Information sessions are one of the most effective ways Campus Contacts can support students in preparing for the Diversity Forum. A short, well-timed session helps demystify the event and encourages students, especially those unfamiliar with graduate school, to register and attend. Students are often just looking for reassurance that this opportunity is for them. You don’t need to have every answer—just your encouragement and a few talking points will go a long way.
Why Host an Information Session?
- Reach more students at once – Instead of answering questions individually, a group session is efficient and energizing.
- Normalize the idea of graduate school – Seeing peers express interest helps students believe they belong, too.
- Encourage early registration – The earlier students sign up, the better they can prepare.
- Demystify the experience – Students unfamiliar with conferences or graduate school often feel intimidated. Your session can reduce anxiety and spark excitement.
When and How to Host
- Timing: Plan to host your session shortly before or just after registration opens. A second optional session closer to the event can focus on logistics.
- Format: Keep it informal and welcoming. A classroom, Zoom call, or student lounge all work great.
- Outreach: Promote it via email, flyers, student groups, and faculty allies. Consider co-hosting with McNair, EOP, career centers, or student success programs.
What to Cover in the Session
The following list is a great starting point when designing your information session. Although many of these details can be found on this website, students may receive them better when shared in other formats.
- What is the California Forum for Diversity in Graduate Education?
- A free, 1-day statewide conference designed to inspire, inform, and connect students to opportunities in graduate education
- When and where is it?
- Saturday, October 18, 2025
- University of California, Merced
- Check-in starts at 8:00AM and the last workshop ends at 4:00PM
- Who Should Attend?
- Juniors, seniors, and master’s students from all majors
- First-generation college students exploring graduate education for the first time
- Those unsure whether grad school is “for them” but curious to learn more
- Those seeking clarity on the differences between master’s and Ph.D. programs
- Any student who is motivated, curious, and ready to explore what comes next
- What’s the Value?
- Workshops throughout the day sharing foundational information on topics related to graduate education, like admissions, funding, and research
- Visit 150+ tables and meet dozens of recruiters at the graduate fair
- Discover new academic and career pathways
- It's FREE! Travel and meals are provided
- Emphasis on encouraging first generation and underrepresented students to pursue graduate education
- How to Register
- Walk students through the registration process
- Emphasize deadlines and limited capacity
- Travel options, chartered bus or personal vehicle
- Let them know a free bus will be available
- Share meeting times and departure details
- For those driving, share parking options
- How to Prepare
- Encourage them to download the Guidebook app
- Suggest tips for choosing workshops and talking to recruiters
- Prepare a few questions to ask recruiters (funding, mentorship, support, etc.)
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
- Keep an open mind, there may be fields and programs you’ve never considered