Graduate education week is an annual event sponsored by the VT Graduate School to acknowledge the efforts and thank the graduate students, graduate advisors/mentors and the faculty and staff for their outstanding contributions to graduate education. This year marks our 19th year through which we:

• highlight the importance of graduate education to the university
• increase the university’s awareness of the contributions to teaching, research and engagement missions of the university
• enhance the graduate student experience through professional development programs and celebratory events.

The theme for 2019 is “Find your Balance” and many of the events are focused around this very important topic of balance in the lives of graduate students.  The session entitled “spring into balance” included tips on relaxation, time with therapy dog Moose, personal training tips and healthy food consumption.  Specific events include managing conflict, combating imposter syndrome, “balance games” and a teach-in about valuing the students’ lived experiences.  Another feature is the Graduate Life Center (GLC) Cafe, a weekly gathering of graduate students for engaging conversation.

During the week, the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) hosts its 35th Research Symposium and Exposition followed by the Research Symposium Keynote featuring science communicator and educator Joe Hanson.  Joe Hanson hosts and writes “It’s Okay to be Smart“.  In addition, the Academy for GTA Excellence hosts its annual teach-in and a reception is held honoring VT Graduate School Citizen Scholars.

One of the highlights of the week is the Graduate Education Week Awards Banquet.  At this event, graduate students are recognized for their achievements in teaching, research and service; are honored as outstanding college doctoral and master’s students; receive outstanding dissertation and master’s thesis awards; and more.  In addition, outstanding faculty mentors from each college nominated by graduate students are recognized.

The week ends with the Big Cookout in which graduate students and their families join the Graduate School faculty and staff plus the Graduate Student Assembly on the lawn in front of the Graduate Life Center.

Although this week (March 25-29, 2019) we focus on graduate education, graduate education is a year-round endeavor. Thanks to all graduate students, faculty and staff who contribute to graduate education excellence and the creation of an innovative, interdisciplinary, and inclusive graduate community!!