Building the community: Graduate Student Orientation

Creating a greater culture of interaction between faculty and graduate students, the Graduate Student Orientation began the school year with a community-centered atmosphere. Held on August 25 in Morgan Hall, the orientation featured presentations from faculty members and dinner for attendees. Approximately 21 graduate students joined the IMET faculty for valuable preparatory suggestions and announcements for the 2009-2010 academic terms.

By implementing a number of new changes and developing programs in the department, new IMET Department Chair Dr. Joseph Chen hopes to improve student competency in various skills outside the direct reach of the classroom. The Graduate Student Orientation introduced new programs such as the Learning Community, the first Lean course, and student workshops, which are seminars aiming to teach students more in-depth information about Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, teamwork and communication skills, and interview and job search tips. The Graduate Student Orientation will be tailored to the professional needs of IMET students.