Introduction to Dawg Days

Dawg Days New Student Retreat is a four-day, three-night program held at Southern Illinois University's Touch of Nature Environmental Center. The program is designed for incoming freshmen and aims to provide a supportive community and help students transition to college life.

Program Details

• The program includes small and large group activities, such as:
  • Team and large group challenges
  • Themed evening socials
  • Canoeing/kayaking
  • Tips and tricks for involvement and success
• Incoming campers will be placed with about 120 other members of their class.
• The program is led by 4 camp directors and several volunteer counselors who are all students at SIU.
• Within the camp, students will be separated into smaller groups led by 2 camp counselors, providing a support system that will last throughout their college career at SIU.
• Freshmen are split into small groups of 10-12 students guided by 2 upperclassmen counselors.
• The entire camp will dine together for meals each day and come together each evening for themed mixers with upperclassmen and other freshmen.

Mission and Program Objectives

The mission of Dawg Days is to welcome incoming students into the Saluki Family by providing a dedicated and compassionate group of individuals who share a passion for SIU and its programs. The program aims to ease the transition to SIU and help students find their place at their new home.

Program Outcomes

• 99% of last year's participants recommended the program for future freshmen.
• Early research suggests that Dawg Days participants on average

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.