Grad Student Days

10:00 am - 1:30 pm at the Digital Computer Lab, 2nd floor (1304 W Springfield Ave, Urbana)

GrOW (Graduate Orientation for Women and Gender Minorities) is an orientation program for new graduate students identifying as women and gender minorities in engineering. Join us for new friends, food, a craft, and information about campus resources. Our activities aim to create an increased sense of belonging and confidence. Feel free to reach out to gradswe.uiuc@gmail.com with questions.

6:00 pm virtual - RSVP required

Want to make your Illinois experience especially memorable? International Education invites you to join GLOBE! GLOBE stands for Global Leaders Orange and Blue Engagement. The program offers you an opportunity to make connections with domestic and international students to build these friendships throughout the semester. More information and rsvp. 

You will want to participate if you: Are a current student at U of I (domestic or international). Have a sincere interest in sharing one’s culture and building relationships. Have an interest in getting involved in campus life. Want to develop intercultural communication and leadership skills.

11:15 am - 12:45 pm at the Ice Arena (406 E. Armory Ave, Champaign)

Come enjoy ice skating, whether it is your first time or you're an expert. Free entry with I-Card; skate rental is $3. Find more times for open skating.

3:00 - 4:30 pm on Zoom - Co-sponsored by Illinois Human Resources and the Graduate College

This employee orientation provides information for teaching, research, pre-professional, and graduate assistants regarding appointments and benefits.

5:00 – 6:00 pm at the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center (616 E Green Street, Suite 202 (entrance between McDonalds and Subway, 2nd floor))

The Gender and Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC) would like to invite new graduate students who identify as LGBTQ+ and their allies to the GSRC's Graduate Student Welcome! Meet other LGBTQ+ identified graduate students, learn about NetworQ (our LGBTQ+ grad group) and enjoy light refreshments. Contact: GSRC@illinois.edu

9:30 am - 12:00 pm between Engineering Hall and Everitt Lab

Information for all NEW graduate students in engineering programs. 

12:00 - 1:00 pm at the University Y, Room 228 (1001 S. Wright St., Champaign) 

Global Engagement Lounge (GEL) - Navigating Language & Culture Together  Cosponsored by International Education and The Counseling Center.

4:00 - 6:00 pm at the Main Library Orange Room (1408 W. Gregory Dr.) 

Are you a first-gen student looking for ways to get connected on campus? Join us at the Resource Fair to meet representatives from University Library, FGSI/TJC, Leadership Center, McKinley Health, Speakers Workshop, Counseling Center, and the Connie Frank CARE Center (including Off Campus Living).

5:30 - 7:30 pm at the Women's Resources Center (616 E Green St #213, Champaign)

Join us at the WRC for a low-pressure, fast-paced speed-friending event designed to help you build real connections, share a few laughs, and find your community on campus. All students welcome—just bring yourself! Light refreshments provided. Registration is required, Register now.

7:30 - 9:30 pm at the Ice Arena (406 E Armory Dr, Champaign) 

Come enjoy ice skating, whether it is your first time or you're an expert. Free entry with I-Card; skate rental is $3. Find more times for open skating.

9:00 - 10:30 am on Zoom - Co-sponsored by Illinois Human Resources and the Graduate College

This employee orientation provides information for teaching, research, pre-professional, and graduate assistants regarding appointments and benefits.

11:00 am - 4:00 pm on the Main Quad

Visit the farmstand purchase fresh produce grown at the Sustainable Student Farm.

4:30 - 6:30 pm at the Main Library, Room 220 (1408 Gregory Dr Champaign)

The University Library and International Student and Scholar Services welcome all international graduate students and international scholars to learn more about campus research services and other helpful resources available to you from campus unit representatives. There will be time for networking afterwards with the opportunity to get to know peer international students and scholars, as well as connect with other faculty advisors and department heads. Register at go.illinois.edu/researchconnections

5:30 pm at the Krannert Center Lobby (500 S Goodwin Ave, Urbana)

Krannert Center is throwing an Opening Night Party to celebrate the kickoff of our 2026-27 season, and YOU'RE INVITED! 

12:00 - 1:30 pm at Chez Veterans Center ((908 W Nevada)

Connect with fellow students over lunch, learn about the services and support we offer, and explore ways to get involved in our community. All graduate students are welcome, especially those who are military-connected or interested in veteran-focused resources.

2:00 pm at the Women's Resources Center (616 E Green St #213, Champaign)

Join us for Crafternoons every month on the first Friday at the Women's Resources Center. All materials are provided. This event is free and open to everyone.

Campus Rec is launching an intramural pickleball league that begins on Friday, September 4 at 3pm at the new pickleball courts at the Outdoor Center Playfields. Sign up now and join the fun!