Workshops & Events
Workshops hosted by the Graduate Center are open to the entire CSULB campus community, including undergraduate and graduate students, as well as the general public. So, if you are interested in a workshop, please register below.
Spring 2025
January
When: Tuesday, January 28, 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Where: LIB 201
Description: Stuck on your graduate school statement of purpose (SOP)? We got you covered! This interactive workshop will cover:
- Structure of an SOP.
- How to craft your experiences in an engaging way.
- How to align your SOP to each school you are applying to.
Presenter: Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu)
Register for Writing a Statement of Purpose for Graduate School.
When: Wednesday, January 29, 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Where: The Graduate Center (University Library 214)
Description: Graduate Studies invites you to stop in to explore the CSULB Graduate Center on the second floor of the Library and learn about the resources available to you as a graduate student at CSULB. At the event, you can tour the Center, explore study and meeting spaces, and learn about funding opportunities, mentorship, writing support and financial assistance for conference travel. Representatives from key resources on campus, such as CAPS, BMAC, Basic Needs, and the Financial Aid Office, will also be present to network with students and answer questions. In addition, a student photographer will be taking free professional “head-shot” photos for those interested.
No need to register–just show up!
February
When: Tuesday, February 4, 3:00 PM - 4PM
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Are you completing a thesis or research project that involves human participants/subjects? If so, you will need to obtain Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval before you start your research. The IRB ensures that you are doing everything in your power to protect the rights of research participants and reduce risks to your participants’ safety and well-being. They confirm that your research will be conducted ethically and responsibly. This workshop will guide you through the IRB application and submission processes and provide strategies to safeguard your participants.
Presenter: Dr. Dina Perrone, Interim Dean of Graduate Studies (Email: Dina.Perrone@csulb.edu)
Register for The IRB Process: A Guide for Graduate Students.
When: Wednesday, February 5, 11:30am – 1:00pm
Where: LIB 201
Description: Graduate and professional school interviews can take various forms: one-on-one meetings, group interviews, campus/faculty visits, panel interviews and/or phone interviews. Not every program requires interviews, but if your program of interest does, join us and learn how to prepare for the interview and practice key questions.
Presenters: Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu) and Ammisha Opoku-Boamah (Ammisha.Opoku-Boamah@csulb.edu)
When: Tuesday, February 6, 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Stuck on your graduate school statement of purpose (SOP)? We got you covered! This interactive workshop will cover:
- Structure of an SOP.
- How to craft your experiences in an engaging way.
- How to align your SOP to each school you are applying to.
Presenter: Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu)
Register for Writing a Statement of Purpose for Graduate School.
When: Friday, February 7, 10am - 1pm
Where: Library 201 and Zoom (Hybrid)
Description: This exciting event will celebrate the remarkable achievements of Black and Pan African graduate students across diverse fields. Join us as we highlight the excellence and innovation these students bring to their disciplines while fostering a collaborative environment for sharing ideas, practices, and experiences.
Event Highlights:
- Keynote Speaker: Hear from our influential leader and scholar Dr. Kris Marsh who will share valuable insights on the importance of representation and innovation in education.
- Panel Discussion: Engage in thought-provoking conversations with graduate students, alumni, and faculty as they discuss challenges, successes, and the future of Black and Pan African excellence in academia.
- Research Presentation: Experience a showcase of research and creative work from graduate students, demonstrating the significant impact of their contributions across various fields.
- Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful connections with fellow graduate students, faculty, and professionals committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic community.
Let us come together to celebrate the brilliance of our Black and Pan African graduate students from the Colleges of Arts, Business, Education, Engineering, Health and Human Services, Liberal Arts, and Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Together, we can elevate excellence and inspire future generations to continue breaking barriers and leading the way in their fields.
Sponsors/Presenters: Black Pan-African Graduate Association (csulbbpga@gmail.com).
When: Thursday, February 13, 11:00am-12:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: You’re writing your thesis and you’re al…most…done! So, what’s next? This workshop will cover the procedures for submitting your master’s thesis to the Thesis and Dissertation Office, thesis formatting rules, and the review process leading up to graduation clearance and ProQuest publication. At the end of the presentation, students will participate in a mock editing activity to simulate (and demystify!) the format editing process.
Presenter: Cecilia Paredes (Cecilia.Paredes@csulb.edu)
When: Tuesday, February 18, 2:30pm-3:45pm
Where: LIB 201
Description: Attending academic conferences is a great way to learn about cutting-edge research in your field and to network with passionate members of your intellectual community—especially for students interested in earning a doctorate. This workshop offers advice for making the most out of attending a conference, including tips on how to network effectively and how to give a positive first impression.
Presenters: Dr. Dina Perrone, Interim Dean of Graduate Studies, and Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu), GC Coordinator
When: Thursday, February 20, 3:00pm-4:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Graduate and professional school interviews can take various forms: one-on-one meetings, group interviews, campus/faculty visits, panel interviews and/or phone interviews. Not every program requires interviews, but if your program of interest does, join us and learn how to prepare for the interview and practice key questions.
Presenters: Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu) and Ammisha Opoku-Boamah (Ammisha.Opoku-Boamah@csulb.edu)
When: Wednesday, February 26, 3:00pm-4:15pm
Where: LIB 201 and Zoom (Hybrid)
Description: This workshop tackles common “problem areas” that students face in writing research papers (including theses and dissertations) in many disciplines. Topics include: how to write introductions and problem statements; how to review academic literature (the dreaded “lit review”); and how to structure arguments in academic writing.
Presenter: Omar Hussein (Omar.Hussein@csulb.edu)
When: Thursday, February 27, 10:30am-11:30am
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Come learn about the Grad Slam, CSULB’s “3-minute-thesis”-style research competition, including eligibility, how to apply, and benefits of participating.
Presenter: Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu)
No need to register—just log on to the Zoom link above.
March
When: Monday, March 3, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Feeling a bit overwhelmed or confused navigating the Cal State Apply application portal for graduate school? This workshop provides an overview of the different components of the online portal and answers any questions you may have about applying to graduate school at a CSU.
Presenter: Ammisha Opoku-Boamah (Ammisha.Opoku-Boamah@csulb.edu)
Register for Navigating the Cal State Apply Application Portal.
When: Wednesday, March 5, 3:00pm-4:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: You’re writing your thesis and you’re al…most…done! So, what’s next? This workshop will cover the procedures for submitting your master’s thesis to the Thesis and Dissertation Office, thesis formatting rules, and the review process leading up to graduation clearance and ProQuest publication. At the end of the presentation, students will participate in a mock editing activity to simulate (and demystify!) the format editing process.
Presenter: Cecilia Paredes (Cecilia.Paredes@csulb.edu)
When: Wednesday, March 12, 2:00pm-3pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Come learn about the Grad Slam, CSULB’s “3-minute-thesis”-style research competition, including eligibility, how to apply, and benefits of participating.
Presenter: Ammisha Opoku-Boamah (Ammisha.Opoku-Boamah@csulb.edu)
No need to register—just log on to the Zoom link above.
When: Thursday March 13th 3:00pm-4:00pm
Where: University Library 201
Description: This interactive workshop is designed specifically for first-generation graduate students navigating the complexities of graduate school. Participants will explore common big decisions faced during their academic journey—such as participating in research experiences, pursuing internships and career paths, and preparing for culminating experiences like capstones, thesis/dissertations, or exams. The workshop will delve into how imposter syndrome can impact confidence and decision-making in these areas and provide strategies to manage it effectively. Attendees will gain tools to make empowered choices and fully engage in their graduate school journey with confidence and a sense of belonging.
Presenters: Avery Olson, PhD; Lindsay Sterk, EdD; Mary Anne Rose, MS.
No need to register - Just show up!
When: Wednesday, March 19, 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Where: University Library 201
Description: Do you need someone to look over your CV/resume, statement of purpose, or personal statement? Do you have questions on how to fill out and submit your graduate school application? Are you nervous about the actual process of applying to grad school and need a knowledgeable person to give you some reassurance and allay your fears? Then come to this 3-hour "after-hours" event in which the core Graduate Center staff will be on hand to provide input, feedback, advice, and support.
Staff Support Present: Ammisha Opoku-Boamah, Graduate Center Coordinator; Jackie Morales, Graduate Center Coordinator; Omar Hussein, Graduate Writing Specialist
No need to register—Just show up!
When: Tuesday, March 25, 12:00pm – 1:15pm
Where: LIB 201 & Zoom (Hybrid)
Description: This workshop demystifies the dreaded “writer’s block” and provides actionable advice on how to stop worrying and start writing (and hopefully even enjoy it!). Topics discussed will include real and imagined barriers to writing; “crappy first drafts”; habits v. willpower; neutralizing negative thought patterns; beating perfectionism; and other tips, techniques, and secrets of highly-successful, prolific writers.
Presenter: Omar Hussein (omar.hussein@csulb.edu)
When: Wednesday, March 26, 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Where: LIB 201 & Zoom (Hybrid)
Description: Are you a busy grad student feeling overwhelmed by classes and everyday responsibilities? Do you want to take better care of yourself and your mental health but are unsure how to do that? This workshop is designed to help you prioritize your mental health by taking an intentional pause in your day to breathe, assess where you are, and refocus your time. Come learn ways to take better care of yourself amidst a hectic schedule!
Presenter: Elizabeth Rivas (Elizabeth.Rivas-SA@csulb.edu)
When: Wednesday, March 26, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Where: Second Floor of the University Library
Description: Network, mingle, and forge connections with fellow grad students in a relaxed atmosphere. Professional headshots will also be available during the event for free!
Food will be provided, so please RSVP for the Grad Student Mix N' Mingle.
When: Friday, March 28, 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: It goes without saying that graduate students have numerous demands on their time. This workshop provides effective techniques that can help grad students to combat inaction, prioritize their obligations, and make the most of the academic year.
Presenter: Omar Hussein (omar.hussein@csulb.edu)
April
When: Wednesday, April 2, 10am – 7pm
Where: University Library, 2nd floor (Graduate Study Space)
Description: The Graduate Writing Retreat is a full-day writing "get-away" for graduate or post-bac students to make progress on a major writing task over Fall Break. Writing tasks can include a thesis, seminar paper, dissertation, comps, independent study, class project, or any writing work that requires sustained focus. The Retreat will take place in the “Graduate Student Collaborative Space” (University Library 202), which will be closed to non-attendees, creating a quiet, distraction-free setting. The Graduate Center will also be serving refreshments, including lunch and dinner (the registration form below has further details and the option to indicate dietary restrictions). Furthermore, Graduate Center staff, including the Graduate Writing Specialist, will be on hand all day to answer questions or help you overcome writing “roadblocks.” The event is free and open to all currently-enrolled graduate/post-bac students, but registration is required. The deadline to register is Monday, March 24th to ensure a proper food and beverage order.
When: Wednesday, April 9, 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: Are you completing a thesis or research project that involves human participants/subjects? If so, you will need to obtain Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval before you start your research. The IRB ensures that you are doing everything in your power to protect the rights of research participants and reduce risks to your participants’ safety and well-being. They confirm that your research will be conducted ethically and responsibly. This workshop will guide you through the IRB application and submission processes and provide strategies to safeguard your participants.
Presenter: Dr. Dina Perrone, Interim Dean of Graduate Studies (Email: Dina.Perrone@csulb.edu)
Register for The IRB Process: A Guide for Graduate Students.
When: Monday, April 14, 2:00pm
Where: LIB 201
Description: Come join the announcement of the 2025 CSULB Grad Slam winners—be among the first to know! The winners’ award-winning presentations will be played, and light snacks will be served. This event is a great opportunity to learn about exciting student research taking place at CSULB and to connect with fellow students who are passionate about research.
Presenters: Graduate Center staff (GraduateCenter@csulb.edu)
No RSVP needed - just show up.
When: Thursday April 17, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Where: LIB 201 and Zoom (Hybrid)
Description: Join us for a workshop that will help you:
- Identify the reason(s) you would want to pursue graduate school.
- Learn about the most common graduate school application requirements and how you can become a competitive applicant.
Presenter: Brenda López, Director of the McNair Scholars Program.
Register for Preparing for Graduate School Applications.
When: Monday, April 21, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Where: LIB 201 and Zoom (Hybrid)
Description: This workshop will provide you with tips, tools, and strategies on how to prepare and conduct a job search.
Presenter: Ammisha Opoku-Boamah (Ammisha.Opoku-Boamah@csulb.edu)
When: Wednesday, April 23, 4:00pm – 5:30pm
Where: LIB 201
Description: APID graduate students will share their experiences navigating graduate studies. All students, undergraduate or graduate, are welcome.
Presenters: Graduate students, hosted by Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu) and Ammisha Opoku-Boamah (Ammisha.Opoku-Boamah@csulb.edu)
Register for Asian Pacific Islander and Desi (APID) Graduate Student Panel.
When: Friday, April 25, 3:00pm-4:15pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: The 21st century has rapidly and fundamentally changed how people access news and information. These changes can make it difficult for anyone—even the highly educated—to distinguish reliable sources from misinformation, distortion, and propaganda. While not claiming to be comprehensive, this workshop offers some strategies for improving critical literacy skills and avoiding deception.
Presenter: Omar Hussein (omar.hussein@csulb.edu)
When: Wednesday, April 30, 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Where: LIB 201
Description: Want to learn how to stand out as a job applicant? Are you having a difficult time articulating your job experience and duties in a clear and concise manner? Come to our workshop to learn more about how to build an effective resume for your job search!
Presenter: Jackie Morales (Jackie.Morales@csulb.edu)
May
When: Friday, May 2, 3pm – 4pm
Where: Online (Zoom)
Description: This workshop discusses how to write an effective statement of purpose or personal statement for graduate school. Topics include “dos and don’ts,” avoiding “kisses of death,” statements of confidence, effective essay structure, and useful sentence stems.
Presenter: Omar Hussein (Omar.Hussein@csulb.edu)
Register for Writing a Statement of Purpose for Graduate School.
The Graduate Center is open and available to all, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin.
