WHY BECOME A STUDENT MEMBER OF THE ILLINOIS CORRECTIONAL ASSOCIATION?
Recognizing that corrections touches all areas of criminal justice, the ICA emphasizes building bridges between corrections, law enforcement, and others, including scholars, legislators, students, and the community. Primary goals include supporting professional training and development, emphasizing institutional standards, and expanding public awareness of the complexity of, and challenges to, criminal justice agencies. Because students represent the future of criminal justice, the ICA is committed to bringing students into the ICA and helping them move toward their chosen professional field by providing experiences that will be useful in pursuing their careers.
The following are just a few ways that students can benefit by a partnership with ICA:
Anybody with an interest in criminal justice, especially (but hardly excluding) corrections will find it a useful way to meet others with similar interests, develop resources for classes and future professional careers, and expand knowledge of the justice system.
Membership provides opportunities to attend workshops, prison tours, law enforcement facilities, and other locations related to the justice system. An ICA member is automatically a member of the American Correctional Association (ACA).
The ACA holds two conferences each year, and encourages student attendance and participation at all levels, including the ACA Student Affairs Committee. This is where you meet people working in all areas of criminal justice, have an opportunity to learn of internships or career openings, and develop more skills about your interest area.
The ICA encourages participation and local, regional, state and national professional conferences in addition to the conferences. Student members may serve on ICA committees and fully participate in and vote on ICA issues.
The ICA provides current information of interest to those in criminal justice through its homepage, social media, mailing lists, and other media.
Both ACA and ICA sponsor awards, paper competitions, and other projects intended to recognize the hard work of students throughout.
Student chapters can sponsor speakers, parties, dinners, and other events to the members can become acquainted with others outside of classes.
It's fun. Students mingle with professionals, professors, and others in relaxed social settings to learn more about each other. Mingling includes informal get-togethers, parties, and other social events.
It's inexpensive. Currently, it's only $25 a year to join, and that gives dual-chapter membership in both ACA and ICA.
Students have the opportunity to learn more about all areas of criminal justice, find mentors, and be informed of job opportunities in their state.
Adding ICA and ACA to a job resume under the heading of "Professional Activities" enhances applicants' credentials and symbolizes commitment to a career.
For questions about student membership, contact: ICA.