Preview Student Schedule
We can't wait to see you and get you connected to Illinois State.
Day One
Day Two
It’s the end of Preview but it’s only the beginning of your Redbird journey. University College is your go-to spot for everything you need in your first year at Illinois State. See what we can do to make your experience memorable and successful.
Breakout Sessions
All breakout sessions begin at 11:45 a.m.
Campus Technology Q and A
TechZone, first floor of Bone Student Center
Take a visit to TechZone, the University’s in-house technology shop and repair center. They offer academic discounts on everything sold, and support the University as a part of the Office of Technology Solutions. Come with questions about your technology needs as an ISU student. They will be happy to help!
ISU Sustainability Share Shop
Office of Sustainability, 305 N. School Street
Open until 2pm - Stop by the Share Shop, your FREE secondhand store at ISU! Pick up items you will need for your dorm room such as gently-used storage containers, bedding and linens, school supplies, small furniture pieces, misc. household items, and more. Redbirds Reuse! Learn more at: The Share Shop
Follow the Share Shop on IG @ilstushareshop
Multicultural Center
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 at 301 S. Main Street. This home away from home is where students embrace their cultural heritages and find communities that represent their dynamic ethnic and cultural identities.
On-Campus Job Opportunities
Bone Student Center
Stop by the Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality remote student employment office (located in the Bone Student Center on the second-floor concourse near the East entrance) to learn about employment opportunities available for interested students.
ROTC and Military Services
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. Stop by the ROTC House at 211 N. University Street for more information.
Textbooks and Course Materials
Atrium, third floor of Bone Student Center
Hear from the Textbook Affordability Committee about important considerations regarding your textbooks for the year! They will share information about textbooks at ISU – what types of materials you may need during your time here and how to figure out what you need. They will also go over where to acquire, gain access to, and pay for course materials. A great session about an important step of your transition to ISU!
Volunteer and Community Engagement
308 Kingsley St, Normal, IL 61790
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 about 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!
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Resource Center
Rachel Cooper Hall 234
The WGSS Resource Center is an inclusive space for community and support, featuring a student art gallery, computer lab, and library. Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) Resource Center.
Resource and Involvement Fair Table Descriptions
The Redbird Resource Fair is open from 10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. and 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.
The fun is just beginning.
Get connected to everything campus and the community has to offer at Welcome Week.