Graduate Commons Program 2024-2025

[GRAD] Ice Skating

TUE., JAN. 28, 2025

Join us to kick off the Winter Quarter with a fun ice skating event! Whether you're an experienced skater or a first-timer, it's the perfect way to enjoy the season and make some great memories.

Poster advertising Ice-skating on The Midway Event presenting a colorful depiction of people skating on an ice rink with trees, benches, and birds, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Study Club

TUE., JAN. 28, 2025

Need a focused space to tackle assignments, prep for exams, or work on that big project? The Study Club offers a quiet and supportive environment where you can be productive alongside others. Snacks and drinks will be available to keep you energized, and there's always a helpful peer around if you need advice or a quick study break.

Poster advertising Study Club Event presenting a vintage, old-world aesthetic with ornate decorative borders and illustrations, including a dragon, a historical figure in period attire, and floral designs, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run ‘n’ Brunch

SAT., JAN. 25, 2025

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting, come, enjoy a friendly run and join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company! We will follow our run with brunch at Medici funded by Graduate Council. 

Poster advertising Run 'N' Brunch Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event, and a registration QR code.

[GRAD] Ice Skating

THU., JAN. 23, 2025

Join us to kick off the Winter Quarter with a fun ice skating event! Whether you're an experienced skater or a first-timer, it's the perfect way to enjoy the season and make some great memories.

Poster advertising Ice-skating on The Midway Event presenting a colorful depiction of people skating on an ice rink with trees, benches, and birds, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Rainbow Passport

WED., JAN. 22, 2025

Are you a queer international student looking to build community? Are you searching for a space to explore cultural experiences with queerness? Come together, make new friends, and enjoy some light eats at International House’s first Rainbow Passport meeting of the quarter. This week's discussion topic is Navigating Conversations with Family.

Poster advertising Rainbow Passport Event presenting an illustration of people in the colors of rainbow and a rainbow in the background and detailed description of the event.

[GRAD] Book Club – Before the Coffee Gets Cold

TUE., JAN. 21, 2025

Join us for the first Book Club session of the Winter Quarter as we explore "Before the Coffee Gets Cold" by Toshikazu Kawaguchi. This enchanting novel invites us into a small Tokyo café where patrons can travel back in time, confronting poignant questions about life, love, and the moments we might wish to revisit.

Poster advertising Book Club Event presenting a cover of the book "Before the coffee gets cold"

[GRAD] Run ‘n’ Brunch

SAT., JAN. 11, 2025

Join us for our first run of the Winter Quarter! Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting, come, enjoy a friendly run and join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Brunch Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

Welcome Back Winter Grad Mixer

WED., JAN. 08, 2025

Celebrate the start of a new quarter with fellow graduate students, reconnect with friends, and forge new connections across schools and disciplines. Enjoy refreshments, light snacks, and an evening of mingling, laughter, and winter cheer as we kick off the year together!

event poster for winter graduate student mixer happening on January 8

[GRAD] Winter Flower Show

SAT., DEC. 21, 2024

Join us for the Winter Flower Show “Snowflakes” on Saturday at the Garfield Park Conservatory, a must-see Chicago spot!

event poster for Winter Flower Show trip on December 21

[GRAD] Christkindlmarket Trip

FRI., DEC. 20, 2024

Come experience the magic of Chicago's Christkindlmarket, where sparkling lights, festive music, unique holiday gifts, and delicious winter treats await. Join us for a cozy, unforgettable time at this beloved holiday tradition!

Event poster for trip to Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago on December 20

[GRAD] Ice Skating on the Midway

WED., DEC. 18, 2024

Join us for an evening of ice-skating on the Midway, where the crisp winter air and twinkling lights set the perfect scene for holiday cheer! Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, this iconic event promises fun for everyone. Grab your skates or rent a pair on-site, and join us for a night of icy fun and holiday vibes.

Poster advertising Ice-skating on The Midway Event presenting a colorful depiction of people skating on an ice rink with trees, benches, and birds, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] MSI Christmas Around The World Exhibit

SUN., DEC. 15, 2024

Step into a winter wonderland at the Museum of Science and Industry, and explore the enchanting "Christmas Around the World" exhibit! Marvel at beautifully decorated trees representing cultures from across the globe, each adorned with unique ornaments and traditions that celebrate the holiday season in dazzling style.

Poster advertising MSI Christmas Around The World Exhibit Event presenting a nighttime winter scene with Christmas trees decorated with red ornaments and garlands on either side of the poster, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Kenwood Christmas Lights Walking Tour

SAT., DEC. 14, 2024

Join us for a festive walkthrough of the historic Kenwood neighborhood as we stroll to see some Christmas lights! We'll meet at International House to kick off the tour.

Poster advertising Kenwood Mansions Christmas Lights Tour Event presenting a photo of a house decorated with Christmas lights , detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Millennium Park Christmas Tree & Navy Pier Holiday Drone Show

FRI., DEC. 13, 2024

Get into the festive spirit with an unforgettable evening of holiday wonder! We will begin our adventure at Millennium Park, where the iconic Chicago Christmas tree dazzles with thousands of twinkling lights, spreading cheer to all. Then, we will head to Navy Pier for a breathtaking Holiday Drone Show, featuring hundreds of synchronized drones lighting up the night sky in a mesmerizing display of color and creativity.

Poster advertising Millenium Christmas Tree and Navy Pier Holiday Drone Show Event presenting a large green Christmas tree illustration in the center, Chicago skyline, snowflake patterns scattered across the poster in the background, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Brunch

SAT., DEC. 7, 2024

Join us for our last run of Autumn Quarter! Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run and join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company! We will follow our run with brunch in Hyde Park.

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Study Club

FRI., DEC. 6, 2024

Need a focused space to tackle assignments, prep for exams, or work on that big project? The Study Club offers a quiet and supportive environment where you can be productive alongside others. Snacks and coffee will be available to keep you energized, and there's always a helpful peer around if you need advice or a quick study break.

Poster advertising Study Club Event presenting a vintage, old-world aesthetic with ornate decorative borders and illustrations, including a dragon, a historical figure in period attire, and floral designs, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Book Club

THU., DEC. 5, 2024

Join us during the last Book Club of Autumn Quarter for a thought-provoking exploration of modern life with Severance by Ling Ma. This award-winning novel, written by a University of Chicago alum, blends satire, dystopia, and dark humor to examine work culture, consumerism, and identity in a world on the brink of collapse.

Poster advertising Book Club Event presenting a cover of a book "Severance"

[GRAD] Language Tables

MON., DEC. 2, 2024

Looking to brush up on your language skills or practice conversation in a relaxed setting? The Language Tables provide a welcoming space for speakers of all levels to connect, chat, and learn together. Whether you're fluent or just getting started, it's a great opportunity to explore new languages and cultures while meeting others with similar interests.

Poster advertising Language Tables Event presenting people talking in different languages, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Brunch

SAT., NOV. 23, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run an join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Brunch

SAT., NOV. 16, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run an join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Writing Workshop: How To Tell A Story

THU., NOV. 14, 2024

Join John Mecklin, Editor in Chief of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, for an engaging hour-long presentation on effective narrative strategies for writing about complex subjects for general audiences. Learn about the Bulletin's rich history and current focus, with a one-on-one consultation afterward to discuss your own writing projects.

Poster advertising How to Tell a Story with John Mecklin Event presenting a photo of John Mecklin, cartoon picture of a hand with pen, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Rainbow Passport

MON., NOV. 11, 2024

Are you a queer international student looking to build community? Are you searching for a space to explore cultural experiences with queerness? Come together, make new friends, and enjoy some light eats at International House’s Rainbow Passport.

Poster advertising Rainbow Passport Event presenting an illustration of people in the colors of rainbow and a rainbow coming out of them and detailed description of the event.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Fun

SAT., NOV. 9, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run and join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Yoga Day

FRI., NOV. 8, 2024

Need a break from studying for midterms or want to release the stress now that you're done? Join us for this relaxing Yoga Day led by International House Global Program Fellows Intern, Vartika Singh, our certified yoga instructor!

Poster advertising Yoga Day Event presenting an illustration of a person sitting in a meditative pose with hands in prayer, surrounded by small plants and stars, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Crafternoon: Mosaic Tiles

THU., NOV. 7, 2024

Join us for a fun-filled Crafternoon as we dive into the colorful world of mosaic tile crafting! Unleash your creativity and design your own unique mosaic pieces while enjoying some refreshments and good company.

Poster advertising Crafternoon: Mosaic Tiles Event presenting floral mosaic patterns on the left and right borders, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Book Club

THU., NOV. 7, 2024

Join us this month to learn why some nations thrive while others struggle with "Why Nations Fail" by Nobel Prize-winning economists James A. Robinson from UChicago and Daron Acemoglu from MIT.

Poster advertising Book Club Event presenting a cover of a book "Why Nations Fail"

[GRAD] Language Tables

MON., NOV. 4, 2024

Language tables are back! Join us for an engaging language-learning experience. Practice or learn a new language through fun conversations and other exciting activities.

Poster advertising Language Tables Event presenting people talking in different languages, detailed description of the event and registration link

[GRAD] Bike Tour

SAT., NOV. 2, 2024

Pedal through the season’s beauty with us on an adventure that explores the south side's iconic beaches and hidden spots! Whether you're a casual rider or a biking pro, this tour is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the crisp autumn air and scenic routes.

Poster advertising South Side Bike Tour Event presenting detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Brunch

SAT., NOV. 2, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run an join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Diwali

WED., OCT. 30, 2024

Celebrate Diwali with us at International House! Join us for an evening filled with vibrant cultural performances, delicious Indian cuisine, and festive traditions as we light up the night in honor of the Festival of Lights.

Poster advertising Diwali - The Festival of Lights Event presenting different lamps and lanterns, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Rockefeller Chapel Carillon Tour

MON., OCT. 28, 2024

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of how the magic happens from International House Graduate Fellow and carillon player, Kevin Chang!

Poster advertising Rockefeller Chapel Carillon Tour Event presenting a photo of Rockefeller Chapel, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Fun

SAT., OCT. 26, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run an join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Trip to Museum of Science and Industry

FRI., OCT. 25, 2024

Housed in what was originally the Palace of Fine Arts at the 1893 World’s Fair, the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) opened in 1933 and is one of the largest science museums in the world. Located in our own backyard, we hope you’ll join us as we explore this local treasure!

Poster advertising Trip to Museum of Science and Industry Event presenting cartoons of a laboratory flask, planet with its orbit and model of an atom, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Fun

SAT., OCT. 19, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run an join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run 'N' Fun Event presenting photos of UChicago students from previous editions of this event, detailed description of the event and registration QR code.

[GRAD] Rainbow Passport

MON., OCT. 14, 2024

Are you a queer international student looking to build community? Are you searching for a space to explore cultural experiences with queerness? Come together, make new friends, and enjoy some light eats at International House’s Rainbow Passport.

Poster advertising Rainbow Passport Event presenting different passport stamps, coins and pen, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Run or Cheer at the Chicago Marathon

SUN., OCT. 13, 2024

Calling on UChicago graduate students and postdocs running the Chicago Marathon—let us know so we can cheer for you! 
If you are not running, join us in cheering for and encouraging our amazing runners!

Poster advertising Chicago Marathon Event presenting people finishing run, detailed description of the event and link for Google form.

[GRAD] Run ‘N’ Fun

SAT., OCT. 12, 2024

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, come enjoy a friendly run an join the long-standing I-House tradition of Saturday morning runs. Let's hit the pavement together, kick off the weekend on a healthy note, and enjoy great company!

Poster advertising Run-N-Fun Event presenting photos of students that took part in the run events last year, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Disc Golf

FRI., OCT. 11, 2024

Join your fellow graduate students for a fun-filled afternoon of disc golf! We will meet in front of I-House at 3:30PM and depart to historic Jackson Park together. No experience required! 

Poster advertising Disc Golf Event presenting a photo of UChicago students getting ready to throw the golf discs, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Back-to-School Carnival

TUE., OCT. 8, 2024

Join us for an exciting and eclectic back-to-school carnival! See old friends, make new ones—all while enjoying music, food, drinks, games, and more! 

Poster advertising Back-to-school Carnival Event presenting carnival booths and decorations, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Language Tables

MON., OCT. 7, 2024

Language tables are back! Join us for an engaging language-learning experience. Practice or learn a new language through fun conversations and other exciting activities.

Poster advertising Language Tables Event presenting people talking in different languages, detailed description of the event and registration link

[GRAD] Book Club – I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

THU., OCT. 3, 2024

Join us for the first book club of the new academic year at International House! In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we will be reading and discussing the riveting novel, I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika Sánchez.

Picture presents cover of the book "I am not your perfect mexican daugher" presenting back of a girl with her hair braided

[GRAD] Picnic at the Point

THU., SEP. 12, 2024

Savor the end of summer and join fellow graduate students for a fun summer picnic by the lake! Come unwind and connect with old and new friends before the fall quarter begins!

Poster advertising Picnic at the Point event. Presenting three photos from past IHouse events, a cartoon picture of a beach and details about the event.

[GRAD] German-American Oktoberfest

SUN., SEP. 8, 2024

Join the Graduate Commons Program as we make our way to the German-American Oktoberfest and experience German Gemütlichkeit, food, drinks, and music with us!

Poster advertising the event. Presenting symbols of Oktoberfest (beer, pretzels, sausage, German flags) and details of the event.

[GRAD] Taste of Chicago

FRI., SEP. 6, 2024

Foodies and music lovers: join us as we explore al the amazing food that Chicago has to offer at Taste of Chicago 2024!

Poster advertising the Taste of Chicago event. It presents four different food stands in the middle and event details below.

[GRAD] Coloring Crafternoon

WED., AUG. 28, 2024

Join us for a relaxing and colorful escape with Coloring Crafternoon! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a creative way to unwind, this afternoon is your perfect opportunity to destress and indulge in the simple joy of coloring. All materials will be provided—just bring yourself and a desire to relax and create.

Poster advertising Coloring Crafternoon Event. Presents a photo of a coloring picture, detailed information about the event, and registration link.

[GRAD] Broadway in Chicago

MON., AUG. 12, 2024

Join the grad commons program for the free Broadway in Chicago summer concert at Millennium Park! Don't miss out on special performances from your favorite musicals!

[GRAD] Air and Water Show

SAT., AUG. 10, 2024

Join us for the annual Chicago Air and Water Show! Don't miss out on amazing aerial performances and water-based demonstrations at Lake Michigan!

[GRAD] Show me Chicago: Ducky Derby Festival

WED., AUG. 7, 2024

Join fellow grad students for the annual Ducky Derby Festival! Watch thousands of rubber duckies splash down into the Chicago River and swim to the finish line!

[GRAD] Summer Grad Mixer

TUES., AUG. 6, 2024

Join us for our very last Summer Mixer! Come and enjoy a light dinner, games, and fun conversations with fellow grad students!

[GRAD] Show Me Chicago: Riverwalk

SAT., AUG. 3, 2024

Join the International House Graduate Commons Program to visit the Chicago Riverwalk! Together we will tour the architecture, take pictures of public art, and explore some restaurants nearby!

[GRAD] Summer GRAD Mixer

TUE., JUL. 23, 2024

Join the Grad Commons Programs for our second to last Summer Mixer! Come and enjoy a light dinner, games, and fun conversations with fellow grad students!

[GRAD] The Art Institute of Chicago Visit

WED., AUG. 30, 2023

Join the Graduate Commons Program as we explore timeless classics and contemporary masterpieces that transcend boundaries at the Art Institute of Chicago!

[GRAD] Movies on the Midway

WED., JUL. 17, 2024

Join fellow graduate students for a magical outdoor movie night as part of the Movies on the Midway summer event series featuring Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem!

[GRAD] Shedd Aquarium Visit

TUE., JUL. 16, 2024

Dive into discovery at the Shedd Aquarium! Join fellow graduate students for an immersive journey that inspires curiosity, conservation, and connection with the natural world.

[GRAD] I-House Goes Latin Dancing!

SUN., JUL. 14, 2024

Join fellow graduate students as we dance the night away at Chicago Empanada Mama! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of modern bachata with a free class at 7:30PM.

[GRAD] Pilsen Bike Tour

SAT., JUL. 13, 2024

Join fellow grad students as we embark on a captivating bike tour through Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood!

[GRAD] Beach Day

FRI., JUL. 12, 2024

Join fellow grad students for a fun afternoon at 57th Street Beach! Let's unwind, connect, and celebrate summer together!

[GRAD] Lincoln Park Zoo Visit

THU., JUL. 11, 2024

Join the Graduate Commons Program for a visit to the Lincoln Park Zoo! Together, we’ll explore the different exhibits - home to nearly 200 unique species from around the world.

[GRAD] Summer Grad Mixer

TUES., JUL. 9, 2024

Unwind and bask in the gentle twilight breeze in the North Garden, an idyllic respite for a light dinner, games, and light-hearted conversations.

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The University of Chicago
International House
1414 East 59th Street

Chicago, Illinois 60637-2997
773.753.2274

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