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This I Believe Illinois
Weekdays at 7:45 a.m., 4:45 p.m., annually

This I Believe Illinois is NPR Illinois' annual essay program for Illinois high school seniors. An expression of where their minds are as they prepare to enter the adult world.

Details for the Fall 2027 program will be posted in August 2027. Please contact us at engage@nprillinois.org with any questions. Look at the 2026 timeline and guidelines for an idea of what to expect.

Important Dates and Deadlines
Writing Guidelines

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Springfield Sunrise which provides an award to each of ten selected authors.

Latest Episodes
  • 2026 This I Believe essayist Jaxon Wittenmyer of Hillsboro High School
  • 2026 This I Believe essayist Ady Fergurson of Litchfield High School with I Believe in Organ Donation.
  • This I Believe 2026 essayist Natalie Harris of Southeast High School with her essay, Airport Floors.
  • This I Believe 2026 essayist Aleigha Marburger of Hillsboro High School
  • This I Beleive 2026 essayist Adalyn Cruitt from Sullivan High School with her essay I Beleive in Sylvia Plath's Fig Tree.
  • WIlliam Wujek of Litchfield High School is a 2026 This I Believe essayist.
  • Patricia Cheng of Litchfield High School is a 2026 This I Believe essayist.
  • Annie Elliott of Glenwood High School is a 2026 This I Believe essayist.
  • Gavin Kornack of Southeast High School is a 2026 This I Believe essayist.
  • Lauren Whitten of Glenwood High School is a 2026 This I Believe essayist.