Getting involved
Throughout your studies, you will see ample opportunities to get involved in the campus community and beyond. There are opportunities in student-run groups, clubs, and services, student media, university-led volunteering initiatives, and volunteering in the wider Montreal community. Giving back to the community is an essential way to develop new skills and make a positive contribution to those around you. For an overview of available opportunities, explore the Campus Life & Engagement website, and discover what awaits you!
Student Associations, Clubs and Groups
Post-Graduate Students' Society (PGSS)
Your graduate student society is known as the (PGSS). Aside from representing all graduate students and postdoctoral fellows at ¿´Æ¬ÊÓƵ, PGSS offers and , , and throughout the year. Â
PGSS has dozens of committees collaborating with the University and external stakeholders to improve graduate student life. They are always looking for graduate students who are looking to and have a positive impact on the graduate community.
Post-Graduate Student Associations
PGSS represents all graduate students whereas your Post-Graduate Student Association (PGSA) represents the graduate students in your specific department. Your PGSA works with your department and faculty members to organize academic events (e.g., guest lectures and conferences), career fairs, and mentorship programs. Your PGSA may also host social events such as mixers, holiday parties, and other activities giving you the opportunity to connect with your peers.
To connect with your PGSA and learn more about what they offer and how you can get involved, check out the .
Macdonald Campus Graduate Student Society
If you program is based at the Macdonald ("Mac") Campus you are represented by the . The MCGSS advocates for its members and fosters a positive and enjoyable graduate experience at the Macdonald campus.
Being represented by MCGSS means having access to unique services, resources, and events on Macdonald campus in addition to what PGSS offers. Simply, you have access to what MCGSS and PGSS have to offer.
Student Clubs, Services, and Independent Student Groups (ISGs)
There are some 300 student clubs, services, and independent student groups at ¿´Æ¬ÊÓƵ. While these organizations are affiliated with the undergraduate Student Society of ¿´Æ¬ÊÓƵ University (SSMU), all graduate students are free to join and participate. This is in addition to the opportunities presented by PGSS and the PGSAs.
Thomson House
Many graduate student activities take place at located on the downtown campus. Thomson House is an elegant limestone mansion and a private social club for graduate and postdoctoral students.
A frequent gathering place for graduate students, Thomson House offers  study-lounges, conference rooms, a restaurant, bar, and patio to its members.Â
Our Shared Spaces
Our Shared Spaces (OSS) is an educational workshop series and equity program that creates spaces in which students are empowered to poster inclusive and equitable living and learning environments on campus. By holding space for respectful dialogue, Our Shared Spaces supports student development and affirms the plurality of student experiences of campus life. Topics covered include anti-oppression, anti-racism, accessibility, Black student experiences, sexuality, gender, and more.
Workshops are offered throughout the term. To view current workshop offerings, you can visit the webpage. Workshop attendance and stream recognition will appear on your Co-Curricular Record.