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Atlanta Pathways to the Ph.D. Conference 2026

Atlanta Pathways to the Ph.D. Conference 2026

You’re Invited! Join MIT Office of Graduate Education and Spelman College’s Office of Research, Innovation and Collaboration for the Atlanta Pathways to the Ph.D. Conference 2026. The conference is a one-day symposium co-organized by MIT’s Office of Graduate Education, GradDiversity, and Spelman College’s Undergraduate Research and Creative Pursuits (URCP) Unit. The conference is designed to support undergraduate students, recent graduates and postgraduate students who are interested in exploring and preparing for STEM Ph.D. programs.

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026
  • Time: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Location: Spelman College, Science Center
  • Registration Deadline: Oct. 8, 2026

What to Expect

Programming will include:

  • Keynote address
  • Interactive graduate school preparation workshops
  • MIT graduate student panel
  • Concurrent sessions designed for students at different stages of their academic journey
  • Graduate fair

Conference Topics

Sessions will explore topics including:

  • Preparing a competitive graduate school application
  • Identifying research and mentoring opportunities
  • Navigating the hidden curriculum of graduate education
  • Developing resilience and strategies for success in STEM doctoral programs

Additional Benefits

  • Complimentary breakfast and lunch will be provided.
  • Students who attend the conference will receive an MIT graduate application fee waiver.

Who Should Attend?

The conference is open to:

  • Spelman College students
  • Students from colleges and universities throughout the Atlanta area
  • Recent graduates
  • Postgraduate students interested in pathways to STEM doctoral education

Atlanta-area students and recent graduates are encouraged to attend. Registration is open through Oct. 8, 2026.

Register Today

Atlanta Pathways to the Ph.D. Conference 2026