WashU funds many groups that allow students to explore their interests outside of scientific research. Only a subset of these are listed here.
Art and Literature
Hippocrene is the literary and artistic voice of Washington University School of Medicine. The print magazine features poetry, short stories, essays, photography and artwork — all from your colleagues at Washington University. Watch for it in your mailboxes and common areas. Submissions are accepted year-round from students, faculty and staff affiliated with biology or medicine at Washington University. Submissions need not relate to science or medicine; form and subject matter are constrained only by your talent and imagination. Please let the editors know if you would like to get involved with any of their endeavors.
Policy
Washington University in St. Louis Graduate Students Promoting Science Policy, Education, and Research (ProSPER) is a university-wide graduate student group that promotes the use of science in policy-making through science advocacy and literacy, facilitating inter-professional communication, and increasing scientist participation in policy. The group holds a variety of events, including member education events, case studies on how scientists have been involved in science advocacy, and panel discussions.
Education
The Young Scientist Program (YSP) is a science education outreach program targeting the St. Louis City public high schools. The group was founded in 1991 by graduate and medical students who were interested in providing local high school students and teachers with access to unique, hands-on scientific activities not normally available in the traditional high school curriculum. YSP has grown to encompass several programs, all of which are designed and directed by student volunteers.
Future Educators is a group of graduate students and postdocs interested in science education and mentoring. They host discussion groups on topics such as mentoring undergraduate students, applying for jobs in academia, and science education in St. Louis high schools. In addition, they co-sponsor the “How to Choose a TA-ship” panel discussion with SAC, which is held in the spring for first-year students. Teaching opportunities in the St. Louis area are passed on through the Future Educators email list and are often open to postdocs interested in extensive teaching experience or graduate students looking for a second teaching assistantship.
Diversity
Connections is a student-led initiative that promotes inclusion and encourages its members to explore their diverse identities. Connections provides a respectful space to learn and discuss diversity topics and generate a sense of community for students of all backgrounds. Monthly modules promote disseminating knowledge, engaging in intergroup dialogue, and creating an inclusive and diverse community for all.
Connections hosts monthly modules in biweekly meetings and a monthly happy hour. In the first meeting, an educator or expert presents their research as it relates to diversity and inclusion. This exposes members to a variety of topics. In the second meeting, members further explore these topics by engaging in an open dialogue with their “families.” Connections also hosts a monthly happy hour called “Cookies and Beer” where members can discuss meeting topics and current events in a more relaxed setting. Finally, members participate in yearly community service events and cultural field trips.
Is your group missing? Email SAC and we’ll add you to the page.