built consistently, add up faster than you’d think. Your future self, the one who isn’t scrambling at midnight before a deadline, will thank you.

ILLUSTRATION BY NATALIA NELSON

Applying for financial aid and scholarships

By Nicole Blevins neblevin@iu.edu | @nblevins01

Scholarships and financial aid can help ease the financial burden of attending college for many students. However, they can only be helpful if you take the initiative to apply, so here’s how to do it at IU.

Scholarships

IU offers a wide range of scholarships for all students, which can be found on IU’s Office of Scholarships website (https://scholarships. indiana.edu/) and the “IU Scholarships” tab in One.IU. Many of the IU schools and departments offer their own scholarships, too. Be sure to look early for opportunities — many applications for the next academic year close before the start of the spring semester.

Not only are there IU-based scholarships, many nonprofit organizations, local businesses and even high schools offer scholarships that can be applied as credit to your bursar bill. The Office of Scholarships website provides several places where you can start.

Even after your freshman year, there are scholarships you can apply for each academic year. Try to arrange dates on your calendar so

you don’t miss any deadlines!

Financial Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is open to all students from both in- and out-of-state. To begin, visit https://studentaid. gov/ and create an account. Be sure to write down your password so you do not forget it the next time the application deadline rolls around.

The FAFSA application is based on financial need and will require your parents’ Social Security numbers (if you are a dependent); tax returns; records of child support received; current balances of cash, savings, and checking accounts and net worth of investments, businesses and farms.

The application typically opens in October. For priority awarding, submit your application before April 15 each year (Tax Day).

Once your application is filed, any determined amount of aid you receive will automatically be processed by IU’s Student Central and can be found under the “Financials” menu in your One.IU Student Center. Remember that if your financial need changes or you are awarded more money from other scholarships, your financial aid award may change.

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COLUMN: Four tips for staying safe on campus

Tip

One:

Know Indiana Law

By Aryana Amin-Tehrani aaminteh@iu.edu

Debrief on IU’s Police Department

IU is considered a safe campus, but it’s important to be aware of the safety resources available. Indiana University Police Department officers are available to help 24/7 by calling their dispatch number: 812-8554111. They’ve broken down their safety tips into eight categories for Indiana University students: alcohol and drugs, your surroundings, domestic and sexual violence, travel, traffic, bike theft, scams and fraud, and water safety.

In this article, I’ve put together the top four tips I’ve found to be the most helpful as both a rising senior at Indiana University and a resident assistant at Forest Quadrangle.

Knowing the law can help ensure a basic knowledge of your resources. Should you find yourself in a situation where you need to contact 911 dispatchers or IUPD, your understanding of the rules will prepare you for what’s to come in accordance with Indiana law. For example, each of the eight categories of IUPD’s safety tips goes into more detail. The alcohol and drugs category talks about Indiana’s Lifeline Law, and how if you call campus police about a friend who may have alcohol poisoning, even if you are intoxicated yourself, you are protected. Your friend isn’t – but a safe friend is better than a poisoned friend.

Tip Two: Download the Guardian App

The Guardian App, specifically Rave

Guardian, is used to communicate all current emergencies and threats on campus to students and faculty campus-wide, with quick access to 911 dispatchers and campus police. I find the app to be very useful, and I make sure to have my notifications for their alerts on at all times. It has frequently helped me to stay in the loop about campus threats.

Tip Three: Know the location of blue lights on campus

Indiana University has 56 blue light emergency phones across campus. Blue lights are a call-to-response resource that students can press in case of emergencies. According to the IU Police Department, when a caller presses the red button, a strobe light is activated to draw attention to the area. The phone then automatically dials 911 to dis-

patch IUPD where they arrive at the scene and canvass the area.

Knowing where the blue lights on campus are may help you in a life-threatening situation.

Tip Four: Attend a self-defense workshop

Self-defense workshops are typically hosted by residence halls or organizations with free attendance. They are usually an hour long and, in my opinion, tend to be very fun with low stakes. Two-to-three campus police officers lead the session and bring a variety of kicking pads and boxing gloves for residents to follow suit with their instructions on how to land a hit. The officers also go into depth on various topics, including how to assess whether you should run away or fight back.

THEO HAWKINS | IDS

A blue light emergency phone is pictured May 18, 2025, outside the Atwater Parking Garage on the corner of Woodlawn Avenue and Atwater Avenue in Bloomington. Each of the 56 emergency phones around campus is topped with a blue strobe light which activates when the phone is used

By Emerson Elledge eelledge@iu.edu

COLUMN: The art of roommate bonding

Bonding with roommates can be hard, here’s how to make it easier

I, like many rising freshmen, was absolutely terrified to start college.

Living away from home was a hurdle I knew I could deal with. I thought classes would be just like high school. The thing that made me most apprehensive was something else entirely: bonding with the person I would be living inches away from for almost a year.

Looking back, I have to laugh. I had nothing to worry about, though of course I didn’t know it then.

Feeling anxious about bonding with your roommate is completely normal. I’ve heard many horror stories of roommates gone wrong, but I’ve managed to avoid that. In my two completed years at Indiana University, I’ve had three roommates. Isabelle and I braved the dorms together, and this past year I lived in a townhouse with Sophie and Elysia.

Over time, I’d like to think I’ve become skilled at some very simple things that make bonding with your roommates easier.

First, get used to silent but communal time.

One of my favorite things to do with my roommates is to sit in a common area and scroll through our phones. You might feel weird about it at first, but you’ll want nothing more than some peace and quiet during Welcome Week and the start of your freshman year. A shared comfort with silence will

help grow a more sustainable bond between you and your roommates. You won’t always have new stories to tell each other like you do during the first month, so learning how to be quiet together is just as important.

Second, be a good roommate.

This sounds obvious, I know, but it really is important to be conscious that someone besides you is living in the room. Simple

gestures like respecting your roommate’s belongings and keeping your own space tidy do wonders for your relationship. This also helps prevent grudges over avoidable issues in a shared living space.

Finally, take breaks from each other.

You might — and probably will — be tempted to spend the entirety of Welcome Week at each other’s sides. That won’t last.

You need to have friends who exist outside of your roommate relationship, so you can take a break from whatever roommate drama you might have and can vent about it to someone if needed. The one time my freshman year roommate and I started getting annoyed with each other was right before a weeklong break, and we were fine after.

You might not mesh well with your roommate, and that’s OK. Maybe you met them online. Maybe they were a high school acquaintance. Or maybe you took a chance with the random roommate gamble. Everyone wants to become friends with their roommate, but that might not be in the cards. Above all, it’s important to prioritize your living situation — you only have to live with them for a few months.

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ILLUSTRATION BY EVELYN STRAUSS

5 local restaurants to eat at Bloomington

From strombolis to wings, these restaurants will leave you craving more

By Will Tallackson aaminteh@iu.edu

Bloomington’s restaurant scene offers Indiana University students and Bloomington residents a variety of local dining options, ranging from Italian cuisine and barbecue to breakfast favorites and formal dining.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet breakfast spot or a lively restaurant on game day, these five spots have become some of my favorite places to eat in town.

Nick’s English Hut

I have eaten at Nick’s English Hut, located at 423 E. Kirkwood Ave., three times, and each visit leaves me craving its classic Nick’s Stromboli. Filled with mozzarella cheese, crumbled Italian sausage, onion and pizza sauce, the sandwich combines savory and sweet flavors with crunchy, crusty bread for a mouthwatering bite.

The longtime Kirkwood staple also offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and

features a diverse selection of appetizers, pizzas, burgers and sandwiches. My friends and I especially enjoyed the Sink the Biz Fries, an appetizer featuring a large bucket of fries served with garlic mayonnaise dipping sauce.

The Village Deli

The Village Deli at 409 E. Kirkwood Ave. has quickly become one of my favorite breakfast spots in town because of its quiet atmosphere and strong breakfast selection. Although I have not ordered from the lunch menu, which includes sandwiches, soups, burgers and salads, the breakfast items I’ve tried have impressed me.

The French toast topped with fruit has quickly become one of my go-to dishes. The strawberries, blueberries and bananas, paired with the cinnamon-flavored Texas toast, create a sweet and refreshing combination. During my most recent visit, I created my own omelet filled with bacon, sausage and onion, which was equally delicious.

BuffaLouie’s at The Gables

Whenever I am craving wings, BuffaLouie’s at The Gables at 114 S. Indiana Ave. is one of my first choices. While the atmosphere can become loud during football or basketball season, the upstairs seating area offers a better setting for conversations.

I usually order the 10-piece traditional bone-in wings topped with Mrs. Louie’s Famous Sweet Q barbecue sauce, but even the mild buffalo wings surprised me with their savory, crispy flavor despite me not usually being a fan of the food. Beyond wings, the menu also includes chicken sandwiches, burgers and subs, along with other sides such as curly fries and onion rings.

Da Vinci Pizza & Pasta

For me, Da Vinci Pizza & Pasta at 250 S. Washington St. serves some of the best Italian food in Bloomington. Although wait times can sometimes be long, the welcoming atmosphere and formal dining experi-

ence make the restaurant worth the wait.

Among the restaurant’s dishes, I particularly enjoy the chicken fettuccine alfredo, which includes grilled chicken, spinach and mushrooms mixed into a creamy alfredo sauce over fettuccine. The rich sauce and well-seasoned chicken made the dish one of the most fulfilling meals I have had at Da Vinci.

SmokeWorks

SmokeWorks at 121 N. College Ave. serves some of the best barbecue ribs I have ever had. The restaurant’s smoky flavors and casual atmosphere make it one of my favorite barbecue spots.

One of my favorite menu items is the half-pound St. Louis spare ribs. The tender, smoky ribs are packed with flavor and the sauce complements the meat without overpowering it, making each bite enjoyable. Other standout menu options for me include the crispy fried pickles and the backyard burger.

BRIANA PACE | IDS

BuffaLouie’s at The Gables is pictured Aug. 28,2023, on Indiana Avenue. BuffaLouie’s has been a Bloomington staple since the 1900s.

By Steven Leatherwood sjleathe@iu.edu

During orientation, you’ll likely be told to download countless mobile apps to do things like keep track of your class schedule, connect with new friends and figure out where to eat on campus. While you most likely won’t end up using half of those apps, here is a list of three apps that will actually be helpful during your time at IU.

1. IU Mobile

IU Mobile is your one-stop shop for all campus necessities. Once you log into your IU account, this app tracks your class schedule, meal plan and maps out every campus building. If you are looking for something that doesn’t appear right away, the app can also take you to One.IU.

IU Mobile also allows you to connect your Crimson Card directly to your phone, which makes scanning into dining locations and using your room key convenient. However, it’s important to remember that if you do connect your Crimson Card to your phone, your physical card will be deactivated.

Especially in my first weeks of a semester, this app is a lifesaver when it comes to checking the time and locations of all my classes. You may not need to check it as much after a few weeks, but it’s invaluable at the start.

2. ETA SPOT

Mastering the campus bus system is one of the most helpful things you can do early in

your college experience.

Some classes can be as far as a 30-minute walk across campus, so taking the bus can prevent strenuous walking trips. ETA SPOT allows you to keep track of bus paths, making navigating campus easier.

You can choose your location and view the closest bus stops and routes. Make sure that you choose which routes you want to be

visible on-screen, otherwise it can look a bit confusing. All of last year, I was too scared to learn the bus system, but once my friend suggested this app to me, it saved so much headache.

3. Grubhub

If you’re ever craving something not covered in your meal plan, you may want to download Grubhub over other food delivery services such as DoorDash or Uber Eats. IU students get a Grubhub+ membership for free, which takes care of service fees on your order.

You can also connect your IU meal plan to the Grubhub app, which makes ordering food at certain campus dining locations that typically take meal exchanges extra convenient.

After a long day of exams or class in general, one of my favorite things to do was order two hot and sour soups from a local Chinese restaurant as my dinner, and the Grubhub+ membership makes that easier.

Good luck with your first year of college, I hope that these apps help you better navigate IU’s campus.

IDS FILE PHOTO

A student opens the Grubhub app on their phone Aug. 26. IU Dining has partnered with Grubhub to allow for delivery and carryout orders.

How to navigate mail at IU residence halls

By Aryana Amin-Tehrani aaminteh@iu.edu

Indiana University is home to over 20 residence halls and on-campus apartment buildings, where each building is responsible for keeping track of and organizing mail for its residents. Center Desk Associates at the center desk are part-time staff, typically a mix of undergraduate and graduate students, who help with questions about the building and organize mail and packages behind the desk of your residence hall. All resident halls’ center desks are open every day, with various hours adjusted over the fall, spring and summer semesters. Over breaks such as Thanksgiving is when the desk closes.

When a CDA receives your package at the desk, they scan the tracking ID of the package and place it into the system under the name of the resident who lives in the residence hall. It’s important to note that if someone sends you a care package or a gift, your name should be on the label — not the name of the person sending you the item. This is because when packages are logged in, all information, including the resident’s name and room number, must match the resident’s information in the computer system. If it doesn’t, the package may be returned to the center and delay the process of you receiving it.

Once your package is received and logged under the center desk, you will receive an email through your IU Outlook account that a pack-

age of yours is waiting to be picked up! You can also track your package through the website on which you ordered your items to see when it has arrived. When going to the center desk, make sure to bring your Crimson Card — this allows for a CDA to scan your card into the center desk computer system, which pulls up your profile and the ID of your package, allowing the desk associate to hand you your package easily. It’s really that simple. Place an order under your name, wait for an email or track your order, and come pick up your package by showing your Crimson Card.

Mailing address

To receive mail at your dorm, the sender of a letter or package must use the following format:

[Student’s name]

[Residence hall name] [building name, room number] [Residence hall street address] Bloomington, IN 47406

Example: John Doe

Teter Quadrangle Boisen, Room 202 501 N. Sunrise Drive Bloomington, IN 47406

When your mail is delivered to your dorm, you will need to pick up at your residence hall’s center desk. You will need to have your CrimsonCard to pick up any packages.

ILLUSTRATION

Useful terms to know on campus

A&H

Courses categorized as Arts and Humanities by the College of Arts and Sciences.

Academic probation

Occurs when a student’s cumulative GPA for a semester falls below 2.0.

AI

Associate instructor

Canvas canvas.iu.edu. This site is where you will access all your class information. It allows you to track grades, turn in assignments and access materials posted by professors, instructors and aids.

CAPS

Counseling and Psychological Services, housed in the Health Center at 600 Eagleson Ave. Schedule a counseling appointment at 812-855-5711 for free.

COAS

The College of Arts and Sciences. It’s sometimes simply called “the College.”

CRIMSON CARD

Your Student ID card. Is used for keycard access, paying for food and using crimson cash.

IMU

Indiana Memorial Union. It’s often referred to as “the Union,” located at 900 E. Seventh St.

IUSG

IU Student government

IUSF

IU Student Foundation. It’s a nonprofit organization that raises funds for the University. IUSF sponsors the Little 500 bike race.

Little 500

Colloquially known as “Little Five” but officially called the Little 500, this is the famous bicycle race held every April on campus.

MAC

Musical Arts Center, located at 101 Eagleson Ave., across from Read Residence Hall. It is the site of Jacobs School of Music opera and ballet performances.

N&M

Courses categorized as Natural and Mathematical Sciences by COAS.

Office

hours

Times that your professors set aside each week to be available to answer questions you have about their classes.

One.IU

one.iu.edu. This is IU’s portal to almost everything that you need to access, from class websites to scheduling to accessing your email.

S&H

Courses categorized as Social and Historical Studies by COAS.

SAB

Student Athletic Board. Allows students to be involved with IU Athletics without being athletes.

SID

Student ID number. Used to access your transcript or your schedule online. Sometimes required by professors when taking tests.

SRSC

Student Recreational Sports Center, located on Law Lane. A 204,000-square-foot facility that offers more than 400 workout machines in addition to other programs, club sports and courts for working out.

UD

University Division. The part of IU most freshmen are automatically admitted into and remain in until they are accepted by the school of their major.

UITS

University Information Technology Services. Deals with all things computer and technology-related on campus.

SPEA

The colloquial acronym for the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

K-201

A class at the Kelley School of Business centered on technology and information systems in business.

MIA HILKOWITZ | IDS

The Student Recreational Sports Center is pictured Sept. 1, 2024, in Bloomington. The SRSC was first built in 1995.

Hoosier sports through the years

There will be many teams and athletes to follow and cheer on during your time at IU and after. Here are a few sports moments in IU’s history

IDS FILE PHOTO BY JIMMY RUSH

2026 IU head coach Curt Cignetti holds up the College Football National Championship Trophy following the national championship game against the University of Miami on Jan. 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The Hoosiers defeated the Hurricanes 27-21.

IU ARCHIVES

1926 Members of the Women’s Athletic Association wear their “IU” sweaters. Members were awarded the sweaters after earning points for their participation in a variety of sports including basketball, soccer and baseball.

IDS FILE PHOTO

2019 IU swimmer Lilly King waves to the crowd in the Counsilman-Billingsley Aquatic Center. Among her accomplishments are two gold medals at the 2016 Summer Olympics and sweeping the breaststroke events at the 2017 and 2019 World Championships.

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1976 IU basketball players Quinn Buckner, Scott May and coach Bob Knight celebrate after the Hoosiers beat Michigan to win the NCAA Championship in 1976. The Hoosiers completed a perfect season with a 32-0 record.

1983 Team members carry soccer head coach Jerry Yeagley from the field after IU beat Columbia University 1-0 in overtime to win the national championship. The Hoosiers have won eight national championships in men’s soccer — 1982, 1983, 1988, 1998, 1999, 2003, 2004 and 2012.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

IDS FILE PHOTO BY ALEX PAUL

2023 Then-senior guard Grace Berger grabs a rebound Feb. 9, 2023, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. Berger ended her five-year career at IU with 1,841 points, 573 assists and 752 rebounds.

How Little 500 became ‘The World’s Greatest College Weekend’

By Sean McAvoy semcavoy@iu.edu

In 1950, Howard S. Wilcox Jr. saw Indiana University students staging cycling races around campus. At the time, Wilcox was the director of the IU Student Foundation. Inspired by the biking culture at IU, he pictured a race as an opportunity to help the foundation raise funds for scholarships.

By 1951, the Little 500 was born.

Wilcox tried to mimic Indiana’s own Indianapolis 500 car race. Riders in the men’s race complete 200 laps — or 50 miles — around a quarter-mile cinder track. In both versions of the race, 33 teams compete for a miniature version of the Indy 500’s BorgWarner Trophy.

The first Little 500 race was won by the South Hall Buccaneers of the Collins Living Learning Center. The Buccaneers crossed the finish line more than four minutes ahead of their competition in front of 7,000 spectators.

One year later, the North Hall Friars of Collins were victorious. They became the first team to win two consecutive titles the following year. In 1954, Sigma Nu was the first fraternity to win the race, while Phi Kappa Psi was the first team to win three consecutive times in 1960.

Before 1981, the Little 500 was held at the Tenth Street Stadium. The stadium was home to Indiana football from 1925 to 1959 and hosted the race until a year before the site was demolished in 1982.

With enough donations to build a new stadium, Bill Armstrong Stadium — which was named after the former IU Student Foundation president — was constructed in 1981. The stadium hosts Indiana men’s and women’s soccer games, as well as the annual race.

The Little 500 was thrust into the national spotlight after the 1979 film “Breaking Away” was nominated for four Academy Awards, winning Best Original Screenplay. The movie was also a box-office success, surpassing $20 million over nine months.

CUTTERS, the fictional team of protagonists in the film, came to life in 1984. Mirroring the movie’s storybook plot, CUTTERS crossed the finish line first in the team’s inaugural year. CUTTERS’ 2023 trophy gave them 15 first-place finishes, the highest total for any team in the men’s event. Between 2007 and 2011, CUTTERS won five consecutive championships.

As the race became more ingrained in IU’s culture, women grew interested in competing as well.

In 1976, Kathleen Cerajeski became the first woman to be part of a men’s team, rac-

ing as an alternate for the Cravens B team. By the 1980s, many female riders were keen on creating a women’s version of the event.

The sorority Kappa Alpha Theta attempted to qualify for the 1987 men’s race. In qualifications, the team placed 34th, just missing the 33-team cutoff. After their attempt, the IU Student Foundation launched the first edition of the women’s race in 1988.

The women’s version of the event is a 100-lap — or 25-mile — version of the men’s race. Thirty teams competed in the first race, with Willkie Sprint of Willkie Quad winning. Throughout the years, Theta has become the most successful team, winning 10 trophies.

Before the actual race day, riders com-

pete in a four-part series of events called the Spring Series. Qualifications set the starting positions for the race. Individual Time Trials is a four-lap sprint around the track performed individually. Miss N Out sees the last-place rider of a heat get eliminated each lap during the race until the last rider remains, and Team Pursuit showcases the endurance of every team with a 15-lap competition.

The 2026 Little 500 races featured classic down-to-the-wire finishes.

In the men’s race, CUTTERS looked to be on its way to yet another victory. However, a crash on the 199th lap instigated by a reckless Chi Alpha maneuver took out many

teams at the front of the field, including CUTTERS. When the dust settled, Black Key Bulls was in first position and took home its third consecutive title.

The women’s race did not see a crash on the penultimate lap, but the race was just as full of tense moments. The race came down to a sprint finish on the final lap, as Alpha Chi Omega out-pedaled its competition. It was the team’s first-ever victory, following a runner-up finish in 2025 behind Theta.

Known as “The World’s Greatest College Weekend,” the Little 500 will be shaping up for more excitement in 2027, as two more teams will look to add their names to the history books.

MICHAEL CLAYCAMP | IDS

The CUTTERS team made up of Torin Kray-Mawhorr, Peyton Gaskill, Jacob Koone and Judah Thompson celebrate after winning the men’s Little 500 on April 22, 2023, at Bill Armstrong Stadium. The CUTTERS hold the record for most titles in the men’s race with 15.

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1950s Howard S. “Howdy” Wilcox, Jr. served as president of the IU Foundation and established the Little 500 race as a vehicle to raise money for scholarships. He drew inspiration from the annual Indianapolis 500 car race. His father was an Indy 500 champion in 1919.

1976 Riders make an exchange on tricycles during the 1976 Mini 500. For decades, women raced on tricycles. In 1988, the first women’s Little 500 cycling race took place.

Little 500 through the years

IU’s famous cycling race dates back to 1951. What started as a scholarship fundraiser developed over the years into an iconic sporting event

the CUTTERS. The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1980.

IU ARCHIVES

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

1980 A spectator is passed up to the top of the stands during the 1980 Little 500 race in Bill Armstrong Stadium. Over the years, the weekend has been nicknamed, “The World’s Greatest College Weekend.”

IDS FILE PHOTO

2007 During the 2007 men’s Little 500 race, when a rider for Phi Sigma Kappa (left) lost control on turn one, other competitors struggled to avoid the crash including Phi Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha and Sigma Phi Epsilon.

2011 Teter team members hoist the Borg-Warner trophy above their heads in 2011. The trophy is named after the Indianapolis 500 trophy of the same name.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

IU ARCHIVES

1962 Dave Blase, in sunglasses, led Phi Kappa Psi to a men’s Little 500 victory in 1962, riding 139 of the 200 laps himself. Screenwriter Steve Tesich was a teammate of Blase and used him as an inspiration for the Dave Stohler character in the film “Breaking Away.”

1978 The movie

“Breaking Away” was filmed on the IU campus in 1978. The film chronicled a fictional cycling team,

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

2024 Kappa Alpha Theta’s Bailey Cappella, Audrey La Valle, Claire Tips and Greta Heyl celebrate on the stage after the women’s Little 500 Race on April 19, 2024, at Bill Armstrong Stadium in Bloomington. Kappa Alpha Theta has the most women’s Little 500 wins with 10.

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

ARBUTUS FILE PHOTO

1984 The CUTTERS took the script of the movie “Breaking Away” and turned it into reality at the 1984 Little 500 race at Bill Armstrong Stadium, winning the event. They are the winningest team in Little 500 history with 15 championships.

2.

CHLOE LAVELLE | IDS

ANYA MINEKUS | IDS

3. Graduate student pitcher Kaden Jacobi leaps in the air to catch a flying ball during warmups for the game against Iowa on April 25, 2026, at Bart Kaufman Field in Bloomington. Jacobi did not play in the game.

SOPHIA KAPLAN | IDS

4. Senior forward Sam Alexis jumps during Indiana men’s basketball’s 90-80 victory over Washington on Jan. 4, 2026, inside Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. Alexis blocked a career-high six shots against Rutgers on Friday.

Your guide to this season of IU sports

By Jonathan Frey jonafrey@iu.edu | @byjonathanfrey

The past half-century of IU freshmen have walked through the Sample Gates expecting two things: Greatness from the men’s basketball team and futility from the football team.

But for the past two years, those two sports have been on opposite trajectories. A 2025-26 sports season full of surprises

made for a rollercoaster for IU sports fans, and with massive turnover on nearly every roster, the upcoming season is just as unpredictable. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Indiana’s biggest sports this season.

Football

As you likely know, Indiana took home the national championship under the stewardship of burgeoning legend Curt

Cignetti and the NFL’s first overall pick quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The alltime losingest program in the country two years ago, Indiana football now struts into next season with back-to-back ambitions.

Redshirt senior quarterback Josh Hoover will serve as a spiritual successor to Mendoza. The Texas Christian University transfer is a high-pedigree prospect who finished top three in the Big 12 in nearly all major passing categories in his two years as

a starter. Like Mendoza, he doesn’t possess any freakish athletic attributes, but he’s an expert processor and decision-maker. The biggest worry for Hoover will be his turnovers, as he led the Big 12 with 13 interceptions. But Cignetti has a history of instilling discipline and eliminating careless mistakes in his players. After developing Mendoza into the NFL’s premier rookie talent, the sky is the limit for Hoover.

BRIANA PACE | IDS

1. Members of the Indiana football team celebrate with the College Football Playoff Championship Trophy on Jan. 19, 2026, after defeating the University of Miami 27-21 inside Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The national championship matchup drew an average of 30.1 million viewers.

Senior guard Shay Ciezki shoots the ball in the game against Purdue on Feb. 8, 2026, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. Ciezki played 40 minutes in the game.

Indiana’s transfer class is filled with three and four-star recruits, per 247sports, including former Michigan State receiver Nick Marsh and former Kansas State University edge rusher Tobi Osunsanmi.

Look out for returning fan-favorite Charlie Becker, a deep threat receiver who made big catches during the latter half of last season as Mendoza’s favorite bail-out target.

Memorial Stadium serves as the home site for Indiana football, where the Hoosiers will open their 2026 season Sept. 5 against North Texas University.

Men’s basketball

Indiana missed the NCAA tournament for the third year in a row and the eighth time in 10 seasons. Darian DeVries’ inaugural season marked IU’s fourth head coach in that time period. Twelve players either exhausted their eligibility or entered the transfer portal, leaving the roster nearly empty.

But a strong transfer portal class will look to end a decade of futility. Southern Methodist University transfer Samet Yi ğ ito ğ lu, who stands 7-foot-2, and 6-foot former Notre Dame point guard Markus Burton lead the way on 247sports’ fourth-ranked transfer class. DeVries also secured letters of intent from four-star high school prospects Prince-Alexander Moody and Vaughn Karvala.

Women’s basketball

The women’s team missed the tournament for the first time since 2018 after several key players graduated or transferred, leaving superstar Shay Ciezki and head coach Teri Moren with an untested young squad last season. Indiana lost 8 players total, including Ciezki, to eligibility restrictions or the transfer portal at the end of the season.

But only a fool would distrust Moren, who boasts a 68% win rate in her time with the Hoosiers and made the

NCAA tournament in seven of her 11 tournament-eligible seasons. She will coach the eighth-ranked recruiting class, highlighted by nationally ranked No. 25 wing Addison Nyemchek and No. 29 guard Gigi Battle.

Indiana will also bring in a modest but experienced transfer class highlighted by Nebraska transfer junior forward Jessica Petrie.

Both basketball teams play at Assembly Hall, and their schedules are yet to be finalized.

Baseball and softball

The baseball team struck out big in their latest season, finishing near the bottom of the Big 10 standings despite a preseason No. 5 projection.

The softball team, on the other hand, made the NCAA Division I Softball tournament, and are still fighting as this story is being written.

The baseball team is led on offense by the sophomore trio of Caleb Koskie, Hogan Denny and Jake Hanley. Freshman Owen ten Oever came on strong in the second half of the season and will look to build on an all-around excellent campaign in his sophomore season. They play home games at Bart Kaufman Field, and will open their season next winter.

The softball team featured one of the most consistent and powerful offenses in the country, with all nine consistent starters batting over .300. Junior utility player Aly VanBrandt scorched opposing pitching to the tune of a .399 average and 15 home runs in the regular season. Andy Mohr Field hosts the Hoosiers during the regular season.

Soccer, volleyball and more

For more information on free-toattend and lesser-known sports, see Page 56. Team sports are the beating heart of campus, so make sure you catch a few games while you’re here!

Guide to free fall sports at Indiana University

Students can get into all sports, except football and men’s basketball, for free

By Savannah Slone srslone@iu.edu

Indiana University was home to some of the most successful athletic programs in the country last year. The football team is the reigning national champion, while many other programs made appearances in their respective NCAA Tournaments in 2025-26.

While students have to pay for football and men’s basketball tickets, all other sporting events are free for students with their Crimson Card, making it a cheap and accessible way to get out of the dorms, meet new people and experience some of the culture at IU.

Here are some events worth attending in the fall:

Men’s soccer

The first athletic event I attended as a

student at IU was a men’s soccer game, and I ended up going to so many more during my freshman year. It’s a great way to get out of the dorms and spend time outside with your friends — or by yourself.

The men’s soccer team has made 39 straight NCAA Tournament appearances, but after receiving the No. 6 seed and a first-round bye in 2025, its season ended in the second round. It marked the first time since 2014 that the program did not advance to the third round of the tournament.

Head coach Todd Yeagley and the Hoosiers brought in 13 new players — five freshmen and eight transfers — to fill the gaps after others departed the program. Graduate student midfielder Alex Matthews, who transferred from Missouri State University, will add experience to the Hoosiers’ roster, as

he played in three NCAA Tournaments during his time with the Bears. Junior defender Nick McHenry will join Indiana from Ohio State and help bolster the Hoosiers’ defense. Indiana is aiming for its ninth national championship this season and first since 2012.

Volleyball

If you want to attend an event indoors, then volleyball is the way to go. Indiana volleyball reached the NCAA Tournament regional semifinals in 2025, which marked the farthest the program has advanced in its history.

While two of the most impactful players in program history — outside hitter Candela Alonso-Corcelles and opposite hitter Avry Tatum — played their final games last

December, the Hoosiers are returning a core group of young players who helped the team reach a program-high 25 wins.

The student section, located on the east end of Wilkinson Hall, enhances the environment. The students are just a few feet away from the court, and the IU Student Athletic Board members dress up in costumes.

Other fall sports

Less attended fall sports like women’s soccer and field hockey are still great opportunities to attend as a way to hang out with a friend or just take a break from studying.

Cross country and the men’s and women’s tennis and golf teams compete in the fall, but few of their fall events are at an IU athletic complex.

DAVID PEARLMAN | IDS

Freshman outside hitter Sara Snowbarger jumps to hit the ball during the game against the University of Kentucky on April 10, 2026, at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington. The Hoosiers finished 25-8 in the 2025 season.

TRINITY MACKENZIE | IDS

Indiana forward Palmer Ault dribbles the ball against Clemson University on Aug. 21, 2025, at Bill Armstrong Stadium in Bloomington. in the men’s soccer season opener. Ault won the 2025 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award.

CHLOE LAVELLE | IDS

Then-senior midfielder Olivia Rush dribbles past an Oregon player Sept. 28, 2025, at Bill Armstrong Stadium in Bloomington. Rush started all 17 games for the Hoosiers in the 2025 season.

Bloomington Shuttle

Affordable shared ride airport shuttle service between Bloomington and Indianapolis Airport. Multiple Stops and times added for flexibility and convenience.

Group Charter Service

Make your group trips easy and efficient with our charter services. Perfect for student organizations, team travel, and off-campus events. Comfortable, reliable transportation tailored to your group's needs!

Private Car Service

Door-to-door transportation in a private sedan, SUV, or executive van. Private service can be reserved hourly, for airport transfers, meetings, outings, and events.

for 10% off.

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Mobile Banking makes it easier than ever for you to manage your account on the go!

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IU Credit Union is open to anyone who resides or works in one of 65 eligible Indiana counties. We’re a not-for-profit financial institution with seven branches statewide. As a member-owner of the Credit Union, you’ll have access to competitive loan and savings rates, plus a complete line of financial and digital services to keep you in touch with your finances no matter how far from home you are. Open your account online or stop by our branch on 17th Street!

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