GBSA Week - University of Houston
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History of Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week

In 1993, three students, Tony Rosati (Georgetown University), Gina Pearson (American University) & Anne Holt (Florida State University), all activists within the National Association of Graduate and Professional Students (NAGPS), wanted to find a way to physically manifest support and appreciation of the contributions, impact and value of graduate students. Their effort led to a cooperative initiative called National Graduate & Professional Student Appreciation Week (GPSAW), which seeks to emphasize the contributions, impact and value of graduate and professional students on campuses throughout the United States. It is celebrated annually on the first week of April.  

GPSA Week at University of Houston

Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week is an annual observance designed to recognize and celebrate the valuable contributions of graduate and professional students in academia and beyond. Typically held during the first week of April, this week-long event highlights the dedication, perseverance, and achievements of individuals pursuing advanced degrees.   

The purpose of the week is to foster a sense of community, express gratitude for the vital role graduate and professional students play in research and education, and raise awareness about the unique challenges they may face. Various universities and institutions organize events, workshops, and activities to honor these students and promote a supportive environment for their continued success. To learn more about GPSA Week please visit the National Association of Graduate-Professional Students website here .  

Here at University of Houston, University Career Services hosts a lineup of events to support and uplift our graduate, professional, and doctoral cougars. We encourage all graduate and professional students to engage with us, as participation in select events will enter students’ names into a raffle to win giveaways from University Career Services! Please RSVP to events through Cougar Pathway via your Access UH.

Event Line Up

Coffee, Tea, and Pastries with Carrer Services

Student Service Center 1 Room 106
April 1, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Texas Job Fair

Student Center South Houston Room
April 2, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

The Job Search: Academic vs. Industry

Virtual via Microsoft Teams
April 3, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Graduate and Doctoral Student Resume, CV, and Cover Letter Drop In's

Student Service center Room 106
April 4, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Virtual Happy Hour Chat

Virtual via Microsoft Teams
April 5, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

GPSA Week #GRADitudes

We invite all members of the UH Community to recognize a Graduate or Doctoral student by sharing a #GRADitude. Simply complete (this form) to share a few personalized words of celebration, recognition, or encouragement. We will send them a virtual post card and share this highlight on our website and social media throughout the week. Please have your form submitted by Thursday, March 28 at 5pm.