Grad Success Week
May 1–3, 2023
Grad Success Week offers three days of seminars and panels for graduate students. Network with fellow students, learn how to enhance your research and writing, or participate in wellness activities to maintain your wellbeing.
Kick off your summer successfully
Grad Success Week is designed to help graduate students overcome common obstacles during their studies, as well as provide useful tips and strategies for their research or writing projects. The event is open to graduate students in both course-based and thesis-based programs and undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing graduate studies.
By attending Grad Success Week, you'll find seminars and events that are focused on improving your research, writing and wellbeing. Topics include:
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Developing research proposals
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How to get published
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Presenting your research
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Graduate funding applications
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Project management and managing procrastination
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Navigating supervisor relationships
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...and more!
Session levels
Whether you're just beginning your degree and need help with grad school fundamentals, or you're closer to completing your studies and want more specific support, you're sure to find something that fits your needs. Sessions are coded with their levels (C, I or A) to make navigating the schedule easier.
Monday, May 1
Opening Event: Morning Mixer
9–10:20 a.m.
Start your day (and Grad Success Week) with a morning mixer, featuring a DIY hot chocolate bar.
Connect with your peers over activities that will introduce you to life design thinking, and pick up your GSW bingo card to win prizes!
Supported by Libraries and Cultural Resources.
Writing
Time: 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. MT
Platform: Online
Have you ever wanted to present your research at an academic research conference? Unsure of how to present your work to a broad audience? Wondering how you can increase interest in your research? Come participate in a workshop designed to help you answer these questions. Participants will be introduced to strategies for producing an engaging abstract that is appropriate for a broad audience. Topics include elements of an abstract, improving readability, and increasing research appeal.
Presented by: Kendell Heydon, PhD, Program Coordinator, Writing Support Services, Student Success Centre
Time: 1:20–2:50 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person (TFDL)
Are you interested in publishing during your graduate studies, but are not sure where to start? This workshop will introduce participants to strategies for choosing a suitable publication venue (with an emphasis on scholarly journals) to ensure a good fit, a broad reach, and a significant impact on their academic work.
Presented by: Christie Hurrell, MLIS, Associate Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Download the Getting Started with Publishing worksheet »
Time: 3–4:30 p.m. MT
Platform: Online
A literature review is more than a series of summaries. It presents a synthesis of current knowledge that connects to and informs your research. This workshop focuses on resources and strategies for researching, selecting, and analyzing literature. It will also demonstrate ways to organize your final review.
Presented by: Kendell Heydon, PhD, Program Coordinator, Writing Support Services, Student Success Centre
Time: 5–6:30 p.m. MT
Platform: Online
In this session, participants will explore the methodological differences between scoping, systematic and narrative reviews and the requirements and processes for conducting these different reviews.
Presented by: Diane Lorenzetti MLS, PhD, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Research
Time: 10:30 a.m.–noon MT
Platform: In-person (TFDL)
Good management of research data, whether made up of spreadsheets, interview transcripts, image collections, digital records, or other material, will be crucial to your career as a graduate student and researcher. This session will focus on how to manage your data before, during, and after your research, as well as describe how to use DMP Assistant, a Canadian online tool for creating data management plans.
Presented by: Heather Ganshorn, MLIS. Associate Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 12:10–1:10 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person
This session is on Reference Management Tools such as EndNote, Mendeley, etc. Reference Management Tools are used to manage bibliographies and references when writing essays and articles.
Presented by: Marc Stoeckle, Research & Learning Librarian, School of Creative & Performing Arts and School of Languages, Linguistics, Literatures & Cultures
Time: 1:20–2:50 p.m. MDT
Platform: In-person (TFDL 440A)
This hands-on session will walk students through the basics on how to use Tableau, a tool capable of creating a wide variety of data visualizations. Tableau supports a variety of data formats and through simple interactions allows fast exploration to find the visualization most suited to the data. Tableau offers their desktop software free to post-secondary students.
Presented by: John Brosz, PhD., Visualization Coordinator, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 3–4:30 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person
Being able to share your research with different types of audiences is a skill that takes preparation and practice. This workshop breaks down storytelling as a research communications strategy and explores four common formats with examples from recent UCalgary graduate students. This session will guide students through the process of identifying their audience and organizing their research elements for engaging presentations. Students are introduced to various presentation structures and tools, including the Message Box from Compass Science.
Presented by: Felicia Glatz, M.Ed, Learning and Design Specialist, My GradExperiene, Faculty of Graduate Studies
Time: 5–6:30 p.m. MT
Platform: Online
The R statistical data analysis language is a standard tool throughout academia. This workshop will provide a brief demonstration of the basics of loading data sets, preparing data for analysis, performing statistical analysis, and tools to measure the performance of an R code. Expanding on this, the workshop will introduce R at the Linux command line and how this relates to high-performance computing. Finally, the workshop will introduce the consulting services provided by Research Computing Services and the research workflow support provided by Research Dataflow Services, as well as the high-performance research computing cluster (ARC), secure data storage (SCDS), secure data analysis tools (DAT), and secure computing cluster (MARC).
Presented by: Tannistha Nandi, PhD, and Ian Percel, PhD, data scientists with Research Computing Services
Wellbeing
Time: 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. MT
Format: In-person
Many graduate students experience difficulties with their relationships with their supervisors at some point throughout graduate school. It can be very stressful when there is conflict within the student-supervisor relationship as this relationship can have a significant impact on well-being and academic progress. This session will provide students with tools and ideas for navigating these relationships, preventing problems, and reducing the impact of problems that currently exist.
Presented by:
- Kaitlin van Geel, MEd, RPsych, Counsellor (Instructor), Student Wellness Services
- Yan Zhang, PhD, Graduate Specialist, Faculty of Graduate Studies
- Marisa Norona, MA, Graduate Specialist, Faculty of Graduate Studies
Time: 12:10–1:10 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL 340F)
Are you interested in making things or experiencing virtual reality? Come and see demonstrations in the Taylor Family Digital Library’s Makerspace (TFDL 330) and VR Studio (TFDL 340F). In the MakerSpace, you can try out the 3D printer, Cricut, and button maker; in the VR Studio, you can put on a headset to try a game or simulation.
Presented by:
- John Brosz, PhD, Data & Visualization Curator, Libraries and Cultural Resources
- Julia Guy, MLIS, Digital Projects Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
- Jeremiah Baker, Emerging Technology Specialist, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 5–6:30 p.m. MT
Format: Zoom
This session will explore why good sleep, nutrition, and physical activity are the foundation of both physical and mental self-care. We will examine obstacles common among grad students and discuss tangible strategies for improving all three areas.
Presented by:
Bethany Savoy, MSW, RSW, Counsellor (Instructor), Student Wellness Services & Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Tuesday, May 2
Breakfast with the Dean
9–10:20 a.m.
Grab a hearty breakfast and connect with Dr. Robin Yates, the Dean and Vice-Provost of Graduate Studies. Dr. Yates will present an opening session, after which you can meet your peers during interactive and community-building activities.
Supported by the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
Writing
Time: 10:30 a.m.–noon MT
Platform: Online
Are you prepared to share your research progress or results in an academic setting? This workshop focuses on creating a clear and appealing visual and oral presentation that accurately represents your research findings without overwhelming your audience.
Presented by: Kendell Heydon, PhD, Program Coordinator, Writing Support Services, Student Success Centre
Time: 12–12:50 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person (TFDL)
This hands-on workshop will teach you five tips to make your documents more accessible and inclusive. Students are encouraged to bring their laptops to the session and have access to MS Word or PowerPoint. This session will take place in a sensory-friendly space with the lights dimmed. Sensory tools will be provided.
If you have any questions, please email Heather Thompson at heather.thompson1@ucalgary.ca
Presented by: Heather Thompson, Academic Strategist, Student Success Centre
Time: 1:10 – 2:40 p.m. MDT
Platform: Zoom
This workshop will provide attendees with the knowledge and skills necessary to craft an effective academic CV and resume. The workshop will cover topics such as formatting and tailoring the CV and resume for different job applications.
Presented by: Dr. Charlotte Anyango Ong’ang’a, Career Development Specialist, PhD students, Career Services
Time: 2:50–4:20 p.m. MT
Format: Zoom
In this workshop, graduate students will become familiar with the various sources of funding and how and when they can apply for scholarships, awards, and bursaries. Students will also obtain an overview of the criteria and the components that make a strong application. Moreover, a discussion regarding how reviewers assess students' applications will be provided. Examples will be provided on the competitive processes, including Vanier, Killam, and GAC applications.
Presented by:
- Donna-Marie McCafferty, Ph.D., Associate Dean (Scholarships), Faculty of Graduate Studies
- Hannah Dimmick, Ph.D. candidate, Faculty of Kinesiology, Vanier scholar, GLC co-leader
Research
Time: 11 a.m.–12 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
How do you stand out in a crowded field of researchers? How can you present a coherent picture of your research and its impact when applying for graduate or postgraduate positions? This session will introduce you to tools to create a researcher profile that highlights your expertise, as well as methods for tracking the impact of your work.
Presented by: Heather Ganshorn, MLIS, Research and Learning Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 12–1 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
Are you new to writing research proposals, or have you struggled with writing them in the past?
This workshop offers practical advice about how to work through the process of developing and finishing a research proposal. It includes tips on how to get started, how to work through difficulties and writer’s block, and how to solicit and receive helpful feedback on your proposal.
Presented by: Jared Secord, PhD, Coordinator of Scholars Programming, Student Success Centre
Time: 1:10–1:50 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
NVivo is a top-rated qualitative data analysis tool produced by QSR International. NVivo supports researchers who need to analyze text-based documents, surveys, and multimedia files. The University of Calgary has a license for NVivo, so it is available at no fee to students, staff, and faculty. This demo will show you the basics of how to get started.
Presented by: Jean Gomes, MA, MEd, senior institutional analyst with the Office of Institutional Analysis
Time: 2–2:40 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
Are you wanting to blend survey-based data into your research? Come participate in this workshop and learn how to leverage survey software that every UCalgary staff, student, and faculty already has a license for. You’ll learn how to create your account, how to create a survey, how to program questions, and see an introduction to some of the Qualtrics software features.
Presented by: Jean Gomes, MA, MEd, senior institutional analyst with the Office of Institutional Analysis
Time: 2:50–4:20 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
This session will cover the planning, development and refinement stages of writing a research proposal. We'll begin with the use of preliminary data, identifying potential collaborations and deciding on an area of investigation before clearly defining your research question; evaluating its scope, novelty and relevance; and demonstrating your suitability to carry out the study. A succinct and relevant literature review and an impactful but realistic statement of the work’s contribution to its field of study and society will also be covered. The session will conclude with examining issues pertinent to the refinement phase, such as accuracy, abstract structure, self-editing and incorporating feedback. Time will be allotted for questions from the audience.
Please note: writing proposals for scholarship applications will be covered in a separate workshop
Presented by: K. Quinn, PhD, Analyst, Planning and Reviews, Office of the Provost
Time: 5–6:30 p.m. MT
Format: Zoom
Do you have trouble finding a clear path through the forest of information that is a research article? Did you know that there’s more to an academic argument than logic? In this workshop, you’ll learn how to read for the rhetorical moves common to most research articles in Engineering, the Sciences and the Social Sciences. Using sample research articles, we’ll practice identifying and distinguishing between the research problem, background to the research problem, the importance of the research problem, research gap, methodological justifications, explanations for differences between present and past results, limitations on present results, and suggestions for further research.
Presented by: Dr. Paul Papin, Academic Development Specialist, Student Success Centre, University of Calgary
Wellbeing
Time: 10:30–12 p.m. MT
Delivery: In-person
Managing your time and avoiding procrastination are important parts of the grad school experience. Working independently as a grad student and in our new online learning environment are important skills. Unfortunately, procrastination is extraordinarily common and can create a series of negative consequences. During this workshop you will set priorities to get started on work, learn to manage your time, understand why you procrastinate, and learn strategies to keep motivated.
Presented by: Jeff Vander Werf, MSc, R.Psych. – Senior Counsellor/Academic Success Coordinator , Student Wellness Services - Counselling
Time: 12:15–12:55 p.m. MT
Delivery: In-person
Are you tired of sitting around all day? Need an energy boost? Join us for a 40-minute circuit class and prepare to move, sweat and have fun! This exercise class will include aerobic and strength movements done in a “circuit style,” meaning we will move through movements one after another. In just 40 minutes, you will get a full body workout, leaving you feeling more energized! All levels are welcome!
This session will be taught based on exercise programming developed through the Health & Wellness Lab at the University of Calgary.
Presented by: Julia Daun, PhD Candidate and Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Health & Wellness Lab, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary
Time: 1:10–2:40 p.m. MT
Delivery: In-person
Looking to find meaning and satisfaction in your career journey? Embrace the journey and join this workshop that presents tools for cultivating both a destination and journey mindset, especially during challenging times.
Presented by:
- Victoria Hirsche, MEd, Life Design and Work-integrated Learning Specialist, Centre for Career and Personal Development
- Matthew Geddes, Career Specialist, Centre for Career and Personal Development
Time: 2:50–4 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL 340F)
Are you interested in making things or experiencing virtual reality? Come and see demonstrations in the Taylor Family Digital Library’s Makerspace (TFDL 330) and VR Studio (TFDL 340F). In the MakerSpace, you can try out the 3D printer, Cricut, and button maker; in the VR Studio, you can put on a headset to try a game or simulation.
Presented by:
- John Brosz, PhD, Data & Visualization Curator, Libraries and Cultural Resources
- Julia Guy, MLIS, Digital Projects Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
- Jeremiah Baker, Emerging Technology Specialist, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 5–6:30 p.m. MT
Delivery: Zoom
This workshop explores how to tap into the physiological stress response as a resource by understanding the relationship between the stress response, mindset, and performance. The workshop will focus on experiences of performance situations such as public speaking and dissertation/thesis defenses.
Presented by: J. Stewart, MA, MSW, RSW, Counsellor (Instructor) Student Wellness Services
Wednesday, May 3
Let the good times grow
2:50–4:30 p.m.
Get creative with your peers by decorating your very own plant pot that you can take home and nurture. You can also network with our speakers from the last three days, including subject librarians, research and writing and academic support staff.
Supported by Libraries and Cultural Resources.
Writing
Time: 10:10–11:40 a.m. MT
Platform: In-person (TFDL)
In this session, students will learn how to create a sensory-friendly toolkit by exploring their sensory preferences. Topics will include understanding sensory processing, exploring needs , and what effects different sensory environments may have on your learning. Students will be able to develop strategies to assist with this important topic to assist in their time studying at the university. This session will take place in a sensory-friendly space with the lights dimmed. Sensory tools will be provided.
If you have any questions, please send an email to heather.thompson1@ucalgary.ca
Presented by: Heather Thompson, Academic Strategist, Student Success Centre
Time: 12–12:30 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person
Academic posters are effective research communication and networking tools common to conferences. Despite the cancellation of many in-person conferences this season, creating an effective poster is a necessary academic skill. This session will cover the basics of creating and presenting them.
Presented by: Jennifer Lee, BSc, MISt, Collections Librarian, Health Knowledge Network Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources (she/her/hers)
Time: 1:10–2:40 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person
Are you interested in publishing in a peer-reviewed journal during your graduate studies, but are not sure where to start? This workshop will introduce participants to the peer-review process and strategies for success as an author and as a reviewer within the peer-review process.
Presented by: Kate Cawthorn, MLIS, Assistant Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Research
Time: 10:10 – 11:10 a.m. MT
Platform: In-person (TFDL)
LaTex is an open-source typesetting program that produces professional documents and PDF files. In this demonstration, we present the basics of using LaTeX and Overleaf, a great tool for formatting your thesis and bibliographies. This session will introduce the overleaf interface and provide simple examples of how to use LaTeX.
Presented by:
- Jennifer Lee, MISt, Collections Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
- John Brosz, PhD, Data Visualization Coordinator, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 12:10–1 p.m. MT
Platform: In-person (TFDL)
Literature reviews are a common task in graduate work, either as part of the background section of a larger paper/thesis or as a standalone publication. This session will provide tips and resources for planning, researching, and managing your literature for a literature review.
Presented by: Heather Ganshorn, MLIS. Associate Librarian, Libraries and Cultural Resources
Time: 1:20–2:50 p.m. MT
Platform: Online
Applying project management principles to your dissertation can help you to: avoid conflict with your supervisor, reduce procrastination, manage feelings of being overwhelmed, and increase your motivation.
Presented by: Dr. Paul Papin, Academic Development Specialist, Student Success Centre, University of Calgary
Wellbeing
Time: 10:10–11:40 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
Do you sometimes wonder how you got into graduate school? If you do, you might be facing Imposter Syndrome. Come participate in this workshop that aims to help you become more accurate and compassionate about your strengths and areas of development during your graduate school journey.
Presented by: Edwin Morales, MSW, RSW, Associate Director/Counsellor (Instructor), Student Wellness Counselling
Time: 12–1 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
As an international student, communicating confidently will help you achieve your career goals in Canada. Learn how to demonstrate confidence when communicating and identify the behaviours that you can change and improve on over time. Tips and resources on how to communicate fluently and clearly will be provided.
Presented by: Liliana Gonzalez, MC BSc, Career Development Specialist, International Students, Career Services
Time: 1:10–2:40 p.m. MT
Format: In-person (TFDL)
If you want to find more clarity about what you want your life to look like, this session could be for you! This session will offer practical tools and reflection questions to help students explore their values and goals. We will also discuss strategies for building healthy habits – the building blocks for turning a vision into a reality.
Presented by: Kaitlin van Geel, MEd, RPsych, Counsellor (Instructor), Student Wellness Services
Download: Bull's Eye, Common Values, Interpersonal, Smart Goals & 3 Values