Stanford
Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education

Welcome to Stanford!

Vice Provosts Ken Goodson and Michele Rasmussen welcome you to the start of your Stanford graduate journey.
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Vice Provost Ken Goodson, Vice Provost Michele Rasmussen

Dear Incoming Graduate Student,

Welcome to the start of your graduate studies at Stanford! You are joining a vibrant and diverse graduate community of over 9,600 graduate students across seven distinguished schools. We are excited that you have chosen Stanford for the next chapter of your academic and professional journey.

Stanford offers extensive resources for your intellectual and personal development, as well as countless collaborative opportunities with fellow students and faculty. We encourage you to explore new opportunities and share your interests, passions, and experience with our Stanford community as you deepen your expertise, nurture your creativity, and prepare for your future. 

In close collaboration with your school and degree program, the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate of Education and the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs are dedicated to your success and well-being during your studies. In addition, further below are some actions to take and information to review before you arrive on campus.

  • The Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education (VPGE) offers guidance and support on a variety of topics for students and offers fellowships and funding opportunities as well as professional development resources. VPGE works collaboratively with your programs and schools to ensure you are positioned for academic success.
  • The Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs (VPSA) includes a wide range of support, including medical and mental health services, seven campus community centers, career education, student organizations, immigration/visa services, disability accommodations, the registrar, and the Graduate Life Office.

Academic and Professional Development

New Student Resources

Next To-Dos

  • Stay Updated on Your Degree Program: Review your degree program’s info on program-specific orientations, class start dates, orientation, and advising expectations.
  • Title IX Training: Complete Stanford’s Title IX training, which addresses harassment and discrimination prevention and provides tools for responding to and reporting such behavior.
  • Update Your Pronouns (optional): Pronouns appear on class rosters and on Canvas. You can view and update your pronouns in Axess.

Student Support Services

  • Bechtel International Center: Reach out to Bechtel if you have visa-related or immigration-related questions.
  • Student Services Center: The SSC is Stanford’s one-stop student resource to clarify academic policy and resolve issues. The SSC works with you to develop student success strategies by connecting you to opportunities and resources available at Stanford.
  • Well-Being Resources: Explore the many mental health and well-being resources available to you, including peer counselors, well-being coaches, and the confidential support team.

 

During your time at Stanford you will find many who are eager to offer guidance and support. Our university community, including our dedicated staff, is committed to supporting your well-being and success.

We hope that you will join VPGE at Meet VPGE on Tuesday, September 16th from 3:00 – 5:00 PM at Lomita Mall during New Graduate Student Orientation. We are thrilled to welcome you to graduate and professional studies at Stanford!

With best wishes, 

Kenneth E. Goodson
Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs
Davies Family Provostial Professor
Professor of Mechanical Engineering and, by courtesy, Materials Science and Engineering

Michele A. Rasmussen
Vice Provost for Student Affairs

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