Professional Development Opportunities at GSAS
Our mission is to enhance the academic experiences and quality of life for the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences’ students pursuing advanced degrees.
In order to do so, we are committed to:
- Cultivating a community of integrated learning in which we promote an education that is student-centered, emphasizing the individual and the development of the whole person
- Assessing and addressing the distinct and diverse needs of the graduate student population with a particular focus on academic and professional development
- Creating an environment in which the presence and contributions of graduate students are recognized, valued, and celebrated
- Fostering collaborative relationships across departments, programs, and divisions
Building a community of graduate students takes each individual’s participation and commitment. Here, we encourage our students to explore the following resources and get involved in the graduate community.
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GSAS Futures is a professional development initiative sponsored by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and the Graduate Student Council in partnership with Career Services and other campus affiliates. Through seminars, workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, GSAS Futures strives to provide the support, resources and training opportunities to prepare our students for innovative careers after graduate school.
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The Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) Program is a professional development initiative sponsored by GSAS. Designed to allow busy graduate students to participate throughout their academic careers and integrated with departmental training, the PFF Program balances time-tested and forward-looking pedagogical theories, techniques, and practices.
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Open to all students enrolled in a GSAS master’s or doctoral program, the Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is a research communication competition developed in 2008 by The University of Queensland in Australia.
Success Starts Now! Summer Professional Development (PD) Series
July 20 - 24, 2026, Sessions start at 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. ET via Zoom
Welcome to Fordham's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences! I am Dr. Seoyoon Chang, Assistant Dean for Student Professional Development in GSAS. To better assist you in your transition into graduate school, we are thrilled to offer a series of dynamic summer sessions designed to enhance your professional development and build connections with fellow incoming students.
These sessions will cover essential topics such as professional development, career preparation, pre-arrival needs, academic writing, and tips for a productive first semester, providing you with the tools and resources needed to excel in your academic and professional journey. Through engaging and interactive workshops, you will gain invaluable insights and practical tips that will help you envision and plan for your future. Remember, success starts now with early planning and preparation!
All sessions will be delivered live via Zoom to promote real-time interaction and authentic community-building. Since no recordings will be shared, we strongly encourage you to attend as many sessions as you can.
Attend four sessions to earn a digital badge you can add to your LinkedIn profile and showcase your commitment to professional growth.
Monday, July 20, 2026 | 10 - 11 a.m.
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Start your graduate school journey with confidence by taking charge of your professional development early on. In this interactive workshop, you will explore professional development as part of the “hidden curriculum” of graduate school: the skills, strategies, and expectations that are essential for success but are not always taught directly. You will reflect on your personal and professional goals, learn how to build meaningful connections at Fordham, and identify practical steps for long-term growth. This session will also introduce research-based strategies for shaping your professional presence, strengthening relationships, and navigating graduate school effectively. You will leave with actionable next steps to help you thrive throughout your graduate school experience.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
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Academic integrity is not just a guideline at Fordham University. It is a core value and an essential part of graduate-level scholarship. In this session, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of graduate writing and ethical research practices, including how to build well-supported arguments, cite and quote sources appropriately, avoid plagiarism, and navigate questions around the use of AI in academic work. You will leave with a clearer understanding of Fordham’s expectations for scholarly work and practical strategies for writing with clarity, integrity, and confidence.
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 10 - 11 a.m.
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Graduate school is more than coursework. It is also an opportunity to build meaningful relationships that can support your academic, professional, and personal growth. In this session, you will explore the value of connecting with faculty, staff, peers, alumni, and professionals in your field. You will learn how strong relationships can lead to mentorship, research opportunities, internships, leadership roles, and career advancement. Through discussion and real-life scenarios, you will also consider how emotional intelligence can help you navigate diverse perspectives, collaborate effectively, and build a stronger sense of community at Fordham.
Thursday, July 23, 2026 | 10 - 11 a.m.
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We are excited to welcome you to Fordham and support your transition to New York and the U.S. During this session, you will learn about essential pre-arrival topics, including obtaining your U.S. visa, preparing the documents required for entry into the U.S., and planning what to bring with you. You will also receive practical tips for navigating New York City and settling into your new environment, whether you are arriving from abroad or are already based in the U.S. You will meet members of the Office for International Services and learn how to access support, ask questions, and make the most of your time at Fordham.
Thursday, July 23, 2026 | 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
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The session, hosted in partnership with the Office of Fellowship Advising, introduces the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP), a competitive national fellowship (U.S. citizens and U.S permanent residents) for first-year graduate students in math, science and social science fields. You will learn more about the fellowship opportunity, including eligibility, application expectations, and resources available to support you. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and begin thinking about how fellowship funding can support your academic and professional goals.
Friday, July 24, 2026 | 10 - 11 a.m.
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Join us for a panel discussion where current students will share their experiences, advice, and lessons learned from navigating their first semester, academic development, and professional growth at GSAS. You will hear practical tips, honest reflections, and encouragement from peers who have been in your shoes. The session will also include breakout rooms where you can connect more closely with panelists in small groups. Come with your questions. This session is designed to help you feel more informed, supported, and confident as you begin your Fordham experience.