Doctoral Student Travel Support Program

As part of a doctoral student's professional development and training, it is essential to attend the annual meetings of professional associations such as the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) and the Association of Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE). Doctoral students are strongly encouraged to participate in these professional associations at a number of levels, including presenting their original research and supporting the associations through committee membership or elective office. Attendance at these meetings also allows students to see presentations of current research in the field of gerontology, engage in discussions of issues related to gerontology in higher education, meet and interact with leading researchers, as well as network with peers and other persons interested in aging issues from across the country and internationally.

In recognition of the importance of this activity, the Department of Gerontology sets aside funds each year to help doctoral students defray the costs of attending these meetings. Funds are available to offset costs associated with travel (e.g., airfare, hotel, and meals reimbursement) and meeting registration. To be eligible to receive these funds, a student must appear on the official program of the annual meetings as an author or co-author of a paper being presented in a regular paper session or in a poster session. A student is also eligible if she/he is an active member or holds elected office of one or more committees or professional of the associations or who hold elected office. The final determination of eligibility for support rests with the Graduate Program Director.

The amount of support may vary by fiscal year due to budget contingencies. It is rare that the Department will be able to cover all of the costs associated with travel to professional meetings. Students interested in being considered for this program should consult the Graduate Program Director.