The Graduate StUDent Connect Program is designed to help new
graduate students successfully transition into their studies at UD,
connect them with other UD graduate students and foster a
greater sense of community among graduate students on campus.
The Connect program employs a "cluster model" which places
students into small cluster groups led by a returning graduate
student—a Graduate Ambassador.
UD's Graduate Ambassadors help with connecting potential and
new students and their families to the University community,
answering questions about the University and life as a graduate
student, and promoting the latest advances and achievements of
UD graduate students.
Graduate Ambassadors serve as a resource to support any needs
and concerns that arise among the new students within their
cluster during the transition period. Ambassadors also provide
guidance to students in the cluster group as needed, as well as
plan and take part in social networking activities for the group
periodically throughout the semester, sponsored by UD's Office of
Graduate and Professional Education.
Graduate Ambassadors complete training that includes serving
as mentors and peer-advisors to new students, facilitating
connections between new and returning graduate students,
promoting university services and departmental activities and
reflecting on their experiences as mentors.