Spring 2026 Professional Development Workshops
This workshop will introduce students to what exactly LinkedIn is, how to build a
powerhouse profile, and how to regularly engage with the platform to boost your professional
network. Students will also recieve 1-on-1 support with their Linkedin profile. More
specifically, students will recieve a “profile checklist” which will provide a framework
for what makes a good profile.
Moreover, students in attendance can mingle and connect (both in person and on LinkedIn)
with their fellow graduate students.
Session 1
Date: April 14, 2026
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Via Zoom
Take a self-assessment to discover your conflict style and learn tangible strategies on how to effectively navigate conflict so you can show up as a better leader and communicator!
Session 1
Date: February 19, 2026
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Zoom
Session 2
Date: April 21, 2026
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Student Union 250
Designed for emerging leaders and future professionals, this interactive workshop examines how teams develop, function, and succeed in complex academic and workplace settings. Participants will explore the stages of team development and learn how leadership expectations, communication, and group dynamics evolve over time. The session also dives into the realities of collaboration: navigating conflict, building trust, and making effective decisions under pressure. Drawing on research and real-world examples, the workshop introduces six core principles for fostering healthy, high-functioning teams. Participants will leave with practical strategies they can immediately apply in professional team environments.
Session 1
Date: February 25, 2026
Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm
Location: Student Union 250
Session 2
Date: March 12, 2026
Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Zoom
Cultivating a sense of belonging in the workplace for all people requires capacity to build and sustain inclusive and equitable spaces for people across a wide variety of identities. This session, intended for grad students interested in both industry and academic careers, will cover strategies for cultivating belonging and sustaining inclusion. Attendees will have opportunities to learn, ask questions, and brainstorm ideas for their current and future workplaces.
Session 1
Date: February 26, 2026
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Student Union 250
Session 2
Date: April 23, 2026
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Zoom
Refine your job search skills and land a job with confidence! This workshop will guide you in building a targeted job-search strategy, identifying opportunities that align with your goals, and crafting compelling job applications that stand out to employers. We’ll also cover key resume and cover letter tips, common mistakes to avoid, and practical strategies participants can apply right away.
Session 1
Date: April 7, 2026
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Zoom
Session 2
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Zoom
Ever wonder why some AI outputs feel useful and others… not so much? This workshop breaks generative AI into manageable steps, from crafting clear prompts and refining responses to spotting errors, bias, and ethical pitfalls. You’ll practice practical skills for research, writing, coding, and project planning, and leave with strategies to use AI as a tool that enhances your work without replacing your own thinking.
Session 1
Date: March 2, 2026
Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Location: Student Union 250
Session 2
Date: March 16, 2026
Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Zoom
Public speaking isn’t just about standing at a podium—it’s about helping people actually follow what you’re saying. Ever finish explaining your research and realize no one quite got it? You’re not alone. This workshop breaks public speaking into manageable “dots,” from calming nerves and structuring your message to explaining your work without drowning your audience in jargon. You’ll practice core speaking skills and leave with tools you can use in presentations, teaching, conferences, and real-life conversations.
Session 1
Date: February 16, 2026
Time: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Student Union 250
Session 2
Date: April 22, 2026
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Zoom
Hear from various professional panelists about their career trajectories and network with other students. Food will be provided.
Date: March 5, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Templo Mayor (Student Union 231)
Pathway to Professional Development Digital Badge
The Pathway to Professional Development digital badge is developed to support graduate students' professional and personal growth while earning their graduate degree. Based on the eight NACE competencies, graduate students will be professionally ready through the various workshops and activities to contribute to their future career and success in their field.
Students who complete the badge will also be invited to a celebration and will receive a "professional kit" at the end of the Spring 2026 semester!
To learn more about this badge and the requirements, click here to view the Informational Guide.
Interested in earning this badge? Complete the following Interest Form!
DEADLINE to join the interest form: February 6, 2026
DEADLINE to complete all requirements to earn the badge: April 30, 2026
