College comes with plenty to keep track of, but SEMO makes it easier. This blog will walk you through the must-have apps that set you up for success on campus. From checking your class schedule to ordering lunch without leaving your dorm, these tools put campus at your fingertips.

Spoiler alert: At SEMO, all kinds of students thrive. There’s no “perfect mold” you have to fit into. What matters most isn’t where you come from, what you scored on a test, or how certain you are about your future. What matters is that you’re ready to show up, work hard, and believe in yourself.

Opening Week at SEMO is full of welcome events designed to help students start strong, connect early, and settle in with confidence. It’s the perfect way to break the ice, make friends fast, and feel at home from day one.

When I first moved three hours away from home to go to SEMO, I was terrified. I had gone to the same school with the same people all my life, and I was scared to have to make new friends. Looking back on everything, I know it was silly to be worried. But, I didn’t know that my first week. I have compiled a list of advice I wish someone had told me as a freshman. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or confused to start the year, this SEMO freshman guide is a great start to getting prepared.

To help you feel confident and prepared, here are some smart questions to ask your student services specialist.

At SEMO, students benefit from more than just a great education; they have access to an impressive range of facilities that enhance every part of campus life. From innovative learning spaces to high-tech labs and relaxing outdoor amenities, SEMO’s commitment to providing a student-centered experience is clear in every corner of campus.

With nearly 150 academic programs to choose from, every major at SEMO offers unique opportunities to learn, grow, and prepare for success after college.

Southeast Missouri State University isn’t just a college; it’s a community with a story. For over 150 years, SEMO has been shaped by bold traditions, vibrant student life, and a Redhawk spirit that runs deep.

First STEP isn’t just a box to check off—it’s a major moment in your transition from high school to college life.

Your room is new, your friends are different, and your interests may change! Prepare for a new world as you leave high school and embark on your first year in college at Southeast.

It’s almost here. High school graduation marks the end of one chapter and the start of a new one that’s completely your own. It’s exciting, it’s overwhelming, and it comes with a big question: What now?

So, you’re planning a visit to SEMO! We understand that capturing the vibe of our campus in just one short visit can be tricky. Don't worry! Our Admissions team has curated a list of tips and tricks to make the most of your visit with us.

Take your time scrolling through these dog photos!

To help you feel more confident and prepared, we’ve gathered some our top admissions tips to keep in mind as you start your college journey

Choosing a college is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—decisions you’ll make during your high school journey. With so many options, it’s important to pick a school that fits you. Whether you’re already eyeing SEMO or just starting your search, here are five key questions to ask yourself to find the college that’s right for you:

Wanting to get involved on campus, but haven't found your flock? Here are a few of our must-know SEMO student organizations.

If you’re dreaming of a career in tech, or better yet, creating the next big video game hit, there’s never been a more exciting time to be at SEMO with the launch of a brand-new Bachelor of Science in Game Development starting Fall 2025. With a tech-savvy curriculum and intense immersive experiences, SEMO is offering more than just a degree—it’s delivering real return on investment.

Living on campus is where some of your best college memories will happen. It’s your first taste of independence, and a chance to meet new people. But picking the right dorm? That’s a big decision. We’ve got the tips to help you find the one that fits your vibe.

Stay in the know with all things SEMO! We've rounded up the best Instagram and TikTok accounts to keep you updated on campus news, trends, athletics, and more. Give them a follow to stay connected and make student life a little easier!

Asking for help is key to personal and academic growth. The people around you at SEMO genuinely want to help, because when you succeed, we all succeed!

Choosing a graduate school is a big decision that requires careful consideration. Finishing undergrad was a huge accomplishment and moving on to a graduate program might seem daunting. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current field, pivot to a new career, or deepen your knowledge in a subject you’re passionate about, selecting the right graduate program is a crucial step toward achieving your long-term aspirations. To help you confidently navigate this process, here are some key steps to consider as you explore your options and make an informed decision.

Your student has been accepted to SEMO, congratulations! As you begin preparing for this exciting next step, you may be wondering about financial aid. One of the most important things you can do right now is ensure your student files the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

Now that it’s time to fill out your college applications, you might be wondering where to start. No need to stress, we have some helpful tips to guide you!

May 1 is College Decision Day when high school seniors choose their new home away from home. Here's a quick guide to help you make your #SEMOBound Decision Day announcement:

Hey future Redhawks! We're here to break down the latest updates to the FAFSA in a way that's clear and straightforward. Here's what you need to know...

We live in an interconnected world and the path to higher education is always evolving. This is what led to the inspiring story of Dr. Purva Gupta, a recent graduate from Southeast Missouri State University. Dr. Gupta graduated with her master's in healthcare management. Her journey, started in Nagpur, India, and shows the power of online education and support provided by SEMO.

Hey there, Redhawks! We know that college life comes with a rollercoaster of emotions, from the excitement of newfound freedom to the stress of balancing schoolwork and a social life. Here are some tips to help you manage your mental health in the midst of the college life chaos.

To make the most of your time at Southeast Missouri State University, we present to you the SEMO Bucket List, a compilation of must-do activities before you graduate!

Shopping for your first dorm room can be overwhelming. Don’t wait until summer to get started! I have listed 20 different ideas you can add to your Christmas list that will be beneficial to any incoming freshman! I’ve also included 13 extra stocking stuffer ideas.

Hello, everyone! My name is Erica Standefer, and I am a sophomore at SEMO. Let’s talk about some of the reasons I chose SEMO and why I believe I made a good choice. I can confidently say that I am so happy with my decision to come to SEMO, but I can admit that it wasn’t always that way.

When I was considering grad school, applying for graduate assistantships was a no-brainer.

You probably know by now that getting involved on campus is important. Getting involved can help you make friends, learn about the community, and maybe even help you take steps to securing your future. So, how do you make it happen?

At Southeast Missouri State, we like to make plans. And, packing to move to campus is just another opportunity to plan ahead.

You're busy filling out college applications. We've got three important tips to make sure your application makes it through the process quickly.

Choosing a college or university can be a stressful journey and picking a major can add to it. But the truth is, it’s completely OK, and normal, to start out undecided.

What makes something a home? The people. And when Southeast is your home, you’re going to find a family. Whether it’s a roommate, a classmate, a coworker, or someone you happened to meet, finding your Southeast family has never been so easy.

Filing the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, might seem long and confusing. But, a little preparation will make the process a lot easier!

We could tell you all about the best parts of Camp Redhawk, but we think it’s even better to show you.

Last Semester, Southeast was chosen as a “Yamaha Institution of Excellence” and received new Yamaha pianos for student use. Dr. Kevin Hampton, Chair of the Department of Music, answered some questions about the distinction and the new pianos. Check out his answers below!

Whether you’re starting college for the first time, or going back after a break, there’s a few things you can do to prepare for the upcoming semester.

It’s the summer before your first semester at Southeast. Have more questions? Want to meet some of your classmates? Afraid of navigating campus? We’ve got a solution for you.

While choosing a roommate at random may seem simple enough, you’ll want to consider a few key questions to ask potential future roomies before moving in.

Waiting to hear back on an admission decision can seem like a stressful time, but it doesn’t have to be.

There's plenty of places on Southeast's campus to snap that perfect picture for Instagram!

Are you interested in learning about other cultures? You don’t have to leave the country to do that at SEMO. Our International Village brings the world to you.

Southeast Serves is a program providing students, faculty, and staff with the opportunity to volunteer both on and off-campus.

Everyone knows Southeast’s beloved Mascot, Rowdy the Redhawk. He has been a symbol of our university since 2005 and he has been through a lot: an injury, a costume change, and several games.

As a parent of a future Redhawk, you may be worried about how your student is going to transition into college life and how you will cope as they leave your nest and fly into ours. It’s a busy, sometimes scary, time and we understand the challenges that come with starting a new journey (for you and your student).

Are you looking into becoming a Redhawk? Just last year, I was in your shoes trying to decide where I wanted to spend my next two years.

The most important part in preparing for college is choosing the school that is right for you and then meeting the deadlines to get in. To make things easier for you, here are the most important dates to remember this fall at Southeast.

You’re here and you need to be there. We can help. There are plenty of ways to get around campus, Cape Girardeau, and beyond, even if you don’t have your own vehicle. Here are some suggestions:

Are you dreading the application process for scholarships? No worries! When you apply to SEMO, we’ll do a lot of the work for you.

What are YOU doing this summer? If CampRedhawk isn’t on your summer “to do” list, you need to seriously re-evaluate your life choices.

You have done the research. You have visited, questioned, read, and researched. You have applied to college. Now what? There’s still a lot to do!