Research Spaces

Focus: Decision Making

Using data from the Grad SERU, we identified decision-making as a key priority for strengthening inclusivity among graduate students in CSE. To address this, we’ve launched a pilot program that empowers graduate students to actively participate in departmental decisions that impact them. Participating departments formed Grad Councils. 

Departments participating in the pilot include:

  • Department of Chemistry
  • Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering
  • Department of  Computer Science and Engineering
  • Department of Mechanical Engineering

Example activities of the Grad Councils include:

  • Clarification of written and oral preliminary exam processes and timelines
  • Identification of priorities through town halls and focus groups
  • Evaluation of the timing of core course offerings
 
An inclusive climate enhances well-being, boosts research and academic engagement, and strengthens recruitment and retention efforts. When graduate students and postdocs experience an inclusive climate in their department or academic program, they are more engaged in the departmental/program affairs that drive research, teaching, and service missions. Additionally, an inclusive climate typically improves individual student success and productivity.

Key ingredients to starting a Grad Council in your department

  • Every department is unique
  • 1-2 grad student champions
  • Faculty/staff champion
  • Consistent and frequent requests for participation
  • Departmental timeline and commitment for responding
    • Improves motivation for student engagement
    • Trust that feedback leads to policy changes
  • Formal focus groups
  • Workshop: Design Session
  • TELL US WHAT YOU NEED! Email: [email protected]
 
Grad student talking to staff member with screen in the background
Department of Mechanical Engineering Grad Council member (right) shared successes and achievements, as well as challenges, with CSE Dean's Office staff during the Project Inclusion Open House in March 2025. Photo by Lee Penn
link, Reseach spaces; image, Two people in lab with masks looking at machine with glowing green light
In 2023, CSE launched a pilot program that empowers graduate students to actively participate in departmental decisions that impact them. The goal is to increase grad student retention and research productivity.