The world offers opportunities and challenges today that were unimaginable even 10 years ago. The nature of work is changing and creating the need for people with vision, creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively across disciplinary lines and traditional skill sets. Consequently, contemporary graduate student professionalization must adapt to meet these changes. CGU’s Academic Professional Development collaboration provides the complementary curriculum you need to excel in your career. In addition to our individual program opportunities, our innovative collaborations complement and extend your academic program to integrate professional development into the core of your graduate education. We prepare you to be an agile and resilient graduate: better able to imagine and create a future of your own design.
The Academic Professional Development events and projects are provided by the Career Development Office (CDO), the Center for Writing and Rhetoric (CWR), the Preparing Future Faculty program (PFF), and the Transdisciplinary Studies program (TNDY).
Academic Professional Development (APD) Events
2021 Events
CWR – Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, January 9 & 10, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 1: Welcome Back Social Event & American Trivia Contest for International Students
Friday, January 29, 7:00 – 9:00 (PDT) pm Pacific Time via Zoom. Register here
In this first workshop, we will welcome returning, new, and potential students to the Spring 2010 semester at CGU. We will also introduce the Spring ISP workshop series as well as provide a space for attendees to network with fellow CGU students and engage in social conversation in English. We will also offer a fun, English Trivia Contest with small gift card prizes to kick off the new semester.
PFF – Faculty Websites: Getting Started with Content
Tuesday, February 2, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
In this session you will learn the why and what of faculty websites and view some example sites. If you are just looking to learn more, ready to set up your first site, or looking to expand your existing site, there will be useful takeaway resources for you in this webinar.
CDO – Wal-Mart Information Session
Friday, February 5, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Attend live via Zoom.
Learn about several internships and full-time employment opportunities at Wal-Mart.
CWR – Qualifying Exams Preparation Weekend
Saturday – Sunday, February 6 & 7, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) Register here.
For most doctoral degrees, qualifying exams are the first major milestone that must be completed after coursework. The challenge of demonstrating breadth of knowledge in a field as well as preparedness for a culminating project is complicated by the shift in structure of the post-coursework phase. One proven method of maintaining productivity and motivation during this transition is to participate in community events that are designed to reduce distraction, facilitate peer engagement, and provide a source of accountability. Designed for students doing timed exams, written assignments, dissertation chapter drafts, and portfolios, the event will provide the options of either dedicated work time with peers or a combination of work time and facilitated sessions on exam preparation topics.
PFF – Providing Quality Feedback
Tuesday, February 9, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Co-host: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
View video.
In this session you will learn some strategies for providing feedback to your students that will be useful for developing their assignments, interests and professional identities. Additionally, we will explore different modes for providing feedback that will help with student engagement, instructor efficiency, and foster class relationships. .
CDO – How to Build Strategic Relationships in the New Normal
Wednesday, February 10, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Attend live via Zoom.
In this workshop, we will address strategies for building authentic online relationships that can help you get started, or take your career to the next level.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshops 2 & 3: People & Cultures
Friday, February 12, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register here.
Friday, February 26, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register here.
These two, two-hour sessions with Q&A will allow students exchange of cultural information regarding their own culture and customs, as well as listen to and learn from their their fellow students. In this third workshop we will discuss American culture and customs, and students will have the opportunity to ask questions about the nuances of life in the U.S.
CWR – Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, February 13 & 14, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.)
Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
PFF – Diversity Statement 101: The Fundamentals of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Wednesday, February 17, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
This session will highlight important considerations in writing your Diversity Statement. We will examine Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from a systems lens and identify concrete strategies to teach, model, and practice inclusion for diverse learners. We will discuss ways to communicate your experiences and commitment to embracing diversity and working for inclusivity and equity in education.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, February 21, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.)
Register here
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
PFF – Learning Management Systems – Meaningful and Effective Discussion Forums
Tuesday, February 23, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
In this session you will learn how to improve student engagement in online discussions by connecting those discussions to a meaningful purpose, and by utilizing features available in the Canvas environment. By the end of this webinar, you will have several strategies to deploy in your classes.
CDO – Career Pathways with Tina Lee (‘18)
Tuesday, February 23, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Attend live via Zoom.
Learn how Tina leveraged her CGU experience to propel her career in Organizational Development.
CWR – The Basics of Presenting
February 25, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Matthew Higgins
Register here.
In this webinar, we will go over the basics of effective public speaking and presentations. The webinar is a brief overview of several elements of public speaking, including organization and structure or presentations, nonverbal do’s-and-don’ts’s, and tips for preparation. The material discussed is applicable for both face-to-face and asynchronous presentations.
PFF – Transformational Teaching and Learning:
An Overview of Kristen Olson’s Wounded by School: Recapturing the Joy in Learning and Standing Up to Old School Culture
Thursday, February 25, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Catherine Conner, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
Engagement in learning is critical for student success. Unfortunately, school can alienate many individuals, resulting in life-long “school wounds” that extend far beyond the classroom. By examining and understanding the wounds of schooling, how schools wound, and what we can do about it, we can avoid wounding students and work to transform their learning. In this webinar, we will use Kristen Olson’s Wounded by School to help us reconsider our teaching strategies.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, February 27, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here.
CDO / PFF / CWR / TNDY / ISP – Re-Orientation: From Coursework to Completion
Monday, March 1 – Saturday, March 6
Re-Orientation is an invitation only event for PhD students who have completed 48 units and are navigating the post coursework process towards earning their PhD. We have a week of programming focused on preparing you for quals/proposal/dissertation, and career planning. Check your CGU email for your invitation and more information. This program is brought to you by Career Development Office, Preparing Future Faculty, Center for Writing and Rhetoric, Transdisciplinary Studies and International Scholars Program.
ISP – Conversation with Professor James Wright, Florida State University: Being Black in the academy: Why graduating is only half the battle.
Tuesday, March 2, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom.
Register here.
Professor James Wright discusses his journey as a person of color to joining the faculty as an Assistant Professor at Florida State University. (For any questions about this session, please contact isp@cgu.edu.).
PFF – Assessing Student Learning: Alternatives to Letter Grading
Tuesday, March 2, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
Our grades should accurately reflect the skills we are trying to build in the classroom. While traditional grading techniques can be effective, there are alternative ways to provide students with grades that may feel less punitive. In this webinar, I will go over several alternative grading strategies such as ungrading and gamification.
CDO – Starting your New Job Like a Pro
Wednesday, March 3, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Attend live via Zoom.
We’ll discuss how to make a great impression on your new boss, win friends and influence people, and prepare to successfully manage your career.
CWR – Slides, Data, and Nonverbal Engagement in Presentations
March 4, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Matthew Higgins
Register in advance here.
The focus of this webinar is on using PowerPoint slides and other presentation aids, effectively presenting data, and how to use nonverbal communication as a tool for engaging presentations. There will be a brief review of the basics of presentations before diving deeper into the essentials of using presentation aids, data, and nonverbal gestures to build and deliver effective presentations and connect with audiences.
ISP – For International Students and Non-native Speakers of English:
Turning a Perceived Disadvantage into an Advantage
Saturday, March 6, 10:30 – 11:20 am (PDT)
Register here.
This interactive presentation promotes the practical application of Harvard Business Professor Laura Huang’s notion charted in her recent book Edge, Turning Adversity into Advantage to the career goals of international students and any other second language learner of English. Huang proposes that perceived disadvantages such as that of a foreign accent can be turned into a competitive edge for candidates seeking internships and career opportunities. Presented by SheriAnn Simpson, Ph.D. Director of the International Scholars Program, Kristen Brownell M.A., M.F.A. Adjunct Instructor, and Ricardo Orozco, an international student himself and an Adjunct Instructor in the International Scholars Program.
ISP – Self-Assessment for Interview Practice via The Big Interview
Saturday, March 6, 11:30 am (PDT)
Register here.
This session will be a continuation of the previous hour but is also open to anyone who would like to see a demo of the free-to-CGU-student tool The Big Interview. Ricardo Orozco-Segura, an international student himself and an Adjunct Instructor in the International Scholars Program, will give a demonstration of The Big Interview. This free student tool utilizes a self-assessment feature based on AI, thus allowing the user to see private results of practice interviews. Instructors will be on hand to discuss uses of this tool to improve your listening and speaking skills for interviews. Other presenters: SheriAnn Simpson, Ph.D. Director of the International Scholars Program and Kristen Brownell M.A., M.F.A. Adjunct Instructor.
CWR – Preparing and Practicing Presentations
March 11, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Matthew Higgins
Register in advance here.
Emphasizing the work prior to presenting, this webinar explores techniques for building your presentation and preparing for delivery. What is the first step in building your presentation? How do you create effective transitions? What is the best way to practice your presentation? How many times should you practice a presentation before actually delivering it? These are some of the questions that will be answered as we discuss the best practices for presentation preparation.
PFF – Transformational Teaching and Learning: Using Productive Struggle in the Classroom
Thursday, March 11, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Catherine Conner, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
Resilience. Perseverance. Grit. These are qualities often associated with academic rigor and success. However, the paths to helping students develop these qualities are not always clear. In this webinar, we will discuss how using productive struggle in the classroom can help students develop and strengthen these traits, and how the role of teacher as “warm demander” can infuse empathy into an academically rigorous class environment.
CWR – Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, March 13 & 14, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, March 21, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CDO – Online Onboarding: Effective Strategies & Lived Experiences
Tuesday, March 23, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Attend live via Zoom.
This event invites several employers and CGU alumni to share their online onboarding practices, lived experiences of new hires, and what form of this onboarding strategy will stick around after the COVID era.
CWR – Writing Effective Thesis Statements
March 25, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Katrina Denman
Register in advance here.
This webinar will address the dos and don’ts of creating an effective thesis statement for research papers and other writing projects. It includes introductions to and brief exercises on thesis writing, including brainstorming, refining your approach, elements to include, and pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re new to graduate school or writing a dissertation, this webinar will offer tips and suggestions for honing your thesis-writing technique.
PFF – How to be an Antiracist Educator
Thursday, March 25, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
As the words antiracist and equity can become dangerously trendy, educators should pause and examine what they truly mean. Ibram X. Kendi, a leading antiracist scholar and New York Times bestselling author, states: “the only way to undo racism is to consistently identify it and describe it—and then dismantle it.” This session will review Dr. Kendi’s book “How To Be An Antiracist” and share key takeaways about how it applies to educators.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, March 27, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here.
PFF – Developing Effective Student Learning Outcomes
Tuesday, March 30, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
Developing effective student learning outcomes is a linchpin to successful course design and assessment. This webinar will provide participants with a step–by–step guide on how to develop student learning outcomes that are quantifiable and driven by backwards design. By doing so, both educators and students will be able to more accurately gauge the extent to which the course fulfilled their expectations and goals.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshops 4: Speaking & Listening in Professional and Social Contexts (Part 1)
Friday, April 2, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register here.
The first of two, two-hour sessions with Q&A that will cover speaking and listening in the classroom and in professional environments such as internships, the workplace, interviews, department events, etc.
PFF – Writing Your Teaching Philosophy Statement
Tuesday, April 6, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Catherine Conner, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar
In this webinar, we will discuss ways to craft your teaching philosophy statement to showcase your background, values, and approach to teaching along with your journey to becoming an educator.
CDO – Career Pathways Conversations: Leslie Matamoros
Tuesday, April 6, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Attend Live.
Please join us for an informal conversation with CGU alumna and Curator of Exhibitions at the Ontario Museum of Art, Leslie Matamoros.
CWR – Applying for the Fulbright Research or English Teaching Assistant Awards
Wednesday, April 7, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
The Fulbright awards are some of the most prestigious grants available, but what exactly are they and how do you apply? This webinar will cover the basics of the two main Fulbright awards, the Research/Open Study Award and the English Teaching Assistant Award, as well as other important details such as eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines. Finally, we will discuss how the Center for Writing & Rhetoric is available to support the development of your application during spring and summer.
PFF – Growth Mindset for Grad School
Friday, April 9, 12:00 – 1:30 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Shamini Dias, PFF Director
Attend Webinar.
This webinar is part of CGU’s First Year Experience program, but all are welcome. In this webinar, we examine Carol Dweck’s work on Growth Mindset and its importance for learning success. We will explore strategies to foster growth mindset as a capacity to help you flourish in your graduate studies.
CDO – Interview Preparation Day
Tuesday, April 9, 3:00 – 4:15 pm (PDT)
Attend Live.
Join the CDO and employers to learn how to ace your interview. You’ll also have time to network with employers to learn about their organization’s interview process to improve your chances of moving from candidate to employee.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshops 5: Speaking & Listening in Professional and Social Contexts (Part 2)
Friday, April 9, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register here.
The second of two, two-hour sessions with Q&A that covers speaking and listening in the classroom and in professional environments such as internships, the workplace, interviews, department events, etc.
CWR – Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, April 10 & 11, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
PFF – Assessing Student Learning: Student Self-Assessment
Friday, April 13, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
“Give a man a fish, he’ll eat for a day; teach a man how to fish and he’ll eat for a lifetime”. Assessment techniques that focus on student self-assessment rather than teacher assessment can help build life-long self-sufficient learners. This webinar will discuss several ways we can promote student self-assessment in our classrooms and build meta-cognition in our students.
CWR – Big Pitch 2021 Information Webinar
Thursday, April 15, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
Learn all about CGU’s 3-Minute Thesis event, the Big Pitch. Even though the event takes place every November, learn what you can do to prepare over the course of the year. Even though we do not know if the event will be virtual or in-person for 2021, this webinar will still cover the rules for participation, the criteria the judges use to assess the pitches, and the structure of the preliminary and final rounds.
CWR – Qualifying Exams Preparation Weekend
Saturday – Sunday, April 17 & 18, 8:45 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) Register here.
For most doctoral degrees, qualifying exams are the first major milestone that must be completed after coursework. The challenge of demonstrating breadth of knowledge in a field as well as preparedness for a culminating project is complicated by the shift in structure of the post-coursework phase. One proven method of maintaining productivity and motivation during this transition is to participate in community events that are designed to reduce distraction, facilitate peer engagement, and provide a source of accountability. Designed for students doing timed exams, written assignments, dissertation chapter drafts, and portfolios, the event will provide the options of either dedicated work time with peers or a combination of work time and facilitated sessions on exam preparation topics.
CDO – Career Pathways Conversation with Shana Love
Tuesday, April 20, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Attend Live.
Shana joined the Recruiting and Training team at the California State Auditor’s office in March of 2018. Prior to that, she was the National Recruitment Manager for the prestigious Coro Fellowship in Public Affairs. In previous roles she developed, evaluated, and managed programs, and conducted strategic planning in the private, government, and non-profit sectors. She also founded a Coaching and Consulting practice and worked with individuals, groups, and small businesses to identify and obtain their goals. You can find out more about Shana on her Linkedin page.
PFF – Receiving Feedback in Grad School
Friday, April 23, 12:00 – 1:30 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Shamini Dias, PFF Director
Attend Webinar.
This webinar is part of CGU’s First Year Experience program, but all are welcome. Receiving feedback is an important part of learning and graduate school. But how do we respond to feedback? What can we do with it? In this webinar, we explore the role and impact of feedback in learning, and how you can build strategies to use feedback as a tool for sharpening your abilities and being successful in your graduate studies.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 6: Decoding Regional Cultures and Linuistic Differences Within the United States
Friday, April 23, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register here.
This workshop will help students understand more about American geography as well as the unique culture and linguistic diversity of each region in the U.S. (the South versus the East Coast, for example) plus we will discuss the U.K. and Australia briefly. Additionally, it will allow students to practice more advanced levels of English such as the past tenses and compound past tenses, which are often a challenge for non-native speakers via exchange of information regarding where they have been and experiences they have had from their travels in various countries including the U.S.A.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, April 24, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here.
CWR – Writing the Fulbright Personal Statement
Monday, April 26, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
A key element of both main Fulbright awards is the personal statement. This webinar will provide strategies for writing strong Fulbright personal statements, illustrated by successful examples.
PFF – Equity-Centered and System Thinking Leadership in the Classroom
Wednesday, April 28, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
This session focuses on equity-centered teaching leadership that strives to build inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. We will build a shared understanding of the intersection of race, power, and privilege in our society and school systems. We will also explore ways to develop a system thinking mindset that ensures students have the tools to navigate, question, and undo systemic barriers.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, May 2, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, May 8, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 8: End-of-the-Year Social Event
Friday, May 14, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register here.
Details of this end-of-the-year social event to be announced.
CWR – Big Pitch 2021 Information Webinar
Thursday, May 25, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
Learn all about CGU’s 3-Minute Thesis event, the Big Pitch. Even though the event takes place every November, learn what you can do to prepare over the course of the year. Even though we do not know if the event will be virtual or in-person for 2021, this webinar will still cover the rules for participation, the criteria the judges use to assess the pitches, and the structure of the preliminary and final rounds.
PFF – Diversity Statement 101: The Fundamentals of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Friday, June 4, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
Co-Host: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
This session will highlight important considerations in writing your Diversity Statement. We will examine Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from a systems lens and identify concrete strategies to teach, model, and practice inclusion for diverse learners. We will discuss ways to communicate your experiences and commitment to embracing diversity and working for inclusivity and equity in education.
CWR – Summer Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Wednesday, June 5-9
Along with meeting for five days, Summer Dissertation Boot Camp participants benefit from a number of other features, including guest faculty and peer speakers addressing issues such as the writing process and staying motivated, as well as group discussions, expanded planning work, and 25+ hours of writing time. Submission of a detailed plan and confirmation from your advisor that you have discussed your plan with them is required. Only current CGU students who are ABD or in the proposal phase may apply. Eligible students must submit an application which includes a brief statement on how you hope to benefit from the Boot Camp and a detailed Writing Plan for the week. Your your advisor must e-mail the CWR (write@cgu.edu) with confirmation that they have reviewed your writing plan with you/. An application will not be considered complete until we receive confirmation from an advisor.
PFF – Lessons Learned: Enhancing the Student Experience in Online Courses
Wednesday, June 9, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Co-Host: Coming soon, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
The rapid transition to teaching online has been challenging for both students and faculty alike. Even as we look toward recovery from the pandemic and return to on-ground teaching, online teaching is likely to continue with greater presence in education. This webinar details the most common student complaints about online courses and provides strategies on how to remedy these issues to create a more inclusive and engaging experience for students in online courses.
PFF – Developing Effective Student Learning Outcomes
Thursday, June 17, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Co-Host: Coming soon, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
Developing effective student learning outcomes is a linchpin to successful course design and assessment. This webinar will provide participants with a step–by–step guide on how to develop student learning outcomes that are quantifiable, equitable, and driven by backwards design. By doing so, both educators and students will be able to more accurately gauge the extent to which the course fulfilled their expectations and goals.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, June 20, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, June 26, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here. (Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.)
PFF – Well-Being In Teaching and Learning: Fighting Zoom/Virtual Fatigue
Tuesday, June 29, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Co-Host: Jessi Knippel, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
In this webinar you will gain a better understanding of Zoom fatigue (AKA virtual fatigue), and how to mitigate it in your classes. The webinar format will consist of a mix of research findings, and a discussion of experience-based practice tips from PFF, and others who wish to share. By the end of this webinar, you will have gained a more mindful understanding of Zoom/Virtual fatigue, and some hacks to add to your teacher toolbox. Feel free to come ready with questions or tips related to these struggles, it will only make the experience more richer, but participation is not required or expected.
PFF – Inclusive Learning Management Systems: Designing a Student-Centered Front Page
Tuesday, July 6, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Co-Host: Jessi Knippel, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link.
Learning Management Systems (LMS) in both online and on-ground teaching. LMS help students navigate and engage with their course. But they can be confusing and time consuming for many. An intentional, inclusively designed Front Page in your LMS can make all the difference to effective engagement, focus, and learning. This webinar goes beyond technical “how to” and focuses on student-centered concepts of front-page design to facilitate easy and intuitive course navigation.
PFF – TRANSforming the Classroom: Teaching Strategies that Support Transgender, Nonbinary, and Gender Nonconforming Students
Friday, July 9, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Shelby Lamar, PFF Assistant Director
Co-Host: Kay Lamar
Register here for Zoom link.
Have you checked that your classroom environment, syllabi, activities, and teaching practices are inclusive to transgender, nonbinary, agender, and gender nonconforming students? This workshop will discuss best practices in creating a safe, inclusive, and open classroom environment for students of all gender identities. Co-facilitators, Catherine Lamar and Shelby Lamar, will discuss strategies that educators can use when designing course materials, syllabi, first-day-of-class activities, and student resources that support and affirm LGBTQ+ students. Attendees will leave this session with tangible practices to implement in classrooms, including a checklist to design your course with gender-inclusive practices.
CWR – Weekend Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, July 10-11, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, July 18, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
PFF – Experiential Learning for Leadership Development
Friday, July 23, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
Co-Host: Coming Soon
Register here for Zoom link.
Experiential learning offers opportunities for students to learn through student- rather than instructor-centered experiences by doing, discovering, reflecting and applying. Through these experiences student can develop leadership skills by responding to and solving real world problems and processes. This session will explore how experiential learning has been and can be used to support students in leadership development and growth mindset.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Friday, July 30, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here. (Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.)
CWR – Time Management & Creating a Productivity System
Tuesday, August 10, 2021, 12 p.m. | Webinar facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director. Register here.
The dynamics of the graduate school workload are unique, and it is often a challenge to integrate academic demands into the rest of life. This workshop gives you tools to thrive during graduate school by providing time management techniques to increase efficiency, plan effectively, and achieve work-life balance. Learn how to create and refine a system for productivity that utilizes assessment and reflection toward incremental improvements.
CWR – Weekend Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, August 14-15, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
CWR – Introduction to Graduate Research Papers
Wednesday, August 18, 2021, 12 p.m. | Webinar facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director, & Arline Votruba, Writing Consultant. Register here.
Writing research papers at the graduate level requires both rhetorical and structural shifts from undergraduate writing. This webinar introduces the common forms of research papers in the social sciences and humanities while also covering approaches for writing introductions, methods, discussions, and other types of body sections. We will also spend time considering implications of the shift to the graduate context on audience, genre, and the writer.
CWR – Creating Writing Plans
Friday, August 20, 2021, 12 p.m. | Webinar facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director, & Anisha Ahuja, Writing Consultant. Register here.
With the added demands of graduate school, such as multiple simultaneous writing assignments in numerous courses, theses, qualifying exams and dissertations, prewriting strategies can make a huge difference in developing sustainable writing practices. In this webinar, learn about how developing a writing plan can help you tackle longer projects one step at a time, allowing you more time and attention for each part. We will discuss how this can be applied during coursework as well as during the more independent post-coursework phases.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Wednesday, August 25, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Friday, August 27, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single-day writing session is open to all students. Register here. (Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.)
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Wednesday, September 8, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.)
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CWR – Big Pitch 2021 Information Webinar
Thursday, September 9, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
Learn all about the event from the changes for the virtual format to the rules for participation and criteria the judges use to assess the pitches to the structure of the preliminary and final rounds. We will also discuss all the deadlines, the dates for the series of preparative webinars being offered, and how to take advantage of all the support programs put in place for the event.
CWR – Weekend Dissertation Boot Camp
Saturday – Sunday, September 11-12, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.) Register here.
Current CGU students who are ABD are eligible to attend the weekend boot camps. Space is limited and application review is generally first-come, first-served — but we do consider other factors to ensure that as many students as possible can participate. Proposal and Master’s thesis students will be considered after all ABD students’ applications have been reviewed. We normally notify all applicants of their status via email on the Wednesday prior to the weekend camp. If we are unable to accept you, we can place you on a waiting list and will notify you of any spaces that become available as soon as possible.
PFF – Helping Your Students with Imposter Syndrome
Monday, September 13, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Patrick Martin, Psychotherapist and CEO of The Mental Health Toolbox
Co-Host: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Imposter syndrome. You have heard of it, but how well do we understand it, and why it is important to know about as an agile, ethical educator teaching in a complex world? In this webinar, you will come to better understand imposter syndrome, how it manifests in academic contexts, as well as classroom tactics to help set your students up for lifelong success and happiness. This webinar will be joined by practicing Psychotherapist Patrick Martin and PFF Fellow Jonathan Aragon to bring the perspectives of mental health together with future-focused college teaching.
CWR – Writing Effective Thesis Statements
Wednesday, September 15, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Katrina Denman, Senior Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
This webinar will address the dos and don’ts of creating an effective thesis statement for research papers and other writing projects. It includes introductions to and brief exercises on thesis writing, including brainstorming, refining your approach, elements to include, and pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re new to graduate school or writing a dissertation, this webinar will offer tips and suggestions for honing your thesis-writing technique.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 1 – Success Strategies for International Students
Date: Friday, September 17, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: To provide international students with strategies they can use to improve both their online and in-person learning experience, participation, and “presence” in class.
Points Covered:
- Speaking Under Pressure in Class Sessions
- American Classroom Culture and Etiquette
- Self-Advocacy
- Interacting with Professors and Classmates
CWR – Big Pitch Strategy Session
Monday, September 20, 3:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
Preparing a presentation that is limited to one slide and three minutes to a non-specialist audience is a unique challenge; doing that on a complex topic that is meant to be condensed but not dumbed down is even more so! This webinar will address a number of helpful strategies in approaching this rhetorical situation, from the use of narratives or themes to structure key ideas to how to insert real-life examples to how much technical information is appropriate.
CWR – Anti-Discrimination Workshop Series: Anti-Racism in the Writing Center
Wednesday, September 22, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Anisha Ahuja, Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
This webinar is an introduction to the Center for Writing and Rhetoric’s pedagogy and commitment to anti-racism and anti-discrimination. The CWR has transformed its approach to writing instruction to affirm all students’ writing styles and empower CGU students. This is the first of a workshop series being created and put on by the Anti-Discrimination Committee at the CWR.
CWR – Literature Reviews
Thursday, September 23, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
A major part of academic work across disciplines is engaging with the work of other scholars. New work enters existing conversations or creates new ones based on what has and has not been done by others. Consequently, literature reviews are a common part of academic writing, so many graduate students are expected to master the genre. This workshop covers the purpose, structure, and mechanics of literature reviews as well as tips for organizing, integrating, and analyzing sources.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Friday, September 24, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here. (Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.)
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 2 – Practical Writing in English for Graduate School
Date: Friday, September 24, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: To foster international students’ successful completion of basic but crucial writing tasks that they will engage in during their time at CGU, particularly written responses to peers and professors as well as providing meaningful written feedback.
Points Covered:
- Writing responses to class discussion prompts
- Providing meaningful written feedback
- Responding to questions, comments, and criticism
- Other types of academic correspondence
CWR – Qualifying Exams Preparation Weekend
Saturday – Sunday, September 25 & 26, 8:15 am – 4:30 pm (PDT) Register here.
For most doctoral degrees, qualifying exams are the first major milestone that must be completed after coursework. The challenge of demonstrating breadth of knowledge in a field as well as preparedness for a culminating project is complicated by the shift in structure of the post-coursework phase. One proven method of maintaining productivity and motivation during this transition is to participate in community events that are designed to reduce distraction, facilitate peer engagement, and provide a source of accountability. Designed for students doing timed exams, written assignments, dissertation chapter drafts, and portfolios, the event will provide the options of either dedicated work time with peers or a combination of work time and facilitated sessions on exam preparation topics.
CWR – Turning Seminar Papers into Journal Submissions
Monday, October 4, 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Troy Mikanovich, Senior Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
Writing a strong seminar paper is a good first step if you want to publish your work in an academic journal, but the process of getting there can be daunting and confusing. In addition to providing a general overview of the journal submission process, this workshop will outline a process for reworking the papers that you have written for class to prepare them for submission to an academic journal. The presenter, Troy Mikanovich, has served as the Assistant Editor of the Journal of the American Academy of Religion (JAAR) and an Editorial Assistant for Reading Religion—feel free to bring questions!
CWR – Basics of Presenting
Tuesday, October 5, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Anisha Ahuja, Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
In this webinar, we will go over the basics of effective public speaking and presentations. The webinar is a brief overview of several elements of public speaking, including organization and structure or presentations, nonverbal do’s-and-don’ts’s, and tips for preparation. The material discussed is applicable for both face-to-face and asynchronous presentations.
CWR – Writing Dissertation Proposals in the Humanities
Wednesday, October 6, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Katrina Denman, Senior Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
You’ve finished your course work and passed qualifying exams – now what? This workshop will provide an overview of writing dissertation proposals in the Humanities, specifically in History, English, Cultural Studies, and Religion. It will offer guidelines on the structure and essential sections of the proposal, such as questions to be addressed, methodology, and chapter overviews. The workshop will also provide insight on integrating your quals work into the proposal, as well as serving as a forum for questions on the dissertation proposal process.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 3 -Improving Your Listening & Speaking Skills as an International Student
Dates: Friday, October 8, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: International students often comment that listening and speaking are the most difficult skills to improve, and this workshop will offer strategies and tips for how to become better at both listening to and responding to peers, professors, and other people they will encounter while studying in the U.S.
Points Covered:
- How to engage in “active” listening
- How to speak under pressure
- What to do when you cannot understand someone, or when they cannot understand you
- Exercises for improving both listening and speaking
CWR – Anti-Discrimination Workshop Series: “Code-Meshing” in Graduate Writing
Friday, October 15, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Joshua Mendez & Adrienne Domasin, Writing Consultants
Register in advance for the Webinar
Code-meshing describes a process of mixing and combining language from one’s own cultural background to produce new words and meanings. In this workshop, we will address how to code-mesh in the graduate setting with regards to writing style, language, tone, and content. We will brainstorm ideas for code-meshing in our own work and analyze examples that include the work of CGU students and published scholars.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 4: How to Deliver a Pitch or New Idea in a Class or for a Research Project
(This pairs with CGU’s Big Pitch contest)
Date: Friday, October 15, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: To facilitate preparation and practice for delivery of a “pitch.” By “pitch”, we are referring to a process in which a student succinctly describes and delivers a new idea in a class or for a research topic. This pairs with The Big Pitch, a 3-minute, campus-wide thesis contest. Even international students who do not plan on entering the contest are welcome to attend to practice delivering ideas to advisors, professors, and classmates.
Points Covered:
- What a Pitch Is, and Why We Do It
- Identifying the Essence of an Idea and Summarizing It Effectively
- Knowing Your Audience
- Delivery: Body Language and Elements of Speech
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, October 17, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.)
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CWR – Writing Abstracts
Monday, October 18, 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Troy Mikanovich, Senior Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
The requirement to produce an abstract in different contexts typically requires meeting slightly different sets of expectations. This is the case with the two most common types: conference abstracts and journal article abstracts. Join the Center for Writing & Rhetoric to learn strategies to produce clear and engaging summaries for both conferences and journals.
CWR – Creating Historiographies
Wednesday, October 20, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Katrina Denman, Senior Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
Whether you’re writing a seminar paper or a dissertation, historiographies are an essential part of academic work in the field of History. But what is an historiography? And what are some of the most effective ways to integrate one into your own work? This webinar will help answer these questions, as well as giving a step-by-step process for choosing a topic, finding sources, structuring the paper, and addressing the “hows” and “whys” of contributing to an historical conversation.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, October 23, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here. (Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.)
PFF – Integrating Open Education Resources (OER)
Thursday, October 28, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Jennifer Beamer. MSc., MLISc., Ph.D. Scholarly Communications and Open Publishing. Claremont Colleges Library.
Co-Host: Shamini Dias, PFF Director
Open Educational Resources (OER) are open access resources for teaching and research that are in the public domain or licensed to be open. OER can transform teaching and learning from reducing textbook costs to integrating a wider range of materials in your courses. In this webinar, Dr. Jennifer Beamer will share the experiences of professors in different disciplines who have used OER and how you can find and integrate OER for stronger equity-minded teaching.
CWR – Preparing and Practicing Presentations
Thursday, November 4, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Arline Votruba, Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
Emphasizing the work prior to presenting, this webinar explores techniques for building your presentation and preparing for delivery. What is the first step in building your presentation? How do you create effective transitions? What is the best way to practice your presentation? How many times should you practice a presentation before actually delivering it? These are some of the questions that will be answered as we discuss the best practices for presentation preparation.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 5: Formal Presenting in Graduate School – Dos and Don’ts
Date: Friday, November 5, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: To provide strategies for developing and delivering professional-level presentations in graduate school. We will discuss tips for creating better PowerPoints as well as improving elements of speech and body language in order to present in a way that is engaging and memorable.
Points Covered:
- PowerPoint in a Presentation – Dos and Don’ts
- Using Your “Voice” to Deliver an Excellent Presentation
- The Importance of Body Language
- Responding to Questions
CWR – Argumentation & Methods in Cultural Studies
Tuesday, November 9, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Arline Votruba & Anisha Ahuja, Writing Consultants
Register in advance for the Webinar
Cultural Studies and Humanities students who are starting to prepare their seminar papers are welcome and invited to participate in this interactive workshop. What goes into an argument? How do I select a methodological approach? This workshop will help you start to think about your research questions, the role of argumentation, and methodological requirements/opportunities in a Cultural Studies or Humanities paper. Whether you are brainstorming a topic or have already started your semester paper, this event will conclude with an activity to help you move further along in outlining and writing your paper.
PFF – Teaching in Non-Classroom Spaces
Wednesday, November 10, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Host: Shamini Dias, PFF Director
Co-Host: Shellyn Liska, Student Engagement Team, SCGH
In-person attendance: ACB 126
When we think of “teaching”, we imagine classrooms, students, syllabi, and assessments. This session explores what it means to “teach” in non-classroom contexts, such as community spaces and workplaces. We will explore the unique characteristics of learning and teaching in these contexts and strategies for active participation and learning. You may attend this event either in-person or via Zoom
CWR – Anti-Discrimination Workshop Series: Diversifying Resources
Thursday, November 11, 12:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Virgil Clark, Writing Consultant
Register in advance for the Webinar
Research and writing have generally favored a dominant canon that excludes communities and voices. This workshop is conducted by members of the Anti-Discrimination Committee with assistance from the Claremont Colleges library to encourage and teach people how to search for and utilize diverse resources.
PFF – Media and Pedagogy in Inclusive Ethical Teaching
Saturday, November 13, 12:00-1:00pm PDT
Host: Tamar Salibian, Ph.D
Co-Host: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
In this webinar, Dr. Tamar Salibian (CGU 2020) will facilitate a discussion about the uses of media in the classroom and other learning spaces. What are some ways we can incorporate different forms of media into our curricula to shape pedagogic practices that inform and uplift ethical teaching and learning?
CWR – Coping with the Load: Time Management for Graduate School
Tuesday, November 16, 3:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitated by Marcus Weakley, CWR Director
Register in advance for the Webinar
Effective time management involves a wide range of topics, so this workshop hones in on two areas that can have a strong impact for graduate students: developing a weekly planning system and creating sustainable new habits. Learn practical methods for developing new habits and explore options for how to create and refine a planning system that integrates days, weeks, months, semesters, and academic milestones.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 6: American Culture and Customs in a Professional Context
Date: Friday, November 19, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: To help international students learn more about American professional/workplace culture and customs, so that they might better navigate their experience in the U.S. This will be especially helpful for students who plan on pursuing a career in the States.
Points Covered:
- Tips for Improving Performance in Interviews
- How to Tell Someone About Yourself and Your Background in Just a Few Minutes
- “Small Talk” in Interviews
- Conversation Topics for Career Networking with Classmates and Professors
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, November 21, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.)
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
CWR – Anti-Discrimination Committee Peer Review
Wednesday, December 1, 5 pm-7pm (PDT)
Facilitated by the Anti-Discrimination Committee
This is a drop-in peer review session where consultants from the writing center will assist with final papers and assignments. Run by members of the Anti-Discrimination Committee, this session encourages people who work on issues related to anti-racism and marginalization to attend for extra feedback.
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, December 4, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here. (Registration opens two weeks prior to each session.)
PFF – Vulnerability and Ethical Pedagogy
Saturday, December 4, 12:00-1:00pm PDT
Host: Tamar Salibian, Ph.D
Co-Host: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
In this webinar, Dr. Tamar Salibian (CGU 2020) will engage you in a discussion about the ways that vulnerability and ethical pedagogy are co-joined and necessary as education finds its way through our current times.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, December 5, 8:45 am – 4:00 pm. (PDT) (Registration opens two weeks prior to event.)
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric has recently started offering Students of Color Writing Retreats. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat will be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 7: Prep for Finals with the International Scholars Program and the Center for Writing and Rhetoric!
Date: Friday, December 10, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm (PDT) via Zoom. Register Here.
Purpose: In the final workshop we will collaborate with the Center for Writing and Rhetoric for drop-in hours where students can come and get feedback on their writing, a presentation, and/or general other support from ISP facilitators and CWW consultants.
2020 Events
CDO – What Employers Want webinar
Tuesday, July 21, 12:00pm – 12:45pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Michael Sacoto, CDO Assistant Director
Zoom Link for the Webinar
It can be difficult to understand what employers are looking for. This workshop will allow you a peek behind the recruiting curtain. Join us as we discuss topics like: Skills that employers desire most, how to interact with employers and more! Visit Handshake for more information and to register for this online event.
PFF – Understanding Issues of Engagement
Thursday, July 9, 1:00-2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Sarah Eckert, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
In this webinar, we examine issues surrounding student engagement. We will explore possible reasons for student disengagement as well as how we might address such situations to promote learning and engagement.
PFF – Academic Integrity in Online Classes
Tuesday, July 14, 4:00-5:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Catherine Conner, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
In this webinar, we will discuss taking a proactive approach to academic integrity and explore the strategies and tools you can use to develop a classroom culture that fosters honesty, integrity, and accountability.
PFF – Promoting Active Learning Online
Thursday, July 16, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
As many classes have moved online, both students and professors have struggled to maintain class engagement. This should come as no surprise as teaching courses online is relatively new for many and requires a different set of skills. Accordingly, this webinar reviews specific strategies to facilitate student engagement online including a flipped classroom, group discussions, and problem-based learning.
PFF – Managing Writing in Online Classes
Tuesday, July 21, 7:00 – 8:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Catherine Conner, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
In this webinar, we will discuss some of the challenges of teaching writing online and how you can help students engage with writing in meaningful ways, synchronously or asynchronously. We will also explore assessment and feedback options.
PFF – Reflexivity in Crisis and Beyond: Strategies for Your Class
Thursday, July 23, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Cristal Almonte, PFF Fellow
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
In this webinar, educators will examine why practicing reflexivity during a time of crisis is important and how they may use reflexivity to inform their teaching to improve their communication with students and their assessments.
PFF – Assignments and Assessments Online
Tuesday, July 28, 4:00 – 5:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Shamini Dias, PFF Director
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
Inclusive assignments and assessments support students in learning and mastery. How do we do this effectively in online spaces? In this webinar, we explore how to design online assignments and assessments that are formative and support students’ learning autonomy and self-efficacy.
PFF – Building Community in Online Courses
Thursday, July 30, 4:00 – 5:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Shelby Lamar, PFF Asst. Director
Register for the Webinar (You will be emailed the Zoom link)
Building a sense of community in our courses increases student achievement, learning, and retention. Yet, it often seems difficult to build and sustain a classroom community in an online environment. This webinar will explore research-backed principles and practices that can help you build community in synchronous and asynchronous online courses.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshops 1 & 2: Online Learning & Success Strategies for International Students
Workshop 1: Friday, August 28, and Friday, October 2, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT)
Workshop 2: Friday, September 18, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitators: SheriAnn Simpson, ISP Director & Kristen Brownell
RSVP at ISP@cgu.edu.
Providing international students with strategies they can use to improve their online learning experience, participation, listening, speaking and “presence” in an online or hybrid class. Topics include: Strategies for Success in an Online or Hybrid Class, Online Class Etiquette, Self-Advocacy in a Virtual Context, Listening and Speaking in a Virtual Context, Interacting with Professors and Classmates Online, Group Work Online, Speaking Under Pressure in Online Class Sessions.
PFF – Using Productive Struggle to Build Learner Persistence
Thursday, October 1, 4:00-5:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Shamini Dias, PFF Director
View the Slides – View the Video
Often, struggling in the classroom can present barriers to learning and can leave students feeling defeated. But can productive struggle be a factor in active learning, self-efficacy, and resiliency? In this webinar, we will explore this concept and think more about ways to balance support with scaffolding to help students sharpen their higher-order skills and content knowledge.
PFF – Facilitating Well-being in Your Classes: Aligning Academic and Health Outcomes
Tuesday, October 6, 1:00-2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
View the Slides – View the Video
The research shows that when well-being improves so does academic performance. This webinar will provide you with guidance on facilitating well-being through your implicit teaching and provide you with some takeaway tools you can start using today.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshops 3 & 5: How to Deliver a Pitch or New Idea in a Class or for a Research Project (pairs with CGU’s Big Pitch contest)
Friday, October 9, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT)
Friday, October 30, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT)
*(Please note that workshop 4 occurs in between these on October 16, 2020)
Facilitators: SheriAnn Simpson, ISP Director & Kristen Brownell
RSVP at ISP@cgu.edu.
Facilitating understanding the concepts of a “pitch”, and to practice the delivery of it. By “pitch”, we are referring to a process in which a student succinctly describes and delivers a new idea in a class or for a research topic. This pairs with The Big Pitch, a 3-minute, campus-wide contest. Even international students who do not plan on entering the contest should attend to practice delivering ideas to advisors, professors, and classmates.
CWR – Effective Reading in Graduate School
Monday, October 12, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Register for Webinar
One of the most challenging parts of grad school is the amount of reading that you have to keep up with. Whether it is several articles a week, or several books, the material that you will be (and are) engaging with is dense and seldom lends itself to a breezy page-by-page readthrough. In this workshop, we will practice the skill of reading for argument rather than for content—that is, reading with an eye towards how different materials fit together in the context of your class (or your program or your field) instead of trying to keep track of every little detail. We will also look at and compare different ways to focus on your readings so that you can begin to develop a more purposeful approach to reading as you make your way through your program.
PFF – Value-Based Teaching: How to Align Your Values to Your Practice
Tuesday, October 13, 10:00 – 11:00 am (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
It is common to teach both how and what we were taught. By doing this, we can unknowingly perpetuate unjust policies and learning environments that are not aligned with our values. This webinar will discuss the process of identifying your values and the reflexive processes needed to turn those values into actionable policies and assignments to help all your students succeed in a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
PFF – Coping with the Load: Reference Management Software
Tuesday, October 13, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Shelby Lamar, PFF Assistant Director
View the Slides
Reference management software is a scholar’s best friend! This workshop gives you tools to thrive during graduate school by showing how the free reference management software Zotero can save time and prevent citation frustrations. Organizing all your sources, reading notes, and entering citations manually can be overwhelming and cost precious time, especially when working on a long-term project like a thesis or dissertation. When working on a project, you may find that you forget what you have read, don’t remember where your notes are located, or can’t find the source of that amazing quote! The earlier you start using a reference management system, the easier it will be to take notes, write papers, make bibliographies, and organize your research. Come learn how to use Zotero and make grad life easier!
CDO – Career Pathways Conversation with Victor Rose
Tuesday, October 13, 5:00 – 6:00 pm (PDT)
Zoom Link for the Webinar
Strategic Planning Manager, Amazon Web Services: During this session you will learn about Amazon’s job process and networking opportunities during the COVID era. The speaker will also touch on how to properly negotiate your salary, how to build credibility within your organization, strategies to identify transferable skills and more. You don’t want to miss out on this opportunity! Victor Rose is a CGU alumni and would like to continue making connections with current students.
ISP – Continuing Advanced ESL Workshop Series – Workshop 4: Practical, Everyday Writing in English for Graduate School
Friday, October 16, 7:00 – 9:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitators: SheriAnn Simpson, ISP Director & Kristen Brownell
RSVP at ISP@cgu.edu.
Facilitating international students’ successful completion of basic but crucial writing tasks that they will engage in during their time at CGU and the workplace. Topics include: Writing Emails to Professors and Other Authority Figures, Messages and Exchanges Between Group Members in an Online and In-Person Format, Requests, Petitions, and Self-Advocacy, Asking for Information, Filling Out Documents for Government and Other Agencies, Meaningful Responses & Peer Feedback in the Discussion Area of Online Classes.
CWR – Qualifying Exams Preparation Weekend
Friday – Sunday, October 16-18, 8:15 am – 4:40 pm (PDT)
Register here.
For most doctoral degrees, qualifying exams are the first major milestone that must be completed after coursework. The challenge of demonstrating breadth of knowledge in a field as well as preparedness for a culminating project is complicated by the shift in structure of the post-coursework phase. One proven method of maintaining productivity and motivation during this transition is to participate in community events that are designed to reduce distraction, facilitate peer engagement, and provide a source of accountability.
The Center for Writing & Rhetoric is happy to announce that in addition to our dissertation boot camps, writing retreats, and writing groups, we will now also be offering an event just for students at the qualifying exam stage. Designed for students doing timed exams, written assignments, dissertation chapter drafts, and portfolios, the event will provide the options of either dedicated work time with peers or a combination of work time and facilitated sessions on exam preparation topics.
The inaugural event in Fall 2020 will be entirely online on Friday, October 16th to Sunday, October 18th from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm each day. The deadline to register is October 11th at midnight!
PFF – Inclusive, Future–Focused Scholarship: Using 3 Tech Tools to Publish Inclusive Scholarly Works
Tuesday, October 20, 1:00 – 2:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Jonathan Aragon, PFF Fellow
Register here for Zoom link
In this webinar I will demonstrate how to harness the potential of modern technology to produce inclusive and engaging scholarly works. By the end of this webinar I will provide templates you can use to get started today.
CDO – Unlocking the Mysteries of the U.S. Workplace
Thursday, October 22, 3:00 – 4:30 pm (PDT)
Zoom Link for the Webinar
It’s easy to understand and follow the written rules of the workplace. However, the challenge is figuring out and following the unwritten rules. This webinar will help you understand some of the unwritten rules common to most US work environments, including tips for navigating office politics. You’ll also have the chance to ask any questions you have to prepare you for success while working in the US.
PFF – Developing an Effective Teaching Portfolio
Tuesday, November 3, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
View the Slides – View the Video
Did you watch the video? Please fill out our survey!
A teaching portfolio is a collection of information about your teaching practice. When carefully developed, portfolios can significantly advance your professional growth and demonstrate evidence of exemplary teaching. This webinar will discuss how you can use teaching portfolios effectively to assess your teaching quality and enhance reflexivity.
PFF – What Do the Best Teachers Do?
Tuesday, November 10, 10:00 – 11:00 am (PDT)
Facilitator: Noah Ringler, PFF Fellow
View the Slides – View the Video
Did you watch the video? Please fill out our survey!
Ken Bain conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with the most successful college professors in the country and this webinar will summarize his results and help you implement his discoveries in your courses. The webinar will cover issues like course design, student and self-assessment, and identifying student outcomes. The eBook is free to all CGU students on the Claremont Colleges Library website at https://ccl.on.worldcat.org/oclc/761325075.
CWR – Students of Color Writing Retreat
Sunday, November, 15, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (PDT)
Register to Participate
The Center for Writing and Rhetoric is proud to present the first Students of Color Writing Retreat on Sunday, November 15, 2020. With a Writing Consultant facilitating breaks and debriefs, this retreat with be a collaborative space for students of color to mutually support themselves in all stages of the writing process and gain invaluable feedback for their work.
PFF – Understanding Teaching & Learning as a Complex Process: The Cynefin Framework
Thursday, November 19, 10:00 – 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
Facilitator: Liz Cardenas, PFF Fellow
View the Slides – View the Video
Teaching and learning are some of the most complex human interactions and understanding complexity can help us be more agile and adaptive. The Cynefin framework from David Snowden is a powerful thinking tool used to make sense of complexity, discover and adapt, and embrace uncertainty and innovation. This webinar will explore how the Cynefin framework can be applied in the education landscape during times of crisis and change.
CWR – The Big Pitch 2020
Friday, November 20, 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PDT)
The format is simple. Participants have 3 minutes and a single PowerPoint slide to argue for the significance of their research, project, or art. This lends itself to business projects and artist statements as well as research work in the Humanities, Sciences, and Mathematics. The Big Pitch, CGU’s 3-Minute Thesis Competition, is open to all CGU students at any stage of their academic progress. For Fall 2020, the Big Pitch will be entirely virtual. Find out more information here!
CWR – Writing Retreat
Saturday, December 5, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (PDT)
This single day writing session is open to all students. Register here.
ISP – End of Semester Celebration: Game Night!
Saturday, December 19, 8:00 – 10:00 pm (PDT)
All International Students are invited to join us for a FUN yet challenging event to practice your English skills hosted by the International Scholars Program at CGU. (Though it may not be “night” where you are, we call it this in American English.) Meet up and be social with other international students and ISP instructors as you test your knowledge of the English language, idioms, verbs, academic and daily vocabulary, along with some fun trivia. There will be prizes for the winners of each round of games. Please let us know if you are coming by signing up here. Or e-mail us to join our mailing list for future events.