Professional Development

Mentor Workshop

Recognizing the importance of providing opportunities for graduate students to develop their knowledge and skills beyond their formal academic training, the Office of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs (GEPA) for the School of Arts & Sciences (SAS) and the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences (Hajim) provides the following professional development opportunities to help supplement graduate students' efforts to succeed in their future careers.

We encourage all graduate students to enroll in the Grad Accelerator Program which brings together workshops, trainings, consultations, and events into one centralized, easy-to-navigate environment, so you can build real skills, track your growth, and connect with people and opportunities across URochester.

This also includes workshops, programs, and resources to help students:

  • Build Your Network
    • with alumni and industry professionals to assist you with finding opportunities, learn about key resources, and/or obtain mentorship
    • Create and practice your elevator pitch to prepare for in-person or virtual research presentations, posters, or conferences.
    • Participate in the Meliora Collective’s to work directly with URochester alumni on your career development needs
    • Attend and participate in URochester-affiliated networking events or program with alumni or industry professionals in attendance offered by SAS/Hajim GEPA or the Greene Center
  • Explore Career Options/Pathways
    • Connect with Dave Cota-Buckhout (Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement and Career Support) or a Career Advisor at the Greene Center to discuss your career options (including exploratory resources) and review application materials (resumes, cover letters)
    • Participate in , , , or to help with exploring career options as a graduate student
  • Present and Develop Your Research
    • Give a research talk at Graduate Research Day sponsored by the GEPA office
    • Participate in and workshops through the River Campus Libraries
  • Engage in Skill-Building and Leadership Development Opportunities

More information about many of these resources and more can be found on our student support page or the for career services. See the GEPA events calendar as well as the for upcoming events.