On Tuesday, Sept. 12, faculty and staff members from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville visited first-year residents in Bluff, Prairie and Woodland Halls and transfer students in Cougar Village Apartments.  House Calls is designed to engage first-year and transfer students in conversation with faculty and staff early in their transition to campus.

“House Calls is a valuable opportunity staff and faculty have to connect with residents in their living spaces,” said Mallory Sidarous, director of University Housing. “It is always a pleasure to talk with residents about their experiences in and out of the classroom since the start of the academic year.”

The program provides the opportunity for residents to connect with a friendly face. House Calls saw great success with dozens of campus administrators connecting with residents about how they have been adjusting to on-campus living, classes, programs, student organizations, and any concerns they may have. This is University Housing’s 20th year organizing the program.

“The moment I stepped onto campus last fall I fell in love with this school,” stated Allison Szostak, Woodland Hall resident and House Calls student participant. “Everyone is so welcoming and supportive of each other’s journeys.”

“We are intentional with when we schedule this event, as it is often a point in the semester where students may start to recognize the need for resources to help support their success, and we are happy to help point them in the right direction,” Sidarous continued. “I am grateful for the staff and faculty that give of their time to be part of this impactful event.”

For more information about House Calls, please contact Mallory Sidarous, director of University Housing at 618-650-4628 or msidaro@siue.edu.

Photo: (L-R) Leslie Boudouris, CORE Team program coordinator, and Kevin Leonard, PhD, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences connect with students during the House Calls program.