On Tuesday, August 25 2020, the University of Delaware welcomed incoming graduate students with opening remarks from President Dennis Assanis and Inaugural Dean of the Graduate College Lou Rossi, and the presentation of important information and updates regarding student academic policy, library resources, and health. Student leaders from the Graduate Student Government and other important groups across campus also offered advice to incoming students based on their personal experiences at UD.

Following the general session, the Graduate College hosted a “UD’s World of Opportunities,” a series of breakout sessions led by faculty panelists geared towards providing more program-specific information to students in three different areas: (1) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, (2) Arts, Humanities, Education and Social Sciences, and (3) Master’s and Professional Students. UD experts offered students advice on how to succeed during their first semester of graduate school and throughout their time at UD. Some of the general topics discussed by the faculty included expectations, challenges, research and grant opportunities, and how to build a relationship with your advisor and department.