Life at Concordia University Wisconsin is pretty great. Student contributor Madelyne Arrigoni shares 10 things she loves about living at (and around) campus.
Life at Concordia University Wisconsin: 10 Things I love
It’s a fact: our campus is beautiful.
It was one of the first thing I ever heard about Concordia University Wisconsin, and it was definitely one of many selling points for me. One of the best things about being in a new place is all of the fun things to discover. Our campus organizations work hard to keep life at CUW interesting, but there is a plethora of activities to do just a short drive from campus as well. Whether you’re more of a nature-lover or a city kid, there is definitely an attraction for you.
1. Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry offers nearly 20 different groups to be a part of, ranging from Bible studies to service groups. I love attending Haven, our contemporary praise service on Sunday evenings. The Campus Ministry Leadership Team is committed to helping everyone feel welcome and know the love of Jesus.
2. Chapel
Every day at 9:30 we have chapel on campus. This quickly became one of my favorite parts of the day. It is so reassuring to come together with a campus community and take a half hour to rest in Jesus’ love. Listening to the organ is also a big bonus.
3. Late-night Nest runs
The Nest is one of our great dining options on campus, and it’s open until 10 pm! It is the perfect place to go to satiate that late night craving for chicken tenders or M&M’s. It’s so nice to have a place on campus open at hours that fit with a college student’s crazy schedule.
4. Coffee shops galore
Campus is situated within 30 minutes of Port Washington, Cedarburg, Grafton, and Thiensville, all of which are home to a multitude of great coffee shops. Whether you’re a caffeine addict (like me) or you enjoy a chill vibe for doing homework, there is definitely a place for you to dub “your spot.” My personal favorites are N Seven in Grafton and Fiddleheads in Thiensville.
5. Milwaukee adventures
I grew up in a small town in northern Wisconsin, so being proximate to a big city like Milwaukee was more than a little daunting. However, after mustering the courage to venture over to the Third Ward for the first time, I was more than hooked. It’s just a short 25 minute drive to great food, beautiful parks, cool architecture, and all the other exciting things that come with a big city.
6. Self-improvement opportunities
Because of our unique location and campus amenities, there are no shortage of opportunities for self-improvement. If you’re a fitness guru, it’s always a challenge to jog the bluff, and the weight room is fully stocked with equipment to help you get a great workout in. I love walking the campus loop. It’s a perfect one mile stroll that takes you around the circumference of campus that never fails to get my heart rate up.
7. Nature nearby
Though our campus is already located on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan, there are many opportunities in the surrounding area to explore nature. From Lion’s Den to Holy Hill, I have found no shortage of trees, water, and sun to fill my weekends.
8. Cutie towns all over
As I’ve already mentioned, campus is nestled between a myriad of great southern Wisconsin towns. They are all bursting with small town charm and are an excellent way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Cedarburg has an adorable bakery and candy shop, Thiensville offers great views of the river, and just an hour north is Sheboygan, which offers excellent cuisine and lake activities.
9. Living on campus
It’s really fun to get off campus during the weekends and enjoy the freedom of college life, but the close-knit CUW community is one of the best parts of being a student here. With our campus loop just one mile long, it’s just short walk to any residence hall or building. I love being within a 10 minute walk of anywhere on campus, and it makes hanging out with friends really convenient.
10. Student events
With so many student groups on campus, there is always a fun event to attend. My personal favorites are STOMP the Courtyard and Freddy Fest. CMLT puts on STOMP at the beginning of the fall semester. It’s a carnival-style event with bounce houses and a pig roast. Freddy Fest is usually the Friday before the homecoming game and features live music, great food, and fun games.
Do you want to know more about life at Concordia University Wisconsin?
If you’re interested in learning more about what life is like at CUW, feel free to connect with one of our admissions counselors. They’re ready to answer your questions and connect with you.
— Madelyne Arrigoni is a senior studying English, Mass Communications, and Photography. She plans to graduate in 2022.
If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.