Graduate & Post-Doc Students Community
Welcome to all current graduate and post-doctoral students! Whether you are embarking on a master’s degree, diving into a Ph.D. program, or advancing through a professional course, this vibrant community is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Graduate school is not just an academic endeavor; it is a chance to deeply enrich your knowledge, develop meaningful relationships with peers and mentors, and unlock a multitude of new career opportunities. Take advantage of this resource to effectively navigate the complexities of your academic journey and strategically plan your future endeavors. Together, we can foster growth and inspiration in your pursuit of excellence.
Learn more about Experiential Learning and Career Success and how we can help you achieve your goals.
Did You Know?
You can meet with a career coach who specializes in supporting First-Generation and Pell-Eligible students as you explore career options, prepare application materials, and navigate professional opportunities.

Contact
Mindy May, Career Coach
NSE Coordinator
mindy.may@umontana.edu 406.243.2236
What You’ll Find Here
Explore Opportunities
- Job search resources, research opportunities, post-doctoral positions, and recruiting events tailored to graduate and post-doctoral students.
- Opportunities that may align with your academic focus, research interests, and career aspirations.
Connect & Get Involved
- Alumni and mentor connections, professional development opportunities, and support from those who have been in your shoes.
- Student organizations and campus partners that provide connection, advocacy, and professional development for graduate and post-doctoral students
Get Career-Ready
- Career readiness tools, résumé/CV reviews, mock interviews, and advanced-degree success checklists.
- Personalized career coaching.
- LinkedIn profile support and Handshake assistance.
Be Informed
- Information and events designed to support your transition from advanced studies to your next professional chapter.
- Resources to help you expand your network, strengthen your expertise, and achieve your career goals.
UM Student Organizations & Campus Resources
Explore on-campus programs and organizations that support all students through peer connection, advocacy, academic services, and inclusive environments. These University of Montana resources promote accessibility and help students thrive academically and socially, offering mentorship, accommodations, leadership opportunities, and academic support to ensure full participation in campus life.
- Handshake: UM’s online job and internship portal. Graduate students should actively use it to search for opportunities.
- CV to Resume Translation: Crucial for non-academic roles.
- Career Planning Tools for Graduate Students
- Versatile PhD – Career exploration for PhDs and graduate students, including non-academic career options.
- ImaginePhD – A free planning tool for humanities and social sciences students.
- MyIDP (STEM) – Career assessment and planning for science grad students and postdocs.
- Beyond the Professoriate – Career videos and coaching for graduate students exploring industry roles.
- Cover Letter Creation: For both academic and non-academic applications.
- Career Fairs & Employer Events: Attend career fairs on campus and virtual employer info sessions in Handshake to network with employers and discover opportunities.
- Mock Interviews: Practicing for different interview formats
- Offer Negotiations: Especially important for graduate-level roles.
- Office of Student Success: Central hub for advising, tutoring, peer support, and graduation planning.
- The Writing Center: Tutoring to strengthen writing, presentation, and public speaking.
- TRiO Student Support Services: Tutoring, mentoring, and resources for eligible first-gen and Pell students.
- Student Advocacy Resource Center: Confidential support for students facing harassment, discrimination, etc.
- Office of Disability Equity (ODE): Provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.
- Dean of Students Office: Provides crisis response, referrals, and conduct support.
- ASUM: Student government advocating and providing campus services.
- Griz Hub: Central hub for student events, clubs, organizations, and intramural teams.
- The Branch Center: Intercultural hub for identity groups, programs, and connection.
- Campus Recreation: Fitness, outdoor, and wellness activities for all students.
- Curry Health Services: Primary health care and wellness services for UM students. Includes general medicine, pharmacy, dental, counseling, and other wellness services.
- Financial Aid & Scholarships Office: Helps students navigate FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Montana 10: Scholarship program offering academic, financial, & social support.
- Alumni Association: Offers career advising, networking, and Handshake access to recent grads.
- National Research Mentoring Network (NRMN): Supports the development of a diverse biomedical research workforce through mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities.
Explore Student Life & Clubs
Want to dive deeper into UM’s student communities? Here’s where to go next—GrizHub, ASUM, WelcomeFeast, or your department.
Organizations & Resources
The organizations listed are not affiliated with the University of Montana and are provided for informational purposes only.
- Academic and Financial Support
- Montana University System Scholarships (Award Montana): administers need- and merit-based state scholarships and grants covering up to full tuition.
- Clearwater Credit Union: provides free financial education (budgeting, credit, and student financing).
- Career Support:
- Missoula Job Service: a local employment hub providing recruitment, interview facilities, and HR guidance.
- Missoula Works: connects individuals facing employment barriers with temporary and permanent jobs.
- Montana Department of Labor & Industry: offers comprehensive labor market insights and workforce services, helping students explore in-state career opportunities.
- Express Employment Professionals – Missoula: offers free online professional training (software, safety) and certifications via ExpressLearn, Workplace Pro, and Job Genius.
- Education and Social Support
- The Lifelong Learning Center: offers certifications in trades and technical fields.
- Girl Get After It: make new friends, try new things and connect with like-minded women in Missoula, Montana.
- Missoula Women’s Business Network: fosters a supportive community where women connect, learn, and access resources to enhance their personal and professional growth.
- Missoula Young Professionals: provides civic involvement opportunities designed to engage the next generation of leaders through networking and volunteer events that aid in professional and personal development.
- DeBruce Foundation Graduation Toolkit: A comprehensive, free toolkit with career readiness guides, networking tips, and job search tools targeted to graduates
- National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): provides the gold-standard for career competencies, internship pipelines, and employer-engagement frameworks
- Career Launch: is an evidence-based program with social capital development and competency benchmarking for job readiness
- American Graduate: Jobs Explained: is a PBS-backed public media initiative offering media-rich career guidance for school and college leavers
“But wait! This isn’t me!”
These communities are one way to organize resources and opportunities based on common student experiences. All Grizzlies are encouraged to explore every page and resource. Our career coaches are here to support every student.
Don’t see a community that reflects your experience, interests, or goals?
We welcome your feedback. Reach out to one of our career coaches — we’re here to help you find what you need:





