Events
Illinois International and it’s units host events throughout the year that celebrate global engagement at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The International Campus Events Calendar includes events with a global theme hosted by units and departments across campus.
Annual Signature Events
Pre-Arrival Orientation
Pre-Arrival Orientation provides new international students with information to help them prepare for their journey to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Topics covered include immigration, housing, immunizations, student health insurance, health and wellness, billing and payments, campus safety, belonging, and academics.
New International Student Experience
International Student and Scholar Services, in partnership with several university units, welcome our newest international students to campus in August through a series of programs and activities including the ISSS Shuttle Service, orientation, and new international student check-in, and more.
Global Talent Show
The Global Talent Show in September brings together the university’s diverse community to celebrate creativity, culture, and connection through a showcase of international music, dance, poetry, and talent honoring each year’s Illinois Homecoming theme.
International Young Humanitarian Speaker Series
The International Young Humanitarian Speaker Series in November features the most recent recipient of the Charles C. Stewart International Young Humanitarian Award, which recognizes the international service of an Illinois alum whose dedication to the welfare of communities outside of the United States exemplifies the highest ideals of selflessness.
International Education Week
The university celebrates International Education Week each year in November to honor and recognize the broad impact of global education, cultural exchange, and scholarship uniquely experienced on campus and within our local Champaign-Urbana community.
Travel Around the World
The flagship event of International Education Week in November, Travel Around the World features booths representing countries and cultural backgrounds from around the globe along with live performances, music, food, crafts, photos, games, activities and much more.
Sheth Distinguished International Alumni Lecture
The Sheth Distinguished International Alumni Lecture is given annually in April by the recipient of the Madhuri and Jagdish N. Sheth International Alumni Award for Exceptional Achievement, which recognizes international alumni who are highly distinguished in their profession, have made outstanding contributions to society, and exemplify the strength of their Illinois education.
International Achievement Awards Banquet
The International Achievement Awards Banquet honors the recipients of the university’s distinguished International Achievement Awards, which recognize outstanding alumni, faculty, and students whose exceptional work or service has made a significant, global impact. The ceremony occurs in April.
B.E.S.T. Conference
The B.E.S.T. Conference is an annual student-led initiative from the Intensive English Institute that showcases innovative business solutions, educational trends, scientific discoveries, and future-shaping digital technologies to explore diverse perspectives and gain knowledge.
Global and Intercultural Events
This calendar includes social, cultural, educational, and informational programs, workshops, and events designed to foster intercultural learning and global understanding. All opportunities are open to the campus community. However, some opportunities are specifically designed for international students, international scholars, and study abroad participants.
Want to stay informed regarding upcoming events? Subscribe to the Global Engagement Newsletter for cultural programming, global learning workshops, and intercultural engagement opportunities at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The newsletter is sent biweekly on Fridays. All international students and scholars are automatically subscribed.
Events are designed and facilitated by Illinois International’s Global Communications team in close collaboration with International Student and Scholar Services and dozens of campus partners.