Get involved! There is always something to do at Illinois State University! From campus government to social organizations, there is something for everyone!

And if you don't find exactly what you're looking for, start your own organization! Here are a few areas to get involved in.

The Association of Residence Halls (ARH)

The Association of Residence Halls is the umbrella organization for the residence halls. All residents are encouraged to become involved in ARH to learn more about the policies that affect their experience in the residence halls. The purpose of this organization is to identify and respond to the needs of residence hall students, provide services, and to coordinate educational and social programs to meet students' needs and interests. ARH hosts a variety of programs throughout the year including: Annual Government and Unity Retreat at Starved Rock; Suicide Prevention and Awareness Week; Pig Out with the Prez; Charity Ball; Blood Drives; Relay for Life. Visit www.arh.ilstu.edu to learn more about the Association of Residence Halls.

Area Government

Each of the four areas of campus is governed by one organization that represents the needs of its constituents. The four organizations are the Association of South Campus, Tri-Towers Area Government (West Campus), Watterson Area Government, and the Hewett-Manchester Student Association. These organizations collaborate on programs and activities with the Unity Coalition, Resident Assistants and ARH. Area Governments work with Unity groups, ARH, and Resident Assistants to provide fun, social, and educational programs for students. Executive Board elections for Area Governments are held annually.

Unity coalitions

Unity Coalitions provide leadership and education by offering fun opportunities in the residence halls for diversity programs, such as co-sponsorship of cultural dinners and planning diversity based field trips.

Both Organizations provide opportunities for the students to:

Plan programming opportunities for residents.
Sponsor trips, retreats, and leadership training.
Vote with the Association of Residence Halls for housing/dining initiatives.
Manage budgets over $6,000.
Gain Valuable leadership experience and build your resume.

Renovation Advisory Council

The Renovation Advisory Council was started in 2005 to provide University Housing Services and Campus Dining Services with student input about the initiatives identified in the Long Range Plan for Housing and Dining. The Council meets monthly and is designed for students to offer opinions on a variety of topics ranging from design ideas and fabric selections to the impact of renovation decisions. Students interested in finding out more about the Renovation Advisory Council can contact housing@illinoisstate.edu or campusdining@ilstu.edu.

Residence Hall Community

Developing a community in the residence halls is an integral part of the residential experience at Illinois State. Communities are important to providing opportunities for interaction and developing life-long friendships. One way the residence halls develop community on the floors is through programming. Programs can be social, cultural, recreational, or educational. The staff in each residence hall provides opportunities for residents to experience a balance of activities in these categories. Your ideas, suggestions, and participation are strongly encouraged and welcomed.

University Housing Services is committed to making residence hall living a productive, enjoyable, educational, and growth-filled experience. To achieve this goal, residents and staff share in the responsibility of building community and creating an environment that welcomes each member of the hall.

Campus Involvement

Whether your interests are social, academic, or athletic, Illinois State has something for everyone. For more information on organizations and getting involved, contact the Dean of Students Office or check out the list of registered student organizations.