GRADCHAT
Low-stakes conversations concerning the UConn Graduate Student experience
About GRADCHAT
GRADCHAT is a relatively new forum for graduate students to discuss topics that impact the graduate school experience. The purpose of GRADCHAT is to foster community and connection among graduate students, especially students representing marginalized groups. From time to time, special guests may be featured in a GRADCHAT session, but GRADCHAT is one way we can have open dialog about issues that matter.
How GRADCHAT Works
- Sessions will be offered virtually or in a hybrid format, depending on the session. Please check the session details for the location and Webex information.
- Conversations will not be recorded to support open and comfortable discussion.
- All sessions will run from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Graduate students from all UConn campuses, including online graduate students, are encouraged to register, attend, and connect.
- Snacks may be provided at select in-person sessions.
Interested in Learning More?
Fall 2026 GRADCHAT Topics
In Fall 2026, GRADCHAT will provide a welcoming space for open conversations about topics that shape the graduate school experience. Sessions will explore topics such as navigating student-advisor relationships, mentorship and networking, the hidden curriculum, funding and opportunities, and experiences across different graduate student communities. GRADCHAT will also partner with campus offices and programs to bring in resource personnel who can join the conversation, share helpful information, and connect students with relevant resources and opportunities. Some sessions will be offered in a hybrid format to make participation more accessible, and snacks may be provided at select in-person sessions.
Fall 2026 GRADCHAT Schedule
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What Does it Mean for Graduate Education?
Join Kim Curry, Director of Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Support, for a timely yet low-stakes conversation on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and what it means for graduate education. Together, we’ll discuss key changes affecting graduate students, including federal student loans, borrowing limits, repayment options, and the cost of financing a graduate degree. Come with your questions, thoughts, and contributions, and leave with a better understanding of what these changes may mean for you. This session is open to all graduate students!
Virtual
Love Island: Graduate Edition, Is It a Match? Navigating the Graduate Student–Advisor Relationship
What makes a good match between a graduate student and an advisor? Join us for an open and engaging GradChat conversation about navigating the student-advisor relationship. Graduate students are invited to share their experiences, learn from one another, and discuss communication, expectations, boundaries, challenges, and strategies for building a positive working relationship with their advisor.
Hybrid | Stamford Campus
First-Generation Graduate Students: Hidden Curriculum, Finding Funding & Other Opportunities
Ever feel like everyone else got the graduate school handbook except you? From unwritten expectations to finding funding, opportunities, and the right people to ask for help, there is a lot to figure out. Come share your experiences, hear what other graduate students have learned, ask questions, and pick up practical tips for navigating the things no one always tells you about graduate school.
Hybrid | Storrs Campus
NEM Crossover
Graduate school is not something you have to navigate alone. Join us for a special crossover with the Network for Enrichment and Mentorship (NEM) as we explore the importance of mentorship, networking, and building meaningful connections during graduate school. Connect with other graduate students, share your experiences, and talk about how mentors, peers, faculty, staff, and other connections can support your graduate journey and beyond.
Hybrid | Storrs Campus
Register for any or all the Fall sessions below.
