When eras come to an end, they are recognized and saluted for greatness and wonderful memories. The legacy of Foy Union will hold true to its name as the predecessor of the new student union as time progresses.
Since its opening, the new student union has become one of Auburn’s main attractions among students next to Jordan Hare Stadium and Haley Center (which is pretty much forced onto us as an attraction with school) as the same for local residents and fans. The move itself was not so difficult, but the adjustment to a new atmosphere was on everyone’s mind.
With more space available, the new student union provided local organizations with conference room areas and access to the student union’s resources. There is more space for students to study and it provides a central location to access to student organization committees. UPC’s office, for example, is more organized which in turn lessens the chaos of traffic coming from employees, students, student officers and volunteers.
Foy has been known for its dining amenities and its ability to cater to Auburn’s diverse group of taste buds with things to choose from such as sushi, Pizza Hut Pizza, Chik-fil-A, sub sandwiches, salads and the culinary delicacies of The Magnolia Market. The new student union has begun to compete with Foy’s reputation of being a favorite hangout among students in regards to food with the addition of a new pizza place and a Starbucks.
Not only does the new student union serve as an everyday tool for students, it also serves as a convenient spot for things you need immediately. The student union has incorporated a location of convenience for people who live on campus. The store’s purpose is to provide on-campus living with regular day items such as toilet paper, soap and dish detergent; things that were inaccessible at Foy. This new idea has definitely surged in popularity with gas-cautious students that aware of Wal-Mart and surrounding grocery stores being farther than desirable to drive.
Since its grand opening on August 18, 2008, the new student union has been a great success with students simply by its overall convenience. With most congestion coming from Haley Center throughout the day, the new student union, to me, places a subconscious emphasis on low stress and high quality for the students of Auburn which is why this new monument has a bright future in Auburn culture.