Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Top Questions

Southern Illinois University at Carbondale has been recognized as many as being a "party school." Back in the 1970s, parties on 'the strip' and riots were some of the popular occurrences. Today, its former legacy lives on, and therefore many are reminded of the school’s past, which has now become the stereotype that continues to remain with the university. Additionally, this has only implemented relatively negative implications that have tarnished the academia’s view of SIUC’s students and the seriousness of their erudite efforts. Although, like many other universities, SIUC does have an active social scene (which does include the average 'party goers'); however, its reputation from the 1970s does not accurately depict the majority of students. Furthermore, its students are not any less adamant, adroit, or able compared to other colleges. SIUC is a research institution that provides many opportunities for students to acquire an excellent education, to research particular interests, and to be provided financial assistance. Although SIUC did have the conjecture of being a ‘party school’ in the past, it, by no means today, fits this stereotype and thus one should see the current educational development of the student body. It is evident that the school has vastly improved in recent years and, moreover, the students (who are entirely committed to their academic careers) undoubtedly surpass the former reputation of the school. It is merely time to look past the past and see the present (and the future) of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.

Southern Illinois has the reputation of being a "party school", something that invites rather negative connotations about its student body, and consequently the seriousness of their academic pursuits. Obviously, like at any college, there is an active party scene here at SIU. However, that is by no means an accurate, or even semi-accurate reflection of the student body. As a fourth year senior at SIU, I've seen plenty of people find a healthy balance between their social and academic lives, as well as those who are unable to find such a balance, and ultimately fail out or decide that college isn't right for them. This is not unique to SIU. Deciding to be a serious student is a personal choice, and one that requires an individual to make certain sacrifices at times. Although, like any school, SIU does have an active social circuit, that by no means qualifies its student body as any less serious or smart or capable as any other college's. It has been my experience that the students who wholeheartedly commit to their academic careers far exceed the reputation of the school, which it should be noted, has vastly improved in recent years. Also, speaking quickly to Greek Life and other student organizations, there are many to choose from, and I would highly suggest joining a student club or organization. Personally, I am a member of the SIU Men's Rugby Club, and in addition to hosting some of the most well attended and highly anticipated socials of the year, we boast the highest GPA of any club sport on campus.

Southern Illinois has the reputation of being a "party school", something that invites rather negative connotations about its student body, and consequently the seriousness of their academic pursuits. Obviously, like at any college, there is an active party scene here at SIU. However, that is by no means an accurate, or even semi-accurate reflection of the student body. As a fourth year senior at SIU, I've seen plenty of people find a healthy balance between their social and academic lives, as well as those who are unable to find such a balance, and ultimately fail out or decide that college isn't right for them. This is not unique to SIU. Deciding to be a serious student is a personal choice, and one that requires an individual to make certain sacrifices at times. Although, like any school, SIU does have an active social circuit, that by no means qualifies its student body as any less serious or smart or capable as any other college's. It has been my experience that the students who wholeheartedly commit to their academic careers far exceed the reputation of the school, which it should be noted, has vastly improved in recent years. Also, speaking quickly to Greek Life and other student organizations, there are many to choose from, and I would highly suggest joining a student club or organization. Personally, I am a member of the SIU Men's Rugby Club, and in addition to hosting some of the most well attended and highly anticipated socials of the year, we boast the highest GPA of any club sport on campus.

Everyone thinks that the students at SIUC are here to party - it's not true! We are a fantastic research institution, and we've got everyone from inventors to Emmy winners as alumni. Truthfully, any school is a "party school" if that's what you're there to do. But if you come to Southern to get a fantastic degree and broaden your horizons, you'll find that we'll exceed your expectations.

Everyone says that SIU is a party school and honestly it is not. SIU has changed in the past 4 years since i have been here and students have got more serious about their curriculum as well as the faculty.

When I came to school that stereotype was that SIUC was a party school. I have found that the not be true in a lot of ways. A lot of this stereotype was associated with Halloween and events that have happened in the past. SIUC still shuts down all of its bars and liquor stores "the strip" for the whole weekend around Halloween, but it really doesn't seem to be a big deal. As of right now you can not drink in a majority of the residence halls. The only one that allows you to is Neeley Hall, but it is only three of the upper floors and you have to be over 21 to live on it. So for a stereotype that sticks around, it's simply not true.

Southern Illinois University - Carbondale has long been viewed as the 'party school'. Back in the 70's parties and riots were not an uncommon occurance and that stereotype has stuck with the university these 40 years later. This stereotype is definitely not accurate! While there are the typical 'party goers' this is not a reputation that accurately depicts the majority of students. SIUC is a research college and there are many opportunities for students to have an Undergraduate Assistanceship that pays you to research things that you find interesting. There are over 200 student organizations to join and become involved in as well as many fellowship opportunities off of campus.