August 7, 2023

Your SEMO Bucket List

  • Your Best Years
  • Becoming a Redhawk

To make the most of your time at Southeast Missouri State University, we present to you the SEMO Bucket List, a compilation of must-do activities before you graduate!

Leave Your Mark in the Dome

The Dome sits atop the iconic Academic Hall in the middle of campus. Students and alumni are invited to leave their mark inside the University’s landmark building and sign their names alongside those of hundreds of other Redhawks.

There are two students signing the Academic Dome.

Tailgate and Watch the Redhawk Walk

The Redhawk Walk takes place two hours before the kickoff of home football games. The Southeast Missouri State University Marching Band, Redhawk Cheerleaders, and Southeast Sundancers lead the football team up Bellevue Street and onto Houck Field. It’s a way for students and the community to connect to the team and show their support.  

SEMO Sundancers walking on Bellevue St. during the Redhawk walk.

Swim in the Aquatic Center

Take a break from your studies and dive into fun at the Aquatic Center. It is free for all students with a valid Southeast ID. 

Two students playing basketball in the pool at the student aquatic center,

Support Local Businesses in Downtown Cape

Cape Girardeau is full of local shops, boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. Supporting local businesses is a great way to connect with the Cape Girardeau community and feel at home during your time at SEMO. 

SEMO student drinking a coffee from a local business in downtown cape.

Take a Picture With Rowdy

Rowdy is the beloved mascot of SEMO, and no bucket list is complete without capturing a moment with this iconic figure. Whether it's at a game, an event, or just wandering around campus, meeting Rowdy is sure to be a memorable experience. 

Fan taking a photo with SEMO's mascot Rowdy the Redhawk.

Start the SE-MO! Chant

Be a part of SEMO's rich tradition and spirit by joining the SE-MO! chant at games and events. The chant echoes throughout the campus, fostering a sense of unity and pride among students, faculty, and fans alike. 

The marching band playing at a home game.

Walk Up Cardiac Hill

This steep hill above the Towers Complex is, figuratively, a killer. It leads from the Towers Complex up to the back of Crisp Hall. Members of the football team used to sprint up it during training, and often complained that they felt like they were going to have a heart attack after the strenuous trek.  

Cardiac Hill in the fall season

Add a Piece of Gum to the Gum Tree

Located at the top of Cardiac Hill, the Gum Tee is a peculiar campus landmark covered with chewed gum pieces. Embrace the quirky tradition and add your own piece of gum to the tree.  

Two future Redhawks placing chewed gum on the new gum tree sculpture.

Watch or Walk in the Homecoming parade

Homecoming is an exciting time at SEMO, and participating in the Homecoming Parade is an absolute must-do! Snag a spot along Broadway St. to watch the parade, or march proudly in the parade celebrating the spirit of SEMO. 

Cheerleaders walking in the homecoming parade.

See a Show at River Campus

The River Campus hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, theatrical productions, dance recitals, and art exhibitions. Attending a show at The Bedell Performance Hall is an excellent way to support your fellow students' talents. 

Student playing the flute in a river campus concert.