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New ISS E-Mail

Address

issinfo@siu.edu is the new

email address that

international students can

use to contact ISS. Please

use this email address if

you have questions,

comments, or need to

update your information

with us.

International Programs & Services (618)453-5774

issinfo@siu.edu
www.ips.siu.edu
Student Views...

I arrived in Carbondale in the middle of summer 2007. It was pretty hot but the heat was fine for me because I am from a totally tropical country. When I entered the Carbondale border, the very first thing that welcomed me was the huge green corn and soybean farms, so green and so peaceful. The wind was so gentle and fresh giving me foreshadow that I would love this place and would feel like I really belong here. It impressed me so much because the farms are super huge. It reminds me of my father who is a real farmer but his farm is not this big. The long journey from St. Louis seemed so short because I enjoyed the joy of the green carpet of blossoming crops on the sides of the roads. I did not know at then that there were more surprises in store for me.

   As I entered the downtown, I was surprised again. “Welcome Students” notices were everywhere, in front of shops, city corners, along the street sides, and more. I learned very soon that the people of town welcome all students very much and as for me, it made me feel embraced and settled. I told my friends back home and in the United States about the warm welcome and they were all so happy about it (there are at least 300 other students from my country pursuing degrees throughout the US with the same exchange program as mine, and they say I am so lucky to be in this town).

    I felt more delighted when I phoned the ISS representative upon my arrival. A hospitable sound from the other side of the wire gave me a feeling of safety despite the perplexity of being in a new place. ISS had prepared everything for me, such as my temporary housing, schedule, and a welcome
packet. I thought “Wow, they are so well organized”. ISS placed me at Boomer Hall, a peaceful place by the woods. I enjoyed looking at the woods in the mornings and afternoons because of the sound of nature that gave me a sense of being back at my dad’s house with the trees and the fresh wind. I realized then that SIUC is the perfect place for me to pursue my dream.

    The academic environment gives me much psychological support to start my study here. When I registered for my classes, I knew that SIUC has a very good computerized management system, which they don’t have back home and I am much impressed. It gives me the feeling of being safe because I know I am in good hands. In addition, I know I will not get lost here because the campus is always there to help anyone in need.

   I am also impressed by the campus’ facilities. The student center where I can get almost everything ranging from books, clothes, dining services, information and the one I love, the bowling center! I know I will be well cared for because it has a Health Center, as well as I know where to go to spend my weekend as it has a Recreation Center where I can work out and much more. It is more than a perfect place to study for me.

   I started my classes with joy and I adore the professors who are very kind. I love the subjects the way they are so challenging but well-taught. I am now in the middle of a busy semester but I was prepared well in the orientation week for this.

   Henceforth, this city, the people, the university, the professors, my friends, and the environment are a perfect blend that gives me additional power to reach my goals. Thank you SIUC!

Tugiyanto

Indonesia, Master’s, TESOL

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The International Dateline Newsletter

A Newsletter of International Students & Scholars

Address

Student Views...