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Parent and Guest Preview Schedule

Parents and guests are welcome to attend Preview, but it's not mandatory. We’ve got special programming just for you. It’s a big change to send your student off to college. We’ll cover it all, from logistics to emotions.

Day One

10:20 a.m.-noon Morning Sessions

  • Parent and Family Services
  • Preview Schedule breakdown
  • Orientation to Preview
  • Welcome from University College and Honors Program

Noon-12:50 p.m. Lunch (on your own)

1-2:15 p.m. Academic Advisement Presentation (with your student)

Meet your student’s advisor and get details on educational planning.

2:25-3 p.m. College/Department Meetings (with your student)

This session provides freshmen with information about requirement and opportunities unique to their major. Undeclared and undecided students can attend a session designed to help students with major exploration.

3:10-3:55 p.m. Conference Sessions

Various campus departments will present about their offices. It’s a good idea for students and family members/guests to separate and attend different sessions. This way you can gather as much information as possible!

4-4:30 p.m. Campus Safety

Illinois State University and Normal Police Department officers will present tips and resources for staying safe on campus.

4:30-5 p.m. Living on campus

Presented by University Housing Services. Learn more about on-campus housing options, amenities, what is included in a typical room, Move-In, safety in the residence halls, tips for living with a roommate and more!

4:30-6:30 p.m. Dinner

Experience dinner in one of our dining centers. Cost is included if you’re staying in the residence hall. Please note: Campus Dining Services only accepts credit/debit cards at our dining centers. Cards must be signed to be accepted.

6:45-7:15 p.m. Illinois State from a Student’s Point of View

While your student is with their Preview Guide and group, you have the opportunity to ask current students questions about their college experience and learn more about what it’s like to be a student at ISU.

Day Two

6:45-8 a.m. Breakfast

Cost is included if you’re staying in the residence hall. Please note: Campus Dining Services only accepts credit/debit cards at our dining centers. Cards must be signed to be accepted.

7:30 a.m. Residence hall check-out

Return your key to the checkout station in the lobby of your residence hall.

8:15-9:15 a.m. EXPO Information Fair

An essential information fair about all things Illinois State in one convenient location!

9:20-11:15 a.m. Ways to Support Your Student

Welcome back from Preview, Student Affairs Video, Multicultural Center, Dean of Students, Academic Services and resources, and registration announcements. Learn what the Multicultural Center has to offer, what academic support resources are available for students on campus and how you can support your student during their transition to college.

Optional Activities

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Multicultural Center Tour

You will hear student experiences, learn about the dynamic cultural communities at Illinois State, meet supportive faculty and staff, and have the chance to ask questions about all things Illinois State. The MCC offers numerous resources, programs, and activities to support multicultural and LGBTQ+ students at Illinois State and oversees Registered Student Organizations: the Asian Pacific American Coalition, TRIBE, Association of Latin American Students, Black Student Union, and Pride.

Noon-1 p.m. Student employment information

Stop by the Event Management, Dining and Hospitality Student Employment Office (located in the first-floor lounge just outside of the Redbird Card Office) to learn about employment opportunities available for interested students. Students will be able to select their work schedule and location for the fall semester during this time. Be sure to have the forms necessary to complete an I-9 form with you.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Illinois State University’s official Bookstore

Visit Illinois State University’s official Bookstore to check out available ISU gear and clothing as well as talk to store employees about ordering books for your classes.

It’s the end of Preview but it’s only the beginning of your student’s Redbird journey. University College is the go-to spot for everything your student needs in their first year at Illinois State.

Get to know University College

Conference Sessions

All sessions are in Schroeder Hall.

  • All I Wanna Know About Self Care
  • Athletics/Red Alert
  • Campus Recreation
  • Campus Technology
  • Get involved at Illinois State!
  • Music, Band, and Choir
  • ROTC – Military Services
  • Sorority and Fraternity Life
  • Student Health Insurance
  • Study Abroad
  • Service Projects and Civic Engagement

Room 114

This session will outline the services available for students mental and physical well-being. Presenters will also talk about the accommodation services for students with disabilities and/or medical/mental health conditions. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions about any and all services and how they coordinate care across departments as well. The session is co-presented by Student Health Services (SHS), Student Counseling Services (SCS), Student Access and Accommodation Services (SAAS).

Room 117

Looking for a fun way to feel connected on campus right away? Learn what it truly means to be a Redbird by cheering on the 19 varsity sports teams that compete at Illinois State!

In this session, you’ll meet Illinois State students who will tell you everything you need to know about attending athletic events on campus. Roll Birds!

Room 138

Campus Recreation strives to provide the Illinois State University community with a variety of outstanding recreational experiences. Offerings include club and intramural sports, bowling, esports and gaming, open recreation, group fitness classes, personal training, adventure trips, outdoor equipment rentals, and team-building activities. In this session, you will learn about Campus Recreation's variety of activities, facilities, and student employment opportunities.

Room 207

Computers and technology are vital parts of success at Illinois State University. The Office of Technology Solutions provides many services and offers tech help for all. During this Preview session, we’ll tell you how to get personalized assistance if you need to purchase a computer and about the free software available to all students. We’ll also discuss using the Wi-Fi wireless network, available computer labs, and printing strategies. When your computer has issues, we’ll explain where to go on campus to resolve them. A student staff associate will share their perspective of technology at Illinois State. Be sure to stop by TechZone in the Bone Student Center for even more technology info.

Room 244

Getting involved on campus is the best way to make your experience at Illinois State unforgettable. Through involvement in student organizations and participation in campus events, cultural activities, and leadership training programs, students can gain valuable skills, connect with other students, and make the most of their college experience. Discover campus life through the Dean of Students Office.

Room 112

Want to be in a band, choir, or orchestra? Do you love music? No matter what your major or skill level, Illinois State University’s School of Music has an opportunity for you. Joining an ensemble is a great way to become involved and receive class credit. Attend this session to find out how to become involved in music.

Room 102

The Illinois State University Army Reserve Officers Training Corps is a premier leadership development program that develops exceptionally motivated and effective leaders for military and civic life without mandatory military service obligations. This session describes the program’s courses, activities, and wide range of financial opportunities.

Room 242

Sororities and fraternities enrich student lives by providing a support network built on values and care, and opportunities to develop leadership knowledge and skills. Students involved in Greek life often achieve a cumulative grade point average above the University-wide average, are more likely to graduate, and are more engaged in the University community. Add a chapter to your life at Illinois State.

Room 115

Learn more about the comprehensive 24-hour worldwide health and accident policy for students at this session. We will answer questions about how the plan is designed to be a primary insurance for students with no other insurance, or how the plan works for students with primary insurance helping pick up deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and out-of-network charges.

Room 238

Study Abroad provides students with the opportunity to take classes in an international setting while earning credit toward their major, minor, or general education requirements. Students can choose from over 90 programs in over 50 countries with programs ranging from 10 days to 10 months, some of which cost less than a semester on campus. With early planning anyone can participate, regardless of major or financial situation, without delaying graduation or increasing costs. Study Abroad is a perfect opportunity to enhance your resume, gain intercultural communication skills, make new friends, or even find an internship. Attend this presentation to learn more.

Room 212

Join the Center for Civic Engagement as we stuff backpacks with school supplies for the Back to School Alliance! Not only will you help an organization that serves local school children, you will also learn service projects, the chance to travel and serve nationally and globally with our Alternative Breaks trips, civic education (free films and speakers on social issues, campus/community dialogues), and political engagement (learning about how to raise your voice to support policies you care about and how to register to vote and research candidates using the Redbird Voter Guide). The Center for Civic Engagement staff are excited to help you make your #Redbird Impact!

Expo Table Descriptions

The expo takes place in the Prairie Room (second floor of the Bone Student Center).

  • Athletics
  • Bloomington-Normal Visitor's Bureau
  • Campus Recreation
  • Career Services
  • Dean of Students
  • Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality
  • Financial Aid
  • Health Promotion and Wellness
  • Housing
  • Milner Library
  • Multicultural Center
  • Office of Sustainability
  • Office of Parking and Transportation
  • Office of the University Registrar
  • Public Safety
  • Pre-Health Professions Advising
  • Redbird Card Office
  • ROTC
  • Student Access and Accommodations
  • Student Accounts
  • Student Counseling Services
  • Student Employment (HR)
  • Student Health Insurance
  • Student Health Services
  • Study Abroad
  • Veterans and Military Services
  • Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

ISU is home to 19 varsity sports competing at the Division I level. Connect with new friends, fill the student section, and cheer on the Redbirds at home athletic events! Stop by this table to learn more about what opportunities await students looking to become more involved as a fan of Redbird Athletics!

Staff of the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and local hotels will answer questions about area attractions, eateries, and accommodations. Stop by and pick up your 2023 Visitor Guide.

Campus Recreation strives to provide the Illinois State University community with a variety of outstanding recreational experiences. Offerings include club and intramural sports, bowling, esports and gaming, open recreation, group fitness classes, personal training, adventure trips, outdoor equipment rentals, and team-building activities. At this table, you will learn about Campus Recreation's variety of activities, facilities, and student employment opportunities.

The Career Services team will help you explore majors and career paths that fit your goals and interests. We are here to help you achieve academic and career success before and beyond graduating from Illinois State University. In addition, we will help you build your professional skills and networks through programs, events, and connections to alumni and employers.

What will you do with your free time on campus? See how the Redbird Life portal will connect you to clubs and events. Find out if there is a group that aligns with your interests or identities. We can help you learn to lead and learn about social justice through involvement. Plus, hear about available resources such as Dean on Duty, Students’ Attorney, and Parent and Family Services.

Learn more about the Bone Student Center and the variety of dining options offered on campus. Let us answer your questions about meal plans, flex dollars, and dietary accommodations.

Information about on-campus employment opportunities with EMDH will be available. Best of all, take part in one of Illinois State’s most rewarding traditions by purchasing a Fear the Bird Shirt at the Illinois State University bookstore in the Bone Student Center.

The Office of Financial Aid is one of your most important resources while attending Illinois State University. This office processes federal, state, and institutional financial aid in accordance with the regulations associated with each. Resources are available on the financial aid website for information on grants, scholarships, and loans. Come by and ask any questions you have! Financial aid staff will be happy to help and provide direction for your time at ISU. Please have your financial aid offer with you if you have questions specific to your own financial aid.

Health Promotion and Wellness is committed to advancing wellness at all levels. People living, learning, and working in a healthy and safe environment are more likely to reach their highest potential. The department provides nutrition services, stress reduction and mindfulness courses, student wellness ambassador development, and education on violence and sexual assault prevention. Staff also coordinate required prevention courses to address high risk alcohol use and sexual harassment. For more information call (309) 438-WELL (9355) or visit Wellness.IllinoisState.edu.

On-campus housing provides opportunities for growth and development, enhances academic experiences, and creates memorable moments that lead to lifelong friendships. Visit with housing representatives to learn more about the benefits of living on campus, including leadership, student involvement, and employment opportunities. Ask about Themed Living-Learning Communities, which provide a unique living environment for students with common majors or interests. Learn about the places you could live, the roommate selection process, and important dates. Stop by our table and find out how to take advantage of a once in-a-lifetime campus experience.

Milner Library, located in the heart of campus, is an active partner in the teaching, learning, research, and student success activities of Illinois State University. Students have access to online articles, ebooks, spaces for group work and individual study, printing, and loanable technology, such as laptops and graphing calculators. Every student is assigned a librarian who can provide individualized guidance with research projects. Additionally, students can get help from library staff; questions can be asked in person or over chat, email, and text.

Our vision is to help equip students to value intersecting identities and enact a culture of anti-racism, equity and justice. Come learn more about the Multicultural Center programs and take a guided tour of a space created by students for students. This home away from home is where students embrace their cultural heritages and find communities that represent their dynamic ethnic and cultural identities.

The Illinois State University Office of Sustainability serves as a leader for sustainability initiatives and climate commitments across campus. We are dedicated to creating a culture of sustainability at ISU through interdisciplinary and inclusive collaboration with students, faculty, and staff. We strive to develop solutions to reduce our environmental impact, integrate best practices into campus operations, and use every corner of our living laboratory to educate and inform our Redbird community. Learn more about sustainability at ISU and how YOU can get involved! Visit Sustainability.IllinoisState.edu, follow us @SustainISU or stop by the Office of Sustainability at 305 N. School Street.

New for 2023, the Office of Parking and Transportation will be using License Plate Recognition (LPR) for parking permissions. All vehicles parking at the University must purchase an annual parking permission or pay for hourly parking in a metered space or pay lot. Parking permissions are sold online before the fall semester. There are several parking options available for students living in on-campus housing or commuting to campus. Stop by our table to discuss your parking and transportation options. For more information, visit Parking.IllinoisState.edu or call the Office of Parking and Transportation at (309) 438-8391.

Do you need to verify your enrollment for insurance purposes? Would you like to know important registration information for the upcoming semester? Do you know your rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)? Stop by the Office of the University Registrar table for more information. We can provide assistance regarding registration, processing course withdrawals, placement tests, enrollment verification and transcript requests, address and/or name changes, transfer course evaluations, and more. Contact us at (309) 438-2188 or stop by Moulton Hall 107 for more information.

ISU Police, Emergency Management, and Environmental Health and Safety join together to provide students and families information about safety-related services and resources on campus. ISU Police Officers will be available to answer any questions you have and will have information on hand about SafeWalks, bike registrations, etc. Emergency Management will talk about the SafeRedbirds app, the University’s all-in-one safety app. They will also provide information on how families can sign up for ISU Emergency Alerts. Environmental Health and Safety will provide information about campus safety initiatives and will promote student safety officer and Redbird EMS employment opportunities. Finally, and best of all, the Police Department’s therapy dog, Sage, will be on hand to take in all the petting you can offer.

Pre-Health Professions Advising assists students pursuing Pre-Medical, Pre-Dental, Pre-Physician Assistant, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Optometry, and Pre-Chiropractics.

The Redbird Card Office office is responsible for issuing Redbird ID cards, ID account balances, ID transaction information, and collecting Redbird account deposits. To check balances, make online deposits, or deactivate your lost ID, go to My Illinois State.

The Illinois State University Army Reserve Officers Training Corps is a premier leadership development program that develops exceptionally motivated and effective leaders for military and civic life without mandatory military service obligations. Learn about the courses, activities, and its wide range of financial incentives.

Student Access and Accommodation Services is the designated office that accommodates and supports students with disabilities and/or medical/mental health conditions, pregnancy, temporary conditions and religious accommodations. This is accomplished in a confidential manner to ensure equal opportunity for participation in all courses, programs, and activities offered by Illinois State. Bookmarks are available that explain the process to determine eligibility for services. Examples of accommodations are exam accommodations, note takers, sign language interpreters, materials in alternative formats, seating housing and parking accommodations.

The Student Accounts handles the billing of tuition, mandatory fees, student health insurance, housing, meals, and other various charges. A Student Accounts Representative is available during EXPO to answer questions about On-Demand statements, payment due dates, payment plans, payment options, eRefunds, and more.

Students can set up parent(s)/sponsor(s) as Authorized Users, allowing access to view a student’s account information online, receive email reminders, make payments, and other functions.

Visit our New Student Checklist for information on all these items and more!

Mental health issues are a part of life. At Illinois State, students turn to Student Counseling Services (SCS) for free, confidential services when they need help with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, race-related stress and a host of other issues. Staffed by licensed, professional psychologists and counselors, SCS staff seek to provide a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for all students. Please stop by to say hello and get more information about how to take care of yourself.

Student employment positions in most departments across campus offer undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to work at the University. Earnings from part-time employment are an important source of financial assistance, and the knowledge and work experience gained from campus employment is a significant factor in preparing students for future careers. Human Resources staff will be available to answer questions.

The University provides a comprehensive 24-hour worldwide health and accident policy for students enrolled in nine or more credit hours during the fall and spring semesters and six or more hours in the summer session. The cost is included in tuition and fees. For students with no other coverage, the plan is designed to be a primary coverage and is available all year. For students with primary insurance coverage, the addition of this plan can provide up to 100 percent coverage (picking up family insurance deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and out-of-network charges). Visit HealthServices.IllinoisState.edu/Insurance.

Accredited by the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care, this student-oriented medical clinic provides care for illness, injury and wellness. Student Health Services (SHS) offers various services including physician office visits, sexual health services, psychiatry, allergy injections, immunizations, laboratory, radiology, dietitian consultation, and pharmacy. Information will be available on how to comply with mandatory state of Illinois immunization requirements.

Study Abroad provides students the opportunity to take classes in an international setting while earning ISU credit toward their major, minor, or general education requirements. Students can choose from over 90 programs in 47 countries with programs ranging from 10 days to 10 months, with some costing less than a semester on campus. With early planning anyone can participate, regardless of major or financial situation, without delaying graduation or increasing costs. Study Abroad is a perfect opportunity to take your resume to the next level, gain intercultural communication skills, make new friends, or find an internship. Check out Study Abroad to find your experience of a lifetime.

Do you have questions regarding your VA and State of Illinois Benefits for veterans or dependents? Stop by the Veterans and Military services table for more information. We can aid you regarding the different benefits available to the veteran, service member, National Guard Member or dependent. Process your certification with the VA. Give you additional course credit hours for your military service and schools attended in the military. We can also assist with additional information regarding different grants and benefits available to veterans, service members and dependents. Contact us at (309) 438-2207 and Veterans@IllinoisState.edu. You can also stop by at Moulton Hall 112 for more information.

Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program offers expertise in contemporary social issues and the skills necessary to navigate diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. The 21-credit WGSS Minor and 12-credit Queer Studies Certificate prepare students to think, act, and write critically and engage in socially responsible activism. Join us to learn about courses, programming, and student organizations to connect with.

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