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VIRAL Programs
from BRET 360º
International Alliance goes VIRAL
By Sarah E. Glass and Ela Contreras Panta, graduate students VIRAL is a new student and scholar organization sponsored by the BRET Office to connect international graduate students and postdoctoral fellows for social and academic events. The support network as well as the events have brought many international scholars together with the shared commonality of their biomedical science training. October 2021
December 2021 February 2022
Panel discussion on “Navigating an Unfamiliar Work Environment and Culture While Maintaining your Identity”
Biomedical International Trainee Social (Virtual) February 2022 Sponsored by CDB-DEI and BRET, VIRAL organized and held the first meet and greet. Purpose: to inform international scholars about the recently created VIRAL organization, to connect with international trainees from CDB and other departments, and to gather information about specific needs from the international community.
Informal Support Session for first-year international students. March 2022 International Biomedical Trainee Social
June 2022 Partnered with CDB-DEI, held informational sessions to connect with international trainees, staff and faculty to inform about VIRAL objectives, functions and to recruit new members for open positions. April 2022
Partnered with BRET office and the International Student & Scholars Services, virtual session “Why Does My Professor Go By ‘Jim’? Understanding U.S. Social and Cultural Norms”
