In today's changing health care landscape, research funding is increasingly difficult to secure. Ambitious researchers like our Graduate College students will face an uphill battle, marked by competition over resources. The more early experience they can get, the better.
It’s not enough to conduct good research; today’s graduate students must write papers and present at conferences, thereby developing their professional careers early on. Sharing their work is how graduate students will make their marks. Your support can help them start their careers with the right experience.
Professional development for promising future researchers
Alumni who, as students, received awards from the Graduate College Professional Development Fund are now in a variety of careers, serving as doctors, nurses, dentists, researchers in the biomedical industry and principal investigators of independent research labs. Receiving philanthropic support as students allowed them to present their graduate work at conferences in their chosen field, undoubtedly contributing to their success.
Your gift to the Graduate College Professional Development Fund can give today's students vital support of their research activities:
- Travel expenses for students to present their work at national and international scientific research conferences
- Annual financial awards to students from Rush University's biotechnology program to help defray the cost of their tuition and encourage their ongoing career development
- Careers in Science workshops that allow students to connect with professionals in different areas of research, including the private sector, teaching and other nontraditional academic settings
Give to Graduate Student Professional Development
The Graduate College Student Council Travel Award allowed me to attend the annual Society for Neurosciences Conference. There, I discussed my research with investigators from all over the world. I had a few interviews for postdoctoral research fellow positions and met additional investigators with whom I can see myself working. This travel award really helped to jump-start my academic career.
Recognizing your generosity
Alumni and friends who support the Graduate College and its students with annual giving of $1,000 or more will be recognized through membership in the Anchor Cross Society. A provision for the Graduate College in your estate plan qualifies you for membership in the Rush Heritage Society.
While the Graduate College Professional Development Fund is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen the college, there are many ways to support Rush University. If you have questions about your gift or membership in a giving society, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at (312) 942-7199 or alumni@rush.edu.