The Graduate Student Symposium (GSS) is a symposium designed to support masters-level graduate students by providing informational workshops, mentoring opportunities, and networking with professionals and peers.

The symposium provides sessions on a variety of topics to assist with professional development and the transition from graduate student to professional.

The Graduate Student Symposium is open and relevant for current Masters’ students, whether you are currently a graduate student working in the field or one that desires that experience in the future. During the Graduate Symposium, masters participants will gain an understanding of the field of Orientation, Transition, & Retention.

Objectives

  • Have a stronger understanding on the purpose, function, and professional expectations of orientation, transition, and retention including the role that orientation, transition, and retention programs serve and the ethical standards of NODA (Theoretical and institutional knowledge/Curriculum and Content Development).
  • Establish a professional philosophy and self-awareness founded on knowledge-building experiences with peers and intentional conversations facilitated by current professionals (Diversity, Inclusion, Access/Organization and Leadership). Develop appropriate networking skills and discuss professional development opportunities within the Association (Organization and Leadership).
  • Have a stronger understanding of how to be successful in the job search process within the field (Organization and Leadership).

Institute Faculty

Co-Lead Faculty

Justin Gambone
GSS Co-Lead Faculty
Associate Director for Orientation, Transition, & Family Programs (Coastal Carolina)
Graduate Institution: West Chester University of PA

Co-Lead Faculty

Jared Logan
GSS Co-Lead Faculty
Assistant Director for Orientation Logistics (University of South Carolina)
Graduate Institution: Clemson University

Faculty

Brittney Beck
Director, Orientation and Transition Programs (Stephen F. Austin State University)
Graduate Institution: Stephen F. Austin State University

Faculty

Jacob Germann
Program Coordinator of Orientation (University of Minnesota-Duluth)
Graduate Institution: Florida International University

Faculty

Matthew Boudreaux
Assistant Director for Orientation Programs (Clemson University)
Graduate Institution: University University of Mississippi

Faculty

Shaun Holloway
Coordinator, Orientation & New Student Programs (University of North Texas)
Graduate Institution: University University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Faculty

Sophie Stewart
  Assistant Director, Orientation & Transition (Xavier University)
Graduate Institution: Indiana University

Faculty

Gail DeShields
  Coordinator of New Student and Family Programs (Towson University)
Graduate Institution: Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)

Faculty

Liz Vigil
  Associate Director of Orientation and Special Programs (University of Alabama)
Graduate Institution: New Mexico State University

Faculty

Shane Reilly
  Assistant Director of Civic Engagement & Lula Bell’s (Davidson University)
Graduate Institution: University of Tennessee-Knoxville