The SIUE Experience: Cougar Class of 2019
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s class of 2019 gathered at the Vadalabene Center on campus Friday to meet their fellow classmates, learn what it means to be a student at SIUE and build their Cougar spirit.
The freshmen class, comprised of approximately 2,100 students, 275 of whom are Missourians, gathered around the iconic cougar statue on the quad for the traditional freshman class photo. Cougar Guides, faculty and staff hosted the SIUE Experience where students were welcomed to the SIUE community and taught about the University’s values of Excellence, Wisdom, Inclusion, Citizenship and Integrity.
“We are thrilled to welcome the class of 2019 to SIUE,” said Scott Belobrajdic, assistant vice chancellor for Enrollment Management. 
“SIUE continues to see substantial growth in enrollment and retention numbers as our local, national and international students receive a quality academic education and memorable collegiate experience.”
This academic year SIUE expects about 1,300 new transfer students to enroll, as well as nearly 500 international students. The University also anticipates a record number of African American and Latino students enrolled.
