Announcements

Make Sure You are on Track for Success

Thinking about earning an embedded graduate certificate or curious about applying for an immersion? This is a great time to meet with a specialist to make sure you make the most of your time in the program. The Student and Academic Success Specialists provide academic advising and support for all students in Gies Online Programs. Whether you need assistance with registration, course selections, dropping or withdrawing from classes, degree planning, or accessing resources available to you - our team is here to help! We offer 25-minute one-on-one Advising Appointments and 15-minute one-on-one Express Advising sessions (first-come, first-serve). You can also email i-support@illinois.edu at any time, with any question. We are here for you!

NBMBAA 2026 Conference

The 48th NBMBAA Conference & Exposition returns to Los Angeles, California, September 23–25, bringing together students, professionals, and employers for three days of career development, networking, and opportunity. Centered around the theme PIVOT, the conference is designed to help attendees navigate career transitions, explore new opportunities, connect with leading employers, and gain valuable professional insights. Whether attending as a student or early-career professional, an experienced professional, or an employer seeking exceptional talent, participants can choose the conference experience that best meets their goals. Those interested in attending can also access employer toolkits to help secure approval and support from their organizations. Secure your access to the NBMAA 48 in Los Angeles here.

FIN 572 Live Session Schedule Confirmed

The live session schedule for FIN 572: Finance of Mergers and Acquisitions has been confirmed for Fall 2026. You can view session times under the Fall 2026 Course Offerings spreadsheet found on your program’s Course Offering page.  

Fall 2026 Ambassador Program Applications!

Are you passionate about sharing what makes the Gies Online student experience special? We’re looking for enthusiastic current learners to join our Gies Online Ambassador Program for the Fall 2026 semester!

As an ambassador, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Engage in one-on-one conversations with prospective learners
• Serve as panelists during recruitment webinars
• Participate in office hours
• Host LinkedIn Live sessions
• Create and share quotes and stories for social media posts 

Applications are now open! We’re seeking students who bring a positive, proactive, and professional approach and are eager to grow their leadership and presentation skills. Questions? Email Kate Deering.

Applications are due by July 17 at 11:59 pm CT. Apply here.
Fall 2026 Ambassador Program Application

 Gies Events

 Using VMock in Your Career Search

Tuesday, July 28 | 12:00-1:00 pm CT
Join us as representatives from VMock show the dynamic resume editing tool in action! Here, you will learn how to use the tool's resume editor and understand the suggestions provided based on job fields you select. You'll also learn about the Aspire feature, which helps you to create a compelling LinkedIn profile that enhances your profile's visibility for recruiters.
 

Using VMock Registration

Gies News 

The Problem with Treating Your Organization Like a Machine

Organizations are often managed as though they function like machines—predictable, efficient, and controllable. But according to Elizabeth Luckman, instructor for BADM 508, Leadership and Teams, this mindset can overlook the complexity of people, relationships, and organizational change. In her latest article, Luckman explores why a more adaptive, human-centered approach can lead to stronger leadership and better outcomes. Read the article to learn more.

When Overthinking Strategy Can Cost You

When does strategic thinking drive success—and when can it lead organizations to invest too much in the wrong threats? Nathan Yang, instructor for MBA 542: Digital Marketing Analytics, explores this question in a recent paper examining how firms assess competitive risks and make strategic decisions. His research offers valuable insights into when careful planning creates an advantage and when it can result in costly missteps. Read the article to learn more.

 This week at Gies

 Use the Event Calendar for information on upcoming events, such as iConverge and iDegree Convocation, as well as academic dates and deadlines for the semester. Click event titles below for details on the events happening this week.

Summer Courses End   
Tuesday, July 14
iMBA, iMSM, Non-Accountancy Electives

iMBA Summer Specialization Capstones
Wednesday, July 15 - Tuesday, July 28

Learn How to Get Started with GiesConnect 
Wednesday, July 15