The Circuit is a FREE early move-in experience for incoming Black students (both first-year and transfer)  hosted by the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center (BNAACC). BNAACC’s mission invites support for the social, cultural, and academic well-being of Black students and Black heritage at Illinois.  The Circuit embodies that mission by creating a safe and welcoming environment where our new students meet new friends, learn how to succeed at Illinois, and become a part of our wonderful community.

Participants will:

  • Be introduced to Black student life at Illinois
  • Develop a network of sustainable connections across the campus rooted in BNAACCs rich, culturally responsive support
  • Connect with the 100 STRONG program
  • Learn strategies for succeeding at Illinois from the start

Dates: August 19-22, 2024

Please follow us on social media at bnaacc_illinois and check this webpage for more information and updates on registration in the future!

Registration will open May 27th 2024!

Stay Tuned!

Frequently Asked Questions

When and how long is the Circuit Pre-Orientation Program?

The Circuit Pre-Orientation Program lasts a total of 2.5 days, August 19th-22nd, 2024. 

The program will kick off with a welcome reception on the 19th!

What is the deadline to register for the Circuit?

The registration deadline is Aug 1, 2023, at 11:59 PM CT. 

I signed up for Circuit, now what?

  • First of all - Yayy! We are SO incredibly excited to welcome you into the BNAACC family! Your completed registration secures your spot in the program. 

  • Secondly, please select a move-in time slot. See the next question for more detailed instructions. 

  • Please expect an email from the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center detailing move-in, the program schedule, etc., will be sent to the student's Illinois email address throughout the summer. In the meantime follow our Instagram page @bnaacc_illinois to see various content surrounding student's experiences within Circuit.

What is the Early Arrival Housing process?

 To sign-up for Early Arrival Housing, please log-in to MyHousing or contact your Private Certified Residence Hall to select a move-in time. Move-in will be on August 15th and the program will officially kick-off at 3:00 PM with our welcome session! 

  • If you will live in University Housing, please log-in to your MyHousing portal to select Tuesday, August 15th as your move-in date. To learn more about early arrival, please reference this page: https://go.illinois.edu/EarlyArrival2023 .  

  • If you will live in Private Certified Housing, please contact your facility directly for instructions and approval to move-in early. Please convey that you will be participating in our pre-orientation program. 

  • Note: Friendly reminder – this program is completely FREE to you! The Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center will cover early arrival costs beginning on Tuesday, August 19th .  Please disregard the costs listed as we will work with your residence hall to get the fee covered after you arrive in August. 

I cannot attend the entirety of the Circuit; should I still register?

Unfortunately, no! Students get the most out of this program by attending it, in its entirety. Eligibility for this opportunity requires that you be present for the entire program. 

However, if you have a unique situation, please email Assistant Director Smith at cherisse@illinois.edu!

I can no longer attend Circuit, now what?

Had a change of plans? We are saddened by this news but look forward to having you in the space during the school year. Please fill out this form https://go.illinois.edu/CircuitCancellation

 

 

What types of workshops and activities will be/ available to me during the program?

  • Workshops and activities will consist of racial identity, resource, academic skill, and network development sessions, campus and community tours as well as team building activities. 

  • Each day will conclude with a student-only session titled Keeping It 100, where you will get to meet and connect with upperclassmen from 100 STRONG 

    • Shameless plug!! Follow them on Instagram @100strong !!           

What should I wear?

Please dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes! There will be outdoor and indoor activities, throughout each day and tours! 

Can my parents/family/friends attend?

Yes and no! Your family/friends are invited to the welcome celebration on Tuesday, August 15th. Then, you will say your goodbyes! The remainder of the program is exclusively for YOU! 

I have additional questions, who should I contact?

If you have any further questions, please call (217) 333-2092. During the summer, we are open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 5pm. Alternatively, you can reach us by email at bnaacc@illinois.edu.

Schedule

Circuit 2023 Schedule

Here is the Circuit 2023 Schedule. Check out all the session you can anticipate to see for Circuit 2024!

Meet the 2024 Circuit Leaders

two Black women sitting on a bench in an office.

 

 

 

Ryiah Barnes and Jada Cardine

a black woman in jeans and a black t - shirt standing in front of a building.

 

 

Jada Cardine

jadaac2@illinois.edu 

My name is Jada Cardine and I am a rising Junior studying Kinesiology with a minor in psychology. I am excited to Co-coordinate the Circuit program and cannot wait to welcome all our incoming students. 

a woman wearing a black t - shirt in an office.

 

 

Ryiah Barnes

rbarne22@illinois.edu

Hello, I'm Ryiah Barnes and I am a rising senior studying Community Health with a concentration in Health Education and Promotion. Being able to help Black students adjust to campus and retain throughout the University is something I'm passionate about. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I look forward to meeting you all.