by Malem Gutema

Alice Meynell once said “Spirit of place! It is for this we travel, to surprise its subtlety; and where it is a strong and dominant angel, that place, seen once, abides entire in the memory with all its own accidents, its habits, its breath, its name.” The Oregon State University’s Memorial Union is that place, the spirit of the campus. This magnificent building located in the heart of campus is center to many on-campus activities.

My name is Malem Gutema and I currently work at the Memorial Union business office. During my first visit to the OSU campus five years ago, MU was the first building I entered. I was taken back by the beauty of the marble steps that are decorated with art work from left and right.  The first memories of college life I captured with the camera was sitting on those comfortable couches in the main lounge. Since my first visit, I have been at the main lounge to take a nap or relax from a long day.

Over the years, the MU has been incorporated to my daily life from purchasing materials at the bookstore; grabbing something to eat at Java Stop or the commons; attending meetings in the rooms; go to dances and events in the ballroom; and creating art at the craft center. Due to the various services the building has to offer, I rarely went off campus and not having a car did not influence my learning experience at all.

Since I enjoyed my experience at the MU, I applied for the MU information desk staff position at the end of my sophomore year. I have been working with great people from the office for the last three years. I enjoy giving service to many students and faculty that come to the office window. Since most visitors come to the MU first, I like representing the university and answering any questions they might have. I have met many people from various backgrounds