This fall, 325 new graduate students joined the Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to Dartmouth's close-knit community of scholars. Nearly half of the incoming class comes from outside the United States, underscoring Guarini's global reach. This fall also marked the launch of the Master of Energy Transition (MET) program, which welcomed its first cohort of 20 students to Dartmouth.
Orientation week began on Wednesday, September 10, with a full-day international graduate student and postdoc orientation session, providing essential information for navigating life and academics at Dartmouth. That evening, students joined their House Communities at welcome events hosted across campus, offering an early opportunity to connect with faculty and peers.
On Thursday, graduate students gathered for the community-wide Guarini orientation, which included a community support panel highlighting campus resources and a graduate school community meeting that brought together the full student body.
The day culminated in the Guarini community barbecue, where more than 900 students, faculty, and staff enjoyed a warm, sunny evening on the Life Sciences Center lawn. The event also introduced GuariniGRAD, a new initiative that brings together resources to support the academic, career, and personal growth of graduate students and postdocs.
In his welcome remarks, Dean Jon Kull emphasized both the academic opportunities and community connections that define the Dartmouth experience.
"Graduate school is a time to explore–not only in your research but in your life," said Dean Kull. "I encourage you to try new things and take full advantage of being in New England. Whether it's hiking a local trail, kayaking on the Connecticut River, or simply exploring new towns, the Upper Valley offers opportunities to recharge and connect that will enrich your time at Dartmouth."
Friday's schedule featured discipline-specific lab safety training, a teaching assistant panel, and the Graduate Student Council Activities Fair, where new students explored opportunities for involvement with 33 student organizations and campus partners.
With programming designed to introduce resources, build connections, and foster belonging, orientation week provided a strong foundation for new graduate students as they begin their Dartmouth journey.
Photos from orientation.
Photos from the fall barbecue.
Photos from the activities fair.
