This post was written by Kelly McGarry '26S (MS), a Simon admissions ambassador and MS in Accountancy student. 

Community is an important aspect of graduate school. While lectures and class projects are a foundational feature of business school, the experience you have outside of the classroom can be just as transformative. Here are a few ways Simon Business School and the University of Rochester support students and build community.

1. Clubs

Clubs are one of the many ways that Simon celebrates and uplifts its diverse student body and includes and welcomes all members of the community. These include Simon Women in Business, Asians in America, LASOS, Simon Pride Alliance, Simon Black Student Alliance, and Simon Africa Business Club. Watch this webinar to learn more about all of the clubs and organizations that Simon offers.

Portrait of Kelly McGarry

2. Events

There are many events for Simon students throughout the school year. Examples from the spring semester include the “Dinner That Never Was” event to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, a Carnaval event to celebrate Brazilian and Latin American culture, and a Super Bowl Watch Party. Check out Simon’s Instagram channel (@simonbusinessschool) to stay up to date with the latest happenings!

3. Academic Advising

The Ainslie Office of Student Engagement supports students throughout their academic journey at Simon. Each student has a designated advisor. Check out our website to learn more about the Ainslie OSE. Additionally, the Simon Tutoring Portal offers tutoring services for a range of classes offered at Simon.

4. Career Advising

The Benet Career Management Center helps students throughout the job search process. Each student is assigned a program-specific career advisor. There is also the opportunity to seek mentorship and guidance from the Benet Career Peers. Learn more about the resources the Benet Center offers to Simon students.

5. Mental Wellbeing

The University Counseling Center offers both individual and group counseling, an after-hours crisis line, and numerous other services to help support students’ mental health. The CARE Network allows students and professors to submit referrals for individuals in the university community that may be going through issues with their mental wellbeing. The Mindful University Project offers mindfulness classes, yoga classes, retreats, and more. Explore how Simon and the University of Rochester support students’ mental health on our website.

6. Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center

The Burgett Intercultural Center offers various events and resources to support the University of Rochester’s student body. Its mission is to promote cultural understanding, build a community where everyone feels included, and provide avenues for promoting a culture of respect and opportunities for collaboration.

7. Short-Term Assistance

The Basic Needs Hub offers funding to students who are experiencing difficulties paying for necessities. Funding is used for items such as clothes, toiletries, travel fees, and more. In addition, the Food Pantry offers free food and toiletries for all students regardless of need.


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