With finals already underway and the days getting shorter, it’s completely normal to feel worn down. You’ve pushed hard all semester, and the finish line is finally in sight. As you wrap up your last exams and projects, now is a great time to pause for a quick mental health check-in. Taking a moment to evaluate how you’re feeling can help you finish strong and recover well once break begins.

Step 1: How Are You Feeling Right Now?

Ask yourself: “How am I doing at this moment?”

Starting college is an exciting milestone for families. At the University of Illinois Springfield, we recognize that parents play a vital role in helping their students adjust to college life. With your support and resources from UIS, your student can thrive academically, socially and personally.

When you think about college, you probably imagine classes, dorm life and new friends. But one of the best parts of being a student at the University of Illinois Springfield is being part of traditions that bring everyone together. These traditions connect current students with their peers and create memories that last long after graduation. Whether you’re just starting to look at UIS for the first time as a prospective student, getting ready to begin your first semester or have recently enrolled at UIS, here are some of the traditions and history that make our campus special.

UIS is an organization-rich campus with clubs that every student can enjoy and get involved in. Whether you are looking to get involved in weekly events or monthly events, there is something for everyone to enjoy! With lots of different events happening each week, you can participate in various activities and see if you’d like to join.  

A section of Richard Wright Drive will be closed Friday, September 19 from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm for the Homecoming Pep Rally Block party.

Whether you’re a first-year or transfer student, arriving at UIS as a self-proclaimed introvert can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. As one of our newest Prairie Stars, you’ll be navigating new surroundings and routines while protecting your social battery. But getting involved on campus doesn’t have to mean plunging into big crowds or chatting with everyone you meet. You can find ways to connect that match your personality, interests and pace.

We’re excited to invite you to submit a breakout session proposal for the Student Leadership Summit, taking place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in the Student Union Ballroom!

This year’s theme is "Written in the Stars: Charting Your Leadership Journey", focused on helping student leaders recognize their unique paths, discover their guiding values, and build meaningful connections that shape their constellation of influence.

As part of the upcoming Convocation on August 21, we are creating a welcome video featuring friendly faces from across campus. Please submit by August 10. 

Videos should be no longer than 10 seconds. You are welcome to have a whole team of your staff/department together, or do them individually. 

Starting college is exciting, but it can also be a little overwhelming. It’s a new beginning on your own. You’re in a new place, meeting new people and adjusting to a new routine. At UIS, we aim to help make your first year a memorable one by providing helpful tips about college life that every first year should know!

We’re thrilled to invite you to be part of New Student Welcome 2025—a vibrant event marking the close of new student orientation and the kickoff to the academic year, designed to help our newest Prairie Stars feel at home and connected!

We’re currently seeking campus partners to host Breakout Sessions, Evening or Late-Night Social Events, or Open Houses/Affinity Group Meet-Ups. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your department, organization, or initiative while making a lasting impact on our newest Prairie Stars.