Student-Athlete Advantages

Academic Advisement

A dedicated staff of academic advisors works directly with Illinois State student-athletes to ensure progress towards a degree. These advisors understand the challenges confronting student-athletes because many were Illinois State student-athletes and coaches themselves. Three academic advisors from the University College Academic Advisement Center also work directly with the athletics department.

Computer-Aided Learning

The Karin L. Bone Athletics Study Center has 25 desktop computers and 10 laptops for use by only student-athletes. Those computers contain software to help student-athletes complete assignments and access research materials. Also, 15 laptop computers are available for student-athletes to check out and perform self-help study techniques like self-testing programs which assist students in preparing for specific exams.

Priority Registration

Student-athletes are faced with the unique challenge of molding their class schedules around practices, athletic events and travel. Early registration allows them to enroll in the classes they need and helps them manage their academic and athletic time commitments.

Targeting

As soon as student-athletes step foot on the Illinois State campus for the first time, they are provided one-on-one academic assistance. This advisement ensures a good start as well as the implementation of an academic plan that best suits each particular student-athlete. This program has resulted in less than 5% of student-athletes on academic probation.

Tutoring

The Karin L. Bone Athletics Study Center offers a suite of services for our student-athletes and tutoring is a key component. Tutors typically meet with student-athletes on an individual basis as needed. However, study groups are often formed when student-athletes request tutors for the same class. Tutoring is available for a large array of classes some of which provide supplemental instruction, a program instituted to provide extra help outside of class hours. The University Center for Learning Assistance is responsible for the training and provision of tutors provided for assistance.