Graduate Student Appreciation Week (GSAW) 2024
Graduate Student Appreciation Week (GSAW) 2024 is a nationally recognized celebration that will take place from Monday, April 1 – Friday, April 5, 2024 (with some bonus events on Saturday, April 6). It is a terrific opportunity to celebrate and recognize PhD and master's students in The Graduate School (TGS)! Below is a comprehensive list of GSAW events and giveaways that are free and open to all TGS students.
Note: Certain events are only accessible with the use of our Daily GSAW Access Pass. All eligible TGS graduate students will receive a new Daily Access Pass in their Northwestern email inbox every day of GSAW with a list of applicable events and programming. Events that require attendees to show their Daily GSAW Access Pass for admittance are indicated with the Access Pass icon.
As we begin Spring Quarter, there are significant religious holidays for many Northwestern students who are observing various rituals and practices, including fasting. To help plan out your week of festivities, events that offer food or refreshments will be indicated by the Food and Drink icon.
GSAW 2024 is sponsored by The Graduate School, Graduate Student Association (GSA), Chicago Graduation Student Association (CGSA), and the following participating campus partners:
Norris Mini Courses, NU Recreation, Office of the Ombudsperson, Religious & Spiritual Life, sustainNU, TGS English Language Programs, The Center for Civic Engagement, The Center for Leadership, The Graduate Writing Place, and University Libraries.
Specialty Programming
Daily Raffle Giveaway
To celebrate GSAW 2024, The Graduate School (TGS), Graduate Student Association (GSA), and Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA) will be hosting concurrent daily raffles! TGS is giving away $25 credit vouchers to the Norris University Bookstore. GSA is giving away GSA swag (sweatshirts, tote bags, and drink koozies), and CGSA is giving away wireless chargers.
During the week of GSAW (April 1–5), TGS will announce 15 winners each day on our social media (Facebook, X, and Instagram) as well as notify winners by email. Winners can redeem their vouchers at the Norris Bookstore for an item of their choosing. Vouchers cannot be used for online purchases and must be redeemed in-store. GSA and CGSA will each announce 2 prize winners every day of GSAW and notify winners as they are randomly selected. Winners can receive their prizes upon arrangement with GSA and CGSA.
To enter all three raffles, please complete this form by 11:59 PM CDT on Thursday, April 4. You only need to submit one entry to be considered for all of the daily giveaways. Please submit your entry by Sunday, March 31 to increase your chances of winning.
Email tgs-events@northwestern.edu with any questions.
GSAW Kickoff Reception
Join us for a night of celebration at Morgan's on Fulton in the West Loop (950 W. Fulton St.) as we kick off GSAW 2024 on Monday, April 1 from 7:00–9:00 PM! Let's toast to 10 incredible years of recognizing the invaluable contributions of graduate students. Don't miss out on this exciting kickoff reception filled with food, drinks, networking, music, and appreciation for our graduate student community.
Students are allowed to bring one additional guest to the reception. Appetizers and unlimited soft drinks will be served and each attendee will receive one complimentary drink ticket for alcoholic drinks. (Additional alcoholic drinks may be purchased out of pocket.) Be sure to bring a government-issued photo ID as alcoholic drinks will only be served to attendees who are 21 years and older.
Business casual/cocktail attire is welcome, but please feel free to come as you are. Space is limited with 250 spots available (including guests.) Registration is required for entry. See you there!
Showtime TGS: Shrek (2001) @ Music Box Theatre
Join The Graduate School at the Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport Ave.) on Saturday, April 6 from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM for a private screening of Shrek (2001)! Coloring pages, crayons, and materials for making lanyards will be provided along with free popcorn and soft drinks for all attendees. Costumes are strongly encouraged! This event is open to TGS students and their families. Up to three attendees are allowed per ticket. Space is limited to 70 attendees (including guests).
Downloadables and Digital Content
- SustainNU Connect and Recharge Calendar
Whether you need a well-being break or are hoping to find a new way to engage in sustainability and environmentalism, sustainNU is here to help! This Graduate Student Appreciation Week, download sustainNU’s "Connect and Recharge" calendar to explore options for connecting with nature and your community. These actions can be done with your work team, your family, or by yourself. Pick a couple of activities or make it a daily commitment. Doing so can positively affect your well-being, expand your awareness, re-center your appreciation for the natural world, and inspire you with new ways to take action. - GSAW 2024 Kudoboard
Contribute to the GSAW 2024 Kudoboard to connect with and recognize fellow members of the graduate student community. Learn how to register for Kudoboard here and share your gratitude! - GSAW '24 Spotify Playlist
Featuring a mix of empowering and inspiring tracks, this playlist is designed to motivate our graduate students through study sessions and celebrate their triumphs along their academic journey. Let this playlist energize you throughout the week and beyond. - GSAW Digital Wallpapers
Download these digital GSAW wallpapers to use on your smartphone, computer, or video conferencing (Zoom, Teams, etc.)
Chicago Programming
Programming listed here will take place either on the Northwestern Chicago campus or within the city of Chicago.Monday, April 1
CGSA Brain Boost Breakfast
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Monday, April 1 from 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM in the Ryan Atrium at the Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center (303 E. Superior St.)
Enjoy breakfast from the Cozy Corner on behalf of the Chicago Graduate Student Association! No registration is required, however the Monday GSAW Access Pass will be required for entry (received via email). While supplies last.
TGS Kick-off Reception
Presented by The Graduate School (TGS)
Monday, April 1 from 7:00–9:00 PM at Morgan's on Fulton (950 W. Fulton St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
Join us for a night of celebration at Morgan's on Fulton in the West Loop (950 W. Fulton St.) as we kick off GSAW 2024 on Monday, April 1 from 7:00–9:00 PM! Let's toast to 10 incredible years of recognizing the invaluable contributions of graduate students. Don't miss out on this exciting kickoff reception filled with food, drinks, networking, music, and appreciation for our graduate student community.
Students are allowed to bring one additional guest to the reception. Appetizers and unlimited soft drinks will be served and each attendee will receive one complimentary drink ticket for alcoholic drinks. (Additional alcoholic drinks may be purchased out of pocket.) Be sure to bring a photo ID as alcoholic drinks will only be served to attendees who are 21 years and older.
Business casual/cocktail attire is welcome, but please feel free to come as you are. Space is limited with 250 spots available (including guests.) Registration is required for entry. See you there!
Tuesday, April 2
TGS Donut Drop
Presented by The Graduate School (TGS) and the Center for Leadership
Tuesday, April 2 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM in the Potocsnak Atrium at the Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center (303 E. Superior St.)
The Graduate School (TGS) and the Center for Leadership will be passing out free coffee and donuts from Stan's Donuts to Chicago TGS students. Vegan and gluten-free options available. While supplies last. Tuesday GSAW Access Pass required.
TGS Swag Drop
Presented by The Graduate School (TGS)
Tuesday, April 2 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM in the Potocsnak Atrium at the Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center (303 E. Superior St.)
The Graduate School (TGS) will provide TGS students with a walk-up opportunity to spin a digital wheel and win one of a variety of swag items, including the grand prize: a 10W iDisc Wireless Charger. Try your luck at the TGS Swag Drop spot! Tuesday GSAW Access Pass required. While supplies last.
CGSA Rock Climbing & Bouldering
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Tuesday, April 2 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at First Ascent Climbing & Fitness in Block 37-Fourth Floor (108 N. State St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
20 students will receive a pass to rock-climb and boulder at First Ascent at Block37! Shoe rental is included as part of the ticket. Be sure to bring water and comfortable clothing for climbing. All registrants will need to sign a waiver to participate.
REGISTER HERE FOR CGSA ROCK CLIMBING & BOULDERING
CGSA Bunny Petting
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Tuesday, April 2 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Cuddle Bunny (2901 N. Clark St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
25 students will receive tickets to pet bunnies for one hour at Cuddle Bunny. There will also be a raffle for attendees to win prizes! Sign up for the first shift (6:00–7:00 PM) or second shift (7:00–8:00 PM) to pet bunnies.
Wednesday, April 3
CGSA Dollop Coffee Giveaway
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Wednesday, April 3 from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM at Dollop Coffee (345 E. Ohio St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
The first 100 students to show their Wednesday GSAW Access Pass can enjoy free coffee (up to $5) on CGSA at Dollop Coffee!
One-on-One Consultations with the Center for Civic Engagement
Presented by the Center for Civic Engagement (CCE)
Wednesday, April 3 from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM CT via Zoom
The Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) is offering 30-minute Zoom consultations to graduate students interested in developing a relationship with a Chicago-area nonprofit. Whether you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity, internship, or to seed a research or artistic collaboration, you’ll walk away with a list of organizations tailored to your interests and be entered in a raffle to win a book of your choice from Bookends and Beginnings! The Center for Civic Engagement maintains relationships with hundreds of local organizations and has placed more than 150 PhD students at 100+ nonprofits and governmental agencies through their practicum programs.
SIGN UP FOR A 1:1 TIME SLOT WITH CCE
CGSA Paint n' Sip: Paint Your PhD
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Wednesday, April 3 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM in the Searle Seminar Room at the Lurie Medical Research Center (303 E. Superior St.)
Come and express your artistic interpretation of your thesis! Use your artistic talents to express your PhD on canvas! We will have snacks and drinks, and all the supplies you need!
Thursday, April 4
CGSA @ Replay Arcade
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Thursday, April 4 from 5:30 – 8:30 PM at Replay Arcade in Lincoln Park (2833 N. Sheffield Ave.) *Please note the off-campus location.
Enjoy classic arcade games and pinball at the Replay Arcade! The first 25 students will receive a free drink token, and everyone can enjoy free pizza! While supplies last. A government-issued ID and Thursday GSAW Access Pass are required for entry.
GSA Rock Climbing & Bouldering @ Movement
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Thursday, April 4 from 7:00 – 11:00 PM at Movement in Lincoln Park (1460 N. Dayton St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
Join GSA for some movement and bonding with fellow graduate students while rock-climbing and bouldering at Movement in Lincoln Park. Rentals are included as part of the ticket. Be sure to bring water and comfortable clothing for climbing. All registrants will need to sign a waiver to participate.
Friday, April 5
CGSA Chicago Happy Hour
Presented by the Chicago Graduate Student Association (CGSA)
Friday, April 5 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the SQBRC Atrium in the Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center (303 E. Superior St.)
Join CGSA for snacks, drinks, and raffle prizes as we celebrate all the work our amazing graduate students do! We will be doing a raffle for all attendees. Come see if you win a Kindle, earphones, a keyboard gaming set, and MORE! No registration is required. While supplies last. No registration is required, however the Friday GSAW Access Pass will be required for entry (received via email).
Saturday, April 6
Showtime TGS: Shrek (2001) @ Music Box Theatre
Presented by The Graduate School (TGS)
Saturday, April 6 from 11:30 – 1:30 PM at the Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport Ave.) *Please note the off-campus location.
Join The Graduate School at the Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport Ave.) on Saturday, April 6 from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM for a private screening of Shrek (2001)! Coloring pages, crayons, and materials for making lanyards will be provided along with free popcorn and soft drinks for all attendees. Costumes are strongly encouraged! This event is open to TGS students and their families. Up to three attendees are allowed per ticket. Space is limited to 70 attendees (including guests).
Evanston Programming
Programming listed here will take place either on the Northwestern Evanston campus or within neighboring suburbs.Monday, April 1
GSA Bagel Breakfast
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Monday, April 1 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM in TGS Commons (2122 Sheridan Rd.)
Join your fellow Evanston TGS students for a fun and healthy start to your week with Einstein's Bagels. Available while supplies last. Monday GSAW Pass is required.
BODYPUMP
Presented by NU Recreation
Monday, April 1 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM in Studio 1AB at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion (2311 Campus Dr.)
A barbell workout for anyone looking to get lean, toned, and fit! Using light to moderate weights with lots of repetition, this is a total body workout. Instructors coach you through scientifically proven movements and techniques while pumping out encouragement, motivation, and great music! First-come, first-served. (All Levels)
Tuesday, April 2
GSA Snack and Swag Giveaway
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Tuesday, April 2 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Technological Institute Lobby (2145 Sheridan Rd.)
Join Northwestern's Graduate Student Association for brown bags full of snacks and GSA-branded swag! No registration is required, however the Tuesday GSAW Access Pass will be required (received via email). While supplies last.
Graduate Writing Retreat
Presented by The Writing Place
Tuesday, April 2 from 2:00 – 5:00 PM in TGS Commons (2122 Sheridan Rd.)
Join The Writing Place for a writing retreat, complete with snacks, a brief goal-setting session, and some quiet writing time. Graduate Writing Place consultants will also be available to provide help for any writers who might like it.
REGISTER FOR THE GRADUATE WRITING RETREAT
GSA Trivia Night
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Tuesday, April 2 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM in TGS Commons (2122 Sheridan Rd.)
What's the capital of Albania? Bring your smartest friends with you to compete in GSA's GSAW Trivia Night! Sign up with a pre-made team or sign up for a random team for a chance to make new friends! Winning teams will receive TGS and GSA branded swag! Sign up by Monday, April 1!
Wednesday, April 3
One-on-One Consultations with the Center for Civic Engagement
Presented by the Center for Civic Engagement (CCE)
Wednesday, April 3 from 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM CT via Zoom
The Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) is offering 30-minute Zoom consultations to graduate students interested in developing a relationship with a Chicago-area nonprofit. Whether you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity, internship, or to seed a research or artistic collaboration, you’ll walk away with a list of organizations tailored to your interests and be entered in a raffle to win a book of your choice from Bookends and Beginnings! The Center for Civic Engagement maintains relationships with hundreds of local organizations and has placed more than 150 PhD students at 100+ nonprofits and governmental agencies through their practicum programs.
SIGN UP FOR A 1:1 TIME SLOT WITH CCE
Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Presented by NU Recreation
Wednesday, April 3 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM in Studio 2 at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion (2311 Campus Dr.)
Vinyasa means “breath-synchronized movement”. This style of yoga focuses on sequential movement that coordinates breath and the transition of postures. This combination works to relax the mind and enhance energy flow throughout the body. First-come, first-served. (All Levels)
GSA Tipsy Paint
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Wednesday, April 3 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Tipsy Paint in Glenview, IL (1944 Lehigh Ave., Unit E) *Please note the off-campus location.
Join GSA in painting your own masterpiece to take home! All supplies are provided. Tipsy Paint is a bring-your-own-beverage (BYOB) studio. You can bring your beverage of choice: alcoholic or non-alcoholic.
This event is for NU graduate students only. RSVP here by Sunday, March 31 at 11:59 PM CDT; limited tickets are available. RSVP does not guarantee tickets. Those who receive tickets will be contacted prior to event. Please do not RSVP if you do not plan on attending.
For those needing transportation, we will try to arrange carpools for this event. Transportation to and from the event will be the responsibility of the attendee.
Chomp & Chat Game Night
Presented by TGS English Language Programs (ELP)
Wednesday, April 3 from 7:00 – 8:30 PM in TGS Commons (2122 Sheridan Rd.)
Hungry for fun? Join English Language Programs (ELP) for a Chomp & Chat Game Night! Enjoy snacks from around the world and board games that will boost your pop culture knowledge and vocabulary. Bring your competitive spirit and get ready to challenge your friends or make new ones as we play games like 'What Do You Meme?', 'Scattergories' and/or 'Taboo'. Meet new people, try new cuisines, and enjoy a study break with ELP! Everyone is welcome.
Thursday, April 4
TGS Donut Drop
Presented by The Graduate School (TGS), the Center for Leadership, and the Office of the Ombudsperson
Thursday, April 4 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM in TGS Commons (2122 Sheridan Rd.)
The Graduate School (TGS), the Center for Leadership, and the Northwestern Office of the Ombudsperson will be passing out free coffee and donuts from Stan's Donuts to Evanston TGS students. Vegan and gluten-free options available. While supplies last. Thursday GSAW Access Pass required.
TGS Swag Drop
Presented by The Graduate School (TGS)
Thursday, April 4 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM in Norris University Center (1999 Campus Dr.)
The Graduate School (TGS) will provide TGS students with a walk-up opportunity to spin a digital wheel and win one of a variety of swag items, including the grand prize: a 10W iDisc Wireless Charger. Try your luck at the TGS Swag Drop spot! Thursday GSAW Access Pass required. While supplies last.
Sweets @ The Suite Spot
Presented by Religious & Spiritual Life (RSL)
Thursday, April 4 from 3:30 – 4:30 PM in the RSL Lounge in Parkes Hall 120 (1870 Sheridan Rd.)
Join RSL Staff at the Suite Spot for coffee, cupcakes (some gluten-free and vegan options will be available), and light refreshments for Graduate Student Appreciation Week in Parkes 120. Feel free to drop in throughout the hour. We hope to see you there!
Norris Mini Courses: Paint n' Sip
Presented by Norris Mini Courses
Thursday, April 4 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the Wildcat Room at Norris University Center (1999 Campus Dr.)
Join Norris Mini Courses for an evening of creativity! Unleash your inner artist and come paint your own pottery. Select one of two pre-selected pottery pieces to paint and decorate. Everything is provided including pottery, paint, tools, glazing, and firing. Come back to pick up your finished pottery two weeks after the workshop. Light drinks and snacks will be provided. Spots are limited. Please register on the form and we will send you a confirmation email after registration closes.
Friday, April 5
GSA Coffee Lab Giveaway
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Friday, April 5 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM at Coffee Lab (910 Noyes St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
The first 100 students can enjoy coffee on GSA at Coffee Lab on Noyes! ($7 per student for coffee and/or pastries.) While supplies last. Friday GSAW Access Pass required.
Can I Get a Witness?: The Hidden Syllabus of Reference and Recommendation Letters
Presented by University Libraries
Friday, April 5 from 12:00 – 1:30 PM in the Main University Library Forum Room (1970 Campus Dr.)
- Joshua Chambers-Letson, PhD, Professor of Performance Studies and Asian American Studies
- Miriam J. Petty, PhD, Associate Dean for Academic Programs, The Graduate School, and Associate Professor in the Department of Radio/Television/Film
- Ariel Rogers, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Radio/Television/Film
REGISTER FOR CAN I GET A WITNESS?
GSA Mocktail Hour
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Friday, April 5 from 3:00 – 5:00 PM at TGS Commons (2122 Sheridan Rd.)
Interested in learning how to make a mock-mimosa or butterfly pea tea that changes colors? Join GSA for a mocktail mixer event and make your own yummy mocktail with friends! While supplies last. Friday GSAW Access Pass will be required for entry.
GSA Evanston Happy Hour
Presented by the Graduate Student Association (GSA)
Friday, April 5 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM at Five & Dime (1026 Davis St.) *Please note the off-campus location.
Round out GSAW with friends upstairs at Five & Dime for a happy hour with drinks and light bites for the first 100 attendees. First-come, first-served. A government-issued ID and Friday GSAW Access Pass will be required for entry.
Saturday, April 6
Norris Mini Courses: One-Day Wheel-Throwing Workshop
Presented by Norris Mini Courses
Saturday, April 6 from 3:30 – 5:30 PM in the ARTica Ceramics Studio at Norris University Center (1999 Campus Dr.)
Want to dip your hands in a little clay? Come join Norris Mini Courses for a two-hour workshop where you'll learn the fundamental steps of throwing. Participants will get to throw as much as they can, but will only be choosing one piece to keep. Participants will get to choose from 4 different glaze colors to match their perfect creation. Projects will be available for pick up two weeks from the workshop's completion. No experience is required! Spots are limited. Please register on this form and we will send you a confirmation email after registration closes.
