Stony Brook University celebrated Graduate Student Appreciation Week from April 7 to April 11, recognizing the achievements and community of its graduate students. Organized by the Graduate School, the week included various events focused on professional and personal development.
Activities began with a Career Development Panel moderated by Karishma Trejo, graduate student advocate and MBA student. The panel featured campus professionals who shared insights into career planning, networking, and adaptability. This event encouraged students to explore diverse career paths beyond academia.
On Tuesday, a casual gathering known as the GPD Student Coffee Chat took place in SAC Ballroom B. This event allowed students to interact with graduate program directors and Dean of the Graduate School Celia Marshik, fostering connections and feedback sharing.
Wednesday's Accomplishment Celebration in the SAC Shore Club acknowledged students’ achievements over the year, from dissertation defenses to fellowship awards. Students shared their milestones, and faculty and staff joined in the celebration to recognize students' contributions to Stony Brook’s mission.
Thursday's Coffee and Donuts event in the SAC Lobby offered students a chance to relax and connect over light refreshments. The first 50 attendees also received a Graduate Student Appreciation Mug.
The week concluded with a Journal Decorating session on Friday in the Graduate Student Lounge. This activity promoted mindfulness and self-expression, providing resource materials on mental health and wellness for attendees.
Katie Flood, assistant director of operations at the Graduate School, expressed the significance of the week, noting it as “a meaningful opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of our graduate students and a great way to create spaces for connection, celebration, and community.” Flood credited collaborators like Ally Brasino, Christine Greenberg, and Karishma Trejo for bringing the week to fruition.
Trejo highlighted the week's importance by stating, “Graduate Student Appreciation Week was an important recognition of everything graduate students have to offer Stony Brook University.”
The events underscored the role of graduate students as vital members of the university community, contributing their work and experiences to advance the institution. The week enhanced appreciation and fostered a renewed sense of connection among participants.