Whether this is your first year of college, or you’ve found new beginnings within Samford University this semester, I’d like to welcome you to this beautiful campus we call home. We come from all different walks of life, but the one thing we have in common is Samford and its culture.
The people are truly what make up our unique culture here on campus. From Tuesday morning convocation worship to different meals offered around campus, Samford students engage in a variety of cultural norms that may, at first, make a new student’s head spin.
Convo
Every Tuesday at 10 a.m., a flock of students herd into the Wright Center to worship in unity. We listen to speakers ranging from our Campus Pastor Bobby Gatlin to bestselling authors and leaders in our community, and beyond.
Participating in convocation worship results in fulfilling your convocation credits – each student is required to have 60 to graduate. Other events around campus such as cadres and various presentations will also give the opportunity to receive convo credits – each issue of the Crimson will have upcoming convo dates listed inside.
Favorite Spots
On campus, Samford touts several meal options. Einstein Bros. Bagels is on the first floor of the library and Freshens and a small version of Starbucks are in the College of Health Sciences. O.Henry’s, Restuarant row, City Bowls and Moes are in the lower University Center (UC) and the “Caf” is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the upper UC.
There are meal swipe options at most of the dining places on campus. The “Caf” and “Freshens” accept meal swipes for all meal options.
While Samford’s campus is gorgeous and spots like the UC, lower “Lib” and especially Ben Brown fill up quickly, many students find their favorite haunts all around Birmingham.
Coffee shops like Seeds, Red Cat and Church Street are classics for a good study session. Cookie Fix, Edgewood Creamery and Mountain Brook Creamery are perfect places to satisfy your sweet treat cravings. Taco Mama, Ono Poké, Soho Social, Yummy Bowl and Maya Mexican Restaurant are can’t-miss spots for good food and good company.
Organizations and Clubs
Samford has been ranked No. 1 in student engagement in the Wall Street Journal — a large part of that is the multitude of clubs and organizations Samford students boast.
Clubs such as Samford Outdoor Adventure Club (SOAC) encourage community through nature, while others such as our chapter of the League of Women Voters promote awareness and involvement in local and national issues. Bulldog Central has information about all the organizations and their upcoming events.
Our Student Involvement Fair is on Aug. 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Ben Brown. Stop by to learn more about the various clubs Samford has to offer!
Step Sing
Even though this long-held Samford tradition is months away, preparation for the intense competition begins now. Every January, students from all around campus gather into performance groups to put on the show of their lives. Think show choir cranked up to one thousand.
Groups such as Freshmen Ladies and Freshmen Girls are currently taking director applications. You can find those on the Samford Activities Instagram (@samfordactivities). Keep an eye out for member applications!
Arts & Life Editor
