Graduate Student Onboarding and Orientation
Starting graduate school is a big step and we’re here to help you get oriented and connected from day one.
The Graduate College offers both an annual in-person orientation and self-guided online onboarding to help you transition to the University of Cincinnati. Whether you're joining us on campus or exploring resources online, you'll find the information and support you need to succeed.
In-Person Orientation
Join us each fall for Graduate Student Orientation to connect with fellow graduate students, meet Graduate College staff and campus partners, and learn about the resources available to support your success at UC.
Fall 2026 Welcome and Orientation
Tuesday, August 25, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Tangeman University Center (TUC), Great Hall (room 465)
The event coincides with Bearcats Welcome and provides an opportunity to build connections, explore campus resources and begin your graduate experience alongside other new students.
Free UC shuttle services are available for students with a UC ID, including routes between West and Medical campuses. Limited reciprocity parking may also be available for UC permit holders when space permits. Reciprocity parking is limited to two hours between 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Learn more about parking and transportation including shuttle routes.
Check-In and Welcome
11 a.m., TUC Great Hall (room 465)
Check in with the event QR code, grab your schedule and map, and snag some UC Graduate College swag while supplies last.
Campus Resources and Graduate Student Ambassadors
11 a.m.–1 p.m., TUC Great Hall (room 465)
Visit campus resource tables to learn about services available to graduate students. Meet Graduate Student Ambassadors, ask questions and discover programs and opportunities to help you succeed at UC.
Lunch and Refreshments
11 a.m.–1 p.m., TUC Great Hall (room 465)
Enjoy Adriatico's Pizza, Bagel Brothers cookies, snacks and water while supplies last. Take this opportunity to relax and connect with fellow graduate students.
Photos with the UC Bearcat
11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., TUC Great Hall (room 465)
Stop by for a photo with the UC Bearcat mascot.
Breakout Session: How Can the Graduate College Help Me?
11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m., TUC 400ABC
Meet the Graduate College leadership team and learn how we support graduate students throughout their academic journey. Discover award opportunities, professional development programs, academic support services, the Graduate Student Resource Guide and other resources designed to help you make the most of your graduate experience at UC. This session will be led by Program Director Megan Carroll. Snacks and water will be available.
Panelists: Ryan White, PhD, Interim Dean of the Graduate College; Omotayo (Tayo) Banjo, PhD, Associate Dean; Tai Collins, PhD, Associate Dean; Megan Carroll, MA, Program Director; Emily Kregor, Project Director; Angel Prewitt, Assistant Director of Business Affairs, Provost Office; and Kaitlyn Sharo, MS, Communication Manager.
Breakout Session: UC Libraries
12:15 p.m.–1 p.m., TUC 400ABC
Learn about the many services and resources available through UC Libraries. Amy Koshoffer and Deborah Tenofsky will introduce research support, library tools and services designed specifically for graduate students. Snacks and water will be available.
Campus Tour
12:30 p.m., TUC 4th Floor Lobby
Join a guided campus tour to become familiar with important buildings, services and resources available to graduate students.
Breakout Session: "Job Search Autopilot" Using Handshake for Job Search Efficiency
1 p.m.–2 p.m., TUC 400ABC
Learn how to make the most of Handshake, UC's career platform for finding internships, co-ops, full-time jobs, on-campus employment and career events. Discover how to streamline your job search, connect with employers and access career opportunities tailored to your interests. This session is presented by Meghan Brown, Assistant Director of Graduate Student Career Coaching at the Bearcat Promise Career Studio. Snacks and water will be available.
Event Concludes
2 p.m., TUC Great Hall (room 465)
Online Onboarding
Our self-guided online onboarding is available year-round and is a great place for both new and current graduate students to explore Graduate College resources and campus services.
Whether you're preparing for your first semester or looking for information later in your graduate journey, you'll find resources on:
- Getting started at UC
- Campus life and student resources
- Billing, financial aid and funding
- Events, awards and opportunities
- Ways to stay connected with the Graduate College
Questions?
For questions about orientation and onboarding, contact Graduate College Program Manager Amy Wheeler at robina9@ucmail.uc.edu.