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Career Advising

Build a successful future with the help of a career advisor.

What We Can Do for You

Here's how we can work together to find a career path that's right for you.

  • A student performing an experiment.

    Choosing a Major

    Illinois State has more than 160 academic programs. That's a lot of options, and also a little overwhelming. We'll help you narrow things down and find a program that makes you excited to go to class.

  • A woman tutoring a student.

    Understanding Your Career Options

    Some degrees are pretty straightforward, others have lots of opportunities you might not even know about. Meet with us to discover all your options and possibilities once you earn a degree.

  • A student carrying out a field work.

    Getting Experience

    To get hired, you need experience. We know the ins and outs of finding jobs and internships. We can also tell you how to translate your classroom and student organization experiences into skills employers are looking for.

  • A man with a laptop opened on his palm inspecting a tractor.

    Changing Course

    This is your life and your journey. If you don't like where your path is heading, we can help you find a career that supports the life you want.

  • Graduate in a gown and cap, smiling.

    Preparing for Life After Illinois State

    We have all the tools you need to have a successful life after graduation. Use us to make sure your resume is top-notch and to find job openings in your field.

Hire a Redbird

Let's chat

Log in to Hire-A-Redbird to make an appointment with a career advisor. Learn more about Hire-A-Redbird

Start Exploring

Get your career journey going.

  • A student studies on the lawn of the quad.

    Learn About Yourself

    Take an online assessment and see how your interests, values, and skills match with various career paths.

    Get Started with FOCUS 2 Career

  • A professor discussing with a student.

    View Academic Programs

    Read an overview of Illinois State programs. Discover what you'll learn in each program and see what you can do in a future career.

    Search Illinois State Academics

    Search tip: Try searching with a keyword that interests you. The results will provide all the programs that align with your interest.

  • Students volunteering at an event on campus.

    Get Involved on Campus

    The classroom isn't the only place to explore your future. Student organizations and work experience can expose you to new opportunities and help you figure out what your future could look like.

    Explore Student Life at Illinois State

    Search On-Campus Jobs

Meet With a Career Advisor

When you make an appointment, you'll get matched with a career expert.

Schedule a Time in Hire-A-Redbird

No appointment, no problem.

Stop in during drop-in hours to meet with a career ambassador.

In-person at the Career Resource Hub in the Bone Student Center:

  • Monday
    9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday
    9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday
    9 a.m.-4 p.m.
  • Thursday
    9 a.m.-4 p.m.
  • Friday
    9-11:30 a.m.

Must arrive 10 minutes prior to closing.

Virtual drop-in hours available using our virtual drop-in link:

Career ambassadors are students just like you. They've gone through lots of training to help support you on the basics of your career journey.

Drop-in hours are not available during university closures, semester breaks, or on career fair days.