Your time at college passes in the blink of an eye. Between moving into your first dorm and walking across the stage to get your diploma, you have four years to make incredible memories, build lifelong friendships, and discover who you want to be.

To help you make the most of your college experience in Sioux City, we’ve crafted the ultimate Morningside University bucket list. Here is a curated mix of our favorite must-do activities on campus and local adventures around the city to get you started.

Embrace Campus Traditions

Some experiences are uniquely Morningside. These classic moments will define your college memories and keep you connected to the campus community forever.

• Memorize the fight song: Learn the lyrics so you can cheer on the Mustangs with pride.
• Snap a selfie with Monte: Keep an eye out for our beloved mascot at campus events.
• Come to Krone and pet Bette: Take a moment to relax and get some puppy love.
• Get a drink at the Spoonholder: Grab a beverage and enjoy the heart of campus.
• Eat in the caf: Share meals, laughs, and late-night conversations with your friends.
• Decorate your graduation cap: Celebrate your achievements with a personalized cap when senior year arrives.

Build Lifelong Connections

College is about the people you meet just as much as the classes you take. Use your time here to build a network that will support you long after graduation.

• Attend professor office hours: Step outside the classroom to build professional relationships with your instructors.
• Connect with a Morningside Alum: Reach out to former students to form valuable post-grad relationships.
• Host a movie night: Gather your friends for a cozy evening in your dorm or apartment.
• Plan a mingling event: Get to know the people on your residence hall floor.
• Form a study group: Team up with classmates to tackle tough subjects together.

Find Your Perfect Study Spot

A change of scenery can do wonders for your focus. Make it a mission to step outside your usual routine and discover new places to study.

• Study in the library during finals week: Join the collective campus grind when it matters most.
• Take a week to explore new spots: Try a different study location on campus every single day.
• Find your favorite Sioux City coffee shop: Discover the perfect local cafe or check out local student favorites like Stone Bru or Hardline to fuel your study sessions.
• Sit and read by the fountain: Enjoy the calming sounds of water while you catch up on coursework.

Enjoy Arts, Nature, and Entertainment

Morningside’s campus is packed with beauty and creativity. Take time to appreciate the sights and sounds right in your backyard.

• Wake up early for a campus sunrise: Start your day with stunning morning colors over the academic buildings.
• See a show at Klinger-Neal: Support your fellow students in a theater production.
• Take in the art at Eppley Gallery: Browse the incredible student and visiting artist exhibitions.
• Visit the Morningside Garden: Find a quiet moment of peace among the flowers.
• Go to a musical performance in Eppley: Enjoy an evening of incredible live music.
• Have a picnic on Bass Field: Lay out a blanket and enjoy a sunny afternoon with friends.

Explore Sioux City and Beyond

Morningside is just your home base. The surrounding community offers endless opportunities for adventure, food, and giving back.

• Explore downtown Sioux City: Check out the Orpheum Theatre, Sioux City Art Center, or the Public Museum.
• Try Sioux City’s local eats: Step off campus and hit student-favorite spots like La Juanita, Bob Roe’s, or Pierce Street Coffee Works.
• Get a sweet treat from Peach Wave: Reward yourself after a long week of classes.
• Explore the city’s parks: Sioux City boasts over 30 parks— check out Stone State Park, Bacon Creek Park to hike, bike, or relax in.
• Get involved in an outside non-profit: Give back to the community by volunteering with a local organization.
• Take a road trip: Pack up the car with friends and explore the Midwest for a weekend.

Start checking these items off your list. Document your memories from each year at Morningside, and embrace every opportunity that comes your way.