Information about the communication studies department, including their new majors, clubs and the field itself, will be given at this year’s Communication Day.

Communication Day is set for 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, on the first floor of Coleman Hall.

This year’s theme is “Research: Making Sense of the World Around Us,” with a focus on student and faculty research.

Stephen King, chair of the communication studies department, said he is excited for this year’s event.

“Communication Day is an important and signature event for the department,” King said.

Communication studies professor Rodney Marshall said there are several panels scheduled to pique the interests of students and community members.

“We want people to come out and enjoy themselves,” Marshall said. “We also want to inform them of important concepts and teach them more about their instructors and professors.”

According to Marshall, there will be panels from graduate and undergraduate students, as well as a panel about professors’ research.

“The individuals working in the computer lab will keep the lab open all through the day and are willing to talk about checkout procedures and showcase the personnel’s knowledge in the Adobe CC suite and other programs,” Marshall said. “There will also be a time for students to ask faculty members any questions they may have.”

Bailey Kimball, assistant event planner for the Office of Admissions, said two registered student organizations are scheduled to present on a panel.

“Lambda Pi Eta and (Public relations Student Society of America) will be there to discuss with students the positive aspects of joining a club during their college career,” Kimball said. “Graduate students will also be there to discuss their theses and talk about the new programs offered in graduate school.”

Kimball said at the end of Communication Day, the communication studies department’s speech team will give a presentation of their own.

“The speech team will be giving tips on how to present oneself at an interview and the proper dress attire,” Kimball said. “We really want to stress the fact that Communication Day is not just for communication students.”

Andrew Paisley can be reached at 581-2812 or at abpaisley@eiu.edu.