Mercer Times

Princeton welcomed nearly 800 new graduate students during Graduate School orientation on August 28 and 29. The events took place across campus, including Procter Hall, Frist Campus Center, and Alexander Beach. This year's cohort includes students from two new doctoral programs: bioengineering and quantum science and engineering (QSE).

Graduate School Dean Rodney Priestley addressed the incoming students in Richardson Auditorium, emphasizing the University's mission statement: “Princeton University advances learning through scholarship, research and teaching of unsurpassed quality.” He encouraged the students to be "bold in your research and courageous in your pursuit of new knowledge."

Priestley stated, “As graduate students, you will partner with the faculty to push the boundaries of research and innovation.” He added that their contributions would help achieve Princeton's mission.

Andrea Goldsmith, dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, also spoke at the event. She praised the achievements that brought these students to Princeton and encouraged them to engage with the community.

Laurence Latimer *01, president of the Association of Princeton Graduate Alumni (APGA), welcomed new students to a global community of 30,000 graduate alumni.

During his remarks, Priestley announced that Hendrik Lorenz would join as vice dean for this academic year to focus on mentoring in graduate education. Lorenz aims to enhance informal mentoring practices within the academic community.

The orientation included practical information sessions on financial management, professional development, library resources, and more. Faculty members advised students on creating routines and making time for opportunities beyond their work.

Erika Milam emphasized that “Graduate school is a marathon,” encouraging students to build an informal mentoring team beyond their faculty advisor.

Earlier in the week, about 60 incoming graduate students attended a pre-orientation retreat as part of the Graduate Scholars Program (GSP). The retreat aimed to foster connections among new scholars before formal orientation activities began.

Joseph Lewis noted that GSP helps ensure everyone feels a sense of belonging even before orientation starts. Devin Greenwood appreciated meeting peers from various departments during these early activities.

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