Skip Navigation
Search

You Belong Here

At Stony Brook University, we celebrate our diverse graduate community. Whether you’re the first in your family to attend college or an international scholar pursuing advanced studies, your journey is an incredible achievement.

We also recognize that graduate school can be both exciting and challenging. You are not alone — and there are many resources here to help you thrive academically, professionally, and personally. This page highlights key campus resources designed to help you succeed, find community, and feel at home at SBU.

Donal Thomas

Graduate Advocacy and Support

The Graduate Student Advocate (GSA) for the 2025–2026 academic year is Donal Thomas.

Donal is dedicated to helping graduate students navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you're facing academic concerns, adjusting to graduate life, or juggling difficulties, you can reach out to him for connection to the right university resources.

His goal is to help every graduate student feel empowered, supported, and part of a thriving community at Stony Brook.

Connect with Your GSA

Faculty Mentors

Faculty Mentorship and Guidance

Faculty mentors play a crucial role in supporting graduate students' academic success, professional development, and well-being. Building strong mentoring relationships can help you make the most of your graduate experience.

Ways to Connect:

  • Seek out mentors whose research interests or career paths align with your goals.
  • Attend Graduate School workshops on mentorship and professional communication.
  • Remember: mentoring is a two-way relationship built on curiosity, respect, and openness.

Discover some of the dedicated faculty at Stony Brook who go above and beyond to guide and inspire their mentees.

Faculty Mentor Spotlight

Student Health Services

Health and Well-Being

Graduate school can be demanding, and prioritizing your health and well-being is essential to your success. Stony Brook University offers comprehensive health and wellness resources to support your mind and body throughout your academic journey.

Explore Student Health Services

First-Generation Voices

Hear from graduate school staff who were the first in their families to attend college. Their experiences, reflections, and advice offer inspiration and insight for your own journey.

Explore Stories