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Resources and Supports for BIPOC Graduate Students

  1. U of G Homepage
  2. College of Biological Science

Prepared by Christabel Osei-Boateng, College of Biological Science’s Graduate Student Representative in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for 2024-25.

A PDF version of this webpage can be found here.

CBS EDI Graduate Program Audit

There is a longstanding history of underrepresentation or lack of diversity at the university level, which is further evident in graduate school.

Race has been cited as one of the most prevalent types of discrimination within the College of Biological Science at U of G, along with gender.

We met with faculty and staff who are visible minorities to gain insight from their personal experiences and compiled a list of advice for current and prospective graduate students.

Pillars outside SSC

Of the 414 graduate students registered in 2021-22, responses from 105-112 student (~27% response rate) determined CBS is:

  • 72% White
  • 18% Asian
  • 3% Black
  • 2% Latin
  • 1% Indigenous
  • 4% Other

Experiences with implicit bias and discrimination involved:

  • Stereotypes
  • Generalizations
  • Microaggressions based on ethnicity
Students in the UC

Tips From Faculty and Staff Like You

  • Have a good work ethic. Demand excellence from yourself.
  • Your mentors don’t have to be elite. Those around you may inspire you.
  • Find an advisor who can walk you through the process rather than doing it alone.
  • Don’t take on others’ inability to evolve. Your studies are most important.
  • As a new member of your lab, do your best to observe the style.
  • We are all task oriented. Take more time to reflect on what you learn.
  • Doing something you enjoy is the best way to minimize stress.
  • There are many ways to address concerns. Do what you are most comfortable with.
  • Join a lab with a great dynamic in which students are trained for success.
  • There are people at all levels that want your voice to be heard.

Grad School is About More Than Just Academics

Students walking on the U of G campus

Socially

  • Try your best to integrate with other students.
  • It can be scary, but don’t be afraid to reach out to people.
  • Be your authentic self around your colleagues outside of research.
  • Try to get involved in organizations at the departmental level.
  • Find clubs with similar interests to help you meet people.
soccer player on the field

Personally

  • Immerse yourself in activities you love in your new city.
  • Your journey may take you around the world. See that as an opportunity.
  • Enter with enthusiam and embrace the experience.
  • Be open to the helpful and welcoming people in grad school.
  • Imposter syndrome can happen at any stage and it’s ok.
candles on a table

Culturally

  • It’s ok to take comfort in finding people with similar backgrounds.
  • If people are curious about your culture, teach them new things.
  • However, never feel obligated to teach people about your culture.
  • Make time for your own group, but don’t forget to mingle with others.
  • Facing differences head on is a good place to start.


“In diversity, there is beauty and there is strength.” - Maya Angelou


Available Resources

  • BIPOC Counsellors: Drop in counselling sessions available for Black & racialized students
  • Clubs and Organizations: Cultural & identity groups for students looking to form or join a campus community
  • Graduate Calendar: Academic requirements & policies
  • Grad Pathways: Academic & professional skill development
  • Graduate Students' Association (GSA): Represents and advocates for graduate students
  • Grad Student Support Network (GSSN): Drop-in peer support
  • Grad Student Support Circle (GSSC): Weekly peer support group for graduate students
  • Grad Advisor Conflict Resolution: Policies on advisors and committees
  • GuardMe: Mental wellness support for international students
  • Healthy Campus: Food security and respiratory health resources
  • Indigenous Student Centre: The on-campus home for connection & support for Indigenous students
  • International Student Advising: Confidential advising for international students, new immigrants & refugees
  • Learning Services: Writing, research & academic skills support
  • Student Experience: Support and advising for Black and racialized students, LGBTQ2IA+, multi-faith & Indigenous students
  • Student Financial Services: FAQ about finances, tuition payments & aid
  • Wellness & Identity-Based Supports: Mental health navigation & graduate counsellor services