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Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week 2026

Each year, during National Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week, the Rackham Graduate School joins universities from across the country to host events designed to support and recognize graduate students. The week is aimed at highlighting the great contributions and high value that graduate and professional students bring to our community. This year’s events feature great food, networking, wellness activities, professional development, and a chance to relax with therapy dogs. Join us for a week of celebration and connection!

White abstract drawings of a rainbow, sun, curved lines, leaves, and flowers on a light blue background.

  • Thursday, April 9

    LSA Graduate Student Appreciation + Well-Being Event

    Grab some snacks and swag while you meet with various U-M wellness resources. CAPS, CEW+, International Center, and more.

    Sponsored by LSA Graduate Education

  • Monday, April 13

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    Grab and Go Al Fresco

    Take a well-deserved break during Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week with Grab and Go Al Fresco! Stop by to pick up a boxed sandwich lunch and a Rackham outdoor blanket—perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal in the fresh air.

    We hope the weather cooperates so you can take advantage of the outdoors, connect with friends, or simply unwind between classes and commitments. Grab your lunch, find a sunny spot (Michigan weather permitting), and enjoy a moment outside.

    Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Sponsored by Professional Development and Engagement, Rackham Graduate School

    RSG x RELATE 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) Final Round

    Rackham Student Government (RSG) and RELATE invite all U-M graduate and professional students from Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint to explain the core idea of their research and its significance in a 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) with a general audience in mind.

    The final (in-person) round will take place at the Rackham Amphitheatre from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. All finalists will present their 3MT to a panel of judges. Winners of the RSG x RELATE 3MT Competition will be awarded with a prize, and refreshments will be provided in the Assembly Hall from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m.

    Sponsored by Rackham Student Government and RELATE

  • Tuesday, April 14

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    RSG Stress Less Zumba

    Shake off stress and recharge with an energizing Zumba session! Join us for a fun, high-energy workout designed to boost your mood, get you moving, and help you unwind. No dance experience needed—just come ready to have fun and de-stress. Space is limited to 25 participants per session.

    Sponsored by Rackham Student Government

  • Wednesday, April 15

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    Go Blue and Zip Through

    Hungry for lunch—and some fresh Michigan swag? Dash through Rackham’s signature event and snag both! At Go Blue and Zip Through, just swing by, grab a tasty lunch-to-go, and collect your exclusive Rackham quarter zip shirt (perfect for repping Wolverine pride in scholarly style).

    No lingering required—just a quick pit stop to fuel up and zip out! Whether you’re headed to class, study session, or a lab, we’ve got your lunch and your look covered. Grab your Rackham gear and be on your way—or take a moment to relax and enjoy your meal.Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Swag Item: Quarter Zip Jacket

    Sponsored by Professional Development and Engagement, Rackham Graduate School

    Grab, Gab, and Game: Student Life’s Grad/Professional Student Appreciation Event

    Take a break and join us for an evening celebrating U-M’s graduate and professional students!

    Stop by to recharge, connect with peers, and enjoy a curated spread of savory and sweet treats with coffee and other beverages in a welcoming, relaxed space.

    Throughout the event, attendees can:

    • Participate in games, raffles, and giveaways, including Blue Bucks and other U-M prizes
    • Celebrate student contributions with rotating spotlights and moments of appreciation
    • Explore wellness and career resources available through Student Life

    Whether you stay for a few minutes or the full two hours, this drop-in event offers a space to unwind, connect, and be recognized. Family-friendly and open to all graduate and professional students.

    Sponsored by Student Life

  • Thursday, April 16

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    Rise & GRIN: International Grad Appreciation Morning

    Join the Graduate Rackham International (GRIN) for Rise & GRIN, a morning event celebrating international graduate students during Rackham Graduate Student Appreciation Week.

    Start your day with free breakfast, coffee, and boba while connecting with fellow graduate students across disciplines. The event will also feature a “Where in the World Are You From?” interactive community activity and limited 10-minute relaxation massage sessions.

    Breakfast is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Massage sessions (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) are limited and require advance sign-up.

    All graduate students are welcome!

    Hosted by the Graduate Rackham International (GRIN).

    RSG Board Games and Snacks

    Take a break and unwind with board games, good company, and free snacks! Drop in to relax, connect with fellow students, and enjoy a variety of classic and modern games. Whether you’re feeling competitive or just want to hang out, there’s something for everyone. Space is available for up to 50 participants per hour.

    Sponsored by Rackham Student Government

    RSG Stress Less Zumba

    Shake off stress and recharge with an energizing Zumba session! Join us for a fun, high-energy workout designed to boost your mood, get you moving, and help you unwind. No dance experience needed—just come ready to have fun and de-stress. Space is limited to 25 participants per session.

    Sponsored by Rackham Student Government

  • Friday, April 17

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    RSG Fortune Fragels

    Start your day with a fun twist! Stop by for a freshly made fragel, a fried bagel coated in cinnamon sugar, and receive a surprise fortune message to brighten your morning.

    Registration is available in 30-minute time slots, with space for up to 50 participants per session.

    Sponsored by Rackham Student Government