Saluki Startup

Saluki Startup

Saluki Startup is your ultimate introduction to SIU, designed to help new students connect, explore campus, and become part of the Saluki family. Here’s what you can expect for Fall 2025. Make sure to check back for updates on Saluki Startup. You won’t want to miss these exciting events and the chance to kick off your SIU journey.

Wednesday, August 13

Saluki Information Station
Time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Location: Student Center Lawn

Not sure where you need to go? Stop by an Information Station and get directions, a campus map, and meet some new Saluki faces! 

Sweet Goodbyes
Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. 
Location: Student Center Lawn

Once you are settled into your residence hall, join the Saluki Family Association for a complimentary sweet treat. Honeybeez Snowballz food truck will be on-site. 

College of Business & Analytics Ice Cream Social 
Time: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. 
Location: Rehn Hall, East Lawn

Please join the College of Business & Analytics for an Ice Cream Social. Mix & mingle with other new business students, current students, faculty, and staff. Limted to College of Business & Analytics students. 

Thursday, August 14

First-Year Resident Orientation
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 
Location: Student Center

University Housing will be hosting a First-Year Resident Orientation to help new students acclimate to their new home and educating them on resident expectations. Students living in Neely Hall and Thompson Point will be required to attend this session.

Vigil Mass - Assumption of Mary
Time: 5:15 p.m. - 6 p.m. 
Location: Newman Catholic Center, 715 S. Washington Street

Celebration of the holy mass honoring the Assumption of Mary. 

Light Up the Lake
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. 
Location: Becker Pavilion at Campus Lake

One of our most anticipated events, where over 1,600 students gather for glow-in-the-dark games and activities around Campus Lake. It’s an unforgettable night of fun and community.

Friday, August 15

Meet your professors, explore academic programs, and discover the opportunities that await you in your college.

Classroom & Campus Tours 
Time: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Student Services Building

Join Orientation Leaders for a guided tour of important locations on campus that include lecture halls, study areas, resources, food outlets, and fun hangout spots.

Saluki Kickoff Pep Rally
Time: 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Saluki Stadium

Feel the Saluki pride at this massive pep rally in Saluki Stadium, where energy and excitement reach a whole new level. New student photo will be taken at this event. Please wear your favorite maroon Saluki apparel! 

Late Night at the REC
Time: 9 p.m. - 11 p.m. 
Location: Student Recreation Center
Join us for a late evening of volleyball, swimming, basketball and a host of other activities at the Student Recreation Center.

Saturday, August 16

Dawgs Nite Out
Time: 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Location: Student Center

A night of non-stop fun at the Student Center with inflatables, laser tag, mini-golf, food, giveaways, and more!

Sunday, August 17

Welcoming all returning and new students back to Carbondale with mass and a BBQ lunch!

Chancellor's Welcome Fest
Time: 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Shryock Lawn

A relaxed, community-building afternoon with Chancellor Austin A. Lane, faculty, staff, and students – the perfect way to end Saluki Startup on a high note.