September 2026
NSF-GRFP Info Session
Monday, September 14, 4-5 p.m., via Zoom
Are you a graduate student in your first in a STEM-based discipline? Are you interested in three years of funding while in grad school? Are you a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident? Then please join us for an informational session about the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP)! In this information session we will discuss the program, eligibility, and how to prepare a strong application. The informational session will be followed by a four-week writing group where you can work on the application and receive feedback from peers and the Graduate Writing and Presenting Lab. Stay tuned for more information about that forthcoming writing group!
Grad School Crash Course
Tuesday, September 15, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., via Zoom
Have you ever asked yourself any of the following questions: “Who is my advisor?” “How do I form a committee?” “What even is a committee?” “What are comprehensive exams and do I even have to take them?” “What’s the difference between a thesis and a dissertation?” “What does ‘ABD’ mean?” Whether you are in a master’s or doctorate, there’s a lot of lingo to learn and academic culture to adapt to. Make sure you’re ready!
Reading with Focus and Purpose
Tuesday, September 22, 1 – 2 p.m., via Zoom
Studying by simply reading and re-reading is one of the least effective forms of studying. The problem is that readers often read passively and without absorbing information. After reading the previous sentences, for example, did you move to this one and continue reading without processing what you had just read? Most readers do. We often don’t pause to think about what we have read. This workshop will offer graduate-level study strategies in addition to methods to maximize learning while reading purposefully.
October 2026 Events
Teaching at Teaching Intensive Institutions
Friday, October 2, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Worcester State University, Student Center (In-Person)
Click HERE for registration information and updates.
Many faculty enjoy rewarding careers at colleges and universities that primarily emphasize teaching, including liberal arts colleges, community colleges, and regional comprehensive universities. This free one-day regional conference brings together graduate students, postdocs, and faculty to discuss what it’s like to work at teaching intensive institutions and how to apply for these faculty positions. Graduate students and postdocs will engage with faculty and deans from a range of teaching-intensive institutions across the New England region through a series of talks, panel presentations, and networking opportunities. Information will be continually updated on the TTII conference website, including a place to request notification of registration opening.



