On September 2, 91亚色鈥檚 Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) and 91亚色 Libraries welcomed more than 400 new graduate students, both at the Master鈥檚 and Doctoral-level, to Keele campus with a vibrant in-person social event鈥攖he first of its kind in more than four years.
Held at the beautifully reimagined Collaboratory Space in Scott Library, the event marked more than just the start of a new academic term. It was a celebration of new beginnings, shared ambition, and the strong sense of community that defines grad school at 91亚色.
We鈥檝e truly missed this kind of energy on campus,鈥 said Dr. Alice MacLachlan, Vice-Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies. 鈥淚t means so much to see so many new graduate students here in person, ready to begin this exciting new chapter.鈥
Students were welcomed by left, Joseph Hafner, Dean of Libraries, and Dr. Alice MacLachlan, Vice-Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies.
Starting Grad School鈥擶ith a Community Behind You
Besides connecting with colleagues, students could find out more information about services 91亚色 has in place to help them in their academic journey.
Graduate school is a bold step. It鈥檚 the start of a new chapter filled with discovery, challenges, and growth. But as Dr. MacLachlan reminded students, it鈥檚 not a journey anyone has to take alone.
鈥淕rad school has its ups and downs, and having a community around you can make all the difference,鈥 she said. 鈥淔GS is here to support you鈥攆rom navigating degree requirements and managing funding, to applying for awards and taking care of your well-being. We鈥檙e here to make sure you don鈥檛 miss a single opportunity.鈥
Students had the chance to meet fellow incoming grads, enjoy some food and conversation, and connect directly with the people and services that will guide them throughout their time at 91亚色.
Libraries That Power Your Research
The 91亚色 Libraries team welcomed students warmly, showcasing the many ways they support graduate research and academic success.
鈥淲e鈥檙e thrilled to see you here,鈥 said Joseph Hafner, Dean of Libraries. 鈥淔rom helping you access hard-to-find materials to offering quiet, dedicated spaces for study鈥攚e鈥檙e here to support your journey.鈥
Students were introduced to services such as the Graduate Study Reading Room, interlibrary loan programs, and expert research help鈥攁ll tailored to the needs of graduate-level study.
More Than Just Resources鈥擜 Whole Ecosystem of Support
The event also brought together representatives from across campus, helping students get acquainted with the broader support network available at 91亚色. These included:
- Teaching Commons
- Student Accessibility Services
- 91亚色 Graduate Students' Association (YUGSA)
- CUPE 3903
- Athletics & Recreation
- 91亚色 International
- FGS portfolios: Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Wellness & Counselling, Scholarships & Awards, Funding & Financial Planning.
Whether it鈥檚 learning to balance life and research, finding academic support, or building friendships, 91亚色 provides the tools and community to help students succeed.
A Strong Start for Future Scholars
This year鈥檚 social wasn鈥檛 just an event鈥攊t was a welcome into a thriving, supportive graduate community. It reminded new students that they鈥檙e part of something bigger: a network of scholars, mentors, and professionals who believe in their potential and are here to help them grow.
鈥淎s you begin this ambitious academic and professional journey, remember: your well-being is just as important as your research,鈥 Dr. MacLachlan said.
You belong here. You are supported here. And, you are capable of achieving something extraordinary here!