The Community of Scholars (COS) Campus Visit Program introduces prospective students from populations underrepresented in graduate education to their admitting graduate programs, to peers among prospective students in other units, and to current Illinois graduate students across campus. These interactions over the three day period enable admitted students to gain a stronger sense of the dynamic community of underrepresented scholars on our campus.
By drawing on Illinois faculty and graduate students, visiting students have the opportunity to attend small group research presentations in their general areas of interest. We believe this collegial environment creates opportunities for students to build friendships and develop a sense of community prior to matriculation.
Often underrepresented students feel isolated in programs where very few faculty or fellow students have similar experiences or backgrounds. This campuswide recruitment event allows prospective students to meet, talk, and interact with other students from underrepresented backgrounds who are also considering attending Illinois. In addition, COS participants have the opportunity to meet with current graduate students from underrepresented populations to ask about research, departmental practices, and campus climate. In this way, COS enables visiting students to see themselves as members of a larger community of scholars before enrolling.
We hope this shared experience will influence positively the decision-making process and enhance a collective spirit and enthusiasm for our campus.
2017 Community of Scholars Schedule of Events
If you have questions about the Community of Scholars Campus Visit Program, please contact [email protected].