GradConnect: NIU Graduate Student Announcements

October 2025

Northern Illinois University Announcement
 

ACADEMIC SUCCESS 

Thesis and Dissertation Formatting 
October 1, 15, 29, 4:00 to 4:45 PM 
Virtual 

All NIU theses and dissertations must be formatted according to the guidelines on the Thesis and Dissertation Office website. Attend this short virtual presentation to get an overview of the formatting requirements for these important documents. Please visit the Graduate School Calendar and register by date for a session. 

Zotero For Citation Management Basics 
October 14, 2 to 3 PM 
Virtual 

In this webinar, you will learn the basics of using the Reference Management Software Zotero to organize your research. This is for individuals who are not familiar or have little experience with Zotero. Attendees are encouraged to download Zotero prior to the webinar. 

AI Tools for Research and Productivity 
October 20, 3 to 4 PM 
Virtual 

This interactive workshop will introduce participants to AI tools that support each step of the research process, from finding and managing sources for a literature review to organizing research notes and streamlining tasks. Attendees will also discuss ethical considerations when using AI tools and learn practical strategies to save time and stay organized as they conduct research and write.  

Using AI to Strengthen Ideas and Structure in Graduate Writing 
October 21, 4:30 to 5:30 PM  
Virtual 

When used ethically and critically, generative AI tools can help graduate writers clarify their structure, refine their argument, and generate outlines or transitions. This workshop introduces AI-assisted writing strategies that support graduate students’ academic integrity and active learning. Participants will explore example prompts and learn to critically evaluate AI outputs to improve their own work.  

  • Open to students at all stages of writing.  
  • Designed to model thoughtful and transparent AI use aligned with NIU policy.  

Visit the Graduate School calendar to register for this event! 

Zotero Note-Taking and Group Libraries 
October 28, 2 to 3 PM 
Virtual 

In this advanced session you will learn how to take notes on items in your Zotero library and create and manage group libraries for collaborating on research. Users should have a basic familiarity with Zotero and should have it installed on their personal device. 

 

CAREER PREPARATION 

How to Stand Out in an AI-Driven Job Market 
October 1, 1 to 1:30 PM 
Virtual 

Generative-AI tools have made it easy for job seekers to churn out nearly identical resumes and application materials. As a result, recruiters are now also inundated with hundreds of generic resumes that look and sound the same. They skim over AI-written submissions, and the odds of your resume being picked out of the pile are slim.  

So, how do you stand out in an AI-Driven job market?  

By taking a different approach. You’ll learn:  

  • The pitfalls of using AI in your job search.  
  • What makes you stand out in a hyper-competitive job market.  
  • Proven job search strategies that master’s students use to land interviews.  
  • Productive ways for using AI in your job search without losing your authentic voice or competitive edge.  

Register to attend: https://institutions.beyondgradschool.com/webinar-aidriven-job-market/  

LinkedIn and Personal Branding Workshop  
October 1, 5 to 6 PM 
Virtual 

Learn the basics of personal branding - how to develop, communicate, and grow your brand. This workshop will also guide you through top tips for building a standout LinkedIn Profile. You will be introduced to Quinncia, NIU Career Services’ new AI-powered tool that provides personalized feedback on your LinkedIn profile. Perfect for students at any stage of their career journey that are ready to share their story. 

Fall 2025 All-Majors Internship and Job Fair
October 8, 1 to 4:30 PM
Convocation Center

NIU Career Services' Fall 2025 All-Majors Internship and Job Fair provides an opportunity to connect with employers for internships, and full-time, part-time and student employment positions. Our All-Majors Internship and Job Fair is open to undergraduates, graduating seniors, graduate students, alumni and non-NIU candidates. Our fair is free for all candidates to attend and registration is not required.

Students:

  • This career fair is Business Passport, Honors Engaged and Career Launchpad-approved.
  • Free LinkedIn professional headshots will be available.
  • Bring plenty of copies of your résumé (a printer is not available).
  • Check out our tips for attending a career and Internship fair. 

You Went to a Career Fair, Now What? 
October 10, 12 to 1 PM 
Virtual 

Don't let your career fair efforts end with a handshake! This workshop will teach you how to stand out by perfecting the art of the follow-up, leveraging your LinkedIn profile, and using NIU's top career resources to turn conversations into job opportunities. You'll leave with a clear, actionable plan to transform your initial introductions into meaningful professional relationships. 

Why Recruiters Are Ignoring You 
October 15, 1 to 1:30 PM 
Virtual 

If you’re an early-career professional reaching out to recruiters on LinkedIn, you might find that your messages often go unanswered. Why are recruiters ignoring you?  

The truth is, in the age of AI recruiters often receive hundreds of messages on LinkedIn. And they will respond to very few of them.  

Join Beyond Graduate School for this webinar on why recruiters ignore outreach from job seekers and what you can do about it. This webinar is designed specifically for master’s students who are early career professionals (less than 5 years of work experience). During the webinar you’ll learn:  

  • Why recruiters ignore most messages they receive.  
  • What you should do as a job seeker looking to connect with recruiters and hiring managers.  
  • The most effective use of your time as a job seeker on LinkedIn and growing your network strategically.  

Register to attend: https://institutions.beyondgradschool.com/webinar-recruiters/  

Graduate and Professional School Fair  
October 28, 5:30 to 7:30 PM 
Holmes Student Center, Duke Ellington Ballroom 

Students, alumni, and community members who are interested in finding out more about graduate and professional schools can gather information and visit with recruiters from a variety of graduate and professional school programs. There is no fee to attend, and preregistration is not required; 40-plus graduate and professional schools will be represented, including many from NIU. View the List of Programs Attending - Download our new Career Fair Plus app through this Smart Link. 

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT  

Responsible Conduct of Research: Human Subjects Research 
October 1, 12 to 12:50 PM 
Virtual 

Practical information about conducting research that involves human subjects. The opportunity to ask questions about the IRB process will be available. Register here! 

History of the Book Seminar Series 
October 2, 12 to 1:30 PM 
Rare Books and Special Collections, Founders Memorial Library, room 403 

The History of the Book is an interdisciplinary realm of study that includes printing and publishing, materials and technologies of the book, the book trade, reading and readers, and collectors and collections, as well as library and information history. Contact: Dr. Beth McGowan bmcgowan@niu.edu 

Northern Exposure: Where Curiosity Meets Research 
12 to 1 PM  
71 North Partnership Studio, Founders Memorial Library 

The 71 North Partnership Studio is excited to launch Northern Exposure, a new weekly series showcasing NIU faculty research in a relaxed, conversational setting. Designed to highlight innovative work, spark interdisciplinary dialogue, and inspire new collaborations across campus, Northern Exposure invites everyone to bring their curiosity and join the conversation. 

10/3 – Megan Brown, PhD: Microplastics: Small Size, Big Problems 
10/10 – Nathan Stansell, PhD: Glaciers and Climate Change in the Tropical Andes 
10/17 – Angela Grippo, PhD: The Heart-Brain Connection: How Coping with Stress Promotes Health
10/24 – Roland Winkler, PhD: Altermagnets: A New Type of Magnetism Emerges 
10/31 – David Gunkel, PhD: Person, Thing, Robot OR LLM 101: A Critical Introduction to Large Language 

Energizing Minds: Strategies for Boosting Cognitive Engagement in the Classroom 
October 7, 11 AM to 12 PM 
Virtual 

Cognitive engagement is the mental effort students invest in mastering content, creating an inspiring and dynamic classroom. It embodies perseverance, reflection, and sharing insights that ignite a passion for learning. Join our workshop to discover techniques that enhance cognitive engagement and build a vibrant classroom community. Secure your spot today and inspire your students to reach their full potential! Advance registration required. Register Now! 

Desert and Dessert: A Conversation on Food 
October 8, 1 to 3 PM  
Holmes Student Center, Capitol Room 

Did you know DeKalb is considered a food desert? Join us for dessert and dialogue as we explore what it means to live in a food desert and the environmental and social impacts of limited food access. Learn about the long-term effects of food insecurity, why it matters, and the resources NIU offers to support students navigating these challenges. 

Responsible Conduct of Research: Conflicts of Interest 
October 9, 12 to 12:50 PM  
Virtual 

How to disclose any conflict of interest that you may encounter as a researcher whether in graduate school or in your professional career. Come and learn how to disclose conflicts of interest and how to eliminate, mitigate, and manage them. Register here! 

574 Nations Strong: Indigenous Resistance and Survival 
October 13, 2 to 4 PM 
Holmes Student Center, Capital Room 

Join us for a workshop that takes a critical look at the colonial history of the United States through the framework of settler colonialism. Together, we’ll explore how colonial systems were built, how they continue to shape life for Native communities, and the ways Indigenous resistance and activism have pushed back against these structures across time. We’ll also learn about the 574 federally recognized tribes, their distinct identities, and the rise of pan-tribal activism past and present. This session invites participants to challenge familiar narratives of “discovery” and “founding” and engage with a more honest and inclusive history of America. 

Inclusive Group Work: Fostering Teamwork among Diverse Identities 
October 15, 11 AM to 12 PM 
Virtual 

Collaborating effectively is an essential skill for achieving success in the workplace. Collaborative projects help students develop important interpersonal skills, such as communication and conflict resolution. Nevertheless, some students may feel uneasy working alongside others who have different backgrounds and perspectives. To foster trust and establish belonging, students need to comprehend their role within the group and how they can contribute to achieving its goals. This workshop will help you identify the characteristics of inclusive and collaborative group assignments and examine fair, equitable grading practices for group projects. Advance registration required. Register Now! 

Responsible Conduct of Research: Collaborative Research 
October 15, 12 to 12:50 PM 
Virtual 

Learn key strategies for effective research collaboration as well as inherent challenges. No matter your current level of research collaboration, this workshop is designed to provide practical information. Register here! 

Teaching Multilingual Learners: Lowering Barriers to Success 
October 22, 11 AM to 12 PM 
Virtual 

In a globalized higher education system, institutions must support multilingual learners by addressing language barriers and unfamiliar academic norms. This workshop aims to help educators support multilingual learners by addressing cultural nuances and language barriers. It will cover strategies for success, including instructional techniques and the use of digital literacy and AI for inclusion. Additionally, the workshop will discuss ethical considerations and challenges of using AI and technology to democratize English for multilingual learners. Advance registration required. Register Now! 

Supporting Neurodiverse Students in the Classroom 
October 24, 10 to 11 AM 
Virtual 

The number of students diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions has increased significantly in the last decade, which means that traditional methods of teaching and grading may not be the most effective ways for students to learn. This workshop is designed for educators to enhance their understanding of neurodiversity and learn practical skills that will help create an inclusive learning environment for neurodiverse students. Together, we will think critically about the varying needs of neurodiverse students and how we can create environments that support their learning instead of overlooking or punishing them. Advance registration required. Register Now! 

Meeting the Needs of Students with Disabilities 
October 31, 2 to 3 PM 
Virtual 

When courses aren’t created with students with disabilities in mind, educators may be unprepared for accommodating them. Designing your course with accessible features built in can help you avoid scrambling to meet students' needs. Accessible course design also ensures all of your students can access content and participate in class without being shamed for their needs. In this workshop, we will discuss how to create accessible course materials, as well as class policies and coursework that take into account students' needs. Advance registration required. Register Now! 

 

ENGAGEMENT AND WELLNESS 

Latino Heritage Month 

Events will run though October 18. Visit the Latino Resource Center for all event information!  

The Umoja Mentoring Initiative 

The Center for Black Studies is seeking graduate students interested in mentoring undergraduate students as part of the Umoja Mentoring Initiative. For more information and to sign up, visit the Center for Black Studies website! 

2025 Cultural Sisterhood Summit: "From Rage to Revolution: Women of Culture and Connection" 
October 17, 9 AM to 4 PM 

This year's theme for the summit blends both scholarship, research, and personal connections that will affirm, connect, and empower all students who wish to learn more about or who identify with femininity and/or womanhood. The theme - From Rage to Revolution: Women of Culture and Connection - centers the experiences of those who are racially/ethnically underrepresented through sessions lead by faculty, staff, and students. The Gender and Sexuality Resource Center invites all students - both undergraduate and graduate - to participate in this engaging opportunity for personal, academic, and social connection through the lens of Sisterhood. Lunch provided. Email gsrc@niu.edu for more information. Registration is live; use this link to register https://go.niu.edu/2025CSS 

Reclaiming Space: Making Corn Husk Dolls 
October 23, 3 to 5 PM 
Staff Lounge, Founders Memorial Library 

Join us for a hands-on workshop led by Nicole Holland (Oneida) where participants will learn to create traditional corn husk dolls. Through storytelling and guided instruction, attendees will explore the importance of craft, tradition, and connection to land and heritage. No experience necessary—just come ready to learn and create in a welcoming, reflective space. All materials provided. Space is limited. Participants should anticipate attending for the full 2 hours and arrive on time if they would like to complete their doll. 

Chilling with Chase  
Oct 1, Oct 22, Oct 29, Nov 19, Dec 3 
1 to 2 PM 
OASIS, HSC 

Come take a break from your day and chill with our therapy dog Chase and his friends!  

Crafting Connections 
Mondays, 6 to 7 PM 
HSC 250 

Weekly arts and craft workshop to make friends and de-stress. 

Procrastination Cafe 
Tuesdays, 5 to 7 PM 
HSC Ellington's 

Dedicated space for students to do their work and get prizes for finishing it. 

Group and Individual Therapy 

Students can call Counseling and Consultation Services to sign up for one of our groups today. For more information on programs and events visit here.  

 

REMINDERS

Thesis or Dissertation Defenses  

October is the last month for thesis or dissertation oral defenses for students planning to graduate in December. Defense requests are due by October 10. Forms can be found on the Student Forms and Resources webpage.

Graduation Information 

Have you met all your degree requirements? If you are a Fall 2025 graduation candidate, the Graduate Records & Enrollment Team will be sending you an initial audit letter via email. This letter will indicate items or deficiencies that must be remedied before your degree can be conferred. Check your inbox for your audit letter, and if you have questions, contact your advisor as soon as possible.   

The Graduate School Commencement Ceremony is on December 13. Mark your calendars! Summer 2025 graduates and Fall 2025 graduation candidates will be invited to participate in the December commencement ceremony via email from the Provost in the coming weeks. This invitation will include information on how to RSVP, get tickets, and order regalia. Students can also check the commencement website for additional information. 

 

GRADUATE HUSKIE SPOTLIGHT

Jefferson Kiteme
Instructional technology graduate student

I'm currently pursuing a Master of Science in Education in instructional technology after recently finishing my Master of Business Administration (global MBA) here at NIU in the fall of 2024. I chose these areas because I’m passionate about how strategy, innovation and technology can create positive change, whether in education, business or beyond. My goal is to help build solutions that have a real impact.

Learn more.

This message has been approved for distribution by the appropriate NIU party and is distributed by the Division of Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communications. NIU Mass Email Policy.

Northern Illinois University's vision is to be an engine for innovation to advance social mobility; promote personal, professional and intellectual growth; and transform the world through research, artistry, teaching and outreach. Learn more about NIU’s vision, mission and values.

Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn YouTube