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Welcome to Gopher Grad!

Goldy the Gopher holding a diploma, wearing a cap and gown standing next to the gopher grad logo

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, 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 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 Fall 2025 Semester Gopher Grad Events

Sign up Links to an external site. for workshop reminders as they are announced. All workshops take place from 3:30pm-4:30pm on Zoom.

  • Sept 24 | How to Prepare for a Graduate School Fair
    • Graduate school fairs can open doors, but only if you know how to walk through them. This workshop will help you feel confident and prepared before you even step in the room. Learn how to research programs ahead of time, ask meaningful questions, and make a strong impression on admissions reps. Whether you're attending your first fair or looking to improve your approach, this session will help you show up confident, informed, and ready to make meaningful connections.

  •  Oct 14 | Why Pursue Grad School & Engage in Research?
    • In partnership with the UMN Graduate School, we will be holding a session at the 2025 UMN Graduate School Fair! This workshop is intended to inspire, inform, and get you started on your journey. The workshop will highlight the extraordinary career versatility a PhD offers from academics, research, industry, etc.---along with the critical need for more doctorates across disciplines. Participants will hear from a panel of undergrad students and graduate students representing STEM, social science, and professional doctorates. 

  • Oct 29 | Demystifying the Grad School Selection & Application Process
    • This workshop will illuminate the graduate school selection and application process that can at times feel daunting. Participants will learn about the key components of the application process, learn about resources available to inform as you select a graduate school program.
  • Nov 12 | Finding Undergraduate Research Opportunities
    • This workshop will highlight opportunities for undergraduates to gain professional paid experience and learn more about research. Learn about programs at the U of M and Nationwide that are currently accepting applicants in STEM, Social Sciences & other fields. We will have a panel of students who will share their experiences in research.

Register for Workshops Now Links to an external site.