One event that encompassed both the social and informational aspects of the week was the Resource Fair and Graduate Student Association BBQ, where students were able to grab some good food while casually browsing booths set up by different campus resource groups. “The booths were able to connect students to particular people,” said Earl. “I saw a lot of conversations going on and friendships being made. It was a fun and engaging atmosphere

!” Many student organizations attended the BBQ, including different cultural groups and student clubs.

One of the ways in which the organizers of WOW succeeded was that events were tailored to meet the diverse demographics of the UC Davis graduate student population. This year there was a special event for graduate students, who are also parents, in downtown Davis. At the Grad Student Families Meet and Greet event, families were introduced to each other while enjoying the atmosphere of Davis’ weekly Farmers Market.

Out-of-state and international students made up a large percentage of the incoming crop of new students. Beneficial to those students were many workshops and seminars that addressed their specific needs, like aid for out-of-state tuition and becoming a California resident.

“A large part of the success of the week can be attributed to the graduate students in leadership roles that attended many of the events,” said Earl. A number of student leaders who are active on campus made a big impact on their peers by sharing their experiences with the new students. Members of the Graduate Student Association’s executive board and Graduate Ally Coalition were represented at many of the events.

Another successful year. Another "wow" event!