How Will I Get Involved as a Commuter Student at Sacred Heart University?

Three words: Jump right in!

Whether strolling to class, stopping by Linda’s for a fresh acai bowl or chilling with friends on the amphitheater steps, commuters dive right into campus life. Check out our top tips for fitting in and making your mark at SHU.

“SHU became my second home since the first time I stepped on campus,” said Carolina Alicea ’25. “The connections that I have made so far make being an involved student worthwhile.”

First stop: Hawley Lounge

Open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Hawley Lounge in the Academic Center is Commuter Central. This newly renovated space—home to Student Government, the Student Events Team and the Veterans Resource Center—is a great place to chat with friends, play a board game or just stow your stuff. Better yet? There are places to charge your gear and plenty of comfy couches, chairs, pool tables and TVs.

Hawley Lounge plays host to several commuter events, including nacho and cereal bars, pool tournaments, crafting and more. And you can borrow games like spikeball and cornhole and take the fun outdoors. It’s also a convenient place to hit the books. Get your work done here, at Ryan Matura Library or in the many study spaces and lounges on West Campus.

Commuters can get a locker in Hawley Lounge and safely store books and personal items for a nominal fee refunded when the key is returned at the end of the semester.

Join a team or club

All commuters can get involved in clubs, organizations and athletics, and commuters with a full-time course schedule are eligible for fraternity and sorority life and leadership positions.

“The Multicultural Center was where I first got involved, because I was able to be myself and connect with people who I feel comfortable with,” said Alicea, who is also involved with La Hispanidad. “Becoming an orientation leader and FYE assistant has really helped me come out of my shell.”

You can learn more about all the opportunities that await you at the Just SHU It Involvement Fair at the start of the year, or contact Student Engagement & Involvement to learn more.

Be in the know

Lost your ID? Need a great restaurant recommendation? Head for Campus Concierge in the Academic Center near The Factory. Here you can get a replacement SHUCard, info on daily events, transportation schedules, discount movie tickets, supply rentals (everything from tables and chairs to art easels) and more. Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends.

Grab a bite

All full-time students, including commuters, participate in a meal plan, so you can get to know your classmates over lunch. Try Thea’s Abbey in Pioneer Village, Balance Kitchen at the CHE or Pios Kitchen on West Campus. Or head over to Red’s, the campus pub in the lower level of Linda E. McMahon Commons, a 21+ location that also offers frequent specials and all-ages events. There is something for everyone, including accommodations for special dietary needs.

Feel the burn—with a friend!

The Valentine Health & Recreation Center is home to three stories of club sports, intramurals and fitness programs and facilities. The 18-bike spin room, HD golf simulator, bowling alley, climbing wall, multi-purpose sport court and suspended track are just some of the amenities. Part-time commuters may use the center services for a per-semester fee.

Want to kick it up a notch? Full-time commuters can try out for one of our 33 NCAA Division I teams, join a club sports squad or participate in intramurals.

Make your voice heard

Got an idea to make commuter life even better? Join the Commuter Council, which meets every two weeks to discuss commuter-related topics and concerns. All commuters are welcome!

Learn more about life on campus at SHU and get ready to make your mark!