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  3. Parent and Guest Schedule

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

10:00 a.m. Check-in

Milner Library

Explore Bone Student Center. Doors to Braden Auditorium open at 10:30 a.m.

10:50 a.m. Welcome Session

Braden Auditorium

12:15 p.m. Lunch (on your own)

Bone Student Center Uptown Normal

Students eat on campus with their Preview group, while parents and guests can grab lunch at the Bone Student Center or nearby in Uptown Normal.

1:30-2:30 p.m. Explore ISU Your Way

Bone Student Center Student Services Building Schroeder Hall

Meet back with your student and use this time to create your own orientation. Choose what interests you most and check it off your list.

2:30-2:45 p.m. Break


2:45-4 p.m. Afternoon Sessions: Safety, Mental Health, and Housing

Braden Auditorium

Learn about campus safety, housing, and well-being resources.

4:15-5:15 p.m. Housing Check-in and Dinner

Vrooman Center

If you are staying overnight, check in and receive your dining vouchers. Check in at the same time as your student if staying together.

4:15-6:00 p.m. Dinner Break

Watterson Dining Commons

Enjoy dinner at Watterson Dining Commons. Cost is included if you’re staying in the residence hall. The dining centers only accept credit/debit cards.

6:15-9:30 p.m. Explore BN Community

Visit BN

Students will enjoy group sessions, social activities, and the gaming centers until 9:30 p.m. Parents and guests are free to explore the Bloomington-Normal community!

Day Two

6:30-7:15 a.m. Sunrise Yoga (optional)

Vrooman Center - The Pit

Get energized with Sunrise Yoga! Discover Campus Recreation programs and grab a spot. Mats provided. Space is limited.

7-8 a.m. Housing Check-out and Breakfast

Vrooman Center Watterson Dining Commons

Return your key to the checkout station in the lobby of your residence hall. Breakfast cost is included if you’re staying in the residence hall. The dining centers only accept credit/debit cards.

8:15-9 a.m. Redbird Resource Fair

Prairie Room, Bone Student Center

Your one-stop shop to get answers to your questions, meet campus experts, and maybe even score some fun swag.

9:15-10:15 a.m. Student Affairs and Academic Reminders

Braden Auditorium

Kick things off with Student Affairs to learn how to get involved and stay connected. Afterward, we’ll review key details from your first advisement appointment to help you prep for your upcoming departmental session.

10:30 a.m. College and Department Meetings

Multiple Locations

Connect with your student's academic department to explore ways to get involved and meet faculty and staff.

11:15 a.m. Parent and Guest Sessions

Schroeder Hall, Room 130

Explore the academic support services designed to help your student stay on track and thrive throughout college.

12 p.m. Afternoon Opportunities

Use this time to do a walk-through of your class schedule, visit the Share Shop, grab some Redbird gear at the Redbird Spirit Store, or talk to TechZone staff.

Open until 4 p.m. Redbird Card Pickup

Redbird Card Office, Bone Student Center

Be sure your student picks up their Redbird Card ID before they leave campus.

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

Explore ISU Your Way

Student Services Building

Student Services Building

  • Submit immunization records to avoid fines or other issues with your account.
  • Learn how to transfer medications to the pharmacy inside Student Health Services and access low-cost prescriptions and over-the-counter items
  • Visit the Student Health Services medical clinic and learn how to make appointments.
  • Understand student health insurance coverage and what student fees include.
  • Find Student Counseling Services for on-campus mental health support.

Bone Student Center Second Floor

Bone Student Center Second Floor

  • Sorority and Fraternity Life will be available in the Student Involvement Center to share information about getting involved, highlight the benefits of joining sorority and fraternity life, and answer your questions.
  • Career Services
  • Civic Engagement
  • Student employment opportunities

ROTC, 211 N. University St

ROTC, 211 N. University St

Stop by the ROTC house where you can learn about how the Army ROTC program at ISU can build leadership skills, pay for college, and how it fits along side any major with no obligation to the Army.

Honors

Honors

Honors students and parents only located in Schroeder 244

This session is mandatory for students who have been admitted to the Honors Program for the fall semester. We’ll cover what to expect in the fall as well as requirements and benefits of the program.

Resource and Involvement Fair Table Descriptions

The Redbird Resource Fair takes place in the Prairie Room (second floor of the Bone Student Center). Student Involvement tables are across the hall in the Student Involvement Center.

Academic Enhancement

We provide academic enhancement services through free tutoring study groups, writing assistance, learning workshops, transitional courses, and more! We recognize that each student has unique learning needs and aim to provide a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters growth and development. We are committed to empowering students to become independent and self-directed learners. Our services cover topics like Overcoming Test Anxiety, Time Management, 100 level course tutoring, support communities, quiet study spaces and a myriad of other subjects and services.

Athletics

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!

Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau

The Bloomington-Normal Area Convention Bureau will have visitor guides and maps available which include our local attractions, restaurants, hotels, and local resources. Stop by and pick up the 2024 visitor guide.

Campus Recreation

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.

Career Services

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.

Dean of Students Office

The Dean of Students Office is here to help students get involved and be supported throughout their time at Illinois State. Learn more about how the Dean of Students Office can assist through resources such as the Dean on Duty, the Students’ Attorney, Student Navigators (basic needs), and Parent and Family Services. We also encourage students to check out Redbird Life to find out about the Registered Student Organizations on campus and search for upcoming events.

Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality

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 Redbird Spirit Shop in the Bone Student Center.

Financial Aid

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

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.

Housing

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

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.

Office of Parking and Transportation

All vehicles parking at the University must purchase a parking permit or pay for hourly parking in a metered space or pay lot. Annual parking permits 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.

Office of Sustainability

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.

Office of the University Registrar

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.

Public Safety

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.

Redbird Card Office

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.

Redbird Life

Interested in getting involved on campus? Come to the Redbird Life table to learn about student organizations, events on campus, and civic engagement opportunities. Illinois State University has over 400 student organizations and countless ways to find community, get connected, and be involved.

Redbird Spirit Shop

The official bookstore of Illinois State University. We offer course materials, textbooks, school supplies, and officially licensed gifts and clothing. We are the exclusive provider of the Fear the Bird shirt!

Student Access and Accommodations

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.

Student Accounts

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!

Student Counseling Services

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 (HR)

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.

Student Health Insurance

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.

Student Health Services

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

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.

TechZone

TechZone is a university department committed to helping you find the right technology for your academic, financial, and lifestyle needs. We also provide computer support ranging from physical damage to software glitches. TechZone can troubleshoot all computer brands, no matter where you purchased the device. Stop by to get personalized recommendations for you as you start your college journey!

Veterans and Military Services

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.

College and Department Meetings

College of Applied Science and Technologies

  • Agriculture, State Farm Hall of Business 132
  • Community Health Promotion, Schroeder 114
  • Computer Networking, State Farm Hall of Business 147
  • Computer Science, State Farm Hall of Business 147
  • Computer Systems Technology, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Construction Management, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Criminal Justice Science, Schroeder 236
  • Cybersecurity, State Farm Hall of Business 147
  • Engineering Technology, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Environmental Health, Schroeder 114
  • Exercise Science Allied Health Professions, McCormick Hall 260
  • Exercise Science Health and Human Performance, McCormick Hall 260
  • Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Education, Schroeder 201
  • Fashion Design and Merchandising, Schroeder 201
  • Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, Schroeder 201
  • Graphic Communiations Technology, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Health Information Management, Schroeder 114
  • Healthcare Leadership, Schroeder 114
  • Heath Informatics, Schroeder 114
  • Human Development/Family Sciences, Schroeder 201
  • Information Systems, State Farm Hall of Business 147
  • Integrative Health and Wellness, Schroeder 114
  • Interior Design, Schroeder 201
  • Kinesiology and Recreation, McCormick Hall 260
  • Medical Lab Science, Schroeder 114
  • Occupational Safety and Health, Schroeder 114
  • Physical Education Teaching, McCormick Hall 260
  • Pre-veterinary, State Farm Hall of Business 132
  • Public Health, Schroeder 114
  • Recreation and Sport Management, McCormick Hall 260
  • School Health Education, Schroeder 114
  • Sustainable and Renewable Energy, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Technology, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Technology and Engineering Education, State Farm Hall of Business 150
  • Therapeutic Recreation, McCormick Hall 260

College of Arts and Sciences

  • Anthropology, Schroeder Hall 204
  • Biochemistry, Julian Hall 226
  • Biological Sciences, State Farm Hall of Business 133
  • Chemistry, Julian Hall 226
  • Communication Sciences and Disorders, State Farm Hall of Business 148
  • Communication Studies, Fell Hall 280
  • Economics,Stevenson Hall 425
  • English, Schroeder Hall 117
  • Engineering Physics 3-2 Program, Moulton Hall 210
  • Environmental Systems Science and Sustainability, Felmley Hall 206
  • Geography, Felmley Hall 206
  • Geology, Felmley Hall 206
  • History Social Science Education, Schroeder Hall 115
  • Journalism, Fell Hall 280
  • Languages, Literature, and Culture, Stevenson Hall 231B
  • Legal Studies, Schroeder Hall 207
  • Mass Media, Fell Hall 280
  • Mathematics, State Farm Hall of Business 145
  • Molecular Biology, State Farm Hall of Business 133
  • Philosophy, Schroeder Hall 106
  • Physics, Moulton Hall 210
  • Politics and Government, Schroeder Hall 207
  • Pre-law, Schroeder Hall 207
  • Psychology, Schroeder Hall 212
  • Public Relations, Fell Hall 280
  • Social Work, Schroeder Hall 208
  • Sociology, Schroeder Hall 204
  • Sports Communication, Fell Hall 280

College of Business

  • Accounting, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Business Administration, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Business Information Systems, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Business Teacher Education, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Finance, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • International Business, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Insurance and Law, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Management, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium
  • Marketing, State Farm Hall of Business CAT Auditorium

College of Education

  • Early Childhood Education, Schroeder Hall 244
  • Elementary Education, Schroeder Hall 244
  • Middle Level Teacher Education, Schroeder Hall 244
  • Special Education, Moulton 208

Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts

  • Art, Schroeder Hall 112
  • Creative Technologies, Schroeder Hall 102
  • Dance, Schroeder Hall 103
  • Music, Schroeder Hall 108
  • Theatre and Film, Schroeder Hall 103

Mennonite College of Nursing

  • Nursing, Schroeder Hall 211

College of Engineering

  • General Engineering, Williams Hall 111
  • Electrical Engineering, Williams Hall 111
  • Mechinanical Engineering, Williams Hall 111
  • Interdisclipinary Studies

    • Undeclared, State Farm Hall of Business 149
    • Data Science, Schroeder Hall 206

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