Graduate Student News

Mahmoud Kaid, who is from Egypt, conducts research at VCU focused on the performance of lithium-sulfur batteries. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

World@VCU: Mahmoud Kaid from Egypt

Feb. 26, 2025

‘Watching both my boys grow here has added a whole new perspective to my work and life.’

Phillip Glass, a physics graduate student, shows off pressure sensors on a glove, part of a suite of wearable prototypes to help patients with Parkinson’s disease. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

From fingers to toes, wearable and vibrating technology from VCU inventors could help Parkinson’s patients and others

Feb. 12, 2025

The flexible, lightweight glove and 3D-printed shoe sole might restore the brain-body feedback loop that mobility conditions can disrupt.

Micah White, who is working toward his Ph.D. in counseling psychology, said, “I always try to approach my research by thinking about practicality, future impact and why anyone should care.” (Thomas Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Micah White examines the intersection of social media and African American identity

Jan. 30, 2025

White, a VCU alum and counseling psychology Ph.D. student, is committed to conducting research that will make an impact beyond academia and benefit his community.

From turkey and stuffing to mashed potatoes and green beans, international students and scholars – joined by some peers from the United States – sampled holiday classics. (Photo by Amelia Heymann)

Students and scholars from across the globe come together for Thanksgiving dinner at VCU

Nov. 21, 2024

The annual gathering from the Global Education Office has become its own popular tradition on campus.

A year-end review of students and alums who earned prestigious scholarships through the National Scholarship Office

Nov. 11, 2024

Recipients represent a variety of fields and backgrounds, and their scholarships will provide invaluable opportunities to deepen their studies, gain new perspectives and grow in their fields.

Hope Ward’s work as a professional actor has inspired her research as a Ph.D. student at VCU. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Hope Ward studies paths to more equitable actor training programs

Oct. 23, 2024

Ward, a Ph.D. student, actor and director, finds inspiration in theater but also recognizes where it needs closer study and a commitment to marked improvement.

Moira Neve, a VCU graduate student in English, said their current research project has helped them develop a more complicated understanding of time and history. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Moira Neve studies visions of a queer utopia as described in an early 20th-century journal

Oct. 9, 2024

Neve said, 'I love the feeling of being in my own niche corner of this larger literary tradition, sifting through the archives only to arrive at new surprises every day.'

MFA student Josh Galarza’s debut book has been named a finalist for this year’s National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. (Photo contributed by Josh Galarza)

‘The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky,’ by VCU student Josh Galarza, named National Book Award finalist

Oct. 1, 2024

Galarza’s debut novel is one of five finalists for the 2024 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature.

MFA student Josh Galarza’s debut book has been longlisted for this year’s National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. (Photo contributed by Josh Galarza)

VCU creative writing student Josh Galarza’s debut novel longlisted for National Book Award for Young People’s Literature

Sept. 11, 2024

The finalists will be announced Oct. 1 by the National Book Foundation.

Josh Galarza, who is in his third year of the MFA in Creative Writing program at VCU, returned to adolescence for his debut novel, “The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky.” (Photo contributed by Josh Galarza)

In debut novel, VCU creative writing student Josh Galarza brings life to teen experience

July 23, 2024

The MFA candidate shares the inspiration for his young adult title and the lessons he has learned.