Building Connections Module is a quick (5-10 minutes), self-guided module that helps students assess their sense of connectedness in just 5-10 minutes. Those looking to strengthen their connections can explore helpful tips, resources, and connection-based opportunities available at Illinois State University.

We invite you to our Bible study tomorrow night, 9/10, 7 - 8 pm, at Stevenson 120. We had a great time last week, learning about God's intention of creating man, and how our Lord brought us back to God after man's fall. We will focus on Romans 5:1-11 tomorrow on how we can be justified and reconciled with God through His Son. Please join us tomorrow and enjoy Him as our full supply.

Google Doc Regular Meetings: Wednesday, September 24: game night (Jackbox, Kahoot, board games, trivia, etc.) Monday, October 6: fundraiser prep Wednesday, October 22: movie night (popcorn, candy, etc.) Monday, November 3: painting tote bags (pizza) Wednesday, November 19: friendsgiving Monday, December 1: reading prep Issue Timeline: Friday, October 10: submissions deadline Friday, October 31: committee decisions deadline Monday, November 10: editor in chief’s letter deadline Friday, November 21: website pages deadline Special Dates: Wednesday, October 15: fundraiser Thursday, October 16: fundraiser Friday, December 5: reading

For Redbirds contemplating the next step in their academic journey, Career Services is once again offering its annual Graduate School Series, a valuable resource for students and alumni considering graduate education as part of their career path. Held virtually to accommodate Redbirds both near and far, the Graduate School Series provides practical guidance on researching programs to navigating the application process and financing advanced degrees. Whether you’re just beginning to explore graduate school or actively preparing to apply, this series is designed to meet you where you are. Upcoming sessions Participants can choose to attend one or both of the following sessions: Graduate School Game Plan, Friday, September 5 Learn how to research programs, prepare application materials, and make your application stand out. Life as a Graduate Student, Wednesday, October 22 Current graduate students share about their experiences, challenges, and insights into graduate life. “The Graduate School Series covers a variety of topics to assist Redbirds considering graduate school. It also includes a panel discussion where current graduate students share their experiences to provide students with a snapshot of what grad school is like,” said Program Coordinator Tamanna Tasmin. More than just grad school prep The Graduate School Series is just one of many initiatives offered by Career Services to support Redbirds in achieving their professional goals. From exploring majors and careers to career-related workshops and networking events, Career Services provides a robust lineup of programs designed to empower students and alumni at every stage of their career development.

Hi everyone,   We invite you to our Bible study tomorrow night, 9/3, 7 - 8 pm, at Stevenson 120. The topic to cover will be "The Mystery of Human Life". Through multiple Bible verses and a short message, we can see how our salvation through the Lord Jesus is aligned with God's original intention of creating the human being. Please join us tomorrow and enjoy Him as our full supply.   Praise Him,   Christian Students at ISU

Career Services is opening doors for you this semester with a series of career fairs designed to help students from all majors and industries connect with employers and discover exciting career opportunities. Whether you’re seeking an internship, a full-time role, or simply exploring your options, these events offer a valuable opportunity to meet recruiters from Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and more. Fall 2025 career fair lineup Accounting Career Fair Friday, September 19—Bone Student Center For Redbirds studying accounting, this fair connects you with employers actively hiring for internships and full-time positions. Fall Internship and Career Fair Tuesday, October 7—Bone Student Center Open to all majors, this fair is ideal for students and alumni seeking internships and full-time positions across industries. Education Career Fair Tuesday, October 21—Horton Field House This fair connects future educators (and those seeking teaching certifications) with school administrators, superintendents, and other education professionals hiring for open positions. Health and Wellness Career Fair Thursday, November 6—Bone Student Center Ideal for those in nursing, health care, and related fields, this fair offers access to potential internships, externships, and full-time opportunities. Social Impact Career Fair Tuesday, November 18—Bone Student Center This fair is for students in social work, criminal justice, political science, and nonprofit or government sectors to connect with employers in those industries. Engineering Technology Career Fair Thursday, November 20—Bone Student Center This fair connects Redbirds majoring in engineering technology with employers hiring for internships and full-time positions. Why attend? Explore career paths across diverse industries Network with professionals and recruiters Discover internship and job openings Learn about organizations and their missions Gain confidence and experience in a professional setting Fair preparation: Helping Redbirds shine at career fairs As fall approaches, Redbirds are gearing up for some of the most important events of the semester, the fall career fairs. To ensure you're ready for the career fairs, Career Services is hosting Navigating Career Fairs on Wednesday, October 1, in the Bone Student Center. This interactive event brings together employers from a wide range of industries to share practical advice on job searching, networking, and making a strong first impression. Participants will rotate through sessions covering the following topics: How to research employers effectively Crafting a compelling personal pitch Highlighting skills and experiences Professional etiquette and more Tips for career fair success To help you with your confidence, Career Services recommends the following strategies: Do your homework. Review the list of attending employers on career fair websites or via Hire-A-Redbird. Identify your top choices and explore their websites to learn about their mission, culture, and open positions. Polish your resume. Create a clear, professional resume and bring it to Career Services during drop-in hours for personalized feedback. Practice your pitch. Meet with your career advisor to refine how you introduce yourself and answer common employer questions. Make a memorable first impression Career Services offers several resources to help students stand out: Free business cards to distribute them to employers to leave a professional mark. Order business cards online using code "2025 fall." Resume printing available at the Career Resource Hub in the Bone Student Center and at the fairs. Professional headshots taken at the fair and received the same day—perfect for updating your LinkedIn profile. Launch your career with confidence Career Services is committed to empowering Redbirds to achieve their professional goals through resources, experiences, and industry connections. Don’t miss the fall career fairs—your future starts here.

Need a part-time job this fall? Career Services is hosting both the You Can Work at ISU Student Hiring Event and the Part-time Job Fair to meet employers who are hiring. You Can Work at ISU Student Hiring Event Attend the You Can Work at ISU Student Hiring Event to meet departments with open part-time positions on campus. This event will be held on the second-floor concourse of the Bone Student Center on Thursday, August 14 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. n the second-floor concourse of the Bone Student Center. Part-time Job Fair You can also attend the Part-time Job Fair to meet employers from local retailers, nonprofits, and other organizations that are seeking to fill positions on or near campus. It is held Wednesday, September 3 from 2-4 p.m. in the Bone Student Center Prairie Room. What to bring If you are attending one of these events, bring your Redbird identification card and any other information you may need to complete a job application, such as your class schedule and a list of previous employers and contact information. Be sure to also check out the list of employers attending the fairs on the Career Services website before the events to learn about the organizations and their open positions. Career Services is here for you for to help you achieve not only your part-time goals but your professional goals too by providing you with a variety of resources, experiences, and industry connections. Contact Career Services for more information at (309) 438-2200.    

Which organizations are hiring? Do I meet their requirements? How do I create a resume or LinkedIn profile highlighting my experiences? These are just a few questions students often ask as they consider full-time employment, internships, or assistantships. However, the number and types of questions frequently multiply for students from abroad studying in the United States. Career Services’ Cultural Career Network (CCN) and the Office of International Engagement provide support to help Illinois State’s international students and alumni remain competitive and confident in the U.S. job market. International Student Career Series Hosted each semester, the International Student Career Series provides Redbirds with valuable career information to assist them in their career development. Sessions this semester include: Resume and LinkedIn Reviews, August 13 Strategies for Landing a Job in the U.S., September 17 Immigration Clinic: Life After Optional Practical Training (OPT), October 17 Career Services Open House for International Students, November 5 Job Search Advice from (International) Alumni, November 5 World of Skills, November 5 GoinGlobal Located within Hire-A-Redbird, GoinGlobal provides useful, actionable information to meet the needs of job seekers. The tool includes an employer directory to identify employers, and jobs and internships available internationally and in the United States. GoinGlobal also provides Redbirds with access to: A proprietary H1B visa search engine that allows students to identify employers in the U.S. who are seeking to hire international talent. Career guides and tools such as information on hiring trends, work permits/visa regulations, professional and social networking, interview advice, and even guidelines for creating culturally correct resumes and curricula vitae (CVs). In-depth analysis of industry trends and hiring outlooks by sector. Insights into international career cultures such as advice on how to act appropriately in both social and professional settings, guidelines for preparing for interviews, and how to follow up on them afterward. Detailed living and financial information by location such as cost of housing, transportation, taxes, medical care, and other financial factors. Immigration details including work permit and visa requirements, links to application documents, and supplemental online resources, all developed specifically by an immigration lawyer.   The Cultural Career Network (CCN) is a prime illustration of Illinois State’s dedication to one of its core values: Equity, Diversity, Access, and Belonging. Additionally, CCN is a critical component of striving toward reaching the mission of Career Services, to empower and support Redbirds with achieving their professional goals by providing resources, experiences, and industry connections.

Dear PNMS, Recruitment is such a special time, full of new beginnings, meaningful connections, and finding the place that feels like home. It's okay to feel excited, nervous, or even overwhelmed just remember to be yourself! The right chapter will see you for you and love you deeply. Lean into the expenence, trust the process and know that each moment matters. You never know when a quick chat could turn into a lifelong friendship!I'm so grateful to have found a chapter where I feel accepted, celebrated, and truly understood. There's a place for everyone in the Panhellenic community, I'm excited or you to find yours. So take a deep breath and enjoy every second! We are cheering you on and I can't wait to meet you! Xoxo, The VP of Membership, Kara Haffey Dear PNM'S, Welcome to one of me most exciting seasons of your college experience! My name is Jillian Stayton, and I have the honor of serving as chapter President of Delta Zeta. I'm so glad you're here, and I want you to know how proud I am of you for taking the first step towards something that could truly change your life.  Going through recruitment can feel overwhelming at times, but what's waiting on the other side makes it all worth it. Finding your home in a sorority is about so much more than letters or matching outfits; it's about finding a support system that will cheer you on in every chapter of your life! From late nights at the house with your member class getting to know each other, to leadership roles, to life changing bonds, and alum connections that open doors after graduation. The opportuniries are endless within a soroity! Being in a sorority has shaped who I am in ways I never expected. It has pushed me to grow, to lead, and to love bigger than I ever thought possible. I hope you walk into each day of this experience with an open heart and the confidence to be your full self because that's exactly who we want to meet. Wherever you find your home, know that you deserve to be in a space that uplifts you, challenges you, and makes you fell seen. Wishing you all the love and clarity duirng this exciting journey! With sisterhood,  Jill Stayton, President

If you're graduating, let us know what's next as you leave the nest. It only takes a few minutes. Even if you are not sure what you want to do currently, we want to hear from you! Simply complete the short Graduating Student Survey and be entered into a drawing to win some great Redbird items. Why participate · Share your legacy. Let us know where your Illinois State degree is taking you. · Provide your feedback. Give us insight into your academic experiences and Redbird life. · Enter to win cool Redbird swag! Access the survey Simply click on the survey link below based on the college you are graduating. ·         College of Applied Science and Technology ·         College of Arts and Sciences ·         College of Business ·         College of Education ·         Interdisciplinary Studies ·         Mennonite College of Nursing ·         Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts Graduate students Students earning a master’s degree or higher are to complete the survey using the link below. Survey for master’s level and up If you have any problems accessing the survey for your college or any other questions, contact Career Services at (309) 438-2200. .

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The Dean of Students Office is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Student Leadership Awards. These annual awards recognize Illinois State University students for excellence in student leadership and involvement. Nominations were accepted for the following awards: Ritamae Carroll Memorial First-Year Involvement Award recognizes a first-year student (freshman or transfer) who has been an active member of Illinois State’s campus community while staying in good academic standing. Mike Schermer Outstanding Student Leader Award recognizes a student who has made significant contributions to the Illinois State community and embodies leadership and excellence.  Billy Quigley Leader in Action Award recognizes student leaders who have a history of mentoring and guiding their fellow students and have a passion for creating social change at Illinois State. The Spangler Scholarship for Social Justice provides financial support to students who demonstrate a commitment to pursuing social justice activism in their future careers and are currently involved in a Registered Student Organization that explores LGBTQ+ or women's issues.  Tina and Mick Rowe Scholarship for Non-Traditional Students provide financial assistance for students of any major who have experienced life circumstances that put their dream of graduating on hold. This year, around 300 nominations were collectively submitted for the awards. Of those nominees, the following six students were selected to receive an award and a monetary scholarship: Ritamae Carroll Memorial First-Year Involvement Award: Audrey Jayne This award recognizes a student who, in their first year at Illinois State University, has become an active member of the campus community while maintaining good academic standing. The recipient of this endowed award receives a recognition plaque and a monetary award. This year's winner is Audrey Jayne, a first-year student in the Honors Program, double majoring in economics and political science.  Mike Schermer Outstanding Student Leader Award: Gabriela Ledesma This award recognizes outstanding contributions to the Illinois State University community. This student exemplifies leadership and excellence through their service and dedication to the student body, demonstrated through a willingness and ability to work with others in an effort to better the quality of student life for all. This year's winner is Gabriela Ledesma, a senior studying international business and business analytics.  Billy Quigley Leader in Action Awards: Keara Gray and Kathleen Lyons William “Billy” Quigley Jr. was a dedicated student leader at Illinois State University at the time of his death on November 26, 2008, as a result of an automobile accident. This award honors student leaders at Illinois State in memory of Billy’s enthusiasm, dedication, and pride. The student should have demonstrated experience guiding fellow students through individual mentoring and supportive behavior and promoting a passion for creating targeted social change at Illinois State University. This year's winners are Keara Gray, a senior majoring in public health and Kathleen Lyons, a junior studying biological sciences with a concentration in physiology, neuroscience, and behavioral studies.  The Spanger Scholarship for Social Justice: Ella Woodruff The purpose of the Spangler Scholarship for Social Justice is to provide financial support to students who demonstrate a commitment to pursuing social justice activism in their future careers. The winner must be a past or present active member of a Registered Student Organization at Illinois State University that advocates for or explores LGBTQ+ or women's issues and must define their work and commitment to social justice on campus or in the community by submitting a personal statement. This year's winner is Ella Woodruff, a junior majoring in Political Science and Sociology with a minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Tina and Mick Rowe Scholarship for Non-Traditional Students: Le'Jardin Sterling Cobb The Tina and Mick Rowe Scholarship for Non-Traditional Students is designed to provide financial assistance for students of any major. The winner must have graduated high school, or completed GED, a minimum of 10 years before enrolling, hold junior or senior class standing and be currently enrolled at Illinois State University, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5, and submit a personal statement demonstrating their determination to earn a college degree, acknowledging how life circumstances may have put their dream of graduating temporarily on hold. This year's winner is Le’Jardin Sterling Cobb, a junior majoring in Sociology. Award recipients will be formally recognized at the Redbirds Lead Celebration Reception hosted by the Dean of Students Office Leadership Education and Development unit on Friday, April 25, from 5:00–7:30 p.m. in the Aaron Leetch Stadium Club at Hancock Stadium.

Hi all! I am thrilled to let you know that a FREE copy of the Redbird Zine Club's first issue is available for download as PDF. Go under our tab titled "Documents" to download a copy! 

Students Ending Rape Culture (SERC), an Illinois State University Registered Student Organization (RSO), is delighted to share various Sexual Assault Awareness Month events happening during April. All events are free and open to the ISU community. Day of NO Silence Friday, April 11th, 2025; Schroeder Plaza; 11am-2pm Rain Location: Bone Student Center Concourse Day of (No) Silence is a nationally recognized day of action created to spread awareness about the impacts of bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning students. SERC’s tabling is meant to help prepare for Friday, April 11 when individuals across the world break the silence to combat the repression and erasure of the LGBTQ+ community. GLSEN.org/dayofnosilence Consent Day Wednesday, April 16th, 2025; Schroeder Plaza; 11am-3pm Rain Date: April 23rd Consent Day, an event hosted by SERC brings together various campus organizations to explore the different ways consent plays a vital role in our daily lives. IPV/SA and LGBTQ Workshop “Implementing Supportive Practices for the LGBTQ Community with Stepping Stones” Thursday, April 17th, 2025; 11:30am-1pm This event is hosted by Queer Coalition and the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program at ISU. Representatives from Stepping Stones will host a workshop on intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and the LGBTQ+ community. If you require accommodations to attend, please contact wgstudies@ilstu.edu Advanced registration is required: Register Here Clothesline Project Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025; Quad Flagpole; 11am-2pm (The event will be canceled if there is inclement weather.) The Clothesline Project is an art installation that displays T-shirts created by survivors of interpersonal violence from our community. Survivors can create their own shirts to add to the collection. Denim Day Wednesday, April 30th, 2025; Schroeder Plaza; 11am-2pm Rain Location: Bone Student Center Concourse Denim Day is a worldwide campaign that began after a rape conviction was overturned. The Italian Supreme Court justices felt that since the victim was wearing tight jeans, she “must have helped the person who raped her remove her jeans, thereby implying consent.” The following day, women in the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans in solidarity with the victim. We continue this tradition 24 years later. Join us in wearing denim to show your support for survivors of sexual violence and to help eliminate victim-blaming attitudes. DenimDay.org If accommodations are needed for Day of NO Silence, Consent Day, Clothesline Project, or Denim Day, please contact wellness@illinoisstate.edu    

Students Ending Rape Culture (SERC), an Illinois State University Registered Student Organization (RSO), is delighted to share various Sexual Assault Awareness Month events happening during April. All events are free and open to the ISU community. Day of NO Silence [Updated Date] Friday, April 11th, 2025; Schroeder Plaza; 11am-2pm Rain Location: Bone Student Center Concourse Day of (No) Silence is a nationally recognized day of action created to spread awareness about the impacts of bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning students. SERC’s tabling is meant to help prepare for Friday, April 11 when individuals across the world break the silence to combat the repression and erasure of the LGBTQ+ community. GLSEN.org/dayofnosilence Consent Day Wednesday, April 16th, 2025; Schroeder Plaza; 11am-3pm Rain Date: April 23rd Consent Day, an event hosted by SERC brings together various campus organizations to explore the different ways consent plays a vital role in our daily lives. IPV/SA and LGBTQ Workshop “Implementing Supportive Practices for the LGBTQ Community with Stepping Stones” Thursday, April 17th, 2025; 11:30am-1pm This event is hosted by Queer Coalition and the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program at ISU. Representatives from Stepping Stones will host a workshop on intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and the LGBTQ+ community. If you require accommodations to attend, please contact wgstudies@ilstu.edu Advanced registration is required: Register Here Clothesline Project Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025; Quad Flagpole; 11am-2pm (The event will be canceled if there is inclement weather.) The Clothesline Project is an art installation that displays T-shirts created by survivors of interpersonal violence from our community. Survivors can create their own shirts to add to the collection. Denim Day Wednesday, April 30th, 2025; Schroeder Plaza; 11am-2pm Rain Location: Bone Student Center Concourse Denim Day is a worldwide campaign that began after a rape conviction was overturned. The Italian Supreme Court justices felt that since the victim was wearing tight jeans, she “must have helped the person who raped her remove her jeans, thereby implying consent.” The following day, women in the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans in solidarity with the victim. We continue this tradition 24 years later. Join us in wearing denim to show your support for survivors of sexual violence and to help eliminate victim-blaming attitudes. DenimDay.org If accommodations are needed for Day of NO Silence, Consent Day, Clothesline Project, or Denim Day, please contact wellness@illinoisstate.edu

Career Services is pleased to announce that through a new Illinois state-wide partnership, Illinois State University students will now receive free access to Kaplan’s industry-leading test prep resources for graduate admissions exams, licensure, and credentialing exams, as well as skills development courses.  This new program, called Prepare for Illinois’ Future Powered by Kaplan’s All Access License is administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). These educational tools augment any existing resources and help prepare students to take the next step in their career journey after graduation. This program will provide students with free access to over 40 courses, equipping them to take required exams such as the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT, and many more. Highlights of the program include: Test prep courses—The course options available will vary depending on their degree level. Cost—The test prep courses are completely free to Illinois State students. Access—The portal to enroll and begin courses is now available from the Career Services website. Students must sign up using their school email address to get the free resources.  Faculty/staff orientation Kaplan will host program orientation sessions beginning the week of March 24. The goal for the sessions include: Gain a deeper understanding of the tools and support available to certain program areas Discuss strategies for effectively utilizing Kaplan resources in your programs Engage with Kaplan experts and academic consultants “We are thrilled to offer this free and necessary resource to our current Redbird students,” said Career Services Director Quanisha Kumi-Darfour.  

Call for Nominees for the Commitment to Career Excellence Awards Nominations due April 7 Career Services is proud to announce the inaugural Commitment to Career Excellence Awards. These prestigious awards aim to celebrate the collective responsibility we uphold in preparing Redbirds for their futures. By recognizing the outstanding contributions of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and employers, this event highlights our shared dedication to career development. Nominations are now being accepted for Illinois State University students, registered student organizations, faculty, staff, alumni, and employers and are due April 7 by 4:30 pm. Access the award descriptions, nomination form, and more information at Commitment to Career Excellence Awards. Award Categories: Career Champion of the Year  Career Services Staff Member of the Year Employer of the year   Career Services Student Staff Member of the Year Employer of the Year (for-profit and non-profit) Engaged Alumni Award Internship Coordinator of the Year Intern of the Year RSO of the Year   If you have questions or require assistance submitting your nomination, please contact Tamanna Tasmin at ttasmin@ilstu.edu. Thank you for your support!  

Are you ready to advance your academic and professional journey? Whether you are interested in personal growth, career advancement, or changing careers, applying for graduate school is a major decision that can shape your future. “Your graduate degree can provide greater employment prospects, higher earnings, and industry-specific knowledge,” said Career Services Associate Director Scott Summers. “While you are learning, you will network with peers, instructors, and industry professionals that can help you identify jobs and opportunities to collaborate. Having an advanced degree can also help you move into leadership positions.” In addition, many professions require or prefer candidates with a graduate degree, which may also be essential for career progression. “Graduate school challenges students with experiences that can develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and research abilities,” Summers said. “They will also have access to research facilities and be able to utilize other academic tools, which can enhance their learning. A graduate degree will help you be more prepared for your profession, in a way that is greater than with an undergraduate degree alone.” Assistance with applying to grad school Career Services assists Redbird students and alumni when deciding if graduate school is right for them by offering personalized career advising. A career advisor can help identify job market information, assist with graduate school applications, and help to identify the steps to one needs to be well-prepared and confident in graduate school. Graduate School Series Career Services also hosts the Graduate School Series. Offered each semester, students get helpful tips and insights such as how to choose the best graduate school program, financing graduate school, and much more. The Graduate School Series this spring includes the following sessions: Researching, Choosing, and Paying for Graduate School  Accepted? What’s Next? Life of a Grad Student Graduate school can be a transformative step in your academic and professional journey. With the support of Career Services, you can confidently navigate the decision-making process and take the next step toward achieving your career goals.

As the semester ends and you are preparing for the next step in your academic and professional journey, Career Services is pleased to provide you with free access to test prep resources for graduate admissions exams, licensure, and credentialing exams, as well as skills development courses.  Offered through the Prepare for Illinois' Future Powered by Kaplan's All Access License, you can access over 40 different graduate admissions, licensure, and credentialing exams, and skills development courses. Get expert guidance and comprehensive materials to help you prepare for crucial exams like the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT, and many more. To get started, visit go.kaplan.com/illinois for a complete list of available courses, registration details, FAQs, and guidance on how to best utilize these resources based on your individual goals. A direct link to the Kaplan site is also available on the Career Services website. "We are confident this program will be a tremendous asset as you pursue your career goals," states Career Services Director Quanisha Kumi-Darfour.

We are accepting submissions to be published in our very first zine issue! This issue is all about community and connection. Send us your creative writing, collages, drawings, comics, poetry, photography, etc about the theme and we will compile the submissions into our zine! Submissions are due 3/28