About the Grad Student Support Circle (GSSC)

The GSSC is a weekly meeting of graduate students across all faculties for mutual peer support, in connection with the Student Support Network. It offers an opportunity for connection among graduate students and a safe space to talk about the joys and challenges that are unique to grad studies that can be difficult or unsatisfying to talk about with colleagues, family or friends outside of this specific academic environment.

GSSC circles are open to all graduate students, including those currently on a leave of absence.

While the GSSC is not a professional counselling service, we do offer a confidential and supportive group environment where students can talk through whatever they're experiencing as graduate students, hear perspectives from others, and discuss life in general. 

How to join circle:

Circles are drop-in sessions, no registration required!

Winter 2026 Hours

• Online: Mondays 6:00 – 7:00pm
  • Online booking is required → Book Here [1]
• In-person: Wednesdays 6:00 – 7:00pm
  • Multi Faith Room, UC 5th Floor (across from The Lookout)

Grad Student Support Network

The GSSN is a new program run for and by U of G grad students. This program offers the same confidential and non-judgemental peer-to-peer counselling services as our other SSN programs, but is designed specifically to graduate students. Grad students can access the drop-in program in-person, connecting on topics including (but not limited to) advisor relationships, work-life balance, procrastination, stress and more. Note: The GSSN will be offered during Summer, Fall and Winter semesters, whereas the other SSN programs do not run during the Summer.

Winter 2026 Hours:

• In-person: Thursdays 1:00 – 2:00pm
  • GSA Office, UC 5th Floor