While summer enrollment at Utah Valley University is lower, a common trend nationwide, the campus is far from quiet. The university transforms into a bustling hub for youth camps, athletic tournaments, and orientation sessions for new students. The summer months are also dedicated to training and recruitment for fall positions, alongside various campus-wide community events.
For students on campus, the atmosphere is notably more relaxed. “It’s pretty social and chill,” says Julia Henika, a rising senior. She appreciates the social events that offer a break from summer academics, particularly the UVUSA Summer Movie Series. “I get stressed pretty easily, so it’s nice that we have things like the Summer Movie Series,” she explains. “I appreciate that they do this because it helps get me out of my apartment for something other than school or work.”
The weekly outdoor screenings attract a diverse crowd, from solo moviegoers to large groups of friends, who gather on blankets and chairs. These events foster a sense of community, with many attendees returning each Thursday for the entire series.
Beyond student-focused social events, UVU also serves as a host for various youth programs, such as For the Strength of Youth (FSY) camps. Freshman Mikayla Billings notes seeing these groups on campus and sometimes recognizing attendees from her own high school years. “It feels weird, but it’s also fun to see that UVU is more than just a university with classes every day,” she says. “It’s also a host to fun summer camps, events and activities.”
Summer is also a crucial period of preparation for the upcoming academic year. The First-Year Experience office runs its Jumpstart Orientations, guiding incoming freshmen through campus and preparing them for the fall semester. Groups of new students, led by current Student Orientation Leaders, become a common sight, particularly in the Sorenson Student Center. Alongside orientation for new students, those in campus leadership roles, such as UVUSA and the Honors Program, also participate in summer training.
The university also maintains a strong sense of community for the students and staff present. Once a month, the People and Culture office hosts Food Truck Fridays, providing vouchers to student employees and staff to enjoy a variety of local vendors. Similarly, the Care Hub’s Fresh Food Friday series begins in the summer, offering fresh produce to students.
While the academic rhythm slows, summer at Utah Valley University is a dynamic season of its own. It is a time for social connection, leadership development, and welcoming the next generation of students. The campus remains a vibrant center of activity, proving that the university’s pulse continues to beat strongly all year long.
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