I-Connect Diversity & Inclusion Experience
For incoming students, I-Connect is held in the Spring semester. You will receive an email with more information about how to register during the first week of Spring classes.
The I-Connect Diversity & Inclusion Experience is an opportunity to reflect upon the attitudes and practice the skills that we need to learn, work, and live our lives in a diverse campus community. I-Connect has two components:
- a self-paced Canvas Workbook. The Canvas Workbook invites you to explore foundational ideas for living and working in a diverse and inclusive world through readings, videos, and reflective scenarios.
- an Interactive Workshop. The Interactive Workshop lets you put the ideas from the Canvas Workbook into practice with a group of peer educators who are students like you. You must complete the Canvas Workbook in order to register for a Workshop. Students will have the choice of in-person or virtual workshop experiences. Workshops are held Sunday through Thursday evenings when classes are in session, in the months of February and March. There are no workshops the Saturday through Sunday of Spring Break week.
Important Dates
- January 2025: I-Connect Canvas Workbook becomes available. Go to your Canvas Dashboard to find the Workbook.
- January 27 2025: I-Connect workshop registration opens
- February 2 2025: Interactive I-Connect Workshops begin
- April 3 2025: Interactive I-Connect Workshops end
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I complete I-Connect?
I-Connect is a program for all full-time first year and transfer students. To receive credit, you must complete the Canvas Workbook and an Interactive Zoom Workshop.
In the Spring, all full-time first year and transfer students will receive an email invitation to access the Canvas Workbook. Upon completion of the Canvas Workbook, you will be directed to register for an Interactive Zoom Workshop.
Why do I have to complete I-Connect?
As part of the Illinois Experience, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign strives to develop its students as engaged citizens who value transformative, inclusive relationships with our communities. I-Connect utilizes evidence-based approaches to raise awareness about diversity on our campus and practice healthy communication and conflict de-escalation skills. These skills support a campus climate where all students feel a sense of belonging and inclusion at Illinois. These skills position our students for success at Illinois and beyond.
How do I become an I-Connect Peer Educator?
Are you interested in topics related to diversity, inclusion, and social justice? Do you have experience leading difficult conversations? Do you want to become a diversity leader on campus?
I-Connect peer educators are university students who lead I-Connect Interactive Workshops in the Spring.
Applications will open in March 2025 for Fall 2025 Peer Educators. For more information, see Employment Opportunities.
Does I-Connect place holds on student accounts?
No, our office does not place holds on student accounts, so your I-Connect completion status will not interfere with course registration.
For more information about I-Connect Diversity and Inclusion workshops, email us at iconnect@illinois.edu or call 217-265-5585.