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.