blog navigation

School of Social Work News

blog posts

  •  We CU community-engaged scholars program 

    You are invited to participate in the Fall 2020 We CU Community Engaged Scholars program. We CU honors students for their community-based work and provides them with training, connection to like-minded peers, and support from We CU program leaders. Students completing 20 hours of service each semester will be honored at a spring awards ceremony, with distinct recognition given to those who complete 300 hours of service over the course of four years.   

    Information Sessions

    Tuesday, September 29, 4 - 5 p.m.
    Wednesday, September 30, 6 - 7 p.m.
    Thursday, October 1, noon - 1 p.m.

    This opportunity will be particularly attractive to the following groups of students:  

    Students enrolled in academic programs that have built-in service requirements. These service hours can count toward We CU scholar recognition.  

    Studentsparticipatinginservicelearningcoursesor groups. We CU matches projects from community organizations with service learning courses and groups. These service hours can count toward We CU scholar recognition.  

    Students motivated to enrich their university experience, build their resume/CV, and make a positive impact in the community. We CU allows to students to view and sign up for open service opportunities. Students may also gain recognition for self-identified service  

    The fall scholars program follows an incredibly successful summer pilot empowering University of Illinois students to (remotely) respond to community needs and challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this month, 232 scholars representing 12 colleges across campus were recognized for their program participation and service over the 10-week summer program. Collectively, these students worked with more than 30 organizations, logging 4500 hours of community-based service.  

    Please refer to the one-page program summary, including frequently asked questions, and contact we-cu@illinois.edu with additional questions.  

    Students may submit their interest in joining the program at go.illinois.edu/WeCUfall2020.  

  • Critical Language Scholarship Information Session 10/2

    The Critical Language Scholarship, provided by the U.S. Department of State, is a fully-funded, intensive overseas language and cultural immersion program for undergraduate and graduate students.  A list of eligible languages is available here.

    The CLS institutes cover one academic year of university-level language coursework in 8 to 10 weeks over the summer, and include cultural programming, local language partners, and excursions. Participants receive academic credit at their U.S. institutions.  Applicants must be U.S. citizens at least 18 years of age and enrolled in a degree-granting program at the undergraduate or graduate level.  For more information, please visit: http://www.clscholarship.org/.  

    Time: Oct 2, 2020 03:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
    Join Zoom Meeting https://illinois.zoom.us/j/92174217157?pwd=K2dDMElWNXBCSXY2U2xSOVAxeUNTZz09
    Meeting ID: 921 7421 7157
    Password: CLS

    For more information, contact the National and International Scholarships Program at topscholars@illinois.edu or visit our website at www.topscholars.illinois.edu.

  • University Y Bailey Global Scholars

    Beginning October 5, we will launch Bailey Global Scholars, a 7-month scholarship program designed to help University of Illinois students grow as responsible and engaged global citizens by supporting critical reflection, dialogue, and action across differences of culture and power. Bailey Global Scholars will participate in an online "Education through Global Engagement" program during the Spring 2021 semester culminating in a volunteer immersion (virtual or in person) capstone experience during Summer 2021. Participants will also receive a $1000 academic scholarship for the Spring 2021 semester. Applications are due November 8, 2020. Learn more at universityymca.org/bailey/global

  • Let's Vote 2020

    A quick reminder that election day is November 3rd. 

    Please see this wonderful PowerPoint created by Marie Caldwell about voting in this fall's election.

    Remember:

    Check if you're registered to vote
    Register to vote
    Vote by mail OR
    Vote in person

    Own your vote!

  • Free Flu Shots with Student Insurance

    FREE flu shots are now available to all U of I students who have paid the Health Service Fee. A University of Illinois ID card must be presented at the time of service. McKinley Health Center encourages all students to get their flu shot. Shots are available M-F from 9 am to 3:00 pm at CRCE (1102 W. Gregory Drive, Urbana). Note: McKinley Health Center is NOT a location for flu shots this year.

  • Women's Resources Center Confidential Advising Still Available

    WRC services are still available although they are working remotely. They want to make sure all students, staff, and faculty are aware that their confidential advising services are still available to you. Students, staff, faculty, and their support persons in need of confidential advising services related to sexual assault and harassment, stalking, sexual exploitation, and abuse within a relationship are eligible for these services. In-person services are temporarily suspended; however, phone/virtual advocacy and support for new, past, or currently-served clients and their support persons are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

     

    Those interested can find out more information about our services and how to schedule an appointment at https://oiir.illinois.edu/womens-center

  • WMD and Proliferation

    The international community faces no shortage of challenges when it comes to preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. The crisis in US-Russia relations, the slow pace of nuclear disarmament, the future of North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, and the emergence of new technologies with military applications–these are just a few of the issues that nuclear policy professionals are working to address today. Each of these problems will require creative ideas and novel methodologies to surmount.

    In this talk, Sarah Bidgood and Dave Schmerler (UIUC 2012) will highlight different opportunities and approaches to contribute to this process.  They will focus in particular on the need for greater diversity, including gender diversity, among experts and practitioners in this field. All students, regardless of their prior knowledge of nonproliferation, disarmament, or arms control, are welcome to attend.

    This event takes place online on October 1 at 5pm central, registration is required at:

    https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/868548055

  • EPSY 203 courses are open for enrollment!

    These experiential classes are highly interactive, and help students develop various skills. These skills include critical thinking, listening, perspective taking, and critical self-reflection. Students are also challenged to develop awareness and understanding of critical intergroup relations issues affecting individuals, organizations and communities.

    We are offering the following EPSY 203 Dialogue course topics:

    Exploring Disability; Wednesdays, 5:00-6:50 pm Being White in a Multicultural Society; Mondays, 5:00-6:50pm Race/Ethnicity dialogue; Wednesdays, 5:00-6:50pm Liberal/Conservative dialogue; Mondays, 3:00-4:50pm Exploring Social Class; Tuesdays, 1:00-2:50pm Exploring Social Class; Tuesdays, 5:00-6:50pm Race/Ethnicity dialogue; Tuesdays, 12:00-1:50pm

  • Statistics Skills Lab with Dr. Rachel Garthe

    October 9, 2020
    1-3 PM

    Open to all SSW students

    REGISTER TODAY

    The Statistics Skills Lab will provide an overview for how students can use statistical concepts and analyses to answer social work practice- or organization-oriented questions. The workshop will look at examples of when to use statistical techniques when working with individual clients, as well as techniques for working with small and large groups. Thus, this workshop is not meant to teach statistical theory or equations, but rather provide a hands-on skills lab to explore the application of statistics in social work. The course will be taught by Dr. Rachel Garthe, Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work. Dr. Garthe has been teaching statistics courses for the last six years and is extensively trained in statistical methods.

    The course will begin with a brief recap for students: reviewing how types of variables lead you to select different types or options of statistical analyses. Next, students will have a brief orientation to organizing and preparing data for analysis using Excel. For the rest of the workshop students will be reviewing common statistical techniques that they will likely encounter in the field, with accompanying Excel demonstrations and practice problems. Students will be provided with step-by-step guides, demonstration videos, and practice problems to learn how to use statistics to answer practical social work questions.

  • Fall 2020 OMSA Services Online!

    For Fall 2020, the Office of Minority Student Affairs’ (OMSA) Tutoring and Academic Services will be offered online. The OMSA offers free tutoring and academic services. Matched tutoring, online self-paced workshops and academic skills consultations are among the services featured in the OMSA’s Academic Services Center (ASC) located at 1103 W. Oregon, Suite E, Urbana, Il. OMSA's services are designed to help students achieve in college. The level of rigor at the University of Illinois is different than in high school or community college. No matter how you performed before attending Illinois, there is always room to hone your study skills.

    To learn more about their tutoring services and to sign up for a tutor, visit https://www.omsa.illinois.edu/programs/tutoring/tutoring/.To learn more about their academic skills consultations and to request a consultation, visit https://tutortrac.omsa.illinois.edu/TracWeb40/Default.html.To learn more about the self-paced workshops and to take advantage of their self-paced workshops, visit https://www.omsa.illinois.edu/programs/tutoring/workshops/.

    You are encouraged to make the most of your tutoring and workshop session(s) by:

    Requesting a tutor at the beginning of the term. Come to each of your tutoring or workshop sessions prepared. Preparation includes having your textbooks, notes, and specific questions concerning the material. The more you prepare, the more you will get out of the session. Tutors do not serve as a substitute for our instructional faculty. They will not "lecture" or "re-teach." They will provide strategies to help you improve your approach to mastering your course content. Tutoring is not a substitute for missed classes. If you miss class, make sure you get notes from a classmate and meet with your professor during office hours.

  • Updates from Pre-Law Advising Services!

    Pre-law programming for the semester is now underway!  The online PLAS Calendar contains the most current information about upcoming events and will be updated throughout the semester as new programming is added. Below is a highlight of three of our fall workshop series for students applying to law school and those with a general interest in law.   

    Pre-Law 101 Workshops (Designed for anyone interested in law school from freshman to alumni.  Students are asked to participate in one of our Pre-Law 101 workshops prior to scheduling a general advising session.)

    Fall sessions will be held on the following dates: September 15, October 1, October 27, and November 12. Register online to attend.       

    Application Roadmap: Navigating Your Fall 2020 Applications (Designed for students or alumni applying during the 2020-2021 academic year or considering a gap year.  Topics will include a detailed overview of the entire process pre-application through post-application, suggested timeline, and resources and strategies to optimize success.)  

    Fall sessions will be held on the following dates: September 3, September 22. Register online to attend.  

    Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application (Designed for students or alumni applying during the 2020-2021 academic year.  Topics will include specific guidance on elements of the application, including: resumes, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and addendums.)  

    Fall sessions will be held on the following dates:  September 9, September 29, October 29, and November 17, 2020.  Register online to attend.        

  • Peace Corps Virtual Information Sessions

    Peace Corps Information Session 
    3pm-4pm
    Wednesday, September 23rd
    Virtual (Zoom): https://illinois.zoom.us/j/99966759309?pwd=TjVhN2FUL2cySmdvYlFYZGpHVkpGZz09
    Meeting ID: 999 6675 9309
    Password: 014328

    Peace Corps Information Session 
    11am-12pm
    Thursday, September 24th
    Virtual (Zoom): https://illinois.zoom.us/j/98103174392?pwd=SjMvSFQ3OS96aExNcHU2TjkvRUFwZz09
    Meeting ID: 981 0317 4392
    Password: 370602

  • Elevating Voices: Visualizing Social Justice Through Art

    Webinar Discussion featuring Keenan Dailey

    The School of Social Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is committed to facilitating important conversations surrounding the complexities of racial and social justice through artistic expression. With additional funding from the John N. Chester Estate Endowment Fund to support the acquisition of significant artwork for campus beautification, the School is excited to announce an open call for local artists to continue the promotion of cultural perspectives through art.

    Join us for a virtual interview and racial justice discussion as MFA student Keenan Dailey, discusses his mural, “Year 401,” recently unveiled as part of an ongoing art series project at the School of Social Work. Introduction by alumna and professor, Janet Carter-Black and interview conducted by Kris Koester, MSW ’12.

    9.25.2020 | 4-5 p.m.

    Webinar Registration

    OPEN CALL FOR ARTISTS

    We are currently seeking qualified artists to submit proposals for the series, which will be displayed at the School of Social Work, located at 1010 W. Nevada Street in Urbana, IL. This opportunity is open to students, professional artists in the Champaign-Urbana community, or artists with ties to the University of Illinois.

    All estimates should include the artist’s design fee, all costs of materials and fabrication of the work, and all materials necessary for installation of the work. The budget should not exceed $5k per project. Open to all art mediums.

    How to Apply:

    Please submit a proposed artwork concept, cost estimate, and explanation of your work to Amy Frederick at aeweber2@illinois.edu by October 19th, 2020. Submissions will be reviewed by committee and announced at a later date.

    Entries Due: October 19th, 2020

  • Montage Arts Journal Call for Submissions

    Montage, the student-run arts journal, is calling for submissions of original prose, poetry, and/or visual art between now and November 18, so please encourage undergraduates to submit their work, following the guidelines in the flyer.  Questions can be directed to montagejournal@gmail.com

  • Fall 2020 Cooking Classes from Campus Rec with Zoom option

    The Dietetics concentration within Food Science, and Human Nutrition are offering cooking classes and you can attend virtually this fall. Click the link above for a flier with each class being offered!

  • September Alumni Career Panel Events

    Topic: MSW Mental Health Alumni Panel-noon
    Time: Sep 18, 2020 12:00 pm Central Time (US and Canada)
    Join Zoom Meeting: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/97430040284?pwd=cmxJNTlLd202S1daM2h3UkU2bm9qZz09
    Meeting ID: 974 3004 0284
    Password: 917749

    Topic: MSW Mental Health Alumni Panel-evening
    Time: Sep 18, 2020 06:30 pm Central Time (US and Canada)
    Join Zoom Meeting: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/97112298985?pwd=K0w4TlJjREdYbGtOODA4RVJOU05Idz09
    Meeting ID: 971 1229 8985
    Password: 519605

    Topic: BHWELL Alumni Panel-noon
    Time:  Sep 25, 2020 12:00 pm Central Time (US and Canada)
    Join Zoom Meeting: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/99338560693?pwd=UG9FUk9WcjFRSXJ3QzFhVkNNdXVoUT09
    Meeting ID: 993 3856 0693
    Password: BHWELL

    Topic: BHWELL Alumni Panel-evening
    Time:  Sep 25, 2020 5:00 pm Central Time (US and Canada)
    Join Zoom Meeting: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/92870223153?pwd=SzNBYXl3anpuYlhWYjlHc1BmcThsUT09
    Meeting ID: 928 7022 3153
    Password: BHWELL

  • Interfaith Dance Team Announcement

    If you are interested in diversity and inclusion, dancing for fun, and learning about other cultures, then we hope to have you on Colors of Faith!

    Colors of Faith is an interfaith dance team, and we dance to songs of various faiths to foster unity. We have danced to songs of Jewish, Sikh, Christian, and Hindu faiths and hope to expand. This semester, all our practices and socials will be virtual, yet we still plan on creating an engaging experience! Undergraduate and graduate students of all identities are welcome.

    Our Virtual Clinics will be on Thursday, September 10 from 9-10pm CST. During clinics, we will teach the tryout piece step-by-step, and you'll have a chance to meet the team. To receive the Zoom link, please fill out our interest form at bit.ly/cofuiuc. The detailed information for both clinics and auditions is available on our Instagram and Facebook pages, as well as in the graphics attached. We hope to see you there!

  • Illinois Club Scholarships

    Over $25,000in Scholarships!

    If you…

    • Are a UI undergraduate with at least a 3.0 GPA
    • Will have at least 60 hours of credit by the beginning of the Spring 2021semester
    • Will graduate no earlier than December 2021

    ...then you may qualify for one of our scholarships.

    More information and an application can be found at www.theillinoisclub.org/scholarship.php

    Application process begins September 8
    Application deadline is October 17, 5:00 PM

  • Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program (URAP) Is Now Accepting Applications!

    Program Description

    The Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program (URAP@UI) offers undergraduate students with little or no research experience the opportunity to assist advanced graduate students with their research projects. Through a one-on-one research experience with their graduate student mentor, undergraduate students will have the opportunity to learn what it means to do research, create knowledge, and produce scholarship.

    Undergraduate students selected to be part of the program will begin work with their mentors in Spring 2021. As part of the program, students will (1) attend regular weekly class meetings (GC 295, Introduction to Undergraduate Research, 3 credit hours) with OUR/Grad College instructors; and (2) work one-on-one with their graduate mentors, an average of 5-6 hours per week. As part of the course requirement, students will complete a final project, consisting of a poster, to be presented during the Undergraduate Research Symposium, an annual event sponsored by OUR.

    Please note that due to COVID19, GC295 course sections will be online. Also, in their project abstracts, graduate student mentors have indicated whether work with their undergraduate mentees will be: in-person preferred, open to discussion (whether remote or in-person), or remote preferred.  Any in-person research work must meet all campus and unit safety protocols. For more information on undergraduate research during the pandemic, please see our COVID19 guidelines here.

    For more information about URAP, and to apply to the program, please visit our website: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/urap.html

    Informational Meetings

    Get tips on creating a good statement of interest, why you should participate, and get your questions answered at our online informational meetings. These will be conducted through Zoom on September 8 (2-3pm), September 16 (2-3pm), and September 25 (2-3pm). No registration required; Zoom links can be found on the program website: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/urap.html

    Application Deadline

    Deadline for applications is October 9, 2020 at 11:59pm.

    To apply, please visit: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/urap.html

     

  • Part-Time Job Fair

    Find PAID part-time job opportunities from on-campus and off-campus employers. Join virtually in Handshake on September 8 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

  • Virtual Field Education Day

    When:             Thursday, September 10th (MSW students in the Schools focus area)

                               Friday, September 11th (BSW students and all other MSW focus areas)                        

    Where:    Virtually, via Zoom!

    What:     An opportunity for students who are preparing to enter their Field Placement to talk with many of the organizations that provide internship experiences and to learn about these opportunities.  This event is for information gathering -- you will not be interviewing for internships on this day.  Further internship planning will be done through the Field Education Office.

    Who:       BSW Juniors and Seniors and MSW students who anticipate beginning their internships in May 2021 or August 2021.

    Watch your inbox early next week for additional information, including which sites will be participating and the times they will be available, Zoom links to access the sessions and registration instructions!

  • Design for America at UIUC Recruitment

    My name is Rajee Shah and I am the VP of Professional Outreach for Design for America at UIUC, a 501(c)3 nonprofit and RSO. We tackle social challenges in our community by using the human-centered design process. We are looking forward to facilitating new projects this semester that involve amplifying local entrepreneurs & changemakers, analyzing systemic forms of racialized design, systems thinking with Map the System, and creating culturally sensitive material and an app for breastfeeding moms. 

    ADesign for America is committed to having diverse, interdisciplinary teams of different backgrounds to provide good solutions. We believe students in the School of Social Work are capable of making a great impact through DFA and would love to have their strengths contribute to our community work. Our Fall 2020 recruitment week is happening virtually from 8/25 - 9/5 with applications due on 9/6. Our interest form is here. Our next info night will be on Monday, August 31st at 6 PM CST. I have attached a flyer that details information about our upcoming events that we think students will be interested in. 

  • VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Stress Management Peer Leaders

    McKinley Heath Center’s Health Education Unit is seeking volunteers to become Stress Management Peer (SMP) Leaders.  SMP is dedicated to providing education & awareness to UI students on stress-related topics and concerns. We facilitate stress-related workshops; participate in campus-wide program planning and other organized events while embracing the diversity of our campus. This is a great opportunity to enhance leadership skills and meet new and interesting people. Strong communication skills desired. This hands-on experience is a great volunteer opportunity! 

    Learn to Stress Less! Limited time to join!  

    Interest session will be Wednesday, September 2nd, 5:00 p.m. Email Morgan to receive zoom link: savagem2@illinois.edu   

    For more information please contact Aly: aolagu2@illinois.edu 

  • COV-Course: a free, non-credit course open to the public

    A new University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign course, COV-Course: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Understanding the Pandemic, will offer a comprehensive, interdisciplinary understanding of the pandemic.

    This non-credit course is free and open to the local community, students, parents, staff, faculty and alumni. Classes will be live streamed online from 8:00–9:00 p.m. every Sunday evening during the fall semester, starting Sept. 6. Each session will be archived on covid19.illinois.edu. You can view the course schedule and register here.

    The course will showcase how interdisciplinary research and expertise can offer unique perspectives on this global health crisis. Each session will guide you through past, present and future perspectives on the pandemic, with weekly topics that range from history, biology and business to data security, racial disparities, mental health and more.

  • This Week: The Pandemic No One is Talking About

    Thursday, September 3, 2020, 4:00PM CST

    The Pandemic No One Is Talking About: Violence Against, and Expected Silence from Black Womxn

    The WRC is co-hosting a conversation with Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center and the Swan Center for Advocacy and Research, entitled The Pandemic No One is Talking About: Violence Against, and Expected Silence from Black Womxn.

    Target audience: Space By and For Black Womxn 

    Register here:  https://bit.ly/2D8GlLT

  • Children, Youth and Family Services Alumni Virtual Panel Discussion

    Want to know more about the Children Youth and Family Services (CYFS) Focus Area? Join us at noon or 6:30 pm to hear from a panel of alumni who are CYFS professionals.

    Children, Youth and Family Services Alumni Virtual Panel Discussion

    Time: Sep 4, 2020 12:00 pm Central Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/96866158047?pwd=Z0lVeUIwQkNZQzY0NWRVUnJLVXk0QT09
    Meeting ID: 968 6615 8047
    Password: CYFS

    Time: Sep 4, 2020 06:30 pm Central Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/98921059066?pwd=NlI1L2J4MkVqdkY2WUQ3cE1WNDd0Zz09
    Meeting ID: 989 2105 9066
    Password: CYFS

  • RSVP Now for Speed Friending!

    Join International Education and the Women’s Resources Center for an evening of virtual Speed Friending! Every five minutes, you will join a randomly assigned group of 3 new friends and be given a topic or question to discuss. When time is up, you’ll be off to make more new friends! In order to help us prepare, please RSVP by September 1st at 5 p.m.https://go.illinois.edu/SpeedFriendingRSVP. Once you RSVP, you will be emailed the information for the Zoom meeting.

  • Writers Workshop Online Services

    This semester, the Writers Workshop will have online consultations available to provide writing feedback; we have a number of useful resources on our website; and we are available for virtual class presentations and collaborations by request through Zoom or other interfaces. Our event calendar for the semester will be live next week. You can also like us on Facebook (WritersWorkshopIL) and follow us on Twitter (WorkshopIL) for more news about upcoming events. 

  • Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Informational Events 9/3-9/4

    Are you interested in study abroad, but concerned about the cost?

    The Gilman International Scholarship Program provides awards of $5,000 (plus up to a $3,000 supplement for critical languages) for U.S. citizen undergraduate students to pursue summer, semester, or academic-year study abroad opportunities in other countries. This is a need-based award, and to be eligible, you must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant.  

    The National and International Scholarships Program will assist in reviewing your scholarship application material. In fact, we welcome the opportunity to help make your application more competitive!  To get you started, we are offering a two-day informational event about the Gilman Scholarship.

    Gilman International Scholarship Information Session

    September 3, 2020   3:30 - 4:30 pm 

    Online:    https://illinois.zoom.us/j/99487287069

    Gilman International Scholarship Writing Workshop

    September 4, 2020   3:00 - 4:00 pm   

    Online:  https://illinois.zoom.us/j/93901013751

    For more information, contact the scholarships office at topscholars@illinois.edu or visit our website.

  • Student Advocacy Coalition

    The Student Advocacy Coalition (SAC) is a bi-partisan student organization that promotes civic engagement and lobbies legislators for higher education and student rights on behalf of the University of Illinois. SAC is housed under the University’s Office of Government Relations and provides opportunities for students to engage with state and federal legislators online and in person. SAC members are students from all walks of campus, diverse backgrounds and majors. Members build professional development skills through one-on-one interactions with their legislators, panels with alumni who are trailblazers in their field,  and discussions on critical issues impacting our country. This year, our calendar includes a Dialogue Series with the 4 major political parties on campus, Policy Panels with state legislators and community leaders on the Black Lives Matter movement, and more! SAC believes being involved is more than attending mandatory meetings, it’s about participating in activities that are actually interesting, and spending your time in a community of people who care about making a difference! Our Virtual Info Session is on September 1st at 6pm and the link is as follows https://illinois.zoom.us/j/94134221769. Our online application will be released on our website: https://sacurbana.weebly.com/ and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sac.urbana/. All applications are due September 15th and will be followed by Zoom interviews. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to send us an email at studentadvocacy.uiuc@gmail.com.

  • SWAG Week

    This is Social Work S.W.A.G. (Social Workers Advancing The Good) week! Post your story on Instagram or Facebook wearing your Illinois or School of Social Work apparel and tell us about your new journey as an SSW student to earn a chance to receive some free swag. Email a copy of your post to Sharva Hampton-Campbell at shamcamp@illinois.edu  by Monday, 8/31, and your name will be entered in a drawing for some free swag. 

  • Student Employment Opportunity - Student Patrol

    Social work will continue to play an important role within our community, especially within law enforcement and public safety.  We are currently hiring part-time Student Patrol Officers at the Division of Public Safety. Both Undergrads and Grad students are encouraged to apply at https://police.illinois.edu/about/employment/student-patrol-jobs/ .  This is one of the best student jobs on this campus and looks fantastic on a résumé!!  

  • Study Space Rooms

    With COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, on-campus study space may be somewhat difficult to find. For a list of classrooms available for study space, see this page on the Office of the Registrar website.

  • Avicenna Community Health Center Case Management Team Application

    Avicenna Community Health Center is a health clinic that provides free health care for the uninsured and underinsured populations in Champaign-Urbana. Avicenna is currently working to re-establish its case management team, which networks with community organizations that provide free or low-cost continuing care and other services and connects those organizations/resources to Avicenna’s patients.

    Avicenna is actively looking for volunteers for its case management team. Case managers will directly interact with patients during secure video appointments, and conduct assessments. They will communicate with Avicenna providers and other Avicenna staff to identify the needs of the patient, and will work to connect patients to community and government agencies.

    Avicenna Community Health Center is open on Sundays from 1-4pm. Volunteers will be expected to attend online volunteer training sessions via Zoom, and are also expected to attend online consultation meetings. For the Fall 2020 semester, this opportunity will be completely online. Volunteers may reapply to volunteer during later semesters.

    Students of all disciplines and levels of education are encouraged to apply. To apply, please send your resumé/CV to Angelina Wilton (awilto2@illinois.edu), and fill out this Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1niiRRkG1RsGu6n5TjKLQqmxQ3kyYYVLHex5yNeM8iSI/edit

    If you have any questions, please email Angelina Wilton (awilto2@illinois.edu). The deadline to apply is Sunday, September 13th at 11:59pm.

  • Undergraduate Research Workshops - Fall 2020 (All Virtual)

    The Value of Undergraduate Research Workshop (VURW) Virtual Edition

    During this workshop, we will discuss the importance (i.e. the personal and professional benefits) of conducting research as an undergraduate student at the University of Illinois. Students will leave the workshop with (1) knowledge of the skills that can be developed through research, (2) a better understanding of how undergraduate research can benefit them both personally and in their future careers, and (3) how they can showcase this experience to future employers and professional schools.

    Participation is by advanced registration only; there are limited spots available. We have several date offerings available, students only should register for one date.

    Details and registration link can be found at: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/workshops.html

    Getting Started in Undergraduate Research Workshop (GSIRW) Virtual Edition

    During this workshop, we will discuss the various forms of undergraduate research that take place on campus, guide students to develop a plan of action to locate research opportunities on campus, and discuss ways to contact faculty research mentors. Students will leave the workshop with (1) a better understanding of undergraduate research and how it takes place on our campus, (2) increased confidence to contact faculty research mentors, and (3) a list of faculty mentors to contact.

    Participation is by advanced registration only; there are limited spots available. We have several date offerings available, students only should register for one date.

    Details and registration link can be found at: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/workshops.html

    Proposal Writing for Undergraduate Research Workshop (PWRW) Virtual Edition

    During this workshop, we will discuss the fundamentals of proposal writing, guiding students to formulate successful research projects and explain their research in a concise and compelling manner that is understandable to a general audience. Students will leave the workshop with (1) basic knowledge about research proposals and their structure, (2) tactics and tools to write successful research statements, and (3) a list of resources for assistance in the writing process.

    This workshop is a collaboration between the Office of Undergraduate Research and The Writers Workshop. We have several date offerings available, students only should register for one date.

    Details and registration link can be found at: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/workshops.html

  • Fall 2020 Advising Appointments

    Fall 2020 Advising Appointments will be held online as I am working remotely as the pandemic continues. I hope to return on campus in spring. Fall appointments will be held via Microsoft Teams, which is new. When you use the online scheduler https://go.illinois.edu/SOCWadvisingappointment to schedule your appointment, you will get a confirmation e-mail with the appointment link. If you have a quick question you can definitely send me an e-mail or schedule an appointment for the next day. You can still schedule an appointment via phone at 217-244-5246 or by stopping in the Academic Programs Office if you are in the building. 

  • Illinois Office of Undergraduate Research - Student Survey

    The Office of Undergraduate Research needs your help. We are interested in your experience as an undergraduate researcher in the social & behavioral sciences. Specifically, we want to know if and how this experience has benefited you (or not) and how communication affected the experience.

    Please take a brief moment to fill out this brief 5-minute survey: https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5698997/OUR-Student-Research-Experience-Survey

    Your response will provide us with valuable insights on how we can better support student researchers in the social sciences. Thank you in advance for your time.

    Sincerely,

    OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

  • CHLH 199B Class Opening

    Are you passionate about social justice? CHLH199B is a unique opportunity to learn about how to support survivors and challenge rape culture with other like-minded individuals. This is a required course if you are interested in being a FYCARE (First Year Campus Acquaintance Rape Education) facilitator. 

  • Drop-In Advising for Dropping a Class, Credit/No Credit and Grade Replacement

    With academic deadlines changing for Dropping a Class, Credit/No Credit, and Grade Replacement for full semester and 2nd 8 week courses Aaron will be hosting drop-in advising Via Zoom on Wednesday, May 6th from 1-4:30 PM:

    Join Zoom Meeting

  • Student Speaker - School of Social Work Virtual Graduation Ceremony

    The School of Social Work has a tradition to select student speakers for our convocation program.  If you are interested in being a student speaker for our virtual ceremony on May 16th, please fill out this form by Friday May 1st:  https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/3146461 We will select one BSW student and one MSW student.  Your speech should be 5-7 minutes in length.  Speech can include your overall experience in the Social Work program and advice you would give to your fellow graduates. 

  • Illinois Cares: COVID-19 Support Program

    From the Office of the Dean of Students:

    We understand that some students and families will experience financial hardship associated with the impact of COVID-19.

    Spring 2020

    If the financial hardship is related to Spring 2020 enrollment, emergency grant funding may be available.

    • Student Emergency Grant funds of up to $1,000 may be available to students experiencing a COVID-19-related financial hardship due to unexpected expenses, loss of off-campus employment, out-of-pocket medical expenses, technology needs, living expenses or other basic needs. Amounts in excess of $1,000 may be considered in extraordinary situations.
    • All students are eligible to be considered for these funds including those who have not previously received financial aid.
    • Other agencies, including some colleges/departments, are also providing emergency aid to students and families. Students should only be receiving emergency funding from one source.
    • Undergraduate students should complete the Undergraduate COVID-19 Emergency Grant Application.
    • Emergency Grant aid will be awarded in accordance with federal, state and institutional rules and regulations. Please note that students may be asked to provide documentation of their situation.
  • Active Minds Survey

    Hello, I am Alissa Tomanek, a junior here at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, majoring in Clinical Psychology. I am also a part of a mental health organization here at UIUC called Active Minds. 

    Active Minds is a national organization with over 500 chapters across the US. Active Minds UIUC's mission to create a better campus by bettering the students' mental health. Our main goals are to change the conversation about mental health and advocate for the students' mental health needs. We've been able to accomplish these missions by working with the school and the dean of student affairs (Stephen Bryan) to discuss the current climate of mental health on campus. We also have many successful initiatives such as the iCard initiative, whose purpose is to print the Suicide LifeLine on the back of all the students iCards. We have also worked hard on a syllabus requirement that would have all the mental health resources on every student's course syllabi.

    Right now, we are working hard to understand what mental health resources are most beneficial to the student body, and if there is a need for some changes to those resources. Right now, I am emailing on behalf of Active Minds UIUC to ask you if you would send out this mental health survey to all the students within your department. We want to have a better understanding of how students feel about the current climate of mental health on campus. 

    I have linked the URL to this survey below and hope that you will support our mission to better the students', at UIUC, mental health. 

    bit.ly/activemindssurvey  

  • Virtual Poverty Discussion Series

    Virtual Poverty Discussion Series presented by the School of Social Work and Office of  the Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

    Session I, May 1, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
    Presenter: Dr. Marguerite Teran-Garcia
    Topic: Health Equity and Food Insecurity

    Overview: This session will provide an overview of the concepts of food deserts and their impact on health and well-being outcomes.  Also, to be addressed is how food insecurity influences chronic disease, health conditions and behaviors; along with the introduction of a multi-pronged strategy to defy food insecurity.

    Session II, May  8, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
    Presenter: SSW Learning Lab Community Partners
    Topic: Community Organizations' Response to Poverty During COVID-19

    Overview: This session will allow participants to learn about the purpose and needs of various non-profit organizations and how to get involved.

    Session III, May 15, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
    Presenter: Dr. Ruby Mendenhall
    Topic: Factors That Create Systematic Impact on Individuals of Color Health and Community

    Overview: Participants will learn about the impact of racism and other factors that affect health and wellness.  A review of coping mechanisms that allow individuals to be resilient will be discussed; along with an introduction to a local wellness center created to address these issues.  

    Registration: https://go.illinois.edu/virtual_poverty_series

  • SKY Happiness Retreat

    SKY Happiness Retreat is a total well-being training offered to thousands of university students, faculty, and staff across the country. Participants gain foundational stress-management and leadership skills, develop a personal evidence-based breathing and meditation practice, learn a short personal yoga practice, develop strategies for social connection and community building, and engage in peer-driven service initiatives. The SKY Happiness Retreat introduces SKY Meditation, an evidence-based meditation practice integrated with breath work that can significantly increase one's well-being and calmness, and significantly reduces anxiety and stress markers. The course features interactive group processes, experiential learning, emotional intelligence training, breath-work, yoga, evidence-based meditation, and service leadership. It's one of the coolest places to connect with yourself, make awesome friends, and, most importantly, have fun!

    We're happy to share that the SKY Happiness Retreat is offered with a full scholarship for UIUC students, staff, and faculty members. There are limited spots available for this retreat, and they are filling up fast. Availability is first-come-first-serve, by registration only and requires attendance to all sessions. Please contact skyatuiuc@gmail.com for any questions.


    Location
    : Online via Zoom :)
    Timing:   -  April 24 (Fri): 6:00pm - 8:45 pm CST -  April 25 & 26 (Sat & Sun): 11:00 am - 1:45 pm CST
    Apply here:  bit.ly/skyhappinessuiuc

  • 2020 Undergraduate Research Symposium is Going Virtual

    We are happy to announce that the 2020 Undergraduate Research Symposium (URS) is going virtual! The Office of Undergraduate Research has been working hard to make this happen, and we hope you will join us for what will still be an exciting and inspiring event, whilst in a different medium. Over 350 students will present their work in an asynchronous format, with the opportunity for viewers to engage in conversation with the presenters through a forum.

    The URS will be a multi-day event, running from Monday, April 27 through Friday, May 1. We will kick things off on the 27th at noon (CDT) with our live (Zoom) featured student presentations. [Zoom link: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/96284074411?pwd=L0ZiV1BaOFZiTDFDckt2T0pKdmxzQT09; Meeting ID: 962 8407 4411; Password: URS2020.] The Zoom link is also on the URS Compass2g site (see below on how to access).

    Accessing the 2020 Undergraduate Research Symposium

    Due to concerns surrounding an open access event, the Symposium is available only for those with a University of Illinois NetID. Campus community members wishing to view the Symposium will first need to enroll to view student presentations and interact with our presenters.

    Log into Compass2g. Go to: https://go.illinois.edu/URS_enroll and click the "down arrow" next to "provost_pvcaa_open_189752" and select "enroll". On the next page, hit “submit” and you will be enrolled. You should now be able to view the Symposium at: https://go.illinois.edu/URS2020

  • Employment Opportunities at DRES

    Accessible Media Services (AMS) and the Testing Accommodation Center (TAC) within Division of Disability Resources and Educational Services (DRES) are currently interviewing for student workers.

    If you are interested a position, please let us know. Job descriptions are attached.

    To be fully considered for a position, please submit this web form.

    When filling out the web form, note that interviews will take place on Zoom.  Please list a few times that you are available to come in as interviews will be filled in on a first come, first serve basis.

    Thank you,

    Ann Fredricksen and Tina Rolfe

  • Submit your video to Illinifest Student Film Festival

    Illinifest Student Film Festival, hosted by the College of Media and MACS 464, is looking for student-made videos. Submit your short films, home movies made during quarantine, & TikTok videos by Friday, April 24. Videos can be submitted at https://illinifest.illinois.edu/submit/. The festival will be streamed at 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, at https://illinifest.illinois.edu/. Prizes awarded for audience favorites. For more information, visit https://media.illinois.edu/illinifest2020.

  • New for Fall 2020 SOCW 199: Technologies: Social Issues, Ethics and Design

    Have you ever thought about how as technology advances, devices and services we use might have biases just like us? Have you ever wanted to explore how the technological design of things like phones, apps, or even systems like the criminal justice system, have been designed without thoughtful consideration of societal implications?

    If you have, then meet us at the intersection of humankind + technology as we investigate the history and policy of social sciences and technology, explore emerging technologies through an ethical lens, and be future oriented in ways we can develop, intervene, and create a just future for all through tech.

    Tues/Thurs: 2-3:20 PM Siebel Center for Design
    Instructor: Julie Munoz-Najar MSW, LSW, Clinical Assistant Professor

  • HOPE Scholarship

    Last Spring, the student body voted to create the HOPE Fee to support students who do not qualify for federal financial aid. This year, the HOPE Department has been focusing on the creation of the HOPE Fee Scholarship. The HOPE Scholarship was designed to help undocumented, transgender, and students with minor convictions be equipped with the resources to pursue a higher education at Illinois. Each scholarship recipient may be awarded up to $10,000 in aid. The inaugural year for this scholarship's application period is currently open and closes Friday, May 1st. 

    This scholarship also includes an emergency fund for international students who have faced financial barriers to their education due to unforeseen circumstances. 

    Link to the application: https://go.illinois.edu/ISGscholarship

  • Earth Day Short Films and Discussions

    4/15/20  

    Earth Day Resilience Short Film and Discussion Series: Women on a Mission 
    Time: 12-1 pm
    Facilitated by: Prof. Shanondora Billiot
    Location/URL: Join Zoom Meeting
    https://illinois.zoom.us/j/285580014
    Meeting ID: 285 580 014
    Meeting password: 004075

    This short film is about the Awajun women in the village of Shampuyacu, reviving their culture and restoring their forest after decades of destruction.

    This event is open to all.

    4/22/20  

    Earth Day Resilience Short Film and Discussion Series: Tupi: A Story of Indigenous Courage and Resolve
    Time: 12-1pm
    Facilitated by: Prof. Shanondora Billiot  
    Location/URL: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/348344291?pwd=Sit0bGhmanRDdmdidDJGNTl0Y050Zz09
    Meeting ID: 348 344 291
    Password: 025650

    This short film is about Tupí, an indigenous activist denouncing violence against women and fighting to protect human rights and the environment in her region.

    This event is open to all.