Graduate Student Advisory Board

Mission

The Graduate Advisory Board (GAB) is a volunteer driven group facilitated by the University Graduate School. Here graduate students can discuss personal, professional, and academic needs of the FIU graduate community, along with fresh ideas for programming and policy suggestions, directly with UGS.

The GAB is your platform to influence and enhance the FIU graduate student experience through your feedback and direct team project involvement. If you want to make an impact, connect with peers beyond your program, and flex your leadership skills, apply now and make your voice heard!

Structure

The composition of GAB changes each year based on applicants, but UGS is committed to creating a diverse board. We aim to include students from various academic disciplines, colleges, campuses, and online programs at FIU. The board consists of 10-12 members, with both returning and new members. Selection happens once a year in the Fall, with appointments lasting one year and the GAB members can reapply if they would like to stay on.

GAB holds about 8-10 meetings each academic year, starting with one in Fall, most in Spring, and wrapping up with a close-out meeting in the Summer term. The FIU Graduate and Professional Student Committee (GPSC) from the Student Government Association (SGA) is also invited to participate in these meetings.

Member Responsibilities

Key responsibilities for GAB members include:

Attending monthly or bi-monthly meetings (in person or Zoom)
Participating in one of the following initiatives:
- Developing a team project in one of the following areas: Student Onboarding: Community Building; and Career Development
- Assisting with the planning, coordination, logistics, and/or communication aspects of various events as part of the Graduate Student Appreciation Week (April 7-11, 2025)
- Facilitating a Peer-to-Peer workshop for graduate students (optional for students keen on a particular topic)

Member Benefits

Participating in the GAB can offer numerous benefits by enriching graduate students’ experience and professional development.

Skill Development: Engage in discussions and decision-making processes to hone communication, leadership, and teamwork.

Advocacy: Become a change-maker and spring ideas into action! Students can play a direct role in shaping programming and resources that impact their peers.

Insight into Institutional Operations: Receive a behind-the-scenes look at how academic institutions function, including budgeting and program development, enhancing understanding of the broader academic landscape.

APPLY!

Applications to become a GAB member open on a yearly basis.

Selection Process:

Submit your completed application by 11:59PM on Sunday, October 13, 2024
Participate in an interview with the UGS team
Selected applicants are notified by Friday, November 1, 2024
First GAB meeting – Tuesday, November 19, 2024 (10:30AM- 12:30PM)

Click HERE to apply.

2025 Board Members

Jamie Haynes

Business Administration, DBA

"Graduate Advisory Board because it offers an excellent opportunity to advocate for graduate students, contribute to meaningful programming, and shape policies that enhance the academic and professional development experience. Graduate students today face significant challenges in balancing academic, professional, and personal responsibilities. Key needs include better mental health support, career development resources, and enhanced networking opportunities across programs."

Ruthny Charles

Hospitality Management, MS

"As the manager at the Center for Financial Stability at United Way Miami, I provide financial assistance and wholistic financial wellness coaching to Miami-Dade County residents. I am passionate about being impactful with everything I do and believe that my insights can help address challenges faced by graduate students."

Melissa De Jesus

Mathematics, PhD

"The Graduate Advisory Board (GAB) provides an excellent space for graduate students to come together, collaborate, and navigate the challenges of graduate school. While FIU offers a wealth of resources for graduate students, these opportunities are not always well-publicized. As a member of GAB, I am committed to raising awareness about these resources and ensuring they have a meaningful impact on the graduate student community."

Oluwatosin Orimolade

Earth Systems Science, PhD

“Volunteering is dear to my heart because it brings me closer to people and allows me to serve humanity. In my previous roles at Georgia State University, I led programs that enhanced engagement, increased student motivation and fostered mentorship support. GAB a great platform for me to volunteer and commit to students’ personal and academic growth, leading to their career success."

Rafael Camilo Gutierrez Melgarejo

Civil Engineering, PhD

“I have been actively involved in student and professional organizations, particularly Sigma Xi, where I currently serve on the board. This experience has provided me with valuable insights in strengthening research initiatives and organizing events that support student growth. I am eager to bring my expertise and enthusiasm to the GAB to enhance the academic and professional development of fellow students.”

Michelle Penalver

Mass Communication, MS

“As someone who thrives on visionary thinking, I’m always drawn to finding innovative ways to improve the spaces I’m part of. Being on the Graduate Advisory Board would allow me to collaborate with like-minded individuals and enhance the graduate experience for future students, making it both enriching and memorable."

Vaishnavi Sundar

Biochemistry, PhD

“My experiences as an international student have given me a unique understanding of the challenges we face, and I am excited to channel that insight into helping others. I am passionate about encouraging international graduate students to broaden their perspectives and recognize that life encompasses more than just research.”

Derrick Boakye Boadu

Public Affairs, PhD

“By joining GAB, I aim to actively advocate for underrepresented and international students, ensuring their voices are heard and that their concerns are thoughtfully considered in the decision-making processes. My goal is to help shape policies and initiatives that foster an inclusive and supportive environment within graduate programs.”

Lousindy Mitton

Computer Engineering, MS

“I am passionate about amplifying online student voice. Many of us, especially online students, crave a stronger connection to FIU. I will strive to contribute to the effort of facilitating essential resources, including mental health support, career development, and networking opportunities, thus fostering a sense of community and belonging among online students."

David Olusanjo

Political Science, PhD

“Drawing on previous roles in graduate student organizations such as the African Graduate Student Association and the African and African Diaspora Studies program, I am eager to use my role on the GAB to enhance the graduate student experience. Some of the areas of focus for me is improving access to affordable housing and addressing scheduling challenges to ensure students can fully participate in on-campus professional development opportunities."

Should you have additional questions regarding the GAB, please contact Ms. Claudia Balzán, Associate Director, at cbalzan@fiu.edu.

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