Getting Involved & School Spirit
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Alternative Spring Break (ASB) provides an interactive and fun volunteer experience that teaches cultural and social issues by connecting you with a new and different community.
ASB's goal is to move enthusiastic, giving students from being heartfelt volunteers toward becoming active, lifelong, participatory citizens and agents for social change who are committed to social justice.
Experience life at Illinois State University. Illinois State students and staff have countless opportunities to participate in unique and exciting activities, enhance leadership skills, maintain healthy lifestyles, explore career opportunities, appreciate diversity, and so much more. Get to know some of our Redbirds by reading their stories below.
Candace Aley Elementary Education major from Champaign, Illinois
On her experience with Student Health Services ...
"Every time I have been sick and needed to see a doctor, it was always quick and easy to schedule an appointment with Student Health Services. I have never had to wait longer than a few minutes and every one of them has been very polite and efficient during my visit. All of the Student Health Services staff that I know, in and out of the clinic, are so friendly and great to talk to. I am very glad they all work for ISU!"
Dan Baiardo Accounting major from Chicago, Illinois
On his experience with Campus Dining Services ...
"I have been working for Campus Dining Services, CDS, for over four years now. I signed up to work for CDS at Preview, before my freshman year, and was hired for a position at Freshens in Watterson Food Court. I signed up because I knew I was going to need the extra money. However I have gotten a lot more than money out of my experience with CDS. I have met some of my closest friends while working at Watterson and as I have moved from working in Freshens to being a student manager, I have gained valuable leadership experience that will surely help me in the future."
Katie BickhamElementary Education major from Waukegan, Illinois.
On living in the residence halls ...
“I lived on a Lifestyle floor my freshman year in Manchester Hall — an Elementary Education Lifestyle floor. That meant that everyone on my floor was an Elementary Education major. My resident assistant was also an upper classman and an Elementary Education major, so living on that floor provided me with a lot of different experiences, from having my own faculty mentor to having different kinds of developmental meetings to further my career as a teacher.”
Rachael Bruketta General Student from Table Grove, Illinois
On getting involved in the Dean of Students office ...
"I have participated in a number of Dean of Students Office programs and activities: LeaderShape, the Civil Rights Movement Trip (CRMT), AIDStock, and two Alternative Spring Break (ASB) trips (one in which I served in a leadership position). I also served as a member of the Program Fund Fee Board which determines which registered student organizations receive university funding.
The Dean of Students Office has been extremely helpful to me! It has given me access to many resources and opportunities. I remember attending one of the trips and hearing everyone around me talk about all of the activities coming up and how I could get involved. I went to the Dean of Students Office and they told me about everything taking place. Through the Dean of Students Office, I have learned so much more about social justice issues and have become more aware of the world around me. I learned not only how to help myself, but how to help many others. By getting off campus and participating in these activities, I have been able to see things through the perspective that can't be offered to me by the University alone.
Attending CRMT and ASB have especially helped me learn about who I want to be, and what it takes to be like that person. I have met so many respectable, well-intentioned people who are making their dreams a reality — which to me, are amazingly inspiring.
The Dean of Students Office guides students in the direction of individual interests and shows them how they can help the community around them. I encourage other Illinois State students to get INVOLVED in as much as you can. You won't regret it and it is absolutely worth your time!"
Ja’Niah DowningExercise Science and Kinesiology major from Reddick, Florida
On finding a job after graduation ...
“A couple of months ago when I was getting ready to send out resumes to look for jobs, I took my resume to the Career Center and they proofread the whole thing – they told me what employers right now are looking for on resumes and in cover letters. They gave me a lot of pointers on how to correct it and how to make it look perfect. The Career Center has been incredible.”
Lindsay Gallovitch Exercise Science major from Frankfort, Illinois
On her experience with Recreation Services ...
"At the Student Recreation Building I have been involved in a variety of activities and positions. I am currently a Supervisor and a Personal Trainer. My experiences as a Supervisor have improved my communication and problem solving skills from working and interacting with my peers and fellow patrons. My experiences as a Personal Trainer have also allowed me to gain knowledge and hands on skills in my field of Exercise Science. As a Personal Trainer I have greatly enjoyed working with my clients and helping them to create positive changes in their lives. The knowledge and skills I have gained will be vital resources to utilize later in life."
Tina Goldstein Exercise Science major from Effingham, Illinois
On her experience with Recreation Services ...
"I believe that Recreation Services here at Illinois State is more than just a building; it's a community of people motivated to improve their health. Whether it's working out inside the facility or taking part in one of the many outdoor activities, members are supportive in each other's successes. New members are always welcomed and previous members are always available to offer advice along the way. Recreation Services has become part of my daily routine. For me, it's a place to relax and enjoy spending time with people that feel like family."
Tom Heebner Safety major from Hickory Hills, Illinois
On getting involved in the Dean of Students office ...
"I have worked with the Dean of Students Office at great lengths as president of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. I have received a large amount of guidance, advice, and mentorship from the Dean of Students Office staff in the Greek Affairs unit and the Student Involvement Center. The entire staff assisted me in some sort of capacity to operate and manage my chapter, and to market my fraternity during recruitment.
The Dean of Students Office has taught me that to be successful in today's world; no one can do it by themselves. By working with the staff, I have developed my communication and leadership skills, learned to be a better listener, and learned to value the input of others.
I have accomplished many things within Lambda Chi Alpha and other organizations that I have been a part of at Illinois State. I believe incoming students can do the same if they use the resources around them. The Dean of Students Office helps students find organizations that fit their interests and provides them with the tools to become involved and to become better individuals, as well as leaders."
Jessie JanikFamily & Consumer Sciences major from Orland Park, Illinois
On her experience with Campus Dining Services ...
"I had the privilege of working for Dianne Feasley and Campus Dining Services. Each day I was amazed at how much new knowledge I gained by being a part of this department. For example, I was able to help organize a vegetarian food fair in which Dianne instructed and guided me on creating quality media outlets, demonstrating professionalism in contacting food service vendors and organizing accurate and informative display boards. I was pleasantly surprised during the fair how many Campus Dining employees arrived to support and acknowledge all of the hard work that had gone into making that day a success. I honestly felt that many of these warm, caring and friendly individuals went above and beyond each day to always make me feel welcome and a part of their program. I was extremely impressed with Campus Dining Services. I believe that this experience will prove to be pivotal in my development from a student into the professional world."
Kevin Martin Business Teacher Education major from Batavia, Illinois
On getting involved at Illinois State ...
"I joined the University Program Board and took an executive position immediately. This allowed me to find a "home away from home" and meet a lot of great people. During my freshman year, I joined the Emerging Leader Program through Student Government Association (SGA) where I meet a lot of great people. Through that program, I was able to learn more about the University and was inspired to run for senator my sophomore year. The SGA gave me so much the first year that I was in office that I choose to run for student body vice president. Today, I am in the office and I love every second of it. I find it so important to be able to listen to the students and turn their visions and ideas into reality. An important aspect that I love is seeing the "bigger picture" and what Illinois State University is going to be in the future.
Reflecting back on my first two years of college I have really found the importance in getting involved in other things besides my academics. It is a great way to meet other people and helped to shape me as the person I want to be. I have been able to grow as a person and leader through the services and support that the Dean of Students Office has given to me. The Dean of Students Office and staff has been very knowledgeable and helpful throughout my entire career. They are very open-minded, really willing to listen to the students, and are there to make their college experience the best it can be.
There are endless opportunities at Illinois State and they want to make sure you take advantage of them. I am in a leadership position today that I would never imagined myself only two years ago. It is very important that each and every student "find a home" at Illinois State. There are so many homes that are welcoming and waiting for you. In order to make the most of your college career I would strongly encourage you to find that "home" and I guarantee your college experience will be 100% better because of it."
Katie Molohon Biological Sciences major from Auburn, Illinois
On getting involved in Guerrilla Theatre and Student Counseling Services ...
"Guerrilla Theatre Troupe has brought me closer to myself and my peers in so many ways. I have grown tremendously while simultaneously having a blast with some of my closest friends. I get to do what I love while communicating a very important message to my fellow students. Guerrilla Theatre has allowed me to be involved on campus and make lifelong friendships. Choosing to be a part of this troupe was the best decision for me during my undergraduate career."
Kevin ParkinsonSocial Sciences Education major from Lockport, Illinois
On getting involved in the Dean of Students Office ...
"I've been fortunate to be involved in several of the Dean of Students Office programs, such as living on the Leadership & Service Lifestyle Floor; attending Alternative Spring Break, LeaderShape, the Civil Rights Movement Trip, the Diversity Retreat; and working with the University Program Board. The Dean of Students Office has helped me develop my leadership skills and discover my passion. I have become an entirely different person since my involvement with the Office. I now know what I am good at, what I need to improve at, and where my passions lie. All of my experiences with the Dean of Students Office have been positive. Even when times are stressful and intense, my experiences have always turned into learning opportunities and were actually a lot of fun. Without the Dean of Students Office, I would not have grown nearly as much as I have. I would not be as passionate as an individual, and I don't think I'd be able to call myself a "leader." I encourage all new students to get involved, and get involved early...there's a lot out there, you just have to take the first step in finding it."
Sharda PascalPublic Relations major from Danville, Illinois
On her experience with Recreation Services ...
"The Student Rec Building is a great place of employment because it provides a fun atmosphere. I enjoy coming to work because my co-workers and supervisors are great people to work with. My time at the Student Rec Building has taught me a variety of skills to use in my future job field. The Best People program provides the opportunity for student staff to gain tremendous leadership skills. My experience with this program has increased my self-confidence and has provided me with the necessary tools to be successful in the future."
Sarah Perkins Speech Pathology major from Knoxville, Illinois
On her experience with Student Health Services ...
"ISU Student Health Services is a great place for all of your health and medical needs. In addition to the main office, students benefit from both Womens’ Health and Preventive Medicine Clinics. The friendly and professional staff treats students with quality expertise in a very non-threatening environment. Along with affordable healthcare, low cost prescriptions are even available at the on-site pharmacy. Because of the great ratio of both male and female physicians and their scheduling flexibility, it’s always easy to make an appointment with a doctor of your choice. Without a doubt, I recommend ISU Student Health Services!"
Jennifer Phair Special Education major from Kankakee, Illinois
On her experience with University Housing Services ...
"One of the great opportunities provided through University Housing Services (UHS) is the ability to work in different student leadership capacities. During my time working for UHS, I played several roles in leading summer conferences. In my role as a Conference Assistant last summer and throughout the school year I gained great experience to grow into my new role as a Special Projects Conference Coordinator. In these roles I have gained a variety of new experiences that I could not gain anywhere else including new insights into my style of leadership and communication. Working with and developing new student staff has been the most enjoyable part of my positions. If you are looking for a leadership development challenge and development experience, I'd encourage you to look at summer conferencing employment opportunities."
Molly SharerPhysical Education major from Normal, Illinois
On her experience with the Guerrilla Theatre Troupe...
"My experience with the Division of Student Affairs has been through the Guerrilla Theatre Troupe. Most of my friends on the Illinois State University Campus have been or are currently in this group. I have enjoyed serving the ISU community by performing skits on social issues. The shows themselves touch me but the comments from the audience members expand my horizons."
Lisa Sweas Psychology major from Peotone, Illinois
On her experience with Student Counseling Services...
"The Student Counseling Services staff members provide activities and programs aimed at promoting the happiness and well-being of our students. As a former graduate assistant for Student Counseling Services, I received a lot of positive feedback from other students and university staff members regarding their experiences with the excellent services provided by SCS."
Emily Vigneri Psychology major from Decatur, Illinois
On her experience with Student Health Services and Student Counseling Services...
"During my four years at Illinois State University, I always received accurate and compassionate care from the professionals at Student Health Services. They were always willing to answer questions I might have had. Also, appointments are made very easily; they always did their best to accommodate my busy schedule, which I appreciate!
In addition, the staff at Student Counseling Services is deeply committed to providing exceptional services to ISU students. They offer a variety of services, making it easier for students to find the support they need. SCS offers a great amount of outreach opportunities such as informative workshops, arts and crafts programs, and the Guerilla Theatre Troupe, so that each student truly feels Student Counseling Services’ presence on campus."
