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The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus is vibrant and filled with Cougar pride, as excitement builds for the launch of the fall 2022 semester.  

First-year students have moved into their residence halls and are taking part in the SIUE Experience, a welcome program that helps students make connections across campus and introduces them to the values of their new home away from home.  

“Everyone I have talked to and everything I have seen reassures me that I am in the right place,” said Madeline Buchanan.  “There is a lot to take in, but I feel connected. I have learned a lot from the upper classmen, met so many new people, and have had lots of new experiences.” 

“The biggest thing I have noticed so far is how friendly and helpful the staff is,” added Malik Jefferson, of St. Louis. “I feel like there are a lot of opportunities to be connected here at SIUE and that there is a good balance between fun and school.” 

“We know students who start to find people who they see as advocates, cheerleaders and lifelines are supported and have a better overall collegiate experience,” said Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Miriam Roccia. “That is what the SIUE Experience aims to do for students — create connections and establish a sense of belonging. This robust program is one of the first steps towards seeing these students achieve their goal of walking across our commencement stage with a degree in hand.” 

“It seems like yesterday when I was on your side of the parade as an undecided major, because I was confused about what I would be passionate about for the rest of my career,” said Student Government President Rahmat Salau, an accounting major and Nigerian native, to the Class of 2026. “I assure you that by being involved on campus, you will find things you are passionate about, like advocating for students through Student Government. The work I do is close to my heart, and I am happy to be a resource to all of you as you go through both stressful and exciting moments at SIUE. You are not alone. There are many amazing people dedicated to your success as a member of this community, so don’t be afraid to reach out. People here want to help you.” 

As part of a long-standing SIUE tradition, the Class of 2026 paraded through cheering upper-class students, faculty and staff on their way to the Cougar statute where they gathered for a class photo.  

“There is nothing like that freshmen year when this whole wide world of opportunities opens up,” said Laurie Wolff, economics and finance instructor in the School of Business, now starting her 33rd year at SIUE. “Every fall we can reinvent ourselves and start anew. It’s the best feeling.” 

“Being a part of this welcome parade and then helping at commencement are great book ends that remind us why we’re here,” added instructional designer Angie Meyer. “We are all here for these students. It’s exciting for them, and this helps give us energy as we move into the new school year.” 

Wearing their SIUE red, students also enjoyed cupcakes and snow cones to wrap up the day’s scheduled events. 

The SIUE Experience continues through the weekend with events like the Cougar Kick-off, movie night, trivia and other activities hosted by SIUE student organizations. In addition to all the fun, Sunday’s activities maintain a health focus, with yoga, bike rides and the distribution of wellness kits for the students as they prepare for class to start Monday, Aug. 22.  

For more information about the SIUE Experience, visit siue.edu/experience. 

Photos: SIUE first-year students gather on the Quad.

Students build community during the SIUE Experience.