When Southern Illinois University Carbondale throws out the welcome mat, it does so in style as evidenced by Winter Weeks of Welcome, a special time to greet new and returning students as they come to campus for the spring semester and get them acquainted and connected with SIU and one another.
“We are excited to welcome students back to campus,” said Tina Sickinger, director of student engagement and campus life. “As students return for the spring semester, we encourage them to take advantage of the many opportunities to get involved. Engagement outside the classroom plays a vital role in student success, helping students form connections, explore interests and feel a strong sense of belonging on campus."
Classes start Jan. 12, and students are expected to return to campus the preceding weekend.
Diverse events happening
Studies have shown that involved, active students are more likely to stay in school. In addition to providing a great time of immersive, fun and educational activities, the goal of the Jan. 10-25 Winter Weeks of Welcome is getting students engaged in campus life.
One of the highlights is the RSO Involvement Fair Jan. 15 from 5-7 p.m. at the Student Center. It’s a chance for students to learn about the hundreds of registered student organizations on campus and get involved. Dawgs Night Out is a perennial favorite for Salukis. Set for 7-11 p.m. Jan. 17 at the Student Center, it’s the happening place with an iceless skating rink, bingo, lip sync, inflatables, miniature golf, paint and sip, bowling and billiards, pancakes and assorted fun and games.
But that’s just the beginning. Students can take tours of campus, the Student Health Center, the Dawg Lounge, the Tutoring Center and HEROES Headquarters. They can discover opportunities to learn in other countries during special study abroad sessions at Lentz and Trueblood Halls and Morris Library. Craft sessions, workshops, international coffee hours and other activities are planned as well. The excitement continues with a movie night and Saluki basketball games – women’s and men’s.
New Student Programs sponsors Winter Weeks of Welcome with assistance from the Student Programming Council and other campus units.
Learn more by visiting the website, emailing orientation@siu.edu or calling 618-453-1000.
Media Advisory
Reporters, photographers and news crews are welcome to cover many of the events during Winter Weeks of Welcome. You may particularly be interested in the Registered Student Organization (RSO) Fair from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 15 and Dawg’s Night Out, 7-11 p.m. Jan. 17. Both are at the Student Center.
For more information about Winter Weeks of Welcome or other good story, photo or video opportunities, email tschiff@siu.edu.
