University of Arkansas Graduate School and International Education

09/01/2026

Sonali Lenaduwe-Stacy, a doctoral graduate and scholar from Sri Lanka, is researching how baker’s yeast survives extreme stress. Because yeast shares thousands of genes with humans, studying its ability to adapt could help scientists better understand how human cells respond to environmental stress.

Her research may provide insights into biological processes connected to conditions such as inflammation and cancer. By identifying the genes and mechanisms that help yeast withstand stressful conditions, Lenaduwe hopes to contribute to a clearer understanding of how cells adapt and potentially support future biomedical discoveries.

To read more, visit ➡️ https://news.uark.edu/articles/82799/sri-lankan-scholar-researches-how-yeast-could-provide-breakthroughs-in-human-health

08/21/2026

Week 1 of Fall 2026 is in the books! This week some of our GAs took a trip down memory lane and revisited their first day of elementary school.

Featuring:
Kadee Jo Ransom-MS in Counseling (2029)
Mossammat Inun Nahar-MS In Operations Management (2028)
Averi Pick-MA in Advertising and Public Relations (2027)
Lucy Church-M.P.H. (2027)
Chloe Upton-MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2028)

08/19/2026

We saw many students at Hillfest and we hope you’re as excited for this semester as we are. We offered students information and resources about graduate school and answered student questions. If you weren't able to catch us, we're always open in Gearhart Hall 270. Drop by to learn more about graduate school programs, funding, student programs and more!

08/17/2026

Last week, we welcomed a new class of graduate students to GSIE! Hundreds of students attended events coordinated by the Office of Graduate Student Support and the Office of International Students and Scholars. We helped students learn more about resources on campus for their success during New Graduate Student Orientation, provided research, teaching and graduate assistants with tools to prepare for the year ahead during Teaching Camp, and celebrated the start of a new semester with food, games and opportunities to connect at Grad Carnival.



Have a great first day of class and welcome to campus!

08/14/2026

We welcomed a new class of international students to our Razorback family this week! Hundreds of students attended our Graduate and Undergraduate International Welcome Days coordinated by the Office of International Students and Scholars, connecting them to the resources and community that will support them throughout their time at the U of A. 🐗
 
Welcome to Arkansas, and Go Hogs!

08/07/2026

Today we had our first hog call of the 2026-2027 academic year at International Graduate Welcome Day! Thank you to all who attended and we can’t wait to see you around campus. 🐗
 
We’re excited to host a few more events as summer winds down: 
⭐️Graduate Student Orientation: Monday, August 10 at 8:15 a.m. in the Verizon Ballroom (Arkansas Union)
⭐Undergrad Welcome Day: Wednesday, August 12 at 9:30 a.m. in Mullins Library Event Space
⭐Graduate Teaching Academy: Wednesday, August 12 at 9:00 a.m. in Union 507-510
⭐Grad Carnival: Wednesday, August 12 at 1:00 p.m. in the Verizon Ballroom (Arkansas Union)
 
To find out more information, visit the link in our bio.

08/06/2026

Clark Eckels and Cynthia Smith were recognized with a top honor at the Arkansas NAFSA Association of International Educators State Conference for their innovative contributions to international education, with much of the recognition centered on Eckels’ development of immersive simulation experiences. Rather than relying on traditional presentations, Eckels created interactive exercises that place participants in the role of international students, allowing faculty, staff and community members to navigate the complex challenges students face before arriving in the United States. These simulations help participants better understand the cultural, logistical and emotional barriers international students encounter and encourage greater empathy and more effective support.

The award highlights how experiential learning can strengthen international education by giving participants a firsthand perspective on the international student experience. Eckels’ simulations have become valuable professional development tools, prompting meaningful discussions about inclusion, campus support and cross-cultural understanding. Alongside Smith’s leadership in international student engagement, the simulations demonstrate the University of Arkansas' commitment to creating innovative programs that improve the experiences of students from around the world.

To read more, visit ➡ https://news.uark.edu/articles/82668/eckels-smith-earn-top-honor-at-state-international-education-conference

08/03/2026

Advanced degrees require an investment of time and money, but they often lead to long-term career growth, higher earning potential, and greater confidence. Ed Bengtson emphasizes that graduate education is about more than obtaining a credential, explaining that it "opens doors to opportunities that may not have been available otherwise" and helps professionals build the knowledge and leadership skills needed to advance in their careers. He also notes that students should view graduate school as "an investment in yourself" that continues to pay dividends throughout their professional lives.

Bengtson also highlights the personal value of earning an advanced degree, saying it develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and the confidence to take on new challenges. While balancing work, family, and school can be demanding, he argues that the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term sacrifices. Flexible online programs, employer tuition assistance, and scholarships can also make graduate education more attainable, allowing professionals to invest in their future while continuing their careers.

Have you been thinking about getting a graduate degree to advance in your career? In some fields, a graduate degree is vital; in others its helpful but not required. Ed Bengtson, a recently retired associate dean in the University of Arkansas Graduate School and International Education talks about what employers are looking for when hiring and promoting and how graduate degrees figure into the equation.

Learn more at https://online.uark.edu/blog/advanced-degrees-bring-career-payoffs-with-time.php

07/24/2026

We’re just a few weeks out from the first day of class. Soon new and returning students will flood Gearhart’s halls and courtyards, making new connections and memories.

We're thrilled to be hosting back-to-school kickoff events to start the new year!
⭐Graduate Welcome Day: Friday, August 7 at 9:30 a.m. in Giffels Auditorium (Old Main)
⭐Graduate Student Orientation: Monday, August 10 at 8:15 a.m. in the Verizon Ballroom (Arkansas Union)
⭐Undergrad Welcome Day: Wednesday, August 12 at 9:30 a.m. in Mullins Library Event Space
⭐Graduate Teaching Academy: Wednesday, August 12 at 9:00 a.m. in Union 507-510
⭐Grad Carnival: Wednesday, August 12 at 1:00 p.m. in the Verizon Ballroom (Arkansas Union)

For more information on these events, visit ➡ https://hogsync.uark.edu/events?group_ids=36026

07/16/2026

We may be in summer break, but mental health services are still available around the clock for our students. 🌞

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) can help find mental health resources for those who may need specialized care in the area and provides a 24-hour emergency mental health services line in various languages. CAPS also offers in-house individual mental health services for Spanish-speaking students. Some clinicians are available to provide initial consult and follow up appointments in Spanish.

CAPS also hosts a graduate student support group. Students learn to successfully navigate the process & politics of graduate school, as well as the complex student/advisor relationship. Graduate students are invited to join a safe and supportive environment to discuss a variety of topics with students with similar needs.