Check out the Grad Lounge!

The grad lounge is a uniquely dedicated space where grad students from all divisions can come together to socialize, work, and rest. In this solely grad student space, you can find free coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and a variety of snacks. You can play board games and cards, put together puzzles, and pray or nap in the quiet room. In addition to shared tables, individual workstations, and lockers for rent, the space also includes a kitchenette with a fridge and microwave at your disposal and two bookable private rooms for small group or virtual meetings.

Most of all, we offer a warm place to retreat from the weather, a stopping point between classes, or a refuge from the pressures of grad school, right in the center of campus. This space is for you—come check it out Mondays to Thursdays (9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.) and Fridays (9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.).

Exploring Fellowship Opportunities
Friday, February 13, 12:00 noon–1:00 p.m., UChicagoGRAD HQ

Curious about funding for research projects and other academic goals, but not sure where to start? Fellowships can enrich your career in academia (and beyond). They contribute to fieldwork expenses, research travel, conferences, language study, tuition, and many other academic funding needs. Aimed at Master's, PhD, and postdoctoral researchers, this in-person presentation will share how to find and apply to fellowships with UChicagoGRAD.

Communicating through the Recorded Voice
Monday, February 16, 3:30–5:00 p.m., Zoom

Calling fans of podcasts and radio! This virtual, hands-on workshop will help you transition from a listener to a contributor in recorded, voice-centered mediums. We'll strategize how to put together a simple and affordable recording set-up and explore vocal techniques that keep listeners engaged without visual input. By the end of the session, you’ll be prepared to communicate research insights to new scholarly, industry, and public audiences. Please note: the workshop will involve participatory practice and discussion with peers and fulfills a requirement for UChicagoGRAD’s Research Communication Credential.

myCHOICE Seminar: Careers in Advanced Materials Research and Innovation
Monday, February 16, 5:30–6:30 p.m.,  Zoom

This panel features professionals from industry and national laboratories who develop, test, and translate advanced materials into impactful applications. Panelists will share how they collaborate across disciplines, work with cutting-edge technologies, and navigate the fast-moving landscape of materials innovation. You’ll gain insight into career paths in materials research, product development, and applied engineering, and learn which technical and communication skills help STEM PhDs thrive in these evolving fields.

Principles of Effective Program Design (HEA Credential Series)
Tuesday, February 17, 12:30–1:30 p.m., UChicagoGRAD HQ

Higher education administrators are always seeking innovative ways to meet the needs of undergraduate and graduate students. This workshop will introduce aspiring administrators to principles that will help them effectively design student programs. Through a hands-on activity, participants will model the stages of the design cycle and leave with an understanding of the design process and an ability to apply a design framework to address challenges faced by students. This workshop is part of UChicagoGRAD's Higher Education Administration (HEA) Credential series.

What AI Can and Cannot Do: Workshop
Tuesday, February 17, 2:00–3:30 p.m., UChicagoGRAD HQ

Join UChicago’s new AI Librarian, Lois Wong, for an interactive workshop demystifying what AI is and what it can and cannot do, with special emphasis on research applications. Learn the basics of AI, current criticisms, and bring your laptops to gain hands-on experience with prompt engineering and handling common challenges like hallucination. Participants will also receive an overview of UChicago’s secure AI resources, including Phoenix AI, and learn best practices for responsible use.

Career30: Cover Letter Best Practices
Thursday, February 19, 4:00–4:30 p.m., Zoom

Improve your professional skills in 30 minutes or less! This presentation will provide attendees with essential information on creating cover letters for positions in industry and nonprofits. You will learn when to include cover letters in an application, how to structure them, and what kind of content helps you make the best argument for an interview.

Domestic and international graduate students are eligible to apply for on-campus jobs.

Office Assistant - University of Chicago - University Registrar

Student Projectionist - UChicago Film Studies Center

Graphic Design Intern - The University of Chicago, Economics Department

College Core Writing Tutor (Spring 2026) - University of Chicago Writing Program

Spring 2026, Math Instructional Grader - University of Chicago, Department of Mathematics

Spring 2026 TA(s) in Human Genetics Course(s) - The University of Chicago

Maroon Masquerade
Saturday, February 21, 7:00–11:00 p.m., Joy District Chicago

Step into an evening of mystery and magic at this quarter’s flagship event, THE Maroon Masquerade, a glamorous winter ball just for UChicago grad students. Held at Joy District in River North, this unforgettable night features gourmet bites, a live DJ, open bar, and enchanting ambiance. Dress to impress and don’t forget your mask—whether glittering, dramatic, or classic, it’s part of the fun.

Round 3 tickets drop Friday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m.—get yours before they’re gone, this event is selling out fast!

Maroon Masquerade’s DIY Mask Workshop
Thursday, February 19, 6:00–7:30 p.m., UChicagoGRAD HQ (3rd Floor)

Bring your creativity and get crafty just in time for the Maroon Masquerade Ball! At this hands-on workshop, you’ll design your very own masquerade mask using a wide variety of paints, gems, feathers, and more—no experience necessary. Whether you’re going for whimsical, bold, elegant, or mysterious, this is your chance to add a personal touch to your outfit. All materials are provided, and good vibes guaranteed. Reserve your spot now and perfect your masquerade look!

Grad Council’s Valentine’s Day Mixer
Friday, February 13, 7:00–9:00 p.m., The Cloister Club at Ida Noyes Hall 

Celebrate love in all its forms at Grad Council’s annual Valentine’s Day Mixer! Whether you’re single, partnered, or figuring it out, this event is all about community, connection, and low-pressure fun. Enjoy Valentine-themed activities like cookie decorating, card making, games, and our signature “Pitch & Present” matchmaking showcase. Come solo, with friends, or on a date—just bring good vibes (and a valid ID). RSVP here to join us for a night of community and connection! Note: This event is 21+ and all attendees must bring valid legal ID for entry.

GC Event Fund Round 2: Deadline Extended!
Applications due Sunday, February 15, 5:00 p.m.

Do you have a great idea for an event that brings grad students together? The Graduate Council Fund offers financial support for student-led academic, professional, cultural, or social events. If you’re planning something impactful and inclusive, we want to help make it happen. Ready to bring your idea to life? Apply now!

Run ’N’ Brunch: Valentine’s Edition
Saturday, February 14, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Meet in front of International House

Warm up your weekend with heart-pumping fun and join us for this special Valentine’s-themed edition of I-House’s long-standing Saturday running tradition! Whether you’re here for the exercise, community, or just the post-run brunch at Medici, you’re in great company. Friendly, inclusive, atmosphere—come as you are!

Tamales & Lotería
Friday, February 20, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Center for Identity + Inclusion

Take a break from your busy schedule and join us for a cozy afternoon of cultural celebration. Enjoy delicious tamales while playing Lotería, the traditional Mexican bingo-style game known for its colorful cards and joyful spirit. It’s the perfect mix of comfort food, friendly competition, and connection with fellow grad students. Whether you’re there to win or just relax and enjoy, this event is sure to bring flavor and fun to your Friday! Sign up here to save your spot!

Marronage, Migration, and Black Resistance: A Conversation on Black Histories and Policy
Wednesday, February 18, 6:30–8:30 p.m., Keller Center Sky Suite, 1307 E 60th St

This panel brings together Black Studies scholars examining marronage, slavery, and Black resistance across time and place. Drawing on U.S. and Caribbean archives from the 17th–19th centuries, panelists explore rebellion, the geographies of the enslaved, and historical memory, linking these histories to contemporary migration, inequality, mobility, and diaspora experiences.

Plots and Deeds: Agrarian Annihilation and the Fight for Land Justice in Palestine (Book Talk with Paul Kohlbry)
Wednesday, February 18, 12:00–1:20 p.m., Seminary Co-op Bookstore, 5751 S Woodlawn

Paul Kohlbry, Assistant Professor of Global Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, discusses his new book examining the transformation of Palestinian agricultural land into real estate through state violence and market coercion. It focuses on the West Bank, exploring how property, dispossession, and resistance intersect. 

Techniques for Teaching Introductory STEM Classes
Wednesday, February 18, 12:00–2:00 p.m., WERC 201B, 5640 S Ellis Ave

How do we teach students with different preparation levels and interests? How do we keep students engaged and create a productive classroom? We will discuss how to run effective discussion sections and office hours, how to create an active and inclusive learning environment, how to keep students motivated, and more.

Social Finance and Impact First Investing: A Lunch & Learn with Tracy Palandjian
Thursday, February 19, 11:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m., Harper Center C-09, 5807 S Woodlawn Ave

Curious how industry experts mobilize data, funding, and ideas to produce meaningful outcomes? During this conversation, you’ll gain insights on how impact first investing differs from traditional philanthropy and ESG investing, career pathways for students interested in finance, policy, and social innovation, and more!

Latex with Overleaf Pro: the Basics
Friday, February 13, 1:00–2:00 p.m., Regenstein TECHB@R, 1100 E 57th St

Maha Shivaratri Celebration
Friday, February 13, 6:00–8:00 p.m., Rockefeller Chapel, 5850 S Woodlawn Ave

Sex in the Dark
Wednesday, February 18, 4:00–6:30 p.m., Reynold's Club South Lounge, 5706 S University Ave

Léon Bloy: Martyr or Madman?
Thursday, February 19, 5:00–6:30 p.m., 1220 E 58th St

60 Years of Housing Activism: MLK Jr. & the Chicago Freedom Movement
Thursday, February 19, 5:30–6:45 p.m., Ida Noyes Hall, Cloister Club, 1212 E 59th St

Grocery Store Tour
Wednesday, February 25, Trader Joe's, 1528 E 55th St

Spring Quarter Offering! North American Classroom Language & Culture for Instructors
Registration opens February 23 at 9:00 a.m.

Teaching in the U.S.? This course helps international graduate students and PhD candidates build classroom language, cultural awareness, and communication skills for American academic settings. Learn U.S. classroom norms and instructional strategies.

Convocation 2026 Student Staff
Complete application form by Thursday, March 19, 11:59 p.m.

Work the most prestigious University event this year, Convocation! Student staff are needed to assist with greeting and directing guests, distributing programs, seating candidates, supporting with stage set-up, assisting guests with accommodations, preparing guest bags, and other positions. This is a great opportunity to gain resume experience and make connections!