Organizing a 5k at MSU

Throughout the month of April there will be at least five 5k runs on MSU's campus, according to the Playmakers Website.

Playmakers is a local running store that sells running equipment and hosts running classes, as well as promoting local races.

It's very common for 5k runs to raise money, through entry fees and t-shirt costs, to benefit an organization or charity.

If your organization is considering organizing a 5k on MSU's campus, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, planning a run takes time!

"Definitely plan for the 5k more than 3 months in advance," said Char Panek who is helping to organize the "Run Your ALS Off" 5k.

Second, reach out to the community!

"Talk to people who have done it before," said Alyssa Baumann, the volunteer and advocacy advisor for MSU Safe Place, who helps to organize the annual "Race for the Place 5k."

"Also connecting with Playmakers... They're awesome to work with and they know their stuff."

Lastly, "be very open to ideas" Panek said.

Benefits of Running

Finals for the spring semester are coming up quick, but how can students be expected to study with summer is just around the corner?

If you find yourself overly distracted - constantly staring out the window, or online bathing suit shopping, maybe you should consider going on a run. 

According to Eric Martin, a kinesiology graduate student at MSU, running can boost your cognitive functioning.

That means if you need to make a big decision, like where you're going to live in the fall, a run may help clear your mind.

It also means if you need to get your blood pumping so you can sit down and focus on that 10-page research paper you have due in two days, a run may be the perfect outlet.

According to Martin, running regularly can also benefit your physical health by boosting your immune system.

"People," who run regularly "are generally happier, healthier and live a lot longer," Martin said.

Changes Coming to MSU Parking Lots

According to the website for Michigan State University's Infrastructure Planning and Facilities website staff and students can expect to see some changes in parking lots at MSU in the coming years.

The expansion of the Lot 97 located in the Engineering Research Complex near Service Rd and Bogue St is detailed on the website.

Though it is still in the planning phase, the website says the lot's expansion is expected to "more than double the lot's capacity," which already house 216 parking spaces.

The lot is primarily reserved for staff members, but also has metered parking for visitors and is available to those with a visitor permit on campus.

Parking Options at MSU

With the 2013 - 2014 school year coming to a close, some students at Michigan State may be weighing their options for parking on campus next fall.

I've sat down with students in multiple situations in the past week - one who parks in the commuter lot, one who parks near campus, one who rides the bus and one who lives on campus without a car.

There are many pros and cons.

If you live off campus and have a lot of time taking advantage of the Capitol Area Transportation Authority's system of bus routes may be a good option for you.

If you don't have a lot of time to spend on the bus, or if you need to get somewhere quickly after you get out of class, you may want to consider purchasing a parking permit for the commuter lot from the MSU Parking Office.

If you live on campus walking and riding the bus may be a great option for you, but  don't forget to think about how you're going to travel home if you choose to.