Dear graduate students,

I’m not a fan of the term socially distance.  A more appropriate term is physically distance, as now more than ever, social interactions are vitally important.

Student groups are an ideal way to engage with fellow graduate students, both socially and academically.

If you have not already become a member of the Graduate Student Council, I highly encourage you to do so. In addition to identifying and representing graduate students’ opinions and concerns and facilitating communication between graduate students, administration and faculty, the other primary goal of the GSC is to promote community for graduate students by coordinating academic, social and other activities.

The GSC hosts general body meetings each month the first Thursday of the month from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.  Meetings are currently held via Zoom and you can get monthly meeting links through GCS communications.

Not getting GSC messages?  Visit AnchorLink, search for Graduate Student Council and hit JOIN to get their emails, flyers, and posts advertising social, academic and service opportunities.  Don’t forget to follow the GSC on social media as well:  Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

While you’re there, search AnchorLink for graduate students and you’ll find a broad variety of student groups that you may find interesting.  Groups range from academic programs to identities and special interests. If you’re looking for a way to get connected with fellow students, AnchorLink is a great place to start.

Identity Centers on campus also offer interactive activities to help you connect with others.  Be sure to visit the websites of these resources often for events and opportunities:

• Bishop Joseph Johnson Black Cultural Center
• Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center
• University Chaplain and Religious Life
• LGBTQI Life
• Student Center for Social Justice & Identity
• Vanderbilt Hillel
• The Provost’s Office for Inclusive Excellence

Looking for a few student-led activities this month?  The Organization of Black Graduate and Professional Students is having a general body meeting today, October 15, at 6:00 PM.  Selena Chisom-Payne will provide information on the election process and will moderate an impartial discussion on the presidential debates. Follow OBGAPS on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for more information.

If you’re looking for some spooky fun, the GSC is hosting a virtual Halloween party on October 28, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM.  Sign up in advance to get goodie bags, then enjoy your treats during the event.  Wear a costume, play games and you might even win a prize!

There are many opportunities to stay connected with your fellow graduate students while being socially responsible and following health safety guidelines.  Find your fun, be responsible and most of all, take some time to connect and enjoy yourself.

Best,
Bunmi

Bunmi Olatunji
Interim Dean of the Graduate School

Need assistance?  Send us an email if you need support or would like guidance on identifying available university resources.

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^{Stay informed:  visit the Return to Campus website, FAQ page for graduate students,  Research@Vanderbilt and the COVID-19 Dashboard for current updates on the Vanderbilt community. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19—learn more at Anchor Down, Step Up.}