Congratulations to the Class of 2024! You have now joined the proud ranks of Illinois State University alumni—239,000 strong and growing. The Alumni Association 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 a 2024 Illinois State graduate. So without further ado, and in no particular order, here are the 10 things every new Illinois State grad should know.
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 digital format. The next issue comes out in summer 2025, but we can’t send you the latest edition unless we have your 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.
Alumni networks
Were you involved in a bunch of student groups on campus? Then stay involved as an alum, too.
Illinois State alumni have organized a long and growing list of affinity-based alumni networks, such as the Latinx Alumni Network, Black Colleagues Association, LGBTQA+, and many college and department-based networks. Don’t forget there is an exclusive group for our recent grads, Birds of the Last Decade, that provides experiences, professional development, and information for those who graduated in the last 10 years.
And if life takes you beyond 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 do-it-yourself 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 who enjoy a good book, join the Illinois State online alumni book club where you will discuss topics covering lifelong learning topics. The next book starts on January 3, 2025!
Don’t be a stranger
Homecoming 2025: Raise the Banner is set for October 13-19, 2025. Plans are being made to host safe gatherings and events. 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 Services isn’t just for students. Career Services 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 winter coverage by applying through My.IllinoisState.edu now. For more information on extending student insurance, contact Student Health Insurance.
Redbirds support Redbirds
As you get established after graduation, don’t forget to pay it forward and support fellow Redbirds. Consider a gift to the Red and White Scholarship fund or to your favorite college, department, or program. Your gift, of any size, makes an impact.
Gear up and be #RedbirdProud
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. Bookmark the Redbird Spirit Shop to keep a tab on the latest Illinois State trends or visit the Redbird gear website to search for your favorite Illinois State product. The next part is easy: stay plugged into Illinois State campus life by following us on social media:
Continue to #BackTheBirds
Purchase a general admission season ticket for Redbird football or Redbird men’s basketball for only $50 (a 50% and 30% discount, respectively!) for up to three years following your undergraduate graduation from Illinois State. This offer is not available online; interested individuals should call (309) 438-8000 to purchase.
