CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - College students are returning to school soon. The University of Illinois has welcomed new and returning students to move into on-campus housing.
"Last year, 86% of our students told us that they felt like they belonged at the University of Illinois when they were living in university housing, and we're really proud of that number," said Chris Axtman-Barker, the Marketing and Communications Director of University Housing.
This year, the University is expecting an influx of 10,000 students to move in on campus. As of Tuesday, 3,500 people have moved in. Barker acknowledges that move-in day is an emotional moment for families a well.
Veneise Braxton dropped her son off for his freshman year, and it was bittersweet. After learning about the many resources the University offers, she was comforted.
"I'm so grateful for the University of Illinois because they are one of the only schools that offer dormitories for students with disabilities. And then my son having a disability, I'm just so grateful that they gave him the opportunity to even attend college and live on board and have that real life college experience," Braxton said.
Not only is the campus excited for the students' return, but so are local businesses.
"Moving week for the University of Illinois is a substantial week for the economy here in Champaign-Urbana. You can really see the difference in just the foot traffic here in the downtown area and on our streets," said Terri Reifsteck, Vice President of Destination Branding & Development at Experience Champaign Urbana.
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