AIAA is the world's largest professional society devoted to the progress of engineering and science in aviation, space, and defense. The purpose of the society is "to advance the arts, sciences, and technology of aeronautics and astronautics, and to promote the professionalism of those engaged in these pursuits." Here at the U of I, AIAA is an organization that accomplishes these goals through activities. We sponsor talks about current research in aerospace, graduate school and undergraduate research opportunities, as well conduct field trips to companies (Boeing in St. Louis, for example) and museums (Wright-Patterson AFB). We try to create activities and an atmosphere that encourage involvement in aerospace engineering and that also promote interaction between students.