Skip to main content
MenuSearch & Directory

Billiken Beginnings

Billiken Beginnings is a workshop series designed to offer support during the first eight weeks of the fall semester at Saint Louis University. Highlighting a different challenge each week, we’re here to help you start the semester on a strong note.

Three new freshman students sitting in the stands at Chaifetz Arena at convocation
 

The transition to college doesn’t end with Fall Welcome. It can take time to adjust to new classes, find a new routine, meet new friends and make SLU feel like your second home. 

  • Feeling unsure about how to be successful in college?
    We’ll help you sharpen the skills needed to adapt to life at SLU, in and out of the classroom. 
  • Can’t remember which office to contact for which questions?
    Friendly folks from campus offices will provide a refresher on their resources and how they can help you during your time at SLU. 
  • Want to hear from someone who’s been where you are?
    SLU students will discuss their first year of college and what worked, and didn’t work, for them. 
  • Like winning prizes?
    We’ll give away an attendance prize at each session! Plus, if you attend four or more sessions, you’ll be entered into our grand prize drawing. 
Fall 2023 sessions will be held on Mondays, from 5-6 p.m., in Ritter 327. 
September 11: Habits for Academic Success
Those first tests are just around the corner. We’ll discuss study strategies to help you tackle college coursework. Plus, you’ll learn how to utilize tutoring, supplemental instruction, University Writing Services and Student Success Coaching. This session features the assistant provost for Academic Advising.
September 18: Managing Your Time
You’ve got a lot on your plate. We’ll explore options for creating a study plan and tools to stay organized. This session features Academic Advising.
September 25: Getting Involved and Coping with Homesickness
It’s completely normal to miss your family, friends and home. We’ll talk about ways that you can begin to settle into campus life, and we’ll discover various opportunities to get involved at SLU. This session features the Center for Social Action and the Student Involvement Center.
October 2: Holistic Wellness - Mind, Body, Spirit
You have to be well to do well. We’ll learn ways to incorporate self-care into your days and about resources on campus to support your physical, mental and spiritual well-being. This session features Campus Ministry, Campus Recreation and Wellness, the University Counseling Center and Student Health.
October 9: Career and Major Exploration
It’s never too early to plan for the future. We'll find out how you can build experiences to help you explore your major and prepare for the job market. This session features Career Services.
October 16: Building Resiliency
There will be bumps in the road, and that’s okay. We’ll discuss what to do when you face challenges and how to bounce back stronger. This session features the Dean of Students Office.

Each workshop will feature: 

  • Strategies for success
  • Information from campus offices
  • Advice from peers
  • Time for goal-setting
  • Attendance prizes

You don’t have to figure out college on your own. Billiken Beginnings is here to help.

If you have questions about the workshop series, please contact Emily Tuttle at emily.m.tuttle@slu.edu