Cool Treats, Helpful Guides and Campus Engagement Complement Successful First Week of Classes at SIUE
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville students completed a successful first week of classes during Aug. 23-27 with ample engagement activities, academic kickoffs and cool treats.
“I’m excited to be a Cougar at SIU Edwardsville,” said Emily Bolhofner, of Red Bud, who transferred from Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville. “I’m in the nursing program. All of my teachers have been nice and encouraging, and everybody in my living community is outgoing and friendly. It’s going to be an amazing year!”
Ask Me! volunteers helped students navigate campus on Monday, Aug. 23. On Tuesday, Aug. 24, students enjoyed a Resource Fair where they had the opportunity to learn about campus resources. Community representatives shared job and involvement opportunities with students, and encouraged them to engage with the surrounding community, during the Merchant Fair held Wednesday, Aug. 25.
Amid the week’s heat, cool treats were happily accepted by faculty, staff and students during the annual Dairy Queen Ice Cream Social held in the Goshen Lounge. Chancellor Randy Pembrook and Edwardsville Mayor Art Risavy handed out free Oreo and Cookie Dough Blizzards®.
“I’m excited to be here at the Ice Cream Social with Chancellor Pembrook,” said Risavy. “It’s wonderful to see students back on campus at SIUE not only enjoying this great University, but also being a part of Edwardsville. We’re excited to have everybody back!”
“I’m a first-year student, and so far, I rather like the way my schedule works out,” said Brandon Wiles, of St. Louis. “My classes seem interesting. I’m going to try to learn more about campus activities, so I can decide what I’m most interested in attending. I’m excited to be here. I can’t wait to see what this school will bring me.”
“I started grad school this week,” added Keaira Cox. “I was nervous and a little anxious, but it’s been exciting. I’ve been learning a lot already.”
Cox completed a bachelor’s in psychology at SIUE, and said it was a natural decision to stay to pursue graduate school.
“I’ve been immersed with the campus community, and the school environment as a whole,” she explained. “I’ve gotten to learn and love all the faculty. My career goals align with the psychology department’s plans and intentions. It’s fun to be back!”
Photo: An SIUE student poses for a selfie with Eddie the Cougar during the annual Dairy Queen Ice Cream Social.
