Graduate Orientation
At Graduate Orientation (GradO) you'll discover resources and meet the people that will help you succeed at the University of Calgary.
Registration for Winter 2026 GradO is now open and will remain available until Dec. 17, 2025.
GradO is your introduction to life as a UCalgary graduate student - past graduate students have found it essential for starting their programs on the right foot. Join us for a day designed to support your transition into graduate school. Take part in welcome sessions, explore helpful workshops, meet fellow graduate students and connect with the people and services here to support you.
GradO will be held in person on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. (MT) in Engineering Block C 070 (Main Campus). All graduate students will also be registered in the START STRONG D2L modules, which include content from GradO and further resources to support their transition into graduate studies.
A boxed lunch will be provided, with vegan and gluten-free options available in the registration survey.
Winter 2026 GradO schedule
| 10-10:45 a.m. | Check-in/Coffee and Cookies |
| 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Morning Welcome Session |
| 12-2:30 p.m. | Lunch, Service Fair and Networking |
| 1-3 p.m. | Afternoon Workshop Sessions (Optional) |
| 3-5 p.m. | Graduate Student Association (GSA) Social Event at the Last Defence Lounge |
Afternoon workshop sessions
Our GradO Workshop sessions offer essential guidance on key systems, student well-being and real experiences of graduate life. Explore campus tools, connect with supports and gain practical insights from staff and students to start your program with clarity and confidence.
1-1:30 p.m. MT
Graduate school is a journey filled with growth, challenge, and transformation—academically, professionally and personally. In this reflective session, current and recent graduate students will share their lived experiences navigating the ups and downs of graduate life at UCalgary. From building community and managing time, to overcoming imposter syndrome and finding purpose in their research, each speaker will offer candid insights and lessons learned. Whether you're just starting out or looking to connect with peers on a deeper level, this session aims to inspire, validate and support you in your own graduate journey.
Presenters:
- Host: Dr. Tanille Buttler, PhD, Graduate Educational Development Specialist, FGS
1:45-2:15 p.m. MT
Get started on the right foot with this essential session introducing key UCalgary platforms and resources. Learn how to register for courses, access transcripts, submit service requests and navigate D2L—our online learning system. Explore the self-paced Start Strong D2L modules covering academic integrity, orientation, research ethics and more. Thesis-based students will also learn how to view program milestones and supervision details. Plus, get a quick tour of Elevate—your hub for career services, advising, workshops and job opportunities—designed to support your success from day one.
Presenters:
- Christine Verwoerd, Process Specialist, FGS
- Dr. Charlotte Ong'ang'a, PhD, Career Development Specialist, Center for Career and Personal Development
2:30-3 p.m. MT
This session provides an overview of the GSA Health and Dental Plan, along with a wide range of services and supports to help you maintain your health and well-being throughout your graduate journey. We will highlight key campus resources, including Student Wellness Services, Student Accessibility Services, the Faith and Spirituality Centre, and the Women’s Resource Centre. We will also introduce programs and events hosted by the GSA and other campus partners to help you stay balanced, connected, and supported.
Presenters:
- Nanako Furuyama: Manager, Peer Support & Outreach, Student Wellness Services
- Laura Alongi: Health Promotion Coordinator, Campus Wellbeing Services
- Irene Yoo: Wellness Coordinator, Graduate Student Association
GradO location
Winter 2026 GradO is located in Engineering Block C 070 on Main Campus. Click the image for Google Maps directions.
Graduate onboarding modules
The START STRONG series is a collection of four short D2L modules designed to help acclimate new graduate students to UCalgary culture, including policies, procedures, key supports and resources available.
Building off the essential information and resources shared through the START STRONG series, Grad Foundations is a new, online learning series designed to help graduate students further build the core professional and academic skills needed to thrive at UCalgary. Through self-paced modules, you’ll explore essential topics that support your success throughout your program and future career.
All incoming graduate students are automatically enrolled in the START STRONG and Grad Foundation modules. If you have any questions on graduate programming, please email the Graduate Experience Team.