Professionalization

The scholarly profession has become very competitive in recent years. The Spanish department has created a series of initiatives geared towards facilitating the transition of graduate students to professional life by exposing them to some of the most important skills in a contemporary teacher and researcher.

Professionalization seminar. This seminar seeks to introduce students to the aspects of professional life that are indispensable in order to become a successful member of our profession. You can access a sample syllabus from a previous seminar here. Be aware, however, that the content and format of each seminar vary depending on the faculty member who conducts it. 

The Diverse Educational Community and Doctoral Experience (DECADE) is a university-wide initiative designed to support professional development and build community among graduate students. Each year, the Spanish and Portuguese Department’s DECADE representatives organize a range of events and workshops, including conference abstract workshops, advanced syllabus formatting sessions, colloquiums, end of the year holiday posada, and more. The goal of DECADE in the Spanish department is to create a welcoming space—both academically and socially—for graduate students. 

The program also runs a yearly recruitment initiative to encourage applications from students from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds, including those from minority-serving institutions.  

Graduate students can serve as DECADE representatives without term limits or restrictions on the number of representatives. These students gain access to additional professional development opportunities, grants, and awards.

Pre and post MLA activities. Students going to the job market can benefit from mock interviews. Students who have secured a campus visit are invited to perform a job talk.

Students are encouraged to attend professional conferences in the latter years of their career. The School of Humanities offers travel grants for national and international conferences. Subject to budgetary conditions, the department is often able to supplement stipends for students attending professional conferences.