Spring break usually sparks ideas of long road trips and crowded beaches, but for many Idaho State University students and campus staff, the week off offers a much-needed chance to step away from the academic grind without leaving town. A staycation in the Gate City provides a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and mental reset for those tied to the university calendar.
For many Idaho State University students, the campus is more than just a place to attend lectures and take exams. It is also their workplace. Balancing the rigorous demands of academics with a part-time job requires a unique blend of time management, dedication, and a healthy dose of discipline.
When the starting gun fires for the 200-meter sprint, the noise of the crowd fades, the anxiety melts away and a familiar, dream-like state takes over. For Idaho State University’s standout sprinter, Libby Boden, this is where she feels most alive.
Winter in Pocatello brings more than cold temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks, it opens the door to outdoor opportunities that many Idaho State University students embrace throughout the season. From campus-supported outdoor programs to city-organized winter recreation, students have access to activities that make winter both engaging and memorable.
Located inside Flowers By LD at 715 N. Main St., Confections Bakery has become a well-known name in Southeast Idaho since opening in 2021. Owned by Nathan Chandler, who is Netflix’s Blue Ribbon Baking Champion, the bakery is recognized for its detailed custom cakes and elegant pastries.
The holiday season always seems to sneak up on Idaho State University students, especially amid finals, papers, and the rush to head home. But Pocatello has a much bigger gift‑shopping scene than people expect, filled with antique gems, cozy little stores, and even big‑box options for students on a budget. Whether you’re shopping for parents, roommates, or a friend who “doesn’t need anything,” there’s something in town for every type of gift-giver.
The best way to understand Pocatello is to walk it, sip it, and watch the sun go down over it. For Idaho State University students, a good afternoon can start with coffee in Old Town and end with a quiet overlook above the valley, plus a few surprises in between.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling breakfast sandwiches fills the air at the ISU Student Union. But for many students, the smell comes with a quiet calculation, how much can they actually afford today?
Every fall, Idaho State University welcomes students from across the globe. From Nepal to Nigeria, Brazil to Bangladesh, international students bring a diversity of perspectives that enrich the campus community.
Yet, adjusting to life in Pocatello is not always easy. Between cultural differences, academic expectations, and the Idaho weather, the transition can be both exciting and overwhelming.