LAS Insider blog for prospective students

Blog categories

AcademicsAdviceCampus life

In March, an Instagram Stories series featured a competition among the most popular study spots in LAS to crown the Most Popular LAS Study Spot. Viewers of the stories were able to vote on their favorite study spots using Instagram polls.

Campus life

My favorite things to do in the Urbana-Champaign area

As a second semester senior, I’ve spent a lot of time finding fun activities at the University of Illinois. Whether it’s a fun way to pass time with friends, an opportunity to take pictures, or just a relaxing area to unwind, I’ve got a place for it.

Admissions

Students in the School of Literatures, Languages, Cultures, and Linguistics give a presentation in a classroom in front of a screen

Why is critical thinking important?

What do lawyers, accountants, teachers, and doctors all have in common?

AcademicsAdvice

How LAS has enabled me to explore diverse passions

Through the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and my majors’ departments, I have had countless life-changing experiences. How can I do all I do and still graduate in four years? I utilized the excellent resources that our college has to offer.

Campus life

Sushi and sandwiches at the University of Illinois

My favorite restaurants in Champaign-Urbana

When I began my freshman year at the University of Illinois, one of the things that surprised me most was the vibrant food scene. Walking down Green St., I could get any food I wanted, from ramen, to burgers, to falafel, to poke bowls, to chicken tikka masala. The food options were just as diverse as a street in Chicago or New York City!

Undergrad research

Alyssa Shih in front of a weather truck on the UIUC campus

So you want to get started with undergraduate research? Just ask.

Before I even started college, I knew I wanted to be involved in research. To me, direct involvement in something as hands-on as research would be how I figured out if my major was the right pick while also contributing to the scientific community.

Illini success

Listening to—and engaging with—the community

The Humanities Research Institute (HRI) at the University of Illinois fosters interdisciplinary study in the humanities, arts, and social sciences.

AcademicsAdmissions

My process transferring into LAS

Elizabeth Scherschel (she/her) is a junior in classics, with minors in history and anthropology. She explains her process transferring into LAS from the Division of General Studies.

AcademicsIllini success

Pictured is Lica with Erin, Nikia, and Ana at the Global Student Leadership Summit

An LAS program led to my first conference experience

Sophomore Lica Liu reflects on her first time attending the Global Student Leadership Summit in the Fall of 2023 as part of the LAS Global Leaders Program.

AcademicsIllini success

Marica pictured here in front of the Alma Mater statue

How a courageous leap led to a hands-on internship

Sophomore Marica Szczybura reflects on her experience as an intern at the Illinois History and Lincoln Collections.

Campus life

The best coffee shops at the University of Illinois

Sometimes, studying in your room can be impossible, and you need a new environment to focus. Luckily, one of the best parts about living in a college town is that there are plenty of coffee shops to study in!

AdmissionsAdvice

Alyssa Shih with a group of friends at a University of Illinois basketball game

Finding my place in LAS

I started my freshman year fully expecting to spend it taking core classes before transferring out, but students I talked to that had turned down the offer gave me the advice to still live the Illini life to the fullest. One friend told me that "you might actually have ended up where you’re supposed to be."

Your gateway to a world of possibilities

In the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at the University of Illinois, our constant curiosity propels us to investigate so that we can seek a better tomorrow, today. From the innovative labs of biology to the celebrations of culture through world literature, LAS students use their curiosity to find creative solutions that improve our world. See just how they achieve these breakthroughs in the LAS Insider blog.

Real student experiences

Featuring authentic accounts from LAS students who share their challenges, triumphs, and everything in between, LAS Insider can help you envision your own journey and how you might fit into the vibrant LAS community.

Diverse perspectives

LAS encompasses a wide range of disciplines, attracting inquisitive students from various backgrounds. The LAS Insider blog captures this diversity, showcasing unique perspectives that can enrich your understanding of what it means to be part of LAS. Whether your interests lie in the sciences, humanities, or social sciences, you’ll find voices that resonate with your own.

Academic insights

Curious about specific programs or courses? The LAS Insider blog includes posts that delve into specific academic opportunities within LAS. From hands-on research in biology to thought-provoking discussions in literature, you’ll uncover detailed insights that can influence your college decision-making process and inspire your future pursuits.

Campus life and the LAS community

Beyond academics, LAS Insider covers essential aspects of campus life. See how LAS students engage with their community through experiential learning opportunities, student organizations, and cultural events.

Helpful resources

From academic advising and tutoring services to mental health support, understanding college and campus resources can empower you to seek help when needed. Plus the LAS Insider blog addresses future opportunities, showcasing internships and networking events that prepare LAS students for life after college.

Every LAS student has a unique journey, and the LAS Insider is an excellent way to explore these varied paths. Whatever you’re curious about, there’s a place for you in LAS.