By Amy Van Aartsen, Chemistry and Public Health graduate student
Happy August! The end of summer is rapidly approaching, and we’re already kicking off another academic year. Whether you’re a new or returning graduate student, I hope you will join the newly redesigned Graduate School Dash & Bash on Friday, September 1. This free event has always been the highlight of Graduate School Welcome Week for me, and I’m excited about the many updates to the event this year, including the opportunity to challenge Bucky to a giant game of Connect 4, increased accessibility of the Dash routes, and of course a variety of snacks.
The Dash starting at 8 am: Participants can choose between the 5.07-mile Doctoral Derby and the 1.94-mile Master’s Mile. Partake in the race as you’d like – “dash” to the finish line, handcycle the course, bring your little ones along in the stroller, or enjoy a scholarly stroll. Participants will receive a free t-shirt. Register for the Dash online.
The Bash from 8 am to 11 am: Bucky will be there to celebrate! Join the Bash for games and snacks on Library Mall. A free t-shirt or other giveaway will be available for the first 200 attendees.
Accessibility: Dash and Bash accessibility information is posted on the event webpage. The route is wheelchair and stroller accessible. The nearest accessible bathrooms are in Memorial Union and Memorial Library, and there will be water stations along the routes. If you need an accommodation to join the event, please email gspd@grad.wisc.edu as soon as possible.
Logistics: Early check-in for the Dash is available in Bascom Hall between 10 am and 3 pm daily Monday, August 28 until Thursday, August 31. There’s also a limited early check-in opportunity at Union South near the Daily Scoop/stairwell 9 am to 11 am on Wednesday, August 30. Otherwise, you can check in at Library Mall on race day at least 15 minutes prior to the start of your race.
I have personally loved this event as it’s been a fun opportunity to meet up with friends in my program and get to know incoming students. Graduate students are also welcome to invite anyone to participate with them, including significant others, friends, or family members. Advance registration is not required to join the Bash.
The newly improved Dash & Bash was developed based on feedback from last year. Please reach out to gspd@grad.wisc.edu if you have any ideas for other ways to make Graduate School events more inclusive and accessible.
I hope you can join the celebration!
Tips for Grads is a professional and academic advice column written by graduate students for graduate students at UW–Madison. It is published in the student newsletter, GradConnections Weekly.