Horizons is a program specifically designed for first year residents that will help make the transition from high school to college life smooth and enjoyable. Living on the same wing in Prairie Hall members will receive specialized attention that encourages students to do their best as active community members and participants in various University programs. Students will create strong relationships with University faculty and Prairie Hall staff. Horizons’ members will gain a sense of community with their wing that will remain well beyond their first year of college.
Social and Academic Support
As a Horizons member, you will be encouraged to interact with other students, contribute to service learning activities, and participate in SIUE student organizations. Students will be able to attend dinners, ice creams socials, bowling nights, and more!! In addition, students will learn valuable skills to be successful in college like resume writing and study skills sessions.
Typically, first year students take many similar classes. Horizons members have the added bonus of registering for UNIV 112: The Horizons class. This class is a requirement of the program and focuses on the acquisition of leadership and study skills that help make SIUE students successful. This section of UNIV 112 will count towards the required New Freshmen Seminar that all incoming students must enroll in.
Faculty Connection
Horizons members will form stronger relationships with University faculty and staff in both formal and non-formal settings, from discussions on study skills to pizza parties! Not only will students enhance their study skills, they will be able to take advantage of programming within the residential living community to succeed in the classroom. In addition, recent graduates of Horizons often act as Peer Mentors, giving guidance and support throughout your first year.
Program Requirements
To get the most out of your Horizons experience, certain program requirements have been established. Students who complete the Horizons program will be honored at the Kimmel Leadership Awards Banquet at the end of the academic year. Full participation in the following activities is required:
What students are saying about the Horizons program:
“I thought Horizons was just about leadership, but I find that it’s more than becoming a leader, it’s defining who you are as a person through the close community that we have created in our Horizon’s wing.” -- Dustin French- Horizons graduate 2006
“It’s so nice to be around people that are in your same situation and share your same qualities. It made the adjustment effortless.” -- Andrew Glosser- Horizons graduate 2006
“By living in the Horizons wing I’ve made so many new friends by getting involved with the different programs at SIUE.” -- Amy Brockhouse- Horizons graduate 2006
New students wishing to become part of The Horizons program should indicate their interest on their University Housing Application and fill out a Horizons application.
To learn more about Horizons, please contact Lisa Israel, Assistant Director for Residential Education at lisrael@siue.edu or 618-650-5296