2024 Welcome Engagement Fair

All new and continuing Penn State graduate students are invited to our 2024 Welcome Engagement Fair, hosted by the Fox Graduate School and the Paul Robeson Cultural Center! Whether this is your first time on campus or you are a returning student, you can explore and learn about the network of support and community resources available to help you excel as a graduate student!

• Hear from the Levon T. Esters, dean of the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School.
• Learn about University resources and support offices.
• Connect with graduate student organizations.
• Have fun! Enjoy snacks, refreshments, a photo booth, prizes, swag, and more!

No need to register; just stop by Alumni Hall and Heritage Hall in the HUB-Robeson Center to join the fun!

Details

Wednesday, August 28
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Heritage and Alumni Halls, HUB-Robeson Center

How to Find the Engagement Fair

Be sure to stop by both Alumni Hall and Heritage Hall to check out the excitement!

Speakers

Stop by throughout the day to hear the various speakers during the Welcome Engagement Fair.

Attending Groups

• AGSA (Anthropology Graduate Student Association)
  • There are four specific purposes of AGSA. First, AGSA raises money for graduate students to travel to professional meetings. Second, AGSA serves as an information center for concerns related to anthropology graduate student life, such as curriculum and funding, especially for incoming students. Third, AGSA serves as a liaison between the anthropology graduate students and anthropology faculty. Fourth, AGSA is dedicated to public outreach and education about anthropology.
• Black Graduate Student Association

• The Black Graduate Student Association (BGSA) takes an active role in initiating peer support, professional development, networking, and advocacy on behalf of our membership regarding University policies and procedures. BGSA also serves as a social change agent that addresses the needs of the local community / township.

• Brazilian Graduate Student & Community Organization

• BRASCA endeavors to enrich the journeys of Brazilian graduate students, researchers, staff members, their families, and the wider community. This pursuit is aimed at fostering stronger collaboration, unity, and a secure welcoming space that nurtures the Brazilian presence at Penn State.

• Bridges International at Penn State

• We are a Christian graduate student organization welcoming international students of all backgrounds. Everyone is invited to join our weekly Friday dinners, Bible discussion groups, service projects, hikes, and trips throughout the year. Learn more at our website.

• Center for Engineering Outreach and Inclusion

• The Center for Engineering Outreach and Inclusion (CEOI) assists all students in the pursuit of their undergraduate and graduate degrees at Penn State. CEOI pays particular attention to increasing the participation of women and multicultural students in engineering through inclusive student retention programs, recruitment efforts, scholarships, and professional development opportunities.

• Center for Sexual Gender and Diversity

• The CSGD provides a comprehensive range of education, information, and advocacy services to students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We work to create and maintain an open, safer, and inclusive environment honoring gender and sexual diversity. Through educational, social, and supportive programming, along with workshops and individual consultation, we strive to serve the entire Penn State community.

• Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development

• The largest multi-faith center of its kind in the country, The Pasquerilla Spiritual Center is home to the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development at Penn State. The center offers a welcoming, safe, inclusive environment, and aims to promote an environment of appreciation and respect for religious and spiritual diversity. We provide services to students and the community around religious diversity, inclusion, and belonging as well as supporting belief communities across campus.

• College of Education-Office of Education and Social Equity

• The Office of Education and Social Equity (OESE) supports the entire education community—students, faculty, and staff—in addressing and responding to issues of educational equity and social justice. We are committed to empowering historically underserved/minoritized students by creating opportunities, resources, and access to post-secondary education, enriching their educational experiences, and ensuring their academic well-being.

• College of Information Sciences and Technology

• The College of IST brings interdisciplinary knowledge and experience—from business, computer science, psychology, math, sociology, art, and many other fields—to address the world that exists where information, technology, and society intersect. We are programmers, analysts, and consultants. Digital architects, scientists, and engineers. And we bring our diverse perspectives together to create a more equitable tech industry and create a positive impact in our careers.

• Counseling and Psychological Services

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is the primary mental health provider for Penn State students at the University Park campus and distributes university-wide mental health resources to all Penn State campuses. As a comprehensive counseling center, CAPS provides a full range of short-term clinical and counseling services, consultation, community education, training of mental health practitioners, and conducts research on college student mental health. Our mission is to support students’ mental health and well-being as they pursue their academic and career goals.

• Cru - Grad Students at Penn State
  • We are the graduate student movement of Cru at Penn State University. We love the academy, find the person and works of Jesus of Nazareth to be satisfying and true, and look to Him as the beautiful hope of the world. We exist to help every grad student at Penn State embrace and deeply experience the gospel in their life, relationships, and calling as a scholar. We have a weekly large group gathering, multiple Bible studies throughout the week, and various social activities.

• Eberly College of Science Office of Diversity and Inclusion

• The Office of Diversity and Inclusion supports current and prospective members of the Eberly College of Science by fostering an inclusive community and facilitating meaningful connections to support personal and professional growth. We provide engaging experiences to advance scientific innovation by promoting diversity and implementing strategies to eliminate inequities ensuring the members of our community have the means to thrive.

• Fox Graduate School Alumni Society

• The Fox Graduate School Alumni Society fosters connections between graduate students and alumni. The organization sponsors career and professional development programs for all graduate students.

• Gender Equity Center

• Penn State’s Gender Equity Center supports students who have been impacted by sexual violence, relationship violence, stalking, harassment, and other campus climate issues. In addition, the office works to educate the campus community about Gender Equity issues and to provide workshops and resources for the prevention of sexual violence.

• Graduate and Professional Outdoor Club
  • The Graduate and Professional Outdoor Club is an inclusive community of graduate and professional students with a shared interest in engaging in outdoor activities. GPOC strives to lower any barrier to participation in outdoor activities by making technical and safety skills available, facilitating the use of gear and equipment, and connecting members with on and off-campus outdoor resources.

• Graduate and Professional Student Association at Penn State

• The Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA) at Penn State University Park is the cornerstone of advocacy for graduate and professional students, fostering a dynamic and supportive community. As the oldest continuously operating student governing body at Penn State, GPSA enriches the student experience through influential leadership, professional development opportunities, and vibrant social events. By ensuring robust representation in university decision-making, GPSA plays a crucial role in shaping the academic and personal lives of its members.

• Health Promotion and Wellness

• The mission of Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) is to cultivate a community that supports student success, well-being, and the pursuit of lifelong health. We offer a variety of wellness services, one-on-one health educational services, and workshops.

• Incarnation Campus Fellowship
  • Incarnation Campus Fellowship exists to help students grow in their love and knowledge of God in Jesus Christ through Sunday worship services, small groups, and discipleship. Incarnation Campus Fellowship is a ministry affiliated with the Anglican Church in North America.

• Indian Graduate Student Association

• The Indian Graduate Student Association (IGSA) is more than just a cultural organization; it's a community, a home away from home and a guiding platform to foster a vibrant and inclusive space for the Indian graduate students and post-doctoral scholars at Penn State offering crucial support to both incoming and current members, providing insights into navigating the challenges of graduate and professional life in State College.

• Latin American Graduate Student Association (La Grasa)

• The Latin American Graduate Student Association of the Penn State University or “LAGRASA,” provides cultural exchanges and promote understanding and knowledge about Latin America and the Caribbean. We also aim to provide a forum for members to meet and discuss Latin American issues and mutual support.
• Materials Research Society
  • Our mission is to bring together students, faculty, and professionals who focus on materials-related work to further the exchange of knowledge and promote professional development. We host events to further our members’ technical development within the materials fields and additionally foster a sense of community among our members by hosting social events and monthly meetings. Furthermore, PSU MRS is proud to be heavily involved in outreach events to disseminate our knowledge of materials science with the greater community.
• Multicultural Engineering Graduate Association

• The Multicultural Engineering Graduate Association (MEGA) is a student organization that fosters equity, inclusion, and belonging for graduate students in engineering and science disciplines across the Penn State, University Park campus. Through social events, workshops, and its alumni network, MEGA serves graduate students’ needs for a collegial community of their peers and professional development. As an organization, we strive to create a welcoming community and support for our members that will bolster their overall Penn State experience.

• Off-Campus Student Support

• Off-campus student support at Penn State assists students living off-campus by providing resources, guidance, and programs that promote a successful off-campus living experience. This includes helping students find housing, understand their rights and responsibilities as tenants, and fostering a sense of community through events and education. The office also serves as a liaison between students, landlords, and the local community to address any concerns or challenges that may arise.

• Office of Ethics and Compliance

• The Office of Ethics and Compliance serves and collaborates with the Penn State community to inspire ethical behavior and find innovative solutions to compliance challenges, thereby ensuring the University's continued academic, research and athletic success.

• Office of Graduate Career and Professional Development

• The J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School offers an array of programs, resources, and services that can support your professional and career development. From networking opportunities to workshops to career counseling, we’re firmly committed to helping you accomplish your goals. Once you begin your graduate studies, watch for opportunities offered by your graduate program, college or school, and other organizations around Penn State.

• Office of Graduate Educational Equity Programs

• The Office of Graduate Educational Equity Programs (OGEEP) is the student-facing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging unit within the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School. OGEEP leads the Fox Graduate School’s efforts to foster diversity both academically, socially, and occupationally across the broader graduate community. Beyond diversity, the office works to connect underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students to vital programs, resources, and opportunities.

• Office of Graduate Fellowship Awards

• The Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards Administration supports Graduate Education in various ways, including: Managing the process of allocating Graduate School funding to colleges and Graduate School Intercollege Graduate Degree Programs in order to promote excellence in graduate recruitment, student participation in professional development activities such as travel to professional conferences, and other events related to graduate student scholarship; Coordinating the oversight of centralized funding programs; Serving as the coordinating office for students who are awarded certain external fellowships and elect to attend Penn State for graduate school; and Identifying and pursuing external funding opportunities that will expand resources available to graduate students and recognize excellence in academic achievement.

• Office for Research Protections

• The Office for Research Protections (ORP) is Penn State’s home for research ethics and compliance, where we partner with researchers to maintain the integrity of Penn State research. Learn more at our website.

• Office of Student Aid

• The Office of Student Aid processes any Federal Direct Unsubsidized loan, Graduate PLUS loan, and private alternative loans to assist you with funding your education. Please feel free to contact us should you have any questions.

• Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC)

• The Paul Robeson Cultural Center, established in 1972, plays a crucial role in fostering acceptance and inclusion within the Penn State community. Its programs and services promote respect for diversity, providing a brave space for underrepresented communities to connect and celebrate their unique perspectives and cultures. To learn more about the center and get involved, visit our website, or contact us at prcc@psu.edu or 814-865-3776, and follow us on Instagram (PSUPRCC).

• Penn State Acoustical Society
  • Our mission is to share, cultivate, and promote a knowledge of acoustics in our community. We do this through outreach events, seminars/speakers, social events, and group projects.

• Penn State Global / Global Engagement
  • Penn State Global’s Global Engagement Team is committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive environment by offering system-wide multicultural engagement opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and members of the Penn State community. Through a diverse array of programs, workshops, and events, the team facilitates meaningful interactions and learning experiences that celebrate cultural diversity and foster global awareness. These initiatives aim to enrich the educational experience, promote intercultural understanding, and build a more connected and empathetic community.

• Penn State University Libraries

• The University Libraries can connect you with the information you need for research and teaching at Penn State. We have expert subject librarians, research data specialists, and technology experts.

• Plant Science Graduate Student Association
  

• PSGSA provides opportunities for academic collaboration and community support for graduate students in the Plant Sciences, from prospective status to postgraduate career support. We facilitate communication between students and department/university administration, advocate for graduate student needs, provide resources for career development and skill-building, and encourage collaboration in research. Additionally, we facilitate social interactions, welcome and orient new students to the resources available in the department and maintain community continuity between current students and alumni.
  

• Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence

• The Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence can help before, during, and after your teaching/TAing experience. We provide confidential advice, connection to informational resources, course observations, and help in interpreting student ratings. Our services are free.

• Smeal College of Business, Diversity Enhancement Programs
  

• The Smeal College of Business, Office of Diversity Enhancement Programs assists in the development of a diverse, pre-eminent graduate learning community through the establishment of programs aimed at the recruitment and retention of underrepresented populations, as well as creating a welcoming climate for all graduate students, faculty, and staff.
  

• Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center

• The Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center can equip you with knowledge and skills to make positive choices regarding money management, not just during your time at Penn State, but throughout your life. With our help, begin building a foundation that will allow you to lead the life of your choosing. Our services are available to Penn State undergraduate and graduate students, staff, faculty, and alumni.

• State College Food Bank

• The State College Food Bank has a mission to provide food security, directly or indirectly, to people in Centre County, thus ensuring that no one in Centre County goes hungry regardless of age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, creed, or disability. We are committed to making our community a better place through our mission and programs, and our primary focus is to ensure access to healthy and nutritious food for anyone who is in need of our support and assistance.

• Student Disability Resources

• At Penn State, we are committed to providing a welcoming, encouraging, and empowering environment for students with disabilities to ensure equal access, full participation, and reasonable accommodations for their academic pursuits. Student Disability Resources (SDR) is responsible for coordinating support services, reasonable academic accommodations, and promoting disability awareness in the university community.

• Student Health Insurance

• Student Health Insurance is a department in University Health Services under Student Affairs. Our office is available to assist with information about the medical, dental, and vision benefits offered to graduate and professional students.

• Student legal services

• Student Legal Services provides advice, referrals, document drafting, and other legal services to University Park and Commonwealth Campus students facing personal legal issues. Our services are free and confidential. To access our services, submit an intake through our website.

• Student Technology Advisory Representatives (STAR)

• We are the Student Technology Advisory Representatives. Students from around the Commonwealth join this group to have a voice on technology-decisions made by the University. We provide feedback to Penn State IT and Teaching and Learning with Technology (TLT) initiatives. We prepare students for digitally fluent careers.

• The Center for Performing Arts

• The Center for the Performing Arts at Penn State collaborates with artists, scholars, innovators, and community partners to co-create powerful arts and learning experiences. We aspire to create connected, sustainable, and equitable communities where everyone experiences joy, belonging, and creativity. Our core values include but are not limited to; curiosity, exploration, experimentation, originality, resilience, understanding, generosity, exchange, support, collective action, nurturing relationships, and stewarding resources with respect, justice, and accountability for people and the planet.

• The Comparative and International Education Student Association
  
  • The Comparative and International Education Student Association (CIESA) is dedicated to fostering the growth of students as scholars and future professionals in the field of Comparative and International Education. Our organization provides a platform for out-of-classroom education, research opportunities, networking, and professional development, ensuring members are well-prepared to engage with global educational challenges. CIESA strives to enhance the academic and professional journeys of students who are passionate about international and comparative education.

• The English for Professional Purposes Intercultural Center (EPPIC)
  • The English for Professional Purposes Intercultural Center (EPPIC) provides expert support to multilingual graduate students on advanced academic and professional English for research writing, presentations, proposals, job searches and more. Our services include workshops, one-on-one consultations, speaking groups and writing support groups. All services are free to graduate students.

• The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
  
  • We are creating nurse leaders to transform lives and health around the world. We respect and honor the dignity of each person, embrace civil discourse, and foster a diverse, inclusive, and safe community. We will redesign the landscape of health and nursing science through education, research, innovation, practice, and service.

• TIDES (Grief and Loss)

• TIDES is an organization that supports individuals, families, children and teens when they have experienced the death of someone they love. Our program is free and open to all who are grieving.

• Transportation Services

• Penn State’s Transportation Services assists students, faculty, staff, and visitors in getting to, from, and around the University Park campus.