University Park, IL,
09
September
2025
|
12:59 PM
America/Chicago

Top 10 reasons the Honors College at GovState is the challenge for you

By Victoria Gómez, Contributing Writer

Calling all high achievers: Your next big move starts here! Whether you're a driven high school senior or a transfer student ready to stand out, the Honors College at Governors State University (GovState) offers more than rigorous academics. It offers opportunity, community, and a pathway to personal and professional growth. Here’s why joining will be the best decision you make during your college journey:  

  1. You’ll join a community of scholars who want MORE! 

Open to all majors but limited to motivated students, the Honors College creates an environment where everyone supports and challenges each other! It's a selective and welcoming space filled with peers who strive for more. 

Nine Governors State University students wearing honors medallions and holding framed certificates

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Earning honors points for real-life experiences. 

Honors points aren’t just earned in the classroom. Leadership roles, internships, research, creative projects, and even international travel all count toward your achievements. To graduate with honors points, you must meet the honors criteria.  

Two Governors State University students standing and smiling with their project poster

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Academically challenging - in the best way. 

Honors enhanced courses let you explore your major on a deeper level. Whether it’s through independent projects or research, these classes allow you to engage with your field in meaningful ways.  

A professor at a podium giving a presentation to a college class

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. You get credit for being YOU. 

The Honors College values you, the whole student. Your time spent volunteering, working, or pursuing personal projects is recognized and celebrated. 

A Governors State University faculty member putting a pin on a student's jacket during a pinning ceremony

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. National and international travel opportunities. 

From national conferences to international traveling, Honors students have opportunities to expand their academic and cultural horizons.   

  1. Leadership that makes a difference. 

Students are encouraged to take initiative, moderate panels, create organizations, and lead projects. These experiences build your confidence and strengthen your résumé. 

  1. An annual retreat.

At the start of every fall semester, Honors students kick off the year with a team-building retreat. It’s an opportunity to connect with peers, step outside the classroom, and strengthen collaboration skills through a day of challenges and shared experiences. 

  1. An annual banquet that celebrates your accomplishments. 

Each spring, the Honors College hosts its annual banquet to celebrate the accomplishments of its students, faculty, and staff. The evening recognizes graduating seniors, honors point milestones, and standout contributions from across the community. 

A room of people sitting at royal blue clothed tables for the 2025 Governors State University Honors Banquet

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The Honors Lounge: Your campus home base! 

Located within a short walk to the Jaguar café, the Honors Lounge is a cozy space to study, relax, and connect. With a whiteboard, comfortable seating, and quiet energy, it’s a go-to spot for you and your honors peers!  

  1. You’ll leave GovState prepared and empowered! 

Whether you’re heading to grad school, applying for fellowships, or beginning your career, the Honors College ensures you leave GovState equipped with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed.  

Two Governors State University graduates in regalia taking a selfie together

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ready to take the next step? If you’re looking for more challenges, more growth, and more opportunities, the Honors College at GovState is ready and waiting for you!  

 

Victoria Gómez is a College of Arts and Sciences English Major and Marketing and Communications Student Worker.