Why I decided to be a Redbird

Lauren’s family enjoying Family Weekend

“The experiences I have had at Illinois State are some that I know I could not have found anywhere else,” writes #BirdofMouth student blogger Lauren Vahldick.

My semester in Italy

Lauren Vahldick on a boat in Venice with other students

Studying abroad in Florence, Italy was life changing. I had stories to tell, pictures to share, and I saw everything differently, making this my favorite Illinois State experience.

Video: Redbird life in Uptown Normal

Uptown Normal

Did you know that Bloomington-Normal regularly ranks as one of the Top 50 college towns in America? A big reason for that is Uptown Normal, a thriving hub of shops, restaurants, and transportation.

What I would tell my freshman self

#BirdofMouth student blogger Lauren with friends

#BirdofMouth student blogger Lauren says there are a few things she wishes she would have known during her freshman year. Four years later, she shares her senior year advice.