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GradCURRENTS News & Features

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Navigating the Path to Career Success: Insights from Bearcat Promise Career Studio

As we approach the end of another academic year, graduating students at the University of Cincinnati are gearing up to step into the professional world. The Bearcat Promise Career Studio, recognizing the importance of this transition, stands ready to provide invaluable support and guidance. Led by Interim Director and Assistant Professor of Career Education A. Stephen Amundson, the Career Studio offers a comprehensive range of practical services and resources tailored to meet the unique needs of students entering the job market. We spoke with Amundson to uncover the Studio's mission, offerings, and expert guidance for students as they embark on their professional journey. Read the full Q & A.


boggle letters spelling out vacation with the 'VA' turning to reveal 'stay'

Budget-Friendly Spring Break Staycation Tips

Spring break is here, but if jetting off somewhere is off the table, don’t sweat it. Opting for a staycation can still make for a great getaway. If you're working with a tight budget but craving a change of scenery, making the most of a spring break staycation is all about tapping into creativity and exploration. Whether you prefer unwinding with mini-adventures or indulging in some much-needed self-care, there are endless opportunities to ensure your staycation leaves you feeling revitalized and ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. Here's eight ways to curate a staycation spring break experience that won’t break the bank. See them all.


Sisters Lucy and Annette Braun, 1910.

Sisters Lucy (left) and Annette Braun, 1910.

A Tale of two Trailblazers

Every March, Women's History Month serves as a reminder of the countless women who have shattered glass ceilings, defied expectations, and paved the way for progress and equality throughout history. Among these trailblazers are Annette and Emma (Lucy) Braun, sisters and University of Cincinnati graduate scholars, whose achievements during a time when post-secondary education was male dominated continue to inspire us. Read their story.


Pictures of Associate Dean Banjo Vice Provost Dean Ward and Associate Dean Collins

Charting a Course Towards Inclusion

As Black History Month ends, it's essential to engage in meaningful dialogue, not just as an acknowledgment of the past, but as a catalyst for shaping the future. We sat down with Vice Provost Dean Rose Marie Ward, alongside Associate Deans Omatoya Banjo and Tai Collins, to delve into the Graduate College's journey toward inclusivity and its dedication to supporting African American students. Read the full discussion. 


Cluttered desk with laptop and paper

Spring Clean Your Academic Life

As the chilly grip of winter loosens its hold and the warmth of spring arrives, it presents a prime opportunity not just to freshen up your living space but also to rejuvenate your academic routine. For graduate students, a strategic "spring cleaning" can reinvigorate focus, streamline organization, and boost productivity. With the change of season on the horizon, we've come up with 10 practical tips to streamline and revitalize your academic life. Read more.


Man's hands holding up paper doll chain

GetInvolvedUC: Linking UC's Graduate Community

GetInvolvedUC isn't just a platform for undergraduate student events. It’s also a vital resource for graduate student opportunities offered by organizations such as the Graduate College, alongside essential groups like the Women's Center, LGBTQ Center, and African American Cultural and Resource Center, among others. 

In a recent conversation with Kristin Ford, Director of the Center for Student Involvement at the University of Cincinnati, we explored the benefits of student involvement, and the pivotal role of platforms like GetInvolvedUC in shaping the university experience for graduate students. Read on for an insightful look at our discussion.


drawing of brain with be kind to your mind written inside

This Valentine's Day, Be Kind to Your Mind 

Taking care of one's mental health is a big deal, especially when you're knee-deep in the challenges of grad school. Graduate students juggle a lot. Whether it's the constant academic grind, diving into research or chasing career goals, there's no question it's a demanding journey. That's why it's so important to shine a light on mental health, offer support, and encourage open dialogue.

To acknowledge this, the University of Cincinnati's Graduate College is holding the first-ever Graduate Student Mental Health Summit on Valentine's Day, February 14th. This summit is all about being proactive and tackling the mental health worries graduate students often face. In a recent chat with Virginia Dennis, program manager of student services for the Graduate College, we dug into what this summit aims to achieve and why it matters. Read more.


people chatting at a networking event

Snoozing on Schmoozing? Then You’re Losing out

Networking events are pivotal for a graduate student's professional journey, providing unique chances for academic enrichment and career growth. As we step into International Networking Week from February 4th to the 10th, the spotlight intensifies on the outsized influence networking can have in both professional and personal domains. From academic conferences to specialized workshops, the week illuminates the importance of exploring networking opportunities beyond the confines of university lecture halls. If you're new to networking and uncertain about where to start, no worries! We've outlined eight of the most common types of networking events and how to make the most of them. Check them out.


Tea, many tissues and a pair of glasses on a desk

Tackling a Triple Threat Sick Season 

As the convergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, flu season, and the threat of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) unfolds, safeguarding health is increasingly important. Whether you've been sick or know someone who has, the impact of this health trifecta is palpable. But it's not too late to protect yourself and others in this season of sickness. Read more.


a mentor and mentee working together

Making the Most of Mentorship

January is National Mentoring Month, setting the stage for recognizing and celebrating the profound impact of mentorship. Wherever you are on your academic and professional path, this month serves as an opportune time to delve into how to find or become a mentor. Curious about establishing and benefiting from the guidance that defines mentor-mentee relationships? Let's explore some essential aspects, from finding potential mentors to understanding the dynamics that shape this invaluable connection. Read on for recommendations.


post it pegged to board with seize the semester written on it

Your Spring Semester Reset

As the new year kicks in, graduate students often find themselves at a critical juncture in their academic progress—whether it's the start of a new semester or the continuation of the academic year. This transitional phase offers the perfect chance to recalibrate. Here are some tips to help navigate this semester successfully. Read the full list.


the word research spelled out in block letters

Elevate Your Research with the 3MT Competition! 

Engaging graduate students in the vibrant world of research, the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition at the University of Cincinnati stands as a pinnacle for academic communication and presentation. 

Insights from The Graduate College’s Caitie Norrie, program manager for professional development, and Jordan Crawley, professional development graduate assistant, shed light on the significance of the 3MT challenge for aspiring participants. Read more about the compeition and register now!



Woman biting pencil in stress while looking at laptop

Make the Grade: Sidestep These Study Snafus 

For graduate students, finals week isn't just a culmination of dedication and hard work; it's an intense period that requires comprehensive preparation and strategic study, along with managing the stress that often accompanies it. But several common pitfalls can hinder success during this critical period. Here are some of the top mistakes graduate students encounter while preparing for finals and how to overcome them while effectively managing stress. Read on.



be here now written on rock among other rocks and pebbles

The Graduate Student’s Guide to Mindfulness

The frenetic pace of grad school life rarely abates, but the Graduate College recently rolled out something pretty cool to help students find a way to create pockets of tranquility - a mindfulness workshop led by Meriden McGraw, Director of the UC Osher Center for Integrative Medicine's Mindfulness Team. The goal? To take mindfulness from the conceptual to the practical and give graduate students tools they can immediately use to cultivate relaxation, restore balance, and live healthier, happier, and more stress-free lives.

The promise of learning new techniques to unwind drew UC MBA online student Zack Williams to campus to participate on October 26th. But did the trip pay off? We caught up with Zack to hear whether mindfulness struck a chord with him and if what he learned made a difference in his routine. Read the full Q & A.


UC students walk on campus on a winter day

Clever Ways for Handling Darker, Shorter Days  

The shorter days and longer nights of winter can often bring about feelings of gloom, doom, and a desire to hibernate for many people. However, it is possible to master the art of thriving during the darkest days of the year, even in the challenging period posed by the transition of Daylight-Saving Time. Instead of chasing the ever-elusive sun, give these simple tricks a try for managing dim days and cold nights. Read on for all the tips.


the words and breathe in cursive neon against a background of leaves

Six Strategies for Effective Stress Management

November 1st is National Stress Awareness Day, a timely reminder to prioritize our mental well-being. Stress is an intrinsic part of life, and our ability to handle it effectively has a profound impact on our overall health and happiness. This is especially true for graduate students, who face a multitude of stressors, from stringent deadlines and budgeting for tuition and living expenses to upholding academic performance and conducting research, all of which can create a high-pressure environment.  

Having a toolkit of effective stress management techniques can be beneficial in mitigating the negative effects of graduate school stress. In observance of National Stress Awareness Day, We've out together six valuable stress management methods for a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.  See them all. 



overwhelmed man covered in sticky notes

Eight Tips for Navigating Graduate School with Adult ADHD

Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is typically associated with children, but it's important to recognize that adults often struggle with ADHD symptoms too, which can manifest differently in a high-pressure academic setting. Fortunately, there are strategies and resources that can help graduate students with ADHD succeed academically. To spotlight ADHD Awareness Month this October, we've outlined eight empowering and effective ways to manage ADHD symptoms, whether you're personally impacted or providing support to someone who is. Discover them all. 



equality flags fly in front of the u.s. supreme court

The UC Love Story That Led to a Landmark Law

University of Cincinnati alumni and couple Jim Obergefell (Class of ’90) and John Arthur (Class of ’88) shared a love story like many others: they met while both in graduate school, fell in love, and after two decades together decided to get married. Unlike other couples, however, they faced a significant obstacle as same-sex marriage was banned in Ohio at the time, setting in motion a journey for marriage equality that would change the course of LGBTQ+ history and play a pivotal role in legalizing same-sex marriage in the United States. In recognition of LGBTQ+ History Month and ahead of National Coming Out Day on October 11, we are shining a light on these UC LGBTQ pioneers whose unwavering commitment to equality and one another ignited a movement that transformed the legal landscape for same-sex couples across the United States. Read more about how their fight for legal recognition led to marriage equality for all.


Paper with resume written on top followed by bullet points next to laptop and pen

Updating Your Resume: Tips for Graduate Students

September is "International Update Your Resume Month," an ideal time for graduate students to revamp their resumes, particularly those getting ready to graduate this semester and enter – or reenter - the job market with newly acquired degrees and skill sets. A resume update isn't just a document refresh; it's a powerful tool for networking and demonstrating hard-won capabilities. Additionally, it offers a chance for self-reflection. Even if you're not actively job hunting, regularly updating your resume is a smart strategy to remain prepared, self-aware, and adaptable in a constantly changing job market. To assist graduate students in updating their resumes effectively, we’ve compiled some essential tips. Read all our recommendations for refreshing your resume.


grad student marielle newton in a red-sleeveless top with curly brown hair

Q & A with Mental Health Grad Student Marielle Newton

As we continue to observe Suicide Prevention Month this September, we sat down for an enlightening interview with Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student, Marielle Newton. In this Q & A we explore what motivated her to make a career change and why she chose UC for her graduate school journey. We also discuss the prevalence of poor mental health among students in higher education, how she juggles grad school demands while balancing a personal life and motherhood, and the impact she hopes to make in the lives of those grappling with anxiety and other mental health challenges.  Read the full conversation


A Grad student with a red hoodie on looking at a laptop screen.

Elevating Higher Education Online

The rapid evolution of the internet, coupled with a years-long pandemic, necessitated that education make significant and rapid transformations beyond traditional brick-and-mortar classrooms. The digital realm has opened a myriad of opportunities to access knowledge and skills from almost anywhere at any time. National Online Learning Day, celebrated on September 15, is a moment to recognize the impact of online learning and UC’s role as an early pioneer in how students access knowledge and earn their degrees. Read the full article for more information about online learning at UC. 


Sing that reads Don't Give Up

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Intervention is Prevention

Challenging, rewarding, demanding, inspiring - graduate school is a lot of things, and juggling them all can be stressful and emotionally taxing for many students. Recent studies have shown that graduate students are more than six times as likely as the general population to experience depression and anxiety. Balancing well-being with academic pressures isn’t easy, and students struggling with mental health issues may not get the support they need until they reach a crisis point, often after harming themselves, so identification and early intervention for those most at risk is critical. Read the full article to learn about sucide prevention.


Men in white hoodie pressing against a car door window.

Tips for Smart Security Awareness on Campus

In a perfect world, crime would not exist. In the real world, however, taking steps to remain aware of our surroundings and make good choices can go a long way to ensuring our security, whether on or off campus. Ahead of National Crime Prevention Week September 1-7, we asked Lieutenant David Brinker, with University of Cincinnati’s Community Engagement Unit, about how he came to work at UC, his top recommendations for being safety smart, and how best to access UC Public Safety community services and resources. Read the full article to learn about tips and services available for a safer UC.


Woman in yellow sweater typing on laptop

Welcome Grad Bearcats: Resources for Graduate Success 

Welcome new and returning graduate students to what will no doubt be an eventful and engaging semester and school year! Our graduate student body this fall is one of the largest the Graduate College has enrolled to date across a full range of academic disciplines and our staff looks forward to assisting you in your progress. Whether just starting on the path to your graduate degree or nearing the end of your program, the university has a variety of valuable tools and assets to encourage and sustain ongoing achievement, both in your chosen field of study and toward a rewarding postgraduate future. Read the full article to learn more about resources to make your semester a success! 


A man in a blue shirt writes on some papers with a pen.

New Semester, New Routine: Five Tips for Adjusting to Change

As a graduate student, starting afresh with a brand-new semester can be either a blessing or a curse. For those of us who struggle with change, there can be a helpless, ironic kind of feeling where it seems that the moment we’ve finally settled into our new routine, the semester changes and our lives are upended once again. Rinse and repeat, until graduation. It’s perfectly natural to struggle with change, but if you set yourself up for success during the transition, you might just find that having a fresh start gave you a boost towards your most productive, successful semester yet. Read the full article for some tips to start your semester off right.


A woman stands in front of a podium looking confident; her shadow holds its head in frustration.

All About Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome: what is it, really? You’ve likely heard the term before, as it's become somewhat of a buzzword within academic and professional circles in recent years. You might have a vague understanding of the concept, thinking to yourself on occasion, “Sure, sometimes I feel like I don’t deserve to be where I’ve gotten,” and then continuing on with your busy grad student life. It makes sense: you’ve got a lot going on, and taking an honest, hard look at the ways in which you undermine your own success might sound positively overwhelming. Well, no more! Now is as good a time as any to begin the process of personal growth and development. By truly understanding the ways that imposter syndrome impacts your academic, professional, and social success, and putting in the work to silence that inner critic and become more of a cheerleader for yourself, you can achieve things you never thought possible. And the good news? You don’t have to do it alone. Read the full article to learn more.


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