Frequently Asked Questions

The questions contained in this FAQ are authentic inquiries sent by people like you, interested in graduate studies and assistantships at Illinois State University.  Of course, identifying information was removed prior to posting.  If your question is not answered here, please email me at mrmurra@ilstu.edu

 General Questions

Q. Does the College Student Personnel Program admit in the Spring or Summer semesters?

A. No.  All students begin in the Fall semester, although you may submit your application any time.

Q. I have LOTS of questions about assistantships, starting with "What exactly are they?"  Where can I turn?

A. Look HERE and you'll find answers to many basic questions about assistantships.

Q. So what's it like at Illinois State?  What's there to do, on or off-campus?  Can I get a campus map?

A. Look HERE for all sorts of info about life at Illinois State University!

Questions About GRAD Days:

Q. Do I have to register for the entire GRAD Days program if all I want is to interview for assistantships?

A. Yes, but this is to your own advantage.  Attending the entire GRAD Days program will provide you with numerous opportunities to meet Illinois State faculty, students, and professional staff.  You will also have the chance to learn about our academic programs, and to become familiar with the campus.  In short, experiencing GRAD Days to its fullest is a great way to determine if joining us here at Illinois State is the right decision for you!

Q. Does GRAD Days include summer assistantships or internships?
A. At the present time, no, and there are no plans to add these. However, the GRAD staff is happy to assist those interested in summer positions to the extent of locating the correct Illinois State offices to inquire at.

Q. I am interested in a graduate assistantship listed on the Human Resources site, but am unable to attend GRAD. How can I still interview?
A. The various assistantships interviewed for at GRAD Days are being offered through several different offices across the Illinois State campus. As such, each may have its own policies regarding interviews outside of GRAD Days. We suggest you retrieve the office's contact information from their GRAD position description, and contact them directly.

Q. Once hired as graduate assistants, where do most people live?
A. Those in housing generally have arrangements with the University Housing Service. Other graduate assistants find housing at one of two university housing facilities specifically intended for graduate students, or else find an apartment at one of the many buildings near campus and around the city.