Grad Accelerator Professional Development Program
The Grad Accelerator Professional Development Program is a new initiative from the Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs (GEPA) office, built for graduate students in the School of Arts & Sciences and the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences. It brings together workshops, trainings, consultations, and events into one centralized, easy-to-navigate environment, so you can build real skills, track your growth, and connect with people and opportunities across URochester.
Whether you're just starting your graduate journey or nearing the finish line, the program meets you where you are and helps you move forward with intention.
Why Participate
- Get ahead on your professional growth. Curated workshops, trainings, and consultations designed specifically for grad students. No need to hunt across campus for resources.
- Build a personalized record. Reflect on the skills you're building (or want to build) and create a record of your development you can point to later, for job searches, fellowships, or your own growth.
- Make real connections. Access 1:1 career consultations and networking opportunities that help you grow your professional circle at URochester and beyond.
- Flexible by design. Choose the opportunities that fit your goals and schedule, there's no one-size-fits-all path, and no deadline pressure.
Upon Completion
Participation comes with more than just professional growth! Students who complete the program will also have access to:
- Exclusive University of Rochester swag for completing the program
- Community meet-ups to connect with fellow participants and staff to help you
- Personalized alumni and career support, including 1:1 career consultations and mentorship opportunities with guidance tailored to your goals
- Experience and skills to put on your Resume/CV and LinkedIn profile
How to Join
Getting Started is Simple
Log in to the Campus Community Connection (CCC) with your NetID and complete the online application form.
Once you have been accepted into the program, you will receive a welcome email and after that you can: explore the checklist and skill domain areas to browse the available opportunities; complete activities at your own pace; and submit a short reflection form as you go.
From the Experience
The Grad Accelerator Program was a highlight of my semester. It gave me the perfect motivation to step out of the lab, engage more deeply with campus activities, and build meaningful connections across the university.
AdelineMaster's student in Optics 
It was an incredibly rewarding experience. It helped me navigate campus resources and connected me with peers sharing similar interests. One of the most memorable events was Graduate Research Day. Presenting my research poster allowed me to discuss my work with experts and connect ideas within the community.
SophusPhD student in mathematics 
What I really liked about the program was that it introduced me to so many areas for growth, from professional development and career networking to wellness and leadership. It gave me a clear roadmap of opportunities to pursue during my PhD while also helping me connect with graduate students across the university.
KarishmaPhD student in chemistry
Frequently Asked Questions
How is my progress tracked?
Your activity is tracked through the University of Rochester’s platform called the “Campus Community Connection” or CCC. All graduate students have access to this platform and can login using your NetID and password. As you complete opportunities in each skill domain, you'll submit a reflection form, which our office reviews and marks complete. Once you have completed all mandatory checklist items and at least 3 activities under each skill domain, you will be “finished” with the program- but you are always welcome and encouraged to keep going with your checklist for further professional development.
Is this program tied to academic credit or require me to register for classes?
No, there is no academic credit associated with this program and it is completely optional to participate.
Who's eligible to apply?
All Master's and PhD students in the School of Arts & Sciences and the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences are eligible to participate.
Are there any costs or fees associated with this program?
No. You will have free access to the CCC and none of the items on the checklists involve a fee.
How long does the program take?
Most participants can complete the program over about two semesters, but the pace is really up to you. There's no strict timeline, you can move as quickly or as gradually as fits your schedule, and the program will continue to grow and evolve over the years ahead.
Is there a deadline to join?
No. You can join anytime and move through the program at your own pace. In order to be eligible for incentives, you must join and complete the program before you graduate from the University of Rochester.