Events
Fall 2025
Applying to STEM PhD Programs 101 Register now!
October 8 | 5:30 PM ET | Zoom | Register Here
This Zoom-based workshop is designed for students interested in applying to PhD Programs in STEM fields. Over a 60-minute live session, we’ll demystify the application process by walking participants through key components such as, transcripts, research-focused CVs, statements of purpose, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. By the end of the workshop, attendees will leave with tools to personalize their application journey and craft a compelling engineering graduate application.
Dean’s Dialogue
The Dean’s Dialogue series emphasizes engaging in difficult conversations as a cornerstone of our community's intellectual vitality. This initiative highlights the most pressing challenges and constructive disagreements in engineering and applied sciences to foster an environment of open inquiry and rigorous analysis. By encouraging diversity of thought and modeling respectful engagement across differences, the series cultivates more adaptable thinkers and establishes norms for meaningful dialogue. Doing so prepares our community to tackle complex problems with intellectual depth and collaborative spirit.
Pluralism: Foundations of Principled Engagement
This interactive workshop introduces pluralism as a foundational commitment for building inclusive and intellectually vibrant academic communities. Pluralism affirms the importance of viewpoint diversity, deliberative engagement, and constructive interaction across lines of difference. These commitments foster environments where disagreement can be generative, collaboration can be deepened, and sharing different perspectives can meaningfully inform how we teach, conduct research, and build community.
Inclusive Pedagogy for CAs and TFs
This workshop introduces Course Assistants (CAs) and Teaching Fellows (TFs) to inclusive teaching as a practice of designing and facilitating learning experiences that are flexible, transparent, and responsive to students’ needs. Through real classroom scenarios and guided discussion, participants will explore strategies for creating welcoming and engaging classroom environments—whether in sections, labs, or office hours—and will reflect on how their teaching choices can support the full participation and success of every student. Upon completion of the workshop, students will receive certification for 18 months.
Neurodiverse in STEM
Join us for a panel discussion featuring Harvard SEAS alumni who are neurodiverse professionals in STEM fields. Panelists will share how their neurodiverse identities have shaped their career paths and enhanced their problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork across various sectors. They will discuss strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving success, as well as offer advice on how colleagues can create environments that embrace diverse cognitive styles, fostering innovation and growth.
Crafting a Welcoming Scientific Community at SEAS: MA and PhD Orientation Workshop
Crafting an Inclusive Scientific Community at SEAS is a dynamic orientation session designed to welcome new Master’s and PhD students into the values, opportunities, and community culture of the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Through interactive discussions and reflection, students explore what it means to belong, collaborate, and lead in a diverse, globally connected academic environment. The session introduces SEAS’s community learning goals for the year—including neurodiversity, pluralism, and multinational engagement—and connects students with people, programs, and resources that support their growth. Framed by SEAS’s 2025–2030 strategy for greater belonging, inclusion, and impact, this session encourages each student to contribute to a thriving, inclusive, and innovative scientific community.
Engineering Graduate Application Essays
Join this Zoom workshop to learn how to craft the two key essays required for PhD applications in STEM Fields. We'll cover how to write a focused statement of purpose that communicates your research goals, technical strengths, and program fit, as well as a personal statement that highlights your growth, motivations, and personal journey. Students will leave with structured outlines, storytelling techniques, and strategies to draft authentic, compelling essays tailored to programs of interest.