Discussion at last night's fireside chat in Collis Commonground focused on graduate student issues including social life and interactions between students and faculty.
Social space was the first issue addressed by the more than 60 people in attendance -- a mix of undergraduates, graduate students, and professors.
One graduate student pointed out that there was very little funding for social events while others noted that there was no space for graduate students to meet. Many students, both graduate and undergraduate, mentioned that they learned as much from other students as from classes.
Another graduate student said that there was "no interaction between departments," a feeling echoed by others in attendance.Education lecturer Randy Testa contrasted this with his own graduate experience. He told of a faculty club where professors could meet and talk and graduate students would be welcome at gatherings and could learn how to become professors.
Also discussed was the issue of graduate student housing. Many graduate students said that rent for Hanover apartments was exceedingly high and that the cheaper apartments were practically unlivable. They also said that if they live in Lebanon or somewhere cheaper then they would have to bear the expense of a car, since the bus system was not suited to student needs.
"Graduate students are not centralized in any way," another student said, adding that this is often a factor which limits student interaction.
Other graduate students said that they wanted to live by themselves and that dormitory life was the least favorite of all options.
Students also talked about interaction between graduate and undergraduate students.
Many people praised the math and classics departments which offer programs where undergraduates can receive tutoring help from graduates or seniors.
Some graduate students praised the math department program that allowed qualified graduate students to teach undergraduate classes.
One student suggested that graduates could be able to help with senior culminating experiences.
Others said that the college needed to clarify its mission with graduate students and find its niche among other colleges.
