Building strong leadership skills is a cornerstone of our program at the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME). We invite all Pritzker Molecular Engineering students to take on initiatives beyond the lab to gain the leadership, communication, and collaboration skills needed become a leader in science and engineering. Explore some of your student leadership and volunteering options below.
The Graduate Council
The Graduate Council is the arm of student government for graduate students. The council provides financial support for graduate travel, plans events for graduate students, and serves as the intermediary between graduate students and the administration. Each graduate division at the University (including PME) can choose at least two graduate student representatives.
Dean’s Advisory Council
The Dean’s Advisory Council at PME consists of both students nominated by their peers and those appointed by the PME Office of the Dean of Students. The council convenes to discuss issues relevant to PME academic programs and student life. Altogether, there are seven members. One graduate student from PME serves as the first-year representative to the council, raising issues of concern and interest among first-year graduate students, and offering the first-year perspective.
The council also includes a student-faculty liaison. This student learns about and engages academic policies affecting PME students and may have the opportunity to attend faculty meetings. Two members are charged with coordinating social, athletic, cultural, and professional events for PME students. The student in the role of treasurer is charged with tracking student activities funds and managing the approval process for event funding requests from PME students. Talk to the PME dean of students for more information.
Student Seminar Series
This lecture series allows PME graduate students and postdocs to preview presentations, improve presentation skills, and elicit feedback from an audience of peers in a low-pressure setting. Students benefit most from this series when preparing for candidacy presentations, conferences, and dissertation defenses. You can also serve as the organizer of the talks—gaining experience managing a seminar series while serving your fellow students.
Recognized Student Organizations
As a University student, you can join and/or create Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs). RSOs apply for funding from the Student Government Finance Committee, which allocates a portion of the Student Life Fee to student activities.
Mentoring programs
As a mentor, you can share your personal and professional experiences to help support a young student. Explore the array of PME mentoring resources and opportunities to practice and develop your mentoring competencies. The Chicago Multicultural Connection and LGBTQ Mentoring Program give graduate students an opportunity to play a productive role in an undergraduate student’s life.
University Community Service Center
The University Community Service Center (UCSC) connects the University community to meaningful volunteer opportunities throughout Chicago. In this program, you can tutor students, help prepare lessons, grade papers, or lead discussions under the teacher's supervision, making a difference while gaining valuable experience and honing marketable skills.