Graduate School Newsblog

Author: Mindy Pierre

Michigan Space Grant Consortium Fellowship – Summer 2026 – Sam Jensen

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Sam Jensen, MS in Geophysics, 2026

Hey! My name is Sam Jensen, and I’m a first year Master’s student at MTU. I am involved with the GMES department’s drone based geophysics program, focusing on magnetic surveys around the Keweenaw Peninsula/greater U.P. area. I am originally from Gladstone, MI and have been passionate about teaching during my time as a grad student. I hope to one day become a professor of geophysics, with the main goal of inspiring students as I have been inspired. I am also involved with Graduate Student Government at MTU, and was recently elected president of the organization.

My great grandfather, Paul Serafin, attended this university when it was still called the Michigan College of Mining and Technology (all the way back in 1932!). My grandfather, David Palo, was born and raised in the Keweenaw and I was lucky enough to explore this area with him since I was a small child. I knew MTU was where I wanted to be, but it took me a few years before I realized exactly what I wanted to do. If there’s one thing I’d like to say to undergraduates, it’s to never be afraid to switch paths. Money plays a large role in many peoples’ career decisions, but it shouldn’t be the largest factor. As cliché as it sounds, I think following your heart is more meaningful than (almost) any amount of zeros in a starting salary.

I am happy to have gotten my undergraduate degree in Applied Geophysics also from MTU. In my time here, I have realized how special the Keweenaw Peninsula truly is. The location, history, geology, and people are all so unique here. I am an avid outdoorsman – from backpacking in summer to ice fishing in winter, I am grateful to call this place my home.

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Michigan Space Grant Consortium Fellowship – Summer 2026 – Mari Leland

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Mari Leland, PhD in Biological Sciences, 2026

I began my Ph.D. at Michigan Technological University in the Fall of 2024, joining Dr. Vick-Majors’ lab and the Biological Sciences department. My research focuses on annual patterns in lake microbial communities and organic matter, emphasizing the role of winter in shaping year-round processes. With a background in biological engineering, especially bioinformatics, my work integrates my passion for environmental sciences with emerging genetic technologies to gain a deeper understanding of complex ecological processes.


Through collaboration with a network of scientists across North America, I study how lakes spanning gradients of organic matter and phosphorus are impacted by winter conditions. Simply, I view lakes through the lens of color, ‘brownness’ vs ‘greenness’, to understand how changing winters may impact annual patterns in diverse lakes. I look forward to not only addressing these questions but translating this information from the literature into publicly accessible formats. As a born and raised Minnesotan, I understand the importance of lakes in everyday life and want to connect my science to the communities who experience and depend on these ecosystems firsthand.


I’m very grateful to my advisor, Dr. Vick-Majors, for her mentorship as I make my way through my program and her encouragement as I pursue my interests through my research. I would like to thank the project partners and collaborators whose hard work makes my research possible. I’m also thankful to my peers and colleagues who provide support and perspectives that strengthen my work.

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Michigan Space Grant Consortium Fellowship – Summer 2026 – Gabrielle DuCheny

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Gabrielle DuCheny, MS in Mechanical Engineering, 2026

I am a first-year master’s student in Mechanical Engineering. I started my schooling at Michigan Tech in 2021, getting my bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering along with a minor in ecology. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in spring 2025 and after spending a summer doing research work in acoustics and 3D printing I decided to get my master’s in Mechanical Engineering.

I have always loved nature and the outdoors for as long as I can remember and wanted to help protect it and the peacefulness and beauty it provides. My research is focused on acoustics, specifically psychoacoustics and how people perceive noise. For my research I am helping to test and design drone blades that are less annoying keeping outdoor areas pleasant to be in. I have learned a lot about acoustics since starting my masters and it has presented opportunities for me to gain skills in acoustic testing and work on multiple different projects in the field. As a graduate student I also had a chance to TA for a lab this past semester which I think has helped me improve my teaching skills and was something that I really enjoyed.

I am thankful for the opportunity to further my research through the MSGC as well as the opportunity that I have been given to further my education through Michigan Tech. I am also grateful for my advisor Dr. Sharma for helping me to grow academically as I work on my research.

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Michigan Celebrates Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week

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Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially declared April 6–10, 2026, as Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week.

This week is dedicated to celebrating more than 80,000 graduate and professional students across Michigan’s universities and recognizes the important role they play in advancing research, innovation, and economic growth.

Why We are Celebrating:

  • Economic Drivers: Graduate students play a direct role in strengthening Michigan’s economy through research, development, and collaboration with industry partners that drive innovation and progress.
  • Future Leaders: Today’s graduate and professional students are tomorrow’s leaders, contributing across fields such as healthcare, education, engineering, business, public service, and beyond.
  • Community Impact: Their work and dedication influence communities across Michigan and beyond, creating lasting impact in many areas of society.

Join us this week in recognizing and celebrating the contributions of our graduate and professional students.

To our graduate and professional students, thank you.
Your dedication to solving complex challenges, advancing knowledge, and striving for excellence makes a lasting impact on Michigan and beyond.

“Graduate and professional students are the future teaching professionals, researchers, and leaders of the state, the nation, and the world.” – Governor Gretchen Whitmer

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Good News From The Graduate School – April 2026

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Good NewLetter from the Graduate School Header Image

All of us in the Graduate School are excited to assist you and help you succeed. Please check your email regularly for updates from the Graduate School. Be sure to visit the Graduate School Blog for updates, news, and funding opportunities.

Michigan Tech Experience

As the semester is quickly coming to a close, we encourage you to explore and bookmark the Experience page and make sure to save the “My Graduate Degree” card to your homepage (shown at right) for easy access and the “Dissertations, Theses or Report” card if you’re completing a research-based degree.

Things you will find on Experience:

  • Registration and Class Details
  • Forms and Deadlines
  • Academic Audit
  • Hold Information
  • Billing Information
  • Payroll and Direct Deposit Information

Make sure to bookmark your Degree Progress Checklist (or use the My Graduate Degree card in Experience to find it). It provides a helpful list of resources to support you as you complete your graduate degree.

My Graduate Degree MTU Experience Card Image

Additional Resources

April Important Deadlines:

Deadline Date Description
April 13, 2026 – Last day to submit committee-approved post-defense dissertation, thesis, or report to the Graduate School for spring completion of degree.
April 13, 2026 – Submit all other degree completion paperwork (including applicable certificate degree schedules) to Graduate School—check your
 Degree Progress Checklist for items needed.
– Submit petition to enter candidacy to be eligible for candidacy for the next semester.
April 20, 2026 Deadline for KCP Future Faculty Fellowship applications.
April 29, 2026 Grace period for deadline for thesis, dissertation, or report.

Upcoming Events

Undergraduate Research & Scholarship Symposium
The Undergraduate Research & Scholarship Symposium will take place on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 1-3:30 p.m. in the Rozsa Center. This event showcases student-led research across disciplines and offers a great opportunity to explore innovative projects and engage with presenters. Graduate students are encouraged to attend to connect with undergraduate researchers in their areas of interest. Registration information will be available soon.

Let’s Talk with Student Mental Health and Well-Being
Stop by on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 1–3 p.m. in the Academic Office Building, Room 101 for a free, informal, and confidential conversation with an MTU counselor. This is a great opportunity to talk through any concerns, get support, or learn more about available mental health resources. All students are welcome.

Math Sciences Seminar Series – Brian Hopkins
Join the Math Sciences Seminar Series featuring Brian Hopkins on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 1-2 p.m. in Fisher Hall, Room 133. This seminar offers an opportunity to explore current topics and research in mathematics. All are welcome to attend.

Graduate Student Commencement Rehearsal
Graduating students are encouraged to attend the commencement rehearsal on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 1–2 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room of the Student Development Complex (SDC). Please plan to arrive by 12:45 p.m. to prepare for the ceremony.

Graduate Student Commencement Ceremony The graduate student commencement ceremony is on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the John J. MacInnes Student Ice Arena of the Student Development Complex (SDC). Live streaming is available beginning on the morning of the ceremony.

Local Events

For ideas on how to spend your free time, be sure to check out the Local Area Events Calendar, there’s something for everyone. Check out the Rozsa website for on-campus events. To explore additional seminars, workshops, and Graduate School sponsored events, visit the MTU Events Calendar. This calendar highlights upcoming opportunities across campus, making it easy to stay informed and engaged throughout the semester!

Beyond the Classroom

The Graduate Student Government (GSG) is your key to connecting with the grad student community. They organize tons of activities, from professional development workshops and the Graduate Research Colloquium to social events and mixers. Getting involved with the GSG is a fantastic way to meet people from different departments, share your ideas, and help shape a fun and supportive campus environment. To find out about upcoming events or to learn how you can participate, check out their website.

Have any questions? Please reach out to the Graduate School anytime via email: gradschool@mtu.edu, phone: (906) 487-2327, or visit us in the Admin Building on the 4th floor.

Stay Informed 

 Keep up with campus updates all semester: 

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Good News From The Graduate School – March 2026

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Good NewLetter from the Graduate School Header Image

All of us in the Graduate School are excited to see you and help you succeed. Make sure to check your email frequently for any updates from the Graduate School. New this year, check the Graduate School Blog for updates, news, and funding opportunities!

Michigan Tech Experience

Take a moment to explore and bookmark the Experience page and make sure to save the “My Graduate Degree” card to your homepage (shown at right) for easy access and the “Dissertations, Theses or Report” card if you’re completing a research-based degree.

Things you will find on Experience:

  • Registration and Class Details
  • Forms and Deadlines
  • Academic Audit
  • Hold Information
  • Billing Information
  • Payroll and Direct Deposit Information

Make sure to bookmark your Degree Progress Checklist (or use the My Graduate Degree card in Experience to find it!) as it offers a list of resources to help you succeed in your graduate degree.

My Graduate Degree MTU Experience Card Image

Additional Resources

Current Month Important Deadlines:

Deadline Date Description
March 10, 2026 – Last day to register for the Graduate Research Colloquium
March 29, 2026 – Fall Registration Ends

Upcoming Events

Attend the Ecosystem Science Center Student Research Forum on Thursday, March 12 from 1–3 p.m. in the Rozsa Center Atrium to explore student-led research in ecology and environmental science. This poster session offers graduate and undergraduate students the opportunity to showcase their work and connect with peers across disciplines.

The Graduate Student Government (GSG) is once again hosting this year’s Graduate Research Colloquium (GRC), taking place on Wednesday, March 18. The GRC offers a unique opportunity for graduate students to showcase their research across the campus-wide community while developing their presentation skills for upcoming conferences. Register by March 10. Oral presentations will take place from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the MUB Alumni Lounge, with poster presentations following from 5 – 8 p.m. in the Rozsa Lobby, and faculty members are encouraged to volunteer as judges by completing the GRC 2026 Judges Registration Form.

Next Month Important Deadlines:

Local Events

For ideas on how to spend your free time, be sure to check out the Local Area Events Calendar, there’s something for everyone. Check out the Rozsa website for on-campus events. To explore additional seminars, workshops, and Graduate School sponsored events, visit the MTU Events Calendar. This calendar highlights upcoming opportunities across campus, making it easy to stay informed and engaged throughout the semester!

Beyond the Classroom

The Graduate Student Government (GSG) is your key to connecting with the grad student community. They organize tons of activities, from professional development workshops and the Graduate Research Colloquium to social events and mixers. Getting involved with the GSG is a fantastic way to meet people from different departments, share your ideas, and help shape a fun and supportive campus environment. To find out about upcoming events or to learn how you can participate, check out their website.

Have any questions? Please reach out to the Graduate School anytime via email: gradschool@mtu.edu, phone: (906) 487-2327, or visit us in the Admin Building on the 4th floor.

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Good News From The Graduate School

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Good NewLetter from the Graduate School Header Image

All of us in the Graduate School are excited to support you and help you succeed. Be sure to check your email frequently for updates from the Graduate School. Throughout the year, visit the Graduate School Blog for news, updates, and funding opportunities.

Academic Audit

Take a moment to explore and bookmark the Experience page and save the “My Graduate Degree” card under the Academics tab to your homepage (shown at right) for easy access.

The Academic Audit is a helpful tool on the My Graduate Degree card that allows graduate students to easily track their progress toward degree completion. It provides a clear overview of completed coursework, remaining program and Graduate School requirements, and a direct link to the graduation application. Reviewing your Academic Audit regularly can help you plan ahead, avoid surprises, and stay on track toward completing your graduate degree.

What you’ll also find on Experience:

  • Registration and Class Details
  • Forms and Deadlines
  • Degree Progress Checklist – where you can update your expected graduation term
  • Hold Information – see items that may prevent you from registering or graduating
  • Billing Information
  • Payroll and Direct Deposit Information
My Graduate Degree MTU Experience Card Image

Additional Resources

Upcoming Deadlines:

Deadline Date Description
February 6, 2026 Submit your Graduation Application – required to complete your degree in spring or participate in spring commencement
February 23, 2026 Summer 2026 CSCHF Graduate Assistantship applications due
February 24, 2026 Summer 2026 Finishing Fellowship applications due

Upcoming Events

  • Michigan Tech is hosting Engineering Ethics: What Every Engineer Needs to Know, a seminar designed to introduce students and professionals to the ethical responsibilities that guide engineering practice. This event is a great opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to reflect on the broader impact of engineering work and the importance of integrity, accountability, and public welfare in the profession.

  • The Graduate Student Government (GSG) is once again hosting this year’s Graduate Research Colloquium (GRC), taking place on Wednesday, March 18. The GRC offers a unique opportunity for graduate students to showcase their research across the campus-wide community while developing their presentation skills for upcoming conferences.

Winter Carnival and Local Events

As winter settles into the Copper Country, Michigan Tech comes alive with one of its most iconic traditions, Winter Carnival. Held each February, this long-standing celebration showcases the creativity, resilience, and school spirit of the Michigan Tech community. From massive snow statues built by student organizations to campus-wide events, outdoor and indoor activities, Winter Carnival is the true highlight of the season.

For more ideas on how to spend your free time, be sure to check out the Local Area Events Calendar, there’s something for everyone. To explore additional seminars, workshops, and Graduate School sponsored events, visit the MTU Events Calendar. This calendar highlights upcoming opportunities across campus, making it easy to stay informed and engaged throughout the semester.

Beyond the Classroom

The Graduate Student Government (GSG) is your key to connecting with the grad student community. They organize tons of activities, from professional development workshops and the Graduate Research Colloquium to social events and mixers. Getting involved with the GSG is a fantastic way to meet people from different departments, share your ideas, and help shape a fun and supportive campus environment.

The Graduate School offers resources focused on graduate life and well-being, including social connections, wellness support, and involvement opportunities. These resources are designed to help graduate students maintain balance and feel supported throughout their time at Michigan Tech. Learn more on the Graduate Life & Well-Being page.

Have any questions? Please reach out to the Graduate School anytime via email: gradschool@mtu.edu, phone: (906) 487-2327, or visit us in the Admin Building on the 4th floor.

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Setting Up a Non-Payroll Direct Deposit

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Non-Payroll Direct Deposit allows Michigan Tech to deposit non-payroll payments (such as travel expenses, flexible spending accounts, business meals and banquets) directly into your bank account.

Follow the steps below to set it up.

Prefer a visual walkthrough? Watch this quick tutorial.

Additional information and help is available from Financial Services.

Important: Non-Payroll Direct Deposit is separate from payroll or stipend direct deposit.

Step 1

Log in to Experience using your Michigan Tech username and ISO password.

Find the Work tab from the top menu bar and scroll down to find the Payroll card

Payroll menu showing the Enable Direct Deposit Updates option.

Step 2

From the Payroll Card, select Enable Direct Deposit Updates.

Enable Direct Deposit Updates link in the Payroll menu.
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Spring 2026 Graduate Orientation

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The Graduate School is excited to welcome our new students to campus. A summary of upcoming events is below.

  • The Graduate School Welcome session is on Friday, January 2, 2026, beginning at 2pm in the MUB Ballroom. A presentation is planned for 2-2:30pm, and a reception will begin at 2:30pm. The presentation will be recorded for those unable to attend in person.
  • Orientation to Graduate Studies and Research, our online Basic RCR Training, will begin on December 22 for registered students. It must be completed by February 19, 2026 to avoid a registration hold.
  • Other orientation events, including a tour by the Library and welcome reception by the Graduate School, are described and summarized on our website.
  • We will remind students to register and confirm their enrollment by January 2nd.
  • Steps after admission are summarized on our website.
  • Resources applicable to new students are summarized on our website.

We look forward to working with you to welcome our new and returning students to the 2025-26 academic year!

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Prepare to Graduate: Submit a Graduation Application

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In order to complete a degree at Michigan Tech, all students must submit a Graduation Application and let the Graduate School know their plans to attend commencement. This post will explain the difference between graduation and commencement and explain how to submit the Graduation Application.

Graduation vs. Commencement: Understanding the Difference

Graduation is the official act of completing all academic requirements and earning your degree. Your actual diploma will be shipped to you approximately six weeks after the semester you complete your degree. You must complete all of your curricular requirements and apply to graduate in order to receive your credential.

Commencement is the celebratory ceremony. It is an opportunity for friends and family to acknowledge your hard work. Students who attend the commencement ceremony receive a diploma cover when they walk across the stage. The Graduate School hosts a single annual commencement ceremony at the close of spring semester. A commencement application is required to participate. You can read more about this later in the blog.

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