Nestled in the wonderful city of Carbondale, Illinois lies a school called Southern Illinois University, home of the Salukis. Founded in 1869, SIU has more than 17,000 students, over 1,000 faculty members, and thousands of alumni that proudly wear maroon and black in support of the school. Saluki pride is evident everywhere on campus, and one can quickly sense that SIU is a strong asset to the Carbondale community, particularly because of the various paw prints painted on the road and the signs hung above main street and throughout the town. SIU continuously offers opportunities to learn and grow day in and day out, but more importantly is the home away from home for many students, which is sometimes difficult for a university to accomplish. However, that's just how amazing SIU is. It's where brain and heart meet, as the university itself notes. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about how lucky and blessed I am to attend such an amazing and wonderful school (Thanks, Mom and Dad!). And while some may argue that their own university is the best, I'd kindly disagree. There's something special and unique about SIU that gives it that certain charm. Thus, here are my 10 reasons why being an SIU Saluki is the absolute best.
1. Small Town Vibe
Although Carbondale has a population of roughly 26,000 people, it still gives off that “small town vibe” to anyone that visits or currently resides there. There are wonderful local businesses and plenty of events around town that offer students a unique blend of culture. Plus, there’s always something going on around town, whether it’s concerts, history exhibits, theatrical productions, charitable races, or simply outdoor excursions. Overall, there’s definitely a strong sense of community here, and Carbondale has plenty to offer SIU students who are looking for their home away from home.
2. Easy Drive
For those of you like me, the drive to SIU is definitely lengthy (4 hours and 50 minutes to be exact). But, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad drive at that. Sure, it’s long and can be boring, particularly because of all the corn fields, but it’s a straight shot south for the majority of folks that come from Northern and Central Illinois. Thus, it’s an easy one because all one has to do is jam out to some music to pass the time. Not to mention the fact that you’ll most likely pass some of our neighboring schools, such as Eastern Illinois University and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is pretty awesome when you think about it. Additionally, it’s nice to be located relatively close to St. Louis for those of you who like an adventure, or to shop.
3. Friendly People
The majority of students, faculty, and locals that I have met during my time here at SIU have been some of the nicest and friendliest people ever. Maybe it’s the Southern charm or simply the fact that everyone loves it here, but either way, everyone is extremely kind and generous. Hell, even the squirrels are nice. Regardless though, SIU is the place to be and I highly encourage anyone that hasn’t visited to come check out the school and meet all of the wonderful people. You won’t regret it, I promise.
4. Beautiful Landscape and Weather
Anyone that enjoys the outdoors knows that Southern Illinois is home to the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes and views ever. With locations such as Giant City, the Shawnee National Forest, the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge and the Trail of Tears State Forest nearby, SIU students have unlimited access to the wonders of the natural world. Honestly, it’s like a little slice of heaven here. As an added bonus, the weather down here is even nice. It’s generally very mild and enjoyable for the most part, which is a relief for those of us who are used to the weather in the Chicago-land area. Summer and fall are hot and relatively comfortable, while winter is generously calm and tolerable, except when it snows and rains; nothing is ever good when that happens. Nevertheless though, SIU is in an excellent location that has boundless opportunities for nature-loving people.
5. Campus Life
One of the biggest adjustments I had to make was learning about the campus. Moving into my first dorm/apartment, meeting new friends, understanding my class schedule, and finding my way around the campus were definitely a challenge at first. However, now after getting the hang of it, I can honestly say that I love it. Carbondale itself is a wonderful city, and SIU captures the beauty and essence of it perfectly. My school is a perfect addition to it actually. With a campus that is easily accessible and filled with natural elements that offer students a stunning walk to class, it’s easy to love the university and all that it provides. It’s also nice that the campus isn’t very spread out and that the dorms/apartments are located reasonably close because let’s be real, having to trek to class would be a pain in the butt. And with newly renovated spaces, particularly within in the student center, bookstore, and various buildings around campus, SIU just keeps getting better and better. You go, SIU!
8. Great Friends
Everyone is nervous to meet new people in college and gain new friends. It’s scary and without a doubt, nerve wrecking. However, it’s not impossible. I’ve met some of my best friends here; ones that I hope to have by my side for many years. Like many other universities, it’s all about finding your niche and hanging out with people that make you feel comfortable and more importantly, loved. SIU opens its doors to people from all across the county and world, which means you’re bound to meet someone that will like you for you, and push you to be the best version of yourself.
7. Strong Academics
Southern Illinois University is the perfect fit for anyone looking to receive a quality education. With students from all walks of life and a program that has over 200 different majors/minors to choose from, SIU prides itself in presenting something meaningful and beneficial to everyone. As a nationally ranked university, one that recently jumped 36 spots in the U.S. News & World Reports Best Colleges Rankings for 2016 to number 153, SIU strongly focuses on shaping students with knowledge, independence, and overall excellence. I strive to work harder and harder each and every day because of this school. It pushes me to be a better person as well as to pursue my dreams and better my future.
8. Special Events
Like the city of Carbondale, SIU has a plethora of events going on almost every single day. The Student Programming Council works extremely hard to involve students and the community in new experiences by booking various different concerts, comedy shows, lectures, speakers, movie showings, and even planning homecoming. Meanwhile, New Student Programs does a great deal to connect both students and their families to the university by offering the new student orientation, an extremely helpful event to help welcome and prepare newer students to life at SIU, as well as planning family weekend, something that my family and I thoroughly enjoy taking part in. All in all, while there are many other councils and groups that work to make SIU exciting and worthwhile, there is never a dull moment here.
9. Extracurricular Activities
What better way to pass the time then to participate in an extracurricular activity! While we have the dedicated members of our band, dance/cheerleading teams, and Division I athletic teams, there are also so many different registered student organizations to choose from and join (over 450 if we’re being specific). There are intramurals/club sports teams, Greek sororities and fraternities, coordinating councils, honor societies, departmental and professional clubs, international groups, volunteer/service clubs, various religious organizations, public interest groups and governmental groups, and even special interest groups, such as the Quidditch Club, just to name a few. Ultimately, there’s something for everyone here. Having fun, making lifelong friends, learning to manage time, making new memories and sprucing up your resume are just some of things you have to look forward to when you join an extracurricular activity at SIU.
10. Having a Unique Mascot
All right, if you’re not from the SIU community, you’re probably thinking what the heck is a saluki. Well, it’s a type of dog (think greyhound with fuzzy ears) that’s considered famous for being a royal Egyptian hunting dog, and more importantly Southern Illinois University’s mascot, which is fitting considering the Southern Illinois region is nicknamed “Little Egypt” because of it’s ties to a historical event back in the day. The saluki mascot was adopted on March 19, 1951, and has since been associated with the university and it’s student body. And while the saluki mascot may seem unconventional as a mascot to many, it represents a school that I am extremely proud to be a part of. Go Salukis go!
