Many students come to Illinois State unsure of what career path to choose or field to study. In addition, some may choose to change their career path once they have had a chance to take a few courses in their original area of interest. On November 10, Career Services will host Career Chats to help students explore and analyze major and career choices by learning about them through interactive sessions with faculty, staff, other students, alumni and employers.

Student Hannah Belke poses for a headshot.

Career Services Graduate Assistant Hannah Belke

“The goal of Career Chats is to allow students to explore the different career clusters available to them and get that insight from academic advisors, registered student organizations, alumni, and employers” said Career Services Graduate Assistant Hannah Belke. “Career Chats may be especially beneficial for students right now during the COVID-19 pandemic as they are not able to attend the in-person events Illinois State typically offers.”

Career Chat sessions

Career Chats is broken into three sessions based on areas of interest. Students can attend multiple sessions as needed to explore career interests.

3-4 p.m. – Careers in arts, communication, design, media, financial services, consulting, management and sales

4:15-5:15 p.m. – Careers in food agriculture, environment, natural resources, healthcare, wellness and recreation

5:30-6:30 p.m. – Careers in education, non-profit, social services, government and law

Registration is required to participate. For more information, visit the Career Services website.

Call for alumni participants

If you’re a Redbird alum, participating in Career Chats is an excellent way to reconnect with your alma mater. If you’d like to volunteer to share with current students how you chose your career path, contact Career Services at (309) 438-2200.

Career Services supports Illinois State University’s Educate Connect Elevate: Illinois State—The Strategic Plan for Illinois’ First Public University 2018-2023 by assisting students with developing, evaluating, and implementing career, education, and employment decisions.