Parents & Family

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Last Updated: May 11, 2026, 09:35 AM

Welcome to SIU and to the University Housing family!

We are very happy that your family chose to continue your student’s education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and we welcome your student to our on-campus residence halls or apartments. We strive to create a true "home away from home" for our residents. Our department supports the academic mission of the University, which is why we call University Housing “The Foundation of Student Success”.

We recognize that the support and involvement from parents, guardians and families are important to the success of students. Moving away from home is an important transition for students in which they can learn independence, self-confidence and responsibility. Balancing the desire to help your student succeed with the need to allow him or her room to grow is a trial and error process for most parents.

We know that the first few days and weeks that your student is away can be difficult for both you and your student. You can take comfort in knowing that our staff works to help your student feel welcome in the residence halls and to gain a sense of belonging in the larger campus community.

Many of us have watched as our own students headed off to college. As parents and Housing staff, we are here to address any concerns or questions regarding your student’s Housing arrangements away from home.

The residence halls are a reflection of our society. They are diverse areas where students from all cultures, values, beliefs, economic levels and walks of life learn from and with each other. This is a great opportunity for your student to learn to accept and value the differences between themselves and others.

We look forward to helping your student grow as an individual. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Events

The dates of the events below are available in our Housing Calendar.

  • Move-In

    A student and two family members smile while carrying clothes and belongings during move-in.

    Residents of University Housing residence halls receive a move-in guide in the summer prior to move-in. This guide contains updated move-in times, dining hours, a packing list, job information and more. This guide will also be posted online in the Moving-In section at the beginning of summer.

  • Saluki Startup

    Two students outdoors give each other an excited high-five during a campus event.

    Saluki Startup is an extended orientation for all students new to the university both first year and transfer. During this orientation students will learn how to navigate campus, tips to a successful academic career, and will have the opportunity to meet new friends along the way.

  • Family Weekend

    Students dancing during a family weekend tailgate.

    Family weekend is our opportunity to celebrate our students immediate and extended families for the support they offer to students. Family weekend consists of many activities throughout the weekend including the family weekend tailgate.

  • Homecoming

    Students cheer and wave flags while celebrating at the homecoming parade.

    Salukis from across the country return to SIU for our annual homecoming festivities. Activities include King and Queen elections, homecoming parade, homecoming tailgate, football game and various others.

Resources for Families

Saluki Family Association Family involvement and support is extremely important to students as they pursue their college degree. At SIU Carbondale, we want family members to share in the Saluki experience by not only becoming involved in activities on campus, but by learning about issues their students may be going through, remaining aware of important dates, etc.

College Parents of America is a great resource for articles and ideas for the parents of college students.

Mailing Addresses