The benefits of having successful recreation facilities and programs are most definitely worth the cost. Thinking with the mindset of an incoming freshman, the individual wants to be excited about campus life. Recreation facilities and services are a significant factor in that decision on even applying to a university.

Recreation facilities are arguably the most active places on a university’s campus with students participating in recreational sports like basketball, classes like Zumba or even a jog on a treadmill. Being a part of university recreation promotes a better well being and an active lifestyle. Campus recreation facilities and programs are astronomically important for the environment and culture of Grand Valley State University.

According to a study done by NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) and NIRSA (National Intramural Recreational Sports Association), 68 percent of 33,500 students agreed that recreation facilities influence a student’s decision on which college or university to attend. The most attractive schools get the most applicants, and I believe that this is not a coincidence.

Grand Valley has a charismatic appeal with its multitude of glass windows where the natural light and all of its beauty is seen. The natural daylight designs of the Recreation Center and Mary Idema Pew Library attracts students and has become two of the busiest buildings on campus.

As the current student body hopes for expansion of the current recreation facilities, I believe increasing future recreation space and offerings will attract future students.

University recreation is very often at the helm of the active college student. Referring back to the study done by NASPA and NIRSA, 75 percent of the students use on-campus recreation, programs, facilities and services. These active students are using these campus recreation opportunities at least once a week.

The students feel a part of something more than just themselves. They are a part of the university when they participate in a school run program. As a student here at Grand Valley, I am an active user of the facilities and programs. I would love to have more opportunities to explore the recreational facilities and programs.

Having great programs and facilities really helps promote a healthy lifestyle and better well being. According to NASPA and NIRSA research, 90 percent of students want to live a healthier lifestyle after graduating. Additionally, during school, 75 percent of the students reported that their interest had grown from participating in recreation programs/activities.

Personally, I believe that we can improve that number significantly. Why not improve the health and wellness of our students while they are in school? I keep asking myself this question and I am unable to come to a conclusion.

In the end, my perception of university recreation is my own, but I believe that my vision for the growth of Grand Valley’s recreation facilities and programs should be completed for the future. The benefits most definitely outweigh the cost.

Future students of Grand Valley should be healthier than we are, more active than we are and should be more amazed of Grand Valley’s facilities than we are, as current students. I hope that the future of Grand Valley continues on the path to improve our society with the education of its respective students as well as improves the well being of the student body.

Senior, Marketing and Sports Management major