In a few days I will be going back to my high school to talk about EIU. With that being said why not turn it into an Article?
As a lost senior in high school I only looked at a handful of Universities. But luckily I came to the conclusion that I wanted to attend Eastern Illinois University for the Fall of 2015. It was a hard decision simply because I wasn't an expert on this whole "college" thing. To be honest when I was on my college search I didn't know much about the schools that were on my radar - I was only focused on the prices but with a little push from a few EIU alumni I chose Eastern and man was that the best decision I have ever made.
A year and a half later I'm pinching myself for ever doubting my choice because I've learned a lot on why this was the perfect University for me...so here is why I BLEED BLUE and this is why you should BLEED BLUE too!!!!
Professors
The Faculty-Student Ratio is 1:14. The small class environment has given me greater opportunities to ask questions and have a few professors who actually know who I am. It's always nice to be a real person.
Also, the professors at EIU are always welcoming - I have a few professors that I can go to for professional and more personal advice.
One of them is Scott Stevens - He was my intro to business teacher this past spring and was there for me when I was in desperate need of advice. He is one of of the realest and most compassionate professors I've had.
For example: Years ago he started collecting dress attire for men and women that could be given to any student that might not have anything to where to a job fair, an interview, or any other future career endeavors.
Like Scott Stevens, the professors at EIU genuinely care for their students.
Greek Life
Eastern has a total of 26 fraternities and sororities. As I've said in previous articles the day I received my bid from my sorority was the first moment I felt apart of something at school. It was my first step forward to leaving my mark on campus. My sorority gave me my first friendships in college and some of the lasting friendships I’ll have when I leave.
Student Government
This has been my first semester serving as a student senator and it has turned into one of the things that I am most passionate about at EIU. I take a lot of pride in representing and serving my fellow classmates.
Because of Student Government I have been given the opportunity to serve as Student Government's Business Affairs committee chair, eat at President Glassman's house (cool right?), and serve on the Bond Revenue committee for the school - which leads me to my next reason...
Eastern always takes students into consideration
As said above I had the opportunity to serve on the Bond Revenue Committee for Eastern -This committee consists of students from different areas on campus that help decide the housing/dining rate for the following year.
I am also currently working with my Student Government committee and the chief of police on a a potential parking proposal.
I love how EIU takes the students' opinion into consideration when deciding on issues such as parking and housing/dining rates.
Organizations pertaining to my major
EIU has more than 200 registered student organizations which offers many students the opportunity to learn and develop new skills pertaining to their majors. We also have a few RSO's for any hobby you might have! - for example Harry Potter Club!
Textbook Rental
After taking classes at my local community college during the summer I truly value Eastern's Textbook Rental because finding the right book and reasonable price is hard but textbook rental makes it so easy!!
Prowl
Prowl is a program focused on helping students make a smooth transition to their new life as a Panther. Every Student Goes through prowl the first week they are in school
I know it might have dragged on for a few students because it could be exhausting after moving stuff into residence halls but for me Prowl weekend allowed me to meet new friends, knock out some community service, find a few of my classes and buildings, and get free T-shirts and food.
I loved prowl so much I was a prowl leader the next year. (It was fun being on the other side as well!)
Career Services
This is only one of the great services EIU provides but it's one of my favorites! I've gone to career services to talk about my aspirations as a future business professional, internships, and was able to participate in a mock interview. Career Services also has a job/internship fair every semester that helps students on their job and internship search.
Co$t
As I said previously this was the first thing that caught my eye about Eastern but that should not tarnish the truth. EIU has one of the lowest costs of attendance in the state of Illinois - I'm almost 90% sure it is the lowest in the state. With that being said you truly do get a bang for your buck with everything the school has to offer!
President Glassman
I am personally a huge fan of President Glassman and have had a few opportunities to speak with him.
I see President Glassman EVERYWHERE - he does a great job at interacting with students and maintaining all his presidential office duties. He might as well be superman!
One of my favorite memories of President Glassman happened when I was walking to class.. I was looking down at my phone not really paying attention to my surroundings (ya know - typical millennial stuff) but whenever I finally looked up.. there President Glassman was offering me a ride on the golf cart to class! - I don't think that that happens at all Universities. I didn't need a ride since I was pretty much where I needed to be but I totally would have accepted it had I been further away.
Well there ya have it folks. Eastern Illinois University has a special place in my heart and this article only covers a few of the great things it has to offer but I hope my personal experience helps you see why Eastern has become home to me and many other EIU students.
