Welcome Experiences
The Grad Network is thrilled to welcome another class of graduate students to campus and continue to grow our community! The series of Welcome Experiences are open to new and returning graduate students, with the goal of fostering friendships, experiencing unique opportunities in the city, and engaging with Jewish tradition. If you’re not seeing what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to Melissa, Director of The Grad Network. She’s more than happy to meet for coffee and learn more about your interests!
Cost should not be a barrier to community participation. If you are unable to pay and would like to attend any of the experiences offered, please email Melissa.
Welcome (Back) Celebration
6- 8 p.m. | Wednesday, August 27 | Ellington in the Park
Join the Grad Network for a Welcome (Back) Celebration at Ellington in the Park 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 27. Registration includes beer, wine, cider, lemonade, and vegetarian hors d’oeuvres. In addition to food from Ellington in the Park, certified-Kosher food will also be available.
Guests of The Grad Network are welcome and advanced registration is required.
Questions? Email Sarah Wish, Engagement Manager
Central Park Picnic & Build-Your-Own Snack Board
2-4 p.m. | August 31 | The Great Lawn in Central Park
Join the Grad Network for a relaxed Welcome Back Picnic in Central Park. Meet new people, catch up with friends, enjoy a Sunday in the park, and put together your own cheese and snack box!
All food provided will be vegetarian and certified Kosher. Guests of Columbia & TC grad students are welcome to attend.
Reach out to Sarah Wish with any questions.
Shabbat Unplug: Game Cafe
4-6 p.m. | September 5 | Hex & Co. West Side
You’ve completed the first week of classes! Celebrate by disconnecting from school and reconnecting with play, rest, and community. Game cafe will include board games, new (and returning) friends, and refreshments.
We'll gather between 4-6 p.m. September 5 at Hex & Co. West Side. Guests are welcome and advanced registration is required.
Ritual Lab: Make a Mezuzah
7-8:30 p.m. | September 10 | The Kraft Center
Create a one-of-a-kind mezuzah for your home! All attendees will create a personalized mezuzah case. No prior experience or knowledge is needed to participate!
Space is limited. Register to reserve your materials.
We'll begin the workshops by examining texts connected to the ritual practice and then move into a guided art workshop. Dinner will be provided.
The Grad Network Shabbat Dinner
8 p.m. | September 12 | The Kraft Center
End the week with The Grad Network! Dinner will be served at the Kraft Center, located at 606 West 115th Street. Advanced registration is required to reserve your seat.
Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox services are available in the Kraft Center prior to dinner. More information about service times will be dinner registrants each Friday morning. If you have questions about service times, reach out to Melissa.