Some of your best memories at IUP will be the ones you make with friends, teachers, and classmates. It's easy to get involved! Check out these things to do:
Groups to Develop Professional and Leadership Skills
American Culinary Federation, the Groundhog Chapter
The ACF is the largest professional chefs' organization in North America, and you can join The Groundhog Chapter which meets right on campus at the IUP Academy of Culinary Arts. In this group you will:
- Learn about the latest culinary trends in presentations by guest speakers and culinary experts
- Network with industry professionals
- Gain qualification toward professional certification
- See culinary demonstrations
Punxsutawney Activities Board
The Punxsutawney Activities Board is a student-run organization that plans recreational and educational activities for culinary and baking students. Run for election to the club's executive committee and develop your leadership skills as a club officer. Have a voice in the activities and campus-wide events scheduled for culinary students. Some recent activities include:
- Party on the patio
- Pittsburgh Pirates game
- Strip District shopping and dining trip
- Dances and game nights
Ice Carving Club
Learn to carve ice! Experience not necessary—our chef instructors will advise and teach you everything you need to know.
- Get hands-on experience, carve at least once a month
- No additional cost. Equipment is provided
- Great resume enhancer. You'll develop professional carving skills
Field Trips
Visit cultural and culinary landmarks; see for yourself how the finest culinary kitchens work. Recent trips include:
- Trips to places like Pittsburgh, New York City, or Washington, DC
- Dining and back-of-the-house tours at places like Omni Bedford Springs Resort in Bedford, the Duquesne Club in Pittsburgh, or Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington, Pennsylvania
- Chocolate factory tour at Gardners Candies in Tyrone, Pennsylvania
Recreation
Looking to break a sweat (or just have fun)?
- 24/7 access to Community Fitness Center, free access to students
- Swimming at indoor and outdoor pools, free access to students
- Mahoning Shadow Trail for biking, running, and walking
- Cloe Lake, 27-acre reservoir with picnic areas, a pier, and easy-access shore fishing
- Basketball-play pick-up games on indoor and outdoor courts
- Jackson Theater-see first-run movies at a discount or go bowling at Groundhog Lanes
- Head to the IUP Indiana campus for a wide range of sporting and cultural events (just 40 minutes away)
- Grab a friend and head to Pittsburgh for the day (two hours away)
Social
Get out there and meet some new people!
- Campus barbecues, parties, dances, karaoke nights, game nights, and more
- Contests- Compete to be the best in Ugly Sweater, Pumpkin Carving, and Talent competitions
- Participate in "Friendsgiving" or a college youth group
- Stay connected with our IUP ACA social media groups
Community
Better your community, make new friends, or just give back on campus and beyond:
- Volunteer at the local food pantry
- Maintain the campus herb garden or assist the Punxsutawney Garden Club with projects around town
- Volunteer staffing the local sports concessions stand