Congratulations to the Class of 2020! You have now joined the proud ranks of Illinois State University alumni—220,000 strong and growing. As Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Kris Harding, M.S. ’94, states in her message above, “Fall 2020 will likely be a semester that you will never forget,” and the Redbird alumni family continues to recognize your accomplishments, dedication, and perseverance now and into the future as #RedbirdProud alumni.
With that, the Alumni Association also wants to leave you with some quick tips on how to fully take advantage of your new status as a Redbird alum. Also be sure to complete this quick, new graduate survey to share what you will be doing now that you are an ISU 2020 graduate. So without further ado and in no particular order, here are the 10 things every new Illinois State grad should know.
Central Illinois Young Alumni at a summer kickoff event prior to 2020.
Alumni Groups and Networks
Were you involved in a bunch of student groups on campus? Then stay involved as an alum too.
Illinois State alums have organized a long and growing list of affinity-based alumni networks, such as the young alumni networks in both Chicago and Central Illinois, Latinx Alumni Network, Black Colleagues Association, LGBTQA, and many college and department-based networks.
And if life takes you beyond Chicago and Bloomington-Normal, we have regional networks located all across the country! These alumni groups get together for Redbird Athletics games and watch parties, host special events, and raise money for student scholarships.
Keep learning after graduation for free
Learning never stops after you graduate. Your Alumni Association provides a variety of ways to stay connected to Illinois State University from afar through any mobile device, computer, or tablet. From an interactive campus tour and sharing recipes to live events and DIY videos to try at home, find something to educate, entertain, and elevate growth. Visit Alumni’s virtual events site to learn about the many online opportunities available. For Redbirds that enjoy a good book, join the Illinois State online alumni book club where you will discuss topics covering lifelong learning topics.
Don’t be a stranger
Homecoming 2020 has moved to spring 2021 in order to follow the Redbird football schedule. The Homecoming date and plans will be announced at a later time. Don’t let Homecoming be the only time you visit campus each year. Come back to visit anytime, and stop at the Alumni Center first to meet the Alumni Engagement staff and get the latest info on campus events.
Looking for a job?
Illinois State’s Career Center isn’t just for students. The Career Center offers various services to alumni to provide you with additional job-hunting help.
Get your transcripts
Many employers will ask to see an official transcript before hiring. To order your transcript online, visit the Office of the University Registrar. Here you can learn more about transcript availability, how to read your transcript, and to be sure your transcript includes your degree.
Need insurance?
Insured graduating students who will not be enrolled in classes during the following term may continue coverage for one additional term. Insured full-time students graduating in December are eligible to purchase summer coverage by applying through My.IllinoisState.edu from December 7 through January 25 For more information on extending student insurance, contact Student Health Insurance.
Update your info
Good news: As an alum, you’re officially a subscriber to the award-winning alumni magazine, Illinois State, sent out three times a year in print and digital format. Next issue comes out in April, but we can’t send you the latest edition unless we have your new address and email (your university email account will be deactivated one year after your graduation date). Update your contact information today to receive the magazine and other special invites to alumni events and resources.
Make an impact with Reggie’s Holiday Pick
With this year’s Reggie’s Holiday Pick you can score some exclusive Redbird socks and feel good knowing that all proceeds benefit the ISU Excellence Fund, helping your alma mater and your ISU degree stay strong.
You are #RedbirdProud
This one’s easy. Stay plugged into Illinois State campus life by following us on social media:
Check out the full list (and find your college or department) on our Social Media Directory.
Gear up
By now, you probably have no shortage of Illinois State T-shirts in your dresser. But as you join the working world, it’s time to spiff up your collection of Redbird gear and get some stuff you can actually wear to the office or display that well-deserved diploma. Here are just some of the places where you can buy Redbird gear:
