Transition Peer Mentoring Program
Your graduate journey starts with community.
Program Description
The Transition Peer Mentoring Program is designed to help incoming Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences students successfully navigate the transition into graduate school. Through one-on-one peer mentoring and facilitated group programming, incoming students gain practical insights, build meaningful connections, and become familiar with the people and resources that support success throughout graduate training.
Guided by our mission to provide incoming students with peer insights to build community and connect with resources, the program helps normalize the challenges of graduate school while fostering a strong sense of belonging within the GSBS community.
Recommended Participants
All newly matriculating MS and PhD students entering the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.
Program Format
Program Run Length: Fall semester (August–December)
Mentoring Pairs: Incoming students are paired with a current GSBS student mentor based on shared academic interests or other common experiences whenever possible. Mentoring pairs are encouraged to connect regularly throughout the semester with a suggestion monthly meeting.
Program Socials: Mentees and mentors are invited to attend social sessions throughout the fall semester. Socials will be every other month in August (kick-off session), October, and December. The purpose of the socials is to provide a facilitated mentoring program perspective and offer opportunities for group mentorship.
Program Dates: Students who register as interested mentees/mentors will receive program dates and mentor matches prior to the start of the fall semester.
DATES FOR FALL 2026
| Social # 1 | Wed. Aug 26 | 4:00 - 5:00 pm |
| Social # 2 | Wed. Oct 14 | 4:00 - 5:00 pm |
| Social # 3 | Wed. Dec 2 | 4:00 - 5:00 pm |
Program Focus Areas
Throughout the semester, participants explore topics related to a successful transition into graduate school, including:
- Building community and developing a sense of belonging
- Understanding the expectations and culture of graduate education
- Navigating mentoring relationships and laboratory environments
- Managing stress, uncertainty, and imposter feelings
- Connecting with campus resources and student support services
- Developing habits that promote academic success and personal well-being
Program Objectives
By the end of the program, participants will:
- Build supportive relationships with current GSBS students and fellow incoming classmates.
- Develop confidence in navigating the academic, professional, and social expectations of graduate school.
- Gain practical strategies for managing common challenges experienced during the first semester.
- Increase awareness and utilization of campus resources that support student success and well-being.
- Feel connected to the GSBS community and supported throughout their transition into graduate education.
Why It Matters
The transition into graduate school is one of the most significant adjustments in a student's academic journey. While every student's experience is unique, many encounter similar questions, challenges, and moments of uncertainty.
The Transition Peer Mentoring Program provides a welcoming community where incoming students can learn from experienced peers who have recently navigated these same experiences. By fostering supportive relationships early, the program helps reduce feelings of isolation, promotes student well-being, and lays the foundation for long-term success in graduate school.