What is the OG Program?
The Office of Graduate Student Equity & Excellence (GSEE) is committed to enhancing the promotion and success of graduate students from diverse perspectives and experiences at the UW. While GSEE is based on the Seattle campus, Bothell and Tacoma graduate students are welcome to participate in GSEE programming.
The Outreaching Grads (OG) Program is a comprehensive and collaborative outreach and recruitment program housed in GSEE of the Graduate School. OGs help to support GSEE, academic departments, and student organizations as they enhance outreach and recruitment efforts for prospective and incoming graduate students from diverse perspectives and experiences. The OG Program introduces graduate students to opportunities and resources that help build community and increase diversity within the framework of the graduate student cycle.
What is the role of an OG?
OGs are trained to lead and support prospective, incoming and current graduate students from diverse perspectives and experiences in navigating the numerous aspects and phases of graduate school. They provide a personal lens, as well as meaningful guidance on living in the Pacific Northwest. To aid in assessing graduate student needs and to cultivate an inclusive campus community, OGs can:
- Connect and share opportunities and resources with prospective graduate students from diverse perspectives and experiences (virtually and in-person)
- Participate in professional development opportunities
- Share graduate opportunities with UW registered student organizations to promote graduate education
- Engage in graduate student panels, public speaking and recruitment events, as well as networking and donor engagements
How can a department request the assistance of an OG?
We are happy to send OGs to various recruitment functions or have them visit one-on-one with prospective students or groups. We do ask, however, that your request be submitted at least two weeks in advance. To request that an OG meet with or contact your prospective student(s), please complete the 2024–25 Outreaching Grads (OG) Request Form.