SIB Bulletin Board

First year Bio students: We are recruiting for next year's sophomore class!

Come find out from current IBH students why this is a unique program at our info session on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. This in-person meeting will be in 4014 of the Natural History Building, pizza provided! Here are just a few things you'll learn about:

• Small dedicated core classes (24 students)
• Hands-on research
• Peer support
• Independent research projects across campus
• Decide which classes you want to take from OB, MCB, SESE, or ACES
• Share your passion for biology
• Field trips
• Alumni support and scholarships

We hope to see you there!

Doors will open at 5 PM on February 28th, 2026, at Foellinger Auditorium. This year's festival is titled "Insect-Human Hybrids!"

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We may only be a few weeks into the spring semester, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be thinking about graduation! Convocation will be on Sunday, May 17 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. We'll once again be in Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, specifically in Foellinger Great Hall. As you prepare to graduate, be sure to utilize our handy senior checklist to ensure you don’t miss anything on your way to walking across the stage!

Learn How to Prepare, Present Your Strengths with Confidence, and Follow Up Professionally
February 20, 2026, 5:30 p.m. - The Career Center  |  715 S. Wright St.

In an interview, you have a short window to tell your personal story and convey why you’re a great fit for the position. This workshop will guide you through preparing for interviews, presenting your qualifications confidently, structuring your answers effectively, and following up professionally to make a lasting impact.  

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Important Note:  Sometimes our workshops get very crowded. We recommend registering on Handshake in advance to secure your spot. While registration isn’t required, priority will be given to registered students, followed by first-come, first-served. Once we reach room capacity, we may not be able to admit additional people. 

6:00-7:30 p.m. | February 23 | CIF3025

Looking for a career in sustainability? Attend the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment's Green Career Panel! 

Hear from young sustainability professionals working in tech, engineering, consulting, and more!

McKinley Special Populations is hosting their annual EXPO 27 & Beyond on February 26 from 3-5 pm on Zoom. Health profession programs such as medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health and health administration will be represented. 

REGISTRATION LINK

Visit the Pre-Health Canvas for a flyer of the event.

Position: Fisheries Management Intern

This intern will gain hands-on experience with the professional staff of the Forest Preserve of Cook County’s fisheries section. Tasks include the everyday management of the Forest Preserves’ 40 fishing lakes and other water bodies. Candidates must be hard-working and open-minded, with a passion for the conservational aspects of not only fisheries biology, but also general biology and the recreational aspects of fishing.

Work location: McGinnis Field Station (Orland Park, IL). Personal vehicle required to access the station and all worksites (not near public transportation). This position will involve mostly outdoor work with limited time spent inside.

Duties:

• Handle fish sampling equipment, including but not limited to dip nets, gill nets, trap nets, etc.
• Handle both live and dead fish specimens, as well as other types of wildlife
• Assist with the maintenance of Fisheries section equipment, facilities, and grounds
• May perform all duties of the Fisheries Technician as required or other assigned duties (e.g. conducting basic water chemistry)
• Speak publicly and present information on Forest Preserve Fisheries work
• Data entry and office duties as needed
• Ability to work evenings and weekends

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age; must possess a current valid driver’s license
• Ability to work outdoors and in inclement weather. Must be comfortable around water.
• This position occasionally requires exposure to potentially hazardous work environment and the physical ability to perform various types of physical exertion, including, but not limited to lifting, pulling, pushing, and moving moderate to heavy weight (50 lbs.)
• Relevant educational background, including, but not limited to, general biology or science related course work
• Basic knowledge of current conservation practices as it applies to fish and aquatic vegetation
• Working knowledge of Microsoft office products including excel spreadsheets

Benefits:

• Travel stipend
• Paid time off
• Excellent networking and environmental enrichment opportunities

Application Information:

Application Deadline: February 27, 2026

How to Apply: Send cover letter and resume to at jobs@ilmenvironments.com; please make sure to include your cover letter and resume in a single document labeled with your last name and the words “fishery internship”. Example: Smith fishery internship

ILM Environments is an equal opportunity employer that considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion,

creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or sexual orientation (in addition to observing all legal

protection of special status). ILM is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity in the environmental community.

The Prairie Research Institute’s Aquatic Field Technician positions offer hands-on experience in aquatic ecology and river research at Starved Rock State Park — perfect if you’re pursuing or working toward a bachelor’s in biology, ecology, or a related field. Gain valuable field skills, work outdoors on real scientific monitoring projects, and earn $16–$18/hr this summer (June–Oct 2026). Apply by February 28 and boost your resume with meaningful ecological research!

Read the full job description.

2026 Summer Undergraduate Research Program

Ten Week Program - May 24 – July 31, 2026

The UMass Chan Medical School (UMass Chan) Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) is a non-credit, ten-week, structured research experience. The program consists of "hands-on" laboratory research with an investigator serving as a mentor, role model, and advisor.

Goals: The program is designed to provide participants with in-depth exposure to biomedical research. Participants will develop career-building connections with faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and peers. The program encourages participants to consider biomedical research as a viable career choice.

Why should I apply?

• Immersive experience preforming cutting edge research in a broad range of topic areas including: Cancer Biology, Immunology & Infectious Disease, Neuroscience, and Bioinformatics.
• Summer Research Fellows receive a $6,000 stipend.
• Travel to Massachusetts is provided by the program.
• Housing and transportation are provided by the program.
• Participants engage in networking sessions with UMass Chan leaders, faculty, and trainees.
• Participants prepare and present a professional research poster. 
• Poster may be subsequently presented at national scientific conferences

How to apply

• The application is best filled in using a PC or MAC.
• Use of a phone is not supported.
• Use of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge is preferred.

Use the link here to apply now. The SURP online application must include the following uploaded documents:

• A current resume
• Copy of a current unofficial transcript, as well as unofficial transcripts from any previously attended undergraduate institutions.
• A personal statement (1-2 pages) In your statement please discuss:
  • Your reasons for applying to the program
  • How your prior academic and life experiences have prepared you to succeed in the program.
  • Your career goals and how participating in the program will help you achieve those goals.
  • Any challenges that you have overcome during your academic journey.
  • How varied experiences and perspectives contribute to the biomedical sciences.
• Two letters of recommendation (uploaded by recommenders).

Your application along with all supporting documents must be completed by March 2, 2026.

Application deadline extended:  apply by Monday, March 2
Are you pursuing a career as a physician-scientist? If so, apply for the Pritz MD/PhD Scholarship: a $1,000 award for Illinois graduating seniors (2025–26) admitted to an MD/PhD program.

Spend the summer doing guided insect ecology experiments in community gardens with Bug2School! (bug2school.org)

Length: 10-weeks, Summer 2026, 30 hrs/week

Stipend: $6,000 stipend

Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Eligibility: Currently-enrolled undergraduates graduating fall 2026 or later

Team research: Learn to grow food and be a scientist together with a cohort of students as we collaborate on a single large-scale experiment, with close, in-person mentorship from university faculty.

Bug Camp: Our program begins with a 5-day orientation in Champaign-Urbana for team-building and rigorous training in gardening, insect ecology, and scientific methods.

Bug influencing: As we complete research, we’ll also develop creative web and video content to help students and teachers learn about plants and insects in school and community gardens.

Apply at Bug2school.org by March 6

Contact Dr. Blubaugh for more information: blubaugh@illinois.edu

The Prairie Research Institute’s Aquatic/Fisheries Field Technician positions give you hands-on experience in aquatic ecology and large river research throughout Illinois, working with real scientists on long-term monitoring projects. Earn $16–$18/hr, build field and data-collection skills, and spend your summer exploring rivers and ecology. Apply by March 6 for a summer-to-fall position (June–Oct 2026, with possible extension)!

Read the full job description.

Job Summary

The Larimore Stream Ecology Internship with Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) will provide you with knowledge and real-world experience to prepare you for a graduate program in stream or aquatic ecology. INHS has more than 150 years of research on biological resources, particularly aquatic life in Illinois and beyond (www.inhs.illinois.edu). Fieldwork will be focused on the Jordan Creek in Central-east Illinois, approximately 40 minutes away from UI campus. The stream has been used as a study model system over decades by several well-established ecologists, particularly, Dr. Larimore, who was a distinguished aquatic ecologist with INHS. The successful applicant will work closely with the stream ecology lab in INHS.

Award: This internship comes with a $4,000 award paid at the end of the internship as well as travel and supply reimbursements up to $500.

Award Year: 2026

Length of Internship: June 6, 2026 - August 5, 2026

Application Deadline: March 15^th, 2026

Requirements: Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in environmental sciences, natural resources, biology, animal biology, entomology, geography, or other relevant fields.

Primary Functions

This position will involve a mix of field and office work under the direct supervision of a senior stream ecologist including:

• Water quality measurement & habitat quality assessment
• Electrofishing and macroinvertebrate sampling
• Fish identification and measurement
• Statistical analysis of aquatic biodiversity and community structure
• Scientific writing

Minimum Physical Requirements

Work is conducted both indoors and outdoors. Ability to conduct fieldwork, at times for long hours or under strenuous conditions. Moderate lifting, carrying and operating sampling equipment in stream. Will also have normal office working conditions. Must be able to drive vehicle. Visual acuity and physical strength and endurance necessary to perform fieldwork.

Desired Skills/Experience

• Some field experience
• Completed relevant coursework, including ecology, fisheries management, conservation and statistics
• Aptitude for technical writing
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Ability to communicate effectively, follow direction, and work independently
• Experience utilizing Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Positive and energetic attitude with good interpersonal skills

Deadline to Apply: March 15, 2026

Application process: Please submit a resume, unofficial transcripts, and two letters of recommendation to Dr. Yong Cao at yongcao@illinois.edu with subject title “Stream Ecology Internship 2026”. Letters of recommendation should be emailed to Dr. Cao directly from the letter writer.

Questions about the internship can be directed to Dr. Cao at 217 -244-6847 or yongcao@illinois.edu.

The Prairie Research Institute is searching for up to four Stream and River Research Technicians (Illinois Natural History Survey) to help collect and analyze ecological data on streams across Illinois. Candidates will gain hands-on field and lab experience studying fish, benthic insects, and water quality; applications are due by March 27, 2026. 

Read the full job description and apply today!

No biological experience is necessary, although some general understanding of plant families is helpful. Training will be provided. Must be able to work during normal business hours (8 am – 5 pm; Monday – Friday). Federal Work Study is preferred. 

Salary: $15 per hour, 15 – 20 hours per week.                                                 

Available: Immediately  

To Apply: Email a cover letter, resume, and the contact information of two references to Dr. Andrew Miller (amiller7@illinois.edu). Application material will be reviewed upon submission. The position will remain open until filled.                                   

The U of I is an EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled http://go.illinois.edu/EEO that participates in the federal e-Verify program and participates in a background check program focused on prior criminal or sexual misconduct history.

The Career Services Council is excited to announce the Career Development Toolkit, a Canvas site for students that meets you wherever you are. It offers self-paced modules on a platform you already know, but without grades or deadlines. Whether you’re identifying interests, exploring options, gaining experience, showcasing accomplishments or building connections, the Toolkit will guide you. Click here to enroll!

Are you, or someone you know, considering a career in Occupational Therapy or interested in learning more about what this impactful profession has to offer? If so, you’re in luck! The Illinois Occupational Therapy Association is facilitating a mentoring program designed to support individuals exploring a future in OT.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the profession and the application process and will be paired with a mentor who is either currently practicing as an OT/OTA or enrolled in an OT or OTA program.

You can register using the link provided here.

Grand Prairie Friends is now accepting applications for a Natural Areas Internship this coming May through August. This seasonal, hands-on position offers flexible hours—including alternating weekends and holidays—and pays starting at $15/hour (based on experience). As a nonprofit conservation land trust active in East-Central Illinois since 1984, Grand Prairie Friends manages over 1,500 acres of high-quality prairie, woodland, and river-front habitat, much of which is protected through the Illinois Nature Preserve Commission system. This internship is ideal for students or early-career individuals passionate about land stewardship, ecological management, and conservation careers.

Interns will gain real-world field experience assisting with invasive species management, habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and ecological monitoring. The role also includes opportunities to engage with visitors, support outreach efforts, and attend professional development sessions alongside experienced conservation staff. Applicants should have a strong interest in natural resources, be willing to work outdoors in varying conditions, and be prepared to learn to operate tools safely; a driver’s license and reliable transportation are required. To apply, submit a cover letter and résumé to Alissa Bell, Land Manager, at Alissa@grandprairiefriends.org—applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Build your resume with the VAW Global Team Leader Fellowship! This leadership opportunity is generally an 8-12 month intensive fellowship — valuable to future nurses, physicians, physicians assistants, dentists, dental hygienists, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, as well as other future healthcare providers and anyone interested in gaining skills in public health while supporting healthcare systems around the world. 

This pre-professional internship entails around 3-5 hours per week and is a truly enriching experience that will provide you with great skills for professional life such as learning about healthcare in a global context, gaining effective leadership and communication skills, acquiring international and public health work experience, and attending several orientations and workshops focused on personal development and cultural sensitivity. 

To register for an Into Session using registration code THRIVE.

For Applications using registration code THRIVE. 

The Peer Educator application for Fall 2026 I-Connect Workshops is live. This job includes flexible hours and the opportunity to build important skills and networks while playing an active role in fostering an inclusive campus community.

The Public Program Seasonal Support position with the Champaign County Forest Preserve District in Mahomet, IL is a nine-month seasonal role (~10–15 hrs/week) helping run natural and cultural history programs and events for visitors of all ages across local preserves. The job pays hourly ($16.76 – $24.27) and involves supporting public programs, helping guests, and working with staff to deliver engaging educational experiences.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve is hiring a Nature Day Camp Educator (Seasonal) to help plan and lead environmental day camps and youth programs from late May through early August. This seasonal role involves teaching outdoor activities, assisting with public programs, and engaging campers in nature education, and pays about $16.76 – $20.52/hour.

Position: 2026-2027 Full-Time Clinical Research Assistant to Dr. Ronak M. Patel
Location: Illinois Bone and Joint Institute and the Illinois Center for Orthopaedic Research and Education; Chicago, IL

Description: Dr. Ronak Patel is a double board certified Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine. While providing expertise in knee and shoulder injuries, he also has an avid interest in research and improving the field of Sports Medicine.  As a clinical research assistant, you will be responsible for maintaining a surgical database as well as assisting with the formulation and writing of research studies. You will be involved in patient phone calls for follow up as well as collection of consent forms.  This position offers the opportunity to be a co-author on a number of peer-reviewed journal publications. It also offers excellent exposure to a successful clinical practice and the field of sports medicine through the work environment as well as shadowing opportunities. The position is available for a 12 month period typically. A stipend will be provided. 

To apply, please send a cover letter and CV to: 
Dr. Ronak M. Patel | Rpatel@ibji.com

The Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Institute (IHSI) offers four distinct summer research programs for Illinois undergraduate students in any major. Three are offered through the Mayo Clinic & Illinois Alliance and located at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, or Jacksonville, FL, and the other is for community-based research in Champaign-Urbana. 

Community-Academic Scholars (CAS) program

This summer research program in Champaign-Urbana empowers passionate undergraduates to work with an academic mentor and community partner on a research project designed to benefit members served by the partner organization. No prior research experience is necessary.All registrants will receive a link to the recorded webinar and notification when the application period opens Feb. 4. Applications are due Feb. 18, 2026.

4-5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1000 Lincoln Hall 
My first chemistry exam did not go well, now what? Hear from a professor on how to best use your time before, during, and after class. We’ll also explore a few study skills that should help you perform to the best of your abilities in your chemistry classes (and beyond).

Join We CU and the Illinois Leadership Center on Thursday, Feburary 19, from 5:30 - 7 p.m. for our Entering Community Partnerships student workshop.   

Entering Community Partnerships Student Workshop
February 19 | 5:30 to 7 p.m.  
College of Education | Classroom 22

This workshop provides guidance on how to successfully collaborate in service partnerships with community organizations. It also helps you think about and reflect on the role that your service experience plays in your personal and professional growth.  

The workshop includes interactive activities, and you will have time at the end for questions. Dinner will be provided. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

Illinois Leadership Competencies Addressed: Service-Minded, Communication, Relationship Management 

Register now!

4-5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 1000 Lincoln Hall
If you have had previous difficulties in MCB courses or are worried about a particular one this semester, join us for a discussion that will help you identify the skills necessary for success in the major. You’ll also learn how to take notes, think critically, and approach exams in a scientific context.

3:30-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, Illini Union Bookstore
Our Samvid Scholars information session is coming up next week. The Samvid Scholarship provides support for two years of study for students pursuing a graduate degree. 

Patient care experience is a critical component of a competitive application to health profession school but knowing where to start can be difficult. Join us on Thursday, February 19th at 5:30 pm in the The Career Center, Room 143 for a comprehensive workshop where we define what counts as patient care experience and reveal how to secure these opportunities right here in Champaign-Urbana and beyond. You will also hear first-hand stories from current ambassadors who have successfully navigated the process. Don’t miss this chance to bridge the gap between classroom learning and clinical reality.

This event is open to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, or national origin. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request, please contact careercenter@illinois.edu.

Illinois students have access to free Kaplan preperation courses for graduate school, professional school, skill development, and certification exams. Don’t miss this chance to boost your future— students must register before February 28, 2026 to take advantage of this state of Illinois-funded initiative.

Log in on the Kaplan website with your NetID through Kaplan’s Illinois All Access site to get started today!

On behalf of Rush Medical College, we are delighted to officially invite pre-medical students to apply to our David Jones Peck, MD Pre-Medical Education Program (DJP PEP), an in-person summer program scheduled for June 15 – July 24, 2026.

The goal of this program is to prepare aspiring, motivated pre-med students with the means to strengthen their ability and readiness to become competitive and successful applicants to medical school. This program includes academic enrichment in the basic sciences with a focus on health disparities and illnesses prevalent in underserved communities; AMCAS application and interview preparation; community service experiences; medical school financial planning; peer and faculty mentorship; and more.

The DJP PEP is designed to support students who have experienced social, economic, and/or educational hardships in their journey to medical education, come from disadvantaged backgrounds, and/or who represent groups that are known to be underrepresented in medicine.

Applicants must…

• be a current college junior/senior OR have completed an undergraduate degree.
• have not previously applied to medical school.
• not plan to apply in the 2026-2027 AMCAS cycle.
• be a US citizen or permanent resident, or hold DACA, refugee, or asylee status.

Please refer to the linked application and attached flyer for a complete list of application requirements.

Students can apply here. The application deadline is Sunday, March 1^st, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CST. 

Should you have any questions regarding the program, please do not hesitate to contact us via email at RMC_Admissions@rush.edu. 

Rush DJP PEP Flyer 2026.pdf

Deadline to Submit: Monday, March 16 
Consider applying for this year's Image of Research - UR Edition competition. All undergraduates are invited to enter an image and a brief narrative related to their research, scholarship, or creative work. Your submission gives you the chance to win a monetary award and have your work celebrated at the Undergraduate Research Symposium.

The Chicago Section of the Society of Tribologist and Lubrication Engineers (STLE), has a scholarship opportunity for graduate and undergraduate students pursuing studies in STEM disciplines. These include, but are not limited to, tribology, materials science, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, biology, chemistry, and related fields.

Applicants should be graduate students or undergraduate students in their second year or beyond from the areas which STLE Chicago draws its membership from (IL, WI, MN, IN, IA). Awards will range from $500-$3000 per student, with a total of $8500 to be awarded. Students will also be invited to attend one of the STLE Chicago technical meetings as a guest, introduced to the section members, and welcomed to give a brief presentation on the awarded research (~10-15 minutes). The submission deadline for this opportunity is March 18^th 2026. 

Scholarships — STLE Chicago

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers individualized support for undergraduate and graduate students who are preparing speeches and presentations for any class or professional event. We can assist at any stage of the process, from brainstorming and outlining to delivery practice and visual aids. We offer in-person consultations located in a variety of places on campus, as well as synchronous virtual consultations. Contact us for questions, class visits or to develop unique programming for classes and other campus groups. Check out the Speakers Workshop page for more information.

Main Library Orange Room, Lincoln Hall LAS Hub, and Online via Zoom

iSucceed is for our scholars to work together to build community, support one another’s academic development and understand how and why to engage in academic spaces. Scholars get the opportunity to:

• Scholars meet once per week on Mondays at BNAACC.
• Participate in in-person seminars with guest speakers & self-paced interactive online seminars.
• Discuss various topics on their personal & career development, and academic strategies/resources.
• Have dedicated study time.
• 1:1 Quick Check-Ins with Advising & Mentoring Student Success Advisors.

iSucceed is staffed by:

• Courtney Bishop, A&M Assistant Director
• Shawn Hampton, BNAACC Associate Director of Retention & Evaluation
• Monica Brigham, A&M Student Success Advisor
• Kimberly Eiermann, A&M Student Success Advisor

Students in iSucceed gain a strong network of peer and staff support each week, helping them stay motivated, connected, and focused on their goals. Please share with any of your students that need support.

iSucceed Seminar Details

Date: Weekly on Mondays
Time: 3:00pm – 4:30p
Location: BNAACC Multipurpose Room

Students can sign up to participate here: iSucceed Interest Form

11 a.m. to noon last Wednesday of each month, Paul M. Lisnek LAS Hub
Interested in applying for a scholarship to study abroad, learn a language, conduct research, or attend grad school? Seeking feedback on a scholarship application-in-progress? NIS (aka “TopScholars”) administers nationally competitive awards for Illinois students and alumni and provides advice throughout the application process, helping students become more competitive for awards like Fulbright, Rhodes, Gilman, Goldwater, and more.

Various times, Sundays through Fridays, across campus and online
Writers Workshop is here to help you with all types of writing, at any stage in the process. Book an appointment, visit during drop-in hours, or reach out by phone, email, or in-person at the Main Library for assistance.

Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, Women’s Resource Center
The Women's Resource Center has partnered with the Counseling Center and the Champaign-Urbana Public Health Department to provide free training on how to use Narcan to reverse drug overdoses. This training will offer guidance on what to do during emergency situations, and Narcan kits will be available for attendees.

5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 202 Gender and Sexuality Resource Center
Join the GSRC and McKinley Health Educators for a panel with professional Illinois staff who work in areas that provide specific resources to transgender and non-binary students at lllinois.

February 20–22 • Feb 20th (Fri): 6pm - 9:30pm CT, Feb 21st and 22nd (Sat and Sun): 1pm - 5:30pm CT 

Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW) is a national movement from February 23 to March 1 and is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding about eating disorders while challenging the stigma and barriers that prevent access to care.

Eating disorders affect people of all genders, sexual orientations, ages, socioeconomic classes, abilities, races, and ethnic backgrounds. That is why the Counseling Center is working to educate our students, highlighting available supports, and advocating for meaningful change.

You can register for the EVERYbody Project workshop, which will be held on February 19 and 26 from 4-5:30 p.m. This workshop challenges the unrealistic body image ideals that society often conveys. Also, check out Counseling Center social media throughout EDAW week for additional resources.

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, Activities and Recreation Center
Adaptive Rec Day celebrates NIRSA's Recreational Sports and Fitness Day. The first 125 students, faculty, and staff will receive a free T-shirt. Drop in for activities in ARC Gym 2 to learn about adaptive recreation by playing alongside Illinois wheelchair athletes. Snacks provided.

You're invited to our February 28 Open House—and we want to help you make the most of it.

This is your chance to explore RFU's 30+ graduate programs, meet your future faculty and classmates, and see our innovative learning spaces in action.

Secure your spot today.

Register for RFU's Open House

Here are five ways to get the most out of your visit:

1. Sign up for Discover Sessions early: These fill fast! You'll get application tips, step into our simulation labs, and connect with current students.
2. Come with questions: Whether it's about curriculum, support services, or life in North Chicago, we're ready to answer.
3. Talk to more than admissions staff: Meet teams from Student Success and Wellness, Financial Aid, and Career Services.
4. Take the full campus tour: See our cutting-edge facilities, collaborative spaces, study areas, and health and fitness centers.
5. Stay and connect: Enjoy food, meet future classmates, and picture yourself here.

Discover Sessions fill up fast, so pick yours today!

Can't make it?

• Plan to attend our Open House on July 16.
• Take a Virtual Tour of RFU.
• Attend an Information Session—held every other Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and includes an admissions and university overview, followed by a campus tour.
• Discuss virtual information sessions or shadowing options with your admission counselor.

CampusWell provides health and wellness articles and videos for the campus community. Topics incorporate the Eight Dimensions of Wellness, ranging from nutrition, mindfulness, time management and finances. 

The LAS Undercover Food Pantry is in business and already serving students. We don’t check student ids and we don’t turn anyone away; the pantry is tucked into a secluded corner of the LAS office and is discreet. Students can stop by 2002 Lincoln Hall during our hours of operation (8:30 am – noon and 1 pm – 4:40 pm M, T, TH, F and 10 am – noon, 1 pm – 4:40 pm on W). Let the front desk know you're here about the pantry, or to ‘shop.’ We have bags for you to use if you need them.

The Food Assistance and Well-Being Program is an emergency resource for Illinois students who are facing financial challenges and need short-term food and basic needs support. Our pantry offers a variety of items such as protein, dairy, fresh produce, canned goods, grains and limited personal care items. Every week, students can choose to either make an appointment at the ARC Instructional Kitchen, schedule a pick-up at CRCE lockers or visit a Wesley Food Pantry. During Hunger Action Month this September, create awareness about food insecurity and share this resource with students you serve.

The Student Wellness Guidebook is an online etext and open enrollment Canvas course that helps students build skills across the eight dimensions of wellness and connects them to Illinois resources all in one place.

On TalkCampus, you can share what’s on your mind, chat one-on-one with a trained TalkCampus Buddy, join group conversations, journal, and explore self-guided tools to support your wellbeing. There’s no judgment, just real conversations with students who have lived experience with common college stressors. 

To get started, create an account using your Illinois NetID. If you have questions, contact the Counseling Center at 217-333-3704 during business hours. 

Let's Talk is a program offered by our embedded counselors. It is not a counseling appointment but a casual conversation about Counseling Center services available to you. Conversations with Let’s Talk counselors are private, informal consultations. Let's Talk appointments are 15 minutes long, and there is no fee. 

To schedule a Let's Talk appointment, please schedule an appointment online.  

Learn about resources for stress management individually and throughout the campus community. This weekly event features education, an activity, and giveaways around a new theme.

Are you passionate about leadership and community impact? Join Project Level the Field (LTF) @ UIUC at our Social to learn more about how you can mentor high school students navigating the college application journey - and become part of a driven, supportive community committed to making a difference. LTF is a student-run nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students through personalized, one-on-one mentorship at every stage of the higher education application journey. By supporting students from a wide range of academic and personal backgrounds, we strive to break down barriers and create equitable access to opportunity.

Date: February 19th 
Location: KungFu Tea on Sixth Street 
Time: 6 PM

Fill out the application to become a mentor. The application will be due on Tuesday, February 24th at 11:59 PM CST.

Join us on Instagram @levelthefielduiuc and GroupMe for more information or chat with us on GroupMe!

If you have any questions, please contact angeli@projectlevelthefield.com or michelle@projectlevelthefield.com

The Illini Wildlife and Conservation Club (IWCC) is a perfect fit for any students who are interested in wildlife, conservation, the environment, or just spending time outdoors. Our RSO has monthly general meetings where we host speakers such as professors from the university, field biologists, zookeepers, and Illinois alumni. During the semester, we take off-campus trips to places such as zoos, state parks, local nature centers, and forest preserves. We also host socials and philanthropy events, plus volunteer at local events like Boneyard Creek Community Day and Illini Lights Out as IWCC is dedicated to giving back to the community and being stewards of the local environment. Ultimately, our goal is to increase awareness and interest in the conservation and sustainability of both wildlife and the environments that support them.

IAGD, the International Association for Geoscience Diversity, supports access and inclusion for people with disabilities in geosciences. They have scholarships, awards, and loanable technology aids to support field-based learning and research, among other resources. This group supports STEM students beyond the geosciences, learn more at the International Association for Geoscience Diversity website. 

The Pen Pal Program is a joint effort the the University of Illinois Library and International Education. This program will match university students with members of the local community to exchange handwritten letters with the goals of:

• Combatting loneliness
• Integrating students into the local community
• Facilitating intergenerational and intercultural friendships

The program is completely free of charge and participants will be provided with recycled and donated stationary and materials. There will be two special events for participants on February 19th and April 30th. You are not required to attend either, but they will be fun social opportunities to build community, pick up stationary supplies, and have a snack on us. To join, please fill out an interest form.

Illini Sheltering Hands Society is a student organization dedicated to empowering students with essential, life-saving skills while supporting homeless communities on campus and in the surrounding area. The organization hosts a variety of events and workshops, facilitates volunteering initiatives, and provides hands-on training in skills such as CPR, measuring vital signs, and using an AED. Through these activities, Illini Sheltering Hands Society aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools needed for service, leadership, and skill-building, while also enriching campus life and promoting social responsibility.

5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, Asian American Cultural Center
Celebrate Tsagaan Sar, a holiday centered on family, renewal, and cultural tradition and immerse yourself in Mongolian customs and cuisine, while enjoying the traditional Mongolian New Year's food for dinner.

4-6 p.m. Thursday Feb. 19, Murphy Lounge University YMCA
This new pen pal program matches university students with members of the local community to exchange handwritten letters with the goals of combating loneliness, integrating students into the local community, and facilitating intergenerational and intercultural friendships.

5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, Krannert Art Museum 
Join us to celebrate queer art and artists! Enjoy live music, guided tours, hands-on artmaking, artist demonstrations, and hors d’oeuvres. Free and open to everyone. 

5-6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, Literatures, Cultures & Linguistics Building lobby
On several Friday evenings each semester, volunteers gather to form lights-out brigades that fan out across campus to record how many lights are left on and shut off as many as they can. Join us to help save energy, cut utility costs, and avert emissions. Volunteering takes about an hour and a half.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, I-Hotel & Conference Center
The Black and Latinx Summit is an annual conference that seeks to bring students from all intersections into a shared space to connect. This focus is an intentional understanding of the traumas that communities of color in the United States have faced both historically and contemporarily.  

• When: Thursday, April 16, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM CT
• Where: Ballroom, Illini Union

• Lightning Talks: 3 minutes each (10 talks only).
• Poster Presentations: Open to all.

Spring semester
These workshops are designed for both international and domestic students to build intercultural awareness, communication skills, and confidence for success in academic and global contexts. Attending this series of workshops can deepen learning and application. Participation in individual sessions is welcome.