A Season of Gratitude: Celebrate our Graduate Students Throughout Appreciation Week

As the seasons change from winter to spring, the Office of Graduate Affairs announces Seton Hall University's second annual Graduate Student Appreciation Week. From March 31 to April 4, this weeklong event celebrates the dedication and contributions of hardworking graduate students with a range of activities and events.

In collaboration with the Division of Student Services, the Office of Graduate Affairs has planned numerous opportunities to recognize and engage the graduate community. "The university is proud to honor the contributions, achievements and distinct needs of our graduate students during this week of recognition. Graduate and professional students are essential to Seton Hall's mission and vibrancy," said Chris Cuccia, associate provost for academic and graduate affairs and institutional research. "Their innovation and expertise drive advancements that are critical to the university’s success in teaching and research as an academic institution."

Graduate students are invited to take part in this celebratory week, which provides a chance to socialize, network with peers and see just how integral they are to the university community.

The week kicks off Monday, March 31, with welcome tables on both the South Orange and Interprofessional Health Sciences campuses. Graduate students can stop by the University Center or Winter Garden to greet university representatives, learn more about upcoming events and grab a giveaway to mark the occasion.

Monday also focuses on professional development, a key aspect of graduate life. Free professional headshots will be available at the IHS campus, while the Career Center will host an interview workshop on the South Orange campus. For those who can’t make it Monday, headshots will also be offered April 1 and April 3 at the South Orange campus.

On Tuesday, April 1, and Thursday, April 3, an activities fair will take place on the South Orange campus. This event highlights the services available for graduate students, with campus partners hosting informative tables.

Attendees can also get free professional headshots taken, enjoy 10-minute mini-massages and indulge in light refreshments in a relaxed environment. Those who attend either night can enter a free raffle for Seton Hall swag and a chance to win a set of four tickets to a 2025-26 Seton Hall men’s basketball game at the Prudential Center. Game date will be winners’ choice pending availability. The Office of Graduate Affairs thanks the athletics department for this generous donation.

Wednesday, April 2, emphasizes in-person community building with a dinner reception designed to foster connections among graduate students, many of whom may interact online. Students can enjoy a meal and engage with representatives from the Office of Graduate Affairs and other administrative offices.

Can’t make it to dinner? Stop by afterward for a dessert bar open to all graduate students, regardless of reception attendance.

On Friday, April 4, IHS students can unwind with a coffee break and a free 10-minute mini-massage to close out the week.

In addition to these events, a Graduate Student Food Donation Drive (“Our Grad Students Care”) will run throughout the week. Nonperishable food items can be donated at collection boxes at each event, with all contributions going to local food banks and pantries through a partnership with the Division of Volunteer Efforts.

For those who may not regularly visit campus, this is a wonderful opportunity to join in and feel part of the graduate community. Graduate students are encouraged to participate in as many activities as they’d like, with some events requiring registration.

Learn more about Graduate Student Appreciation Week and register for events.

Categories: Campus Life