As spring settles over Iowa State, Central Campus transforms into a hub of activity and relaxation.
For Joey Cave, a junior in chemical engineering, the wide-open lawns of Central Campus are the perfect setting for his favorite activity: spikeball.
“My favorite activity to do on Central Campus is spikeball,” Cave said. “You’ve got so much open space and sunlight so you can work on your tan and your game.”
He appreciates how easy it is to pick up a game at a moment’s notice.
“It’s a game anyone can play, all you need is three friends,” Cave said. “You can just show up and play it anytime. It’s easy to get three friends in the most centrally located part of campus.”
While some students come to play, others are drawn to the peaceful atmosphere. Ella Meyer, a junior in kinesiology, finds joy in a slower pace.
“My favorite thing to do on Central Campus is lay out a blanket and read a good book,” Meyer said.
She enjoys the combination of natural beauty and campus energy.
“Central Campus is very scenic and open and there’s always a lot going on there, I enjoy it,” Meyer said. “It’s a good way to just get outside and enjoy the nice spring weather.”
For Zoey Lohse, a junior in event management, Central Campus offers the perfect balance between productivity and relaxation.
“I would say studying out here when it is really nice is my favorite,” Lohse said. “Getting a blanket down and just sitting in the sun when there’s not enough time to go home in between classes but it’s nice out, so I want to spend the time outside and just lay on Central Campus.”
Lohse also admires the scenic surroundings.
“I like that there’s all the green space and, in my opinion, you get to see some of the most beautiful buildings,” Lohse said. “I think Beardshear and Curtiss are beautiful and the Campanile is also really cute.”
And of course, there’s the unique soundtrack of Central Campus.
“It’s always kind of fun when you are just out there when the Campanile goes off,” Lohse said. “If you’re not paying attention to the time, it’s kind of a fun surprise. Or if you are paying attention and it’s a Friday, trying to guess what song it is.”
