Ways to Enhance Your Graduate Experience
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There are an overwhelming number of opportunities, resources, and support services to get connected with across UMass. If you haven't already read it, we highly recommend reviewing our Grad School 101 article which highlights some need-to-know information for getting started as a grad student. This article will focus more on ways to get further connected on campus and to enhance your experience, without sacrificing your well-being (or sanity).
Here are a few of the questions we commonly field from students who are looking to get further involved or connected across campus...
How do I meet / connect with other graduate students?
The Graduate Student Senate (GSS) serves as the student government for graduate students, and offers tons of events and programming- even travel grants for conferences! GSS is a fantastic place to network, build your career skills, and have fun.
Looking to join a club or special interest group? Check out the list of Graduate Student Organizations (GSOs) here!
The Graduate Employee Organization (GEO) is the union for graduate student workers on campus. GEO hosts social events, administers health and wellness benefits, and is a great way to get involved with student life. Department Stewards can help you navigate common issues facing new students, like signing up for benefits. Check out all the benefits you can access through GEO (camping equipment, UMass gym memberships, and more) here!
UMass has several student affinity groups, including the Graduate Women in STEM, the Graduate Students of Color Association, and many LGBTQIA+ social and support groups where graduate students can find community.
Many academic departments have dedicated Graduate Student Representatives who coordinate social events and speaker series/seminars. Ask your department for their information if they haven’t already contacted you!
Where can I get a workout in?
UMass Recreation and Wellbeing has a wide array of intramurals, club sports, and fitness classes, along with traditional gym, aquatics, and even climbing facilities for students.
How do I find my way around campus and beyond?
The UMass campus can feel overwhelming, but soon enough you’ll be giving directions to new students! In the meantime, these campus maps can help you find buildings and navigate accessibility features.
Did you know that UMass students can access public transportation through the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority for free? Just show your ID and hop on! View the PVTA map and schedules.
Where can I get something to eat?
UMass is famous for having the best campus dining in the U.S.! You can choose from dozens of sit-down options in Blue Wall at Campus Center, or the Worcester, Franklin, or Hampshire dining halls. To-go options are available all over campus, from Campus Center to the Newman Center.
If you’re interested in a graduate student meal plan, you can view the plan types and sign up here, apply for assistance here, and donate your extra meal swipes here.
Free groceries are available through the Campus Pantry, and free dinners are hosted by the UMass Food Recovery Network twice weekly during the semester.
I desperately need coffee!
No worries, you have options! There’s People’s Organic in Campus Center, People’s Market in the Student Union, the Procrastination Station in the DuBois Library, the Off-Campus Student Center in Bartlett 103, Post & Bean in the Olver Building, Peet’s Coffee in ILC, and many more.
How do I access my disability accommodations?
Disability Services offers assessments and administers accommodations, like note-taking a distraction-free testing locations.
What if I need additional support?
Many material support services are available through the Dean of Students office, including:
- Student Parent Programs
- Housing search resources
- Assistance applying for SNAP and WIC Benefits
- Emergency grants/loans and meals
- The Stonewall Center provides support and community for LGBTQIA+ students and allies
The UMass Mutual Aid Project hosts a free store and library of things throughout the semester, while the New2U hosts MoveIn/MoveOut thrift stores to reduce waste on campus.
How do I make a good impression before classes next week?
Introduce yourself to the faculty before class begins (so be on time)!
What do I do on campus when I do not have classes?
Use your downtime as an excuse to explore our scenic campus. There are many open work spaces you can utilize throughout the day, such as:
- Graduate Commons in the library, 5th floor (you’ll need to visit the library commons desk in the basement to get your ID card activated first)
- Commuter Lounge in Bartlett Hall, Rm 105
- Take in the art at the University Museum of Contemporary Art
- Catch a show at the Bromery Center for Performing Arts
How do I find my community?
One of the most valuable resources at your disposal is the other graduate students in your department, program, or lab. Get to know the students who will be your future colleague by attending events, including socials, guest lectures, and seminar series, in your department.
Form study groups with your cohortmates- the support your can give one another as you move through the stages of your program is irreplaceable, and working collaboratively makes mastering your course material easier and more fun.
Get to know students ahead of you in your department, too, as they can offer valuable advice and perspective on navigating your program and launching your career.
Meeting students from other fields of study through GSS, GEO, or student clubs and affinity groups (listed at the top of this article) is also a great way to get the most out of your time at UMass and expand your horizons.