The New Student Union: Student Opinions
The Lynda and Stewart Resnick Student Union (RSU) at Fresno State has been a topic of much discussion since its opening in October 2022. As one of the newest additions to the university, it has quickly become an integral part of many students’ on-campus lives.
The RSU includes modern design, new food options, and two floors of seating, making it an attractive hub for students. However, initial hiccups, such as delays in food availability due to construction, disappointed some students.
Gage Vickers, a student at Fresno State, expressed frustration, highlighting unmet expectations regarding food services and 24-hour accessibility for meeting spaces.
“I think when it first opened, everyone was expecting three food places and then they weren’t open for another year,” Vickers said. “And the meeting spaces–I heard it was supposed to be 24 hours on one floor, but I have never experienced 24-hour rooms anywhere.”
Even after food options were introduced, concerns persisted. Reports of hair found in food and lax hygiene practices raised red flags for some students, deterring them from dining at the RSU.
Not all students are complaining. Nathan Nothdurft pointed out that each student union on campus serves a different purpose. He said the old student union is more inviting of a spot to talk and hang out with friends. On the other hand, the RSU offers a better place to study.
“I like the Panda, the Subway, and also they have the smoothie place and the bowling alley, which I think is pretty cool. This doesn’t really have a bowling alley or pool tables, so it’s not really like a hang-out spot. It’s more of a get food and study around here,” Nothdurft said.
Opinions on the RSU vary among students, with some praising its amenities while others express concerns about food quality and ambiance. However, the RSU has found its niche as a go-to spot for studying on campus.
Fresno State’s Lynda and Stewart Resnick Student Union has become a focal point of student life. While there are areas for improvement, its role as a hub for completing school work is what a lot of students need. As students navigate their on-campus experiences, the RSU remains a dynamic space where productivity meets convenience.
For more information on the RSU, visit Fresno State’s RSU webpage.