The Ignite community series is designed to promote the academic, professional, and personal development of graduate students who self-identify as underrepresented minorities (African American, Hispanic American, Native American, and Native Hawaiian) and underserved (low socio-economic background, first-generation college student, and other identities) groups at MIT. The series intends to enhance the co-curricular activities offered by MIT departments, labs, and centers — including Career Advising & Professional Development — by framing each seminar topic in terms of the graduate students’ racial and intersectional identities.
On a professional level, the seminars offer the opportunity for students from diverse academic departments to develop supportive peer relationships and to share experiences, insights, and strategies for managing the challenges of graduate work.
On a personal level, by bringing students together in an informal setting, the seminars lower barriers to making social and cultural connections among graduate students across the Institute. These events are also unique opportunities for students to meet and talk informally with faculty and administrators of color.
To learn about upcoming Ignite events, please contact GradDiversity@mit.edu.
