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Hello! 

Welcome, we are so glad you are here. 

This resource website is a collaboration between the UMN TRIO McNair Scholars, TRIO Student Support Services, Louis Stokes North Star STEM Alliance Links to an external site., the First-Generation Institute, Tamara McNish from the Graduate School, Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE), and KL Clarke and Meghan Lafferty from the University Libraries. The Gopher Grad initiative was started by the UMN TRIO McNair in January 2021 in response to emergent COVID realities disproportionately impacting the research and graduate school pipelines for students from traditionally underserved and underrepresented communities. The initiative consists of 90-minute virtual workshops addressing a range of topics that students will benefit from as they explore and prepare for graduate school.

Getting Started:

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Upcoming Spring 2025 Semester Gopher Grad Events

Sign-up for workshop reminders as they are announced. All workshops take place from 3:30pm-5:00pm on Zoom.

• Jan 29 | APA Made Easy: Skills for Academic and Grad School Success
  • This workshop is designed to help you master the essentials of APA formatting, providing the tools you need for success in undergrad—and laying the foundation for graduate studies or professional work. From citing like a pro to formatting with confidence, you’ll learn how APA style supports clear, credible communication. Perfect for students working on research papers or considering grad school, this session will prepare you for your next academic and professional steps!
• Feb 19 | Grad Life Prep: Building a Healthy Mindset
  • This workshop equips you with essential tools to navigate the challenges of graduate school. We will cover practical life skills ("Adult 101"), managing imposter syndrome, handling stress, and developing effective coping strategies. Join us to build confidence and foster resilience as you prepare for your graduate journey.
• March 5 | Library Hacks: Navigating Your Research Journey
  • The research process does not have to be a lonely one! This session introduces participants to the wealth of resources and supports available to you through the University libraries that can help you maximize your research experience (not to mention your academic courses).
• April 2 | Behind the Scenes: Preparing for Grad School as a Transfer Student
  • This workshop is intended to inspire, inform, and get you started on your journey to graduate school, whether that's pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. The workshop will describe what gradudate school is and address “why pursue a doctorate?’ by highlighting the extraordinary career versatility a PhD offers from academics, research, industry, etc.---along with the critical need for more doctorates across disciplines. Participants will see the unique strengths of being a transfer or community college student the journey to becoming a future graduate school student.

Register for Workshops Now Links to an external site.