Professional Development and the Student Experience

Professional Development and Networking Opportunities

• MIRS students have frequently been invited to participate in academic conferences at the International Institute.

• MIRS students are active participants in prospective student recruitment visits, including as presenters of "lightning talks" on their research and experiential learning activities.

• In addition to MIRS-specific programming, students are encouraged to take advantage of the ample opportunities for professional development and community building offered to graduate students across the International Institute and the University of Michigan. Each of the II centers offer a robust schedule of events including lectures by expert guest speakers, panel events, film screenings, and arts and culture events. 

• The Rackham Graduate School holds several events each week, including professional and skill development workshops, social events, student organization meetings, and Rackham Interdisciplinary Workshops.

MIRS Community Engagement Mentors

• Community Engagement Mentors (CEMs) are student leaders dedicated to building a vibrant, connected MIRS community. They plan and execute social and professional development events that bridge different cohorts and specializations. Serving as key liaisons to administrative leadership, CEMs advocate for student needs, assist with incoming orientation, and support recruitment efforts—actively strengthening peer networks and driving meaningful engagement across the program. 

• Recent MIRS CEM events include bi-weekly study hours, professional headshot sessions, resume workshops, and dual-degree Q&As, along with movie nights, cider mill trips, finals breakfasts, and many others!