If you’ve ever thought about graduate school but felt overwhelmed, unsure, or like it wasn’t meant for someone like you—you are exactly who the California Forum for Diversity in Graduate Education was created for.
The Diversity Forum is a free, one-day event that brings together hundreds of California college students just like you—first-generation students, students of color, students from working-class backgrounds, and anyone who’s ever wondered what comes after the bachelor’s or master’s degree. You’ll connect with peers who’ve overcome obstacles, advisors who care, and graduate students who once stood exactly where you are now. Whether you’re deeply committed to pursuing a PhD or just beginning to ask questions, the Diversity Forum meets you where you are. While this event is targeted to underrepresented students, it is open to all college students in California.
You Belong in Graduate School
Many students don’t realize that graduate education is an option—or that it’s something they’re deeply qualified for. If you’ve ever helped support your family, worked multiple jobs while going to school, translated for your parents, or learned how to navigate college systems on your own—you already have the resilience, curiosity, and drive that graduate programs are looking for.
You may not know anyone with a master’s or PhD, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be the first. Graduate school can feel like a mystery, especially if you're from a community where advanced degrees aren’t the norm. But graduate education isn’t just for the privileged few. It’s for leaders, thinkers, and changemakers like you.
The Diversity Forum helps demystify graduate school and shows you that it’s possible—and within reach.
What to Expect
You’ll have access to foundational workshops, inspiring speakers, and real-time connections with graduate students, student affairs professionals, and admissions representatives from across the country. Workshop topics cover:
- How to choose the right graduate program
- What it takes to apply, and how to stand out
- What it’s like to be a graduate student, and how to thrive
- How to fund your graduate education (yes, you can get paid to go to grad school!)
- How graduate study can lead to a career in research, teaching, or community impact
You’ll also get to attend the Graduate School Fair, where you can speak one-on-one with representatives from 150-200 graduate schools and programs. They’re there to answer your questions, share resources, and support you in taking the next step.
A Space Designed for You
The California Forum for Diversity in Graduate Education isn’t just an event—it’s a community. You’ll meet people who understand your story and believe in your potential. Many students say the Diversity Forum was the first time they felt truly envisioned themselves in an academic space. Others say it was the moment they decided, "Yes, I can do this."
It’s Free. It’s Real. And It’s All About You
This event is free to attend and designed with your success in mind. No sales pitches, no catch. Just real information, real people, and real support for students who might not otherwise see themselves on this path.
Graduate school might feel distant or intimidating, but it’s not out of reach. The Diversity Forum is here to give you tools, knowledge, support, and confidence. We believe the future of graduate education should reflect the full diversity of our communities. That means you and your story are not only welcome, but necessary. Your voice matters in higher education. Your perspective matters in research. And your dreams deserve the chance to grow.
If you’ve made it to this website, you’re already thinking about your future. That’s a big deal! Whether someone sent you this link, or you found it on your own, we want you to know: you belong here.
Take the Next Steps
You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to be curious—and courageous enough to explore what’s next.
After you complete your registration, connect with your campus contact to learn about transportation options and how else you can prepare. Consider sharing this opportunity with peers who are also curious about graduate school. And when the Guidebook conference app launches, start planning your schedule and which graduate schools to visit.
Ask questions. Make connections. See yourself in the future.
And know you’re not just welcome—you’re wanted.