Frequently Asked Questions


How much service do I need to complete for TBP Initiation?
8 hours of service activities minimum, including 3 hours of external (community) work, 3 hours of internal (organization) work, and 2 hours of elective service. The initiate social and one team activity are also required.
 
Why so much work? Isn't this just an honor society?
While it is true that Tau Beta Pi is an academic honor society for engineers, we take much pride in our tradition of service to the College and the community. To ensure that we initiate the people of the highest caliber, and to make the initiation process as rich and rewarding as possible, we require that you provide service on behalf of our society.
 
What exactly is involved with TBP service?
This depends on the type of project or activity you are participating in. For example, if you attend a social event like the Paintball War for 5 hours, you will get approximately 2 hours of credit. However, for an event like Habitat for Humanity, we will credit the actual number of hours worked towards initiation. In this way, we encourage participation in both recreational and service events.
 
How can I get my service hours?
  • Projects (i.e. Summer Employment Career Fair, Tutoring, Engineering Open House)
  • Coming to the Social Events (i.e. Happy Hours, Paintball)
  • Coming to the General Meetings
  • Attending TBP conferences (i.e. Personal Development Conference)
For project dates, see the calendar.
 
How do I get involved with a particular project?
At the information meeting, check the box next to ANY of the activities that you are interested in. You are under no obligation to perform all of them, so feel free to check as many as you want. The appropriate officer will then contact you with specific information, either by mail, phone, or email. If you don't hear from an officer within a week, please contact them directly. At other times of the semester, look at the projects and contact the officer in charge of the project.
 
How do I know when general events like meetings and socials will take place?
    You will be contacted in one of three ways:

  • Email: It is vital that you check your email frequently because it is the primary means of communication between officers and initiates.
  • Newsletter: the Edge
  • Direct phone call
Or, you can find the information on the Tau Beta Pi Homepage
 
What if I have an idea for a new project?
Please feel free to talk to any of the officers after the meeting or at any time during the semester. Not only will you get to lead your own event, but also you will complete your service hour requirement.
 
How can I get in touch with Tau Beta Pi?
The officer list has all of the officers' names, positions, and contact information. Office Location: 111 Engineering Hall Office Phone: 244-8399 Society Email: tbp@uiuc.edu Home Page: http://tbp.ec.uiuc.edu/
 
What if I have difficulty deciding to join or performing my service hours?
The officers of Tau Beta Pi are here to serve you, and to make your initiation as enjoyable and worthwhile as possible. If you ever have a question or a personal matter, please contact one of the officers, and we will do our best to meet your needs and ensure your privacy.