There are hundreds of Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) and other student groups at the University of Illinois that students can join. Involvement in an RSO can help you network with your peers and allow you to pursue your interests outside the classroom. The Department of Animal Sciences sponsors several organizations for students looking to get more involved with everything from cattle to horseback riding to exotic animals.
Illinois Student Organizations, when registered and in compliance, are afforded the university benefit of reserving spaces on campus. In many cases, they can take advantage of student org discount rates for space, equipment, and more (only applicable to select facilities). To reserve a space, please submit an Event Registration via OneIllinois. Learn more about the Event Registration process by clicking here to visit the Events section of the Student Engagement website. Have a question about submitting an Event Registration? Please email getinvolved@illinois.edu.
The Animal Sciences Student Ambassadors serve a variety of roles that involve representing the department to potential students, alumni, and guests, as well as designing activities for current students. You can learn more about their studies and their future goals by viewing their profiles.
The Hoof and Horn Club is the University of Illinois chapter of the National Block and Bridle Association. The club's main objective is to provide the opportunity for students to develop greater knowledge of the animal sciences industry. Each year begins with the annual Fall Call Out to welcome students back to campus and introduce the club to new students. The club holds monthly meetings that often include industry guest speakers.
Advised by: Dr. Dan Shike and Lee Rincker
Social: Facebook
This club offers several unique benefits for students at the University of Illinois. Members gain knowledge about the industry and dairy cows in general. Members' public relations skills are enhanced through networking with dairy farmers and industry personnel, hands-on experience with cattle at the university farm and at livestock shows, and numerous social activities within the club and with dairy clubs throughout the Midwest.
Advised by: Dr. Derek Nolan and Dr. Phil Cardoso
Social: Facebook
The Illini Equestrians are a Registered Student Organization (RSO) that aims to bring together students from UIUC for equine-related educational, social, and competitive opportunities! Any undergraduate or graduate student is welcome, regardless of prior skill or knowledge level. We offer club memberships providing access to educational and social events, Western and English riding lessons, and host Western and English IHSA Teams.
Advised by: Debra Hagstrom
Social: Website
The Illini Wildlife and Conservation Club is for students interested in wildlife care, conservation, and wildlife and exotic veterinary medicine. The club schedules speakers ranging from veterinarians to primatologists for their monthly meetings and hosts events such as wet labs at the veterinary hospital. The club also takes trips once a semester to locations in the Midwest such as St. Louis Zoo and the Exotic Feline Rescue Center in Indiana.
The Meat Science Club provides enhanced educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the meat and animal science industries. Students participate in competitive events on and off campus, which extends their knowledge of the industry. The club also provides a connection between students and various employment and professional development opportunities, including plant tours, "Meet and Greet" gatherings, and "Lunch and Learn" presentations.
Advised by: Dr. Anna Dilger
Our club strives to create an inclusive community of pre-vet students. We want our students to learn about this field, get opportunities, make friends, and support one another, so we can all achieve our goals.
· Monthly general meetings with guest speakers
· Monthly wet labs Monthly fundraisers
· Monthly socials Philanthropy and volunteering events
· Round tables from Vet Med
· APVMA symposium
· Vet School Prep Workshops
Advised by: Dr. Thomas Lowery and Deb Hastrom
Minorities in Animal Science serves as recognition for underrepresented professionals in Animal Science based careers, and to provide opportunities/support as a community.
Advised by: Sarah Richardson
Contact: minoritiesinansc@gmail.com
Social: Instagram
The Illini Kennel Club serves as a community on campus for students with dogs to support and work together in the training and raising of dogs and owners.
Advised by: Alicia Schneider
Contact: illinikennelclub@gmail.com
Social: Instagram
The Illini Service Dogs mission is to provide world class service dogs to individuals who have a physical disability. University of Illinois students are given the opportunity to train service dogs and engage with the disability community.
Contact: ContactUS@illiniservicedogs.com
Social: Website
Spread and support 4 Paws for Ability’s mission of enriching the lives of people with disabilities by placing life changing service dogs, while educating members of the club and members of society about service dogs and their importance.
Contact: uiuc4paws@gmail.com
Social: Instagram