Graduate Student News

The student team documenting the trees across VCU’s Monroe Park and MCV campuses include Margaret Pletcher, Declan O'Donnell, Daniella Asnicar and Kaleb Rezac. (Contributed image)

How many trees are on VCU’s campuses?

Oct. 2, 2025

Student interns with the Rice Rivers Center are counting trees, and the comprehensive inventory could highlight the environmental and financial impact of the urban forest.

Biology graduate student Kyleigh Johnson takes a sample at Swan Lake. (Thomas Kojcsich/Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

VCU research in action: Finding answers in the algae in Richmond’s lakes

Aug. 22, 2025

Researchers wade into the fluorescent blooms of summer, which threaten human health and the region’s waterways.

The Blackbird team is exploring new ground with the launch of the Blackbird Literary Podcast, which offers a multidimensional experience designed to bring each page to life. (Contributed photo)

Blackbird literary journal team launches multidimensional podcast

Aug. 13, 2025

Through performative readings and music composition, the new format brings the written word to life.

Virginia Commonwealth University is introducing a digital forensics and incident response concentration in its Master of Science in forensic science program this fall. (Getty Images)

New concentration in digital forensics will propel graduate students into a growing field

Feb. 26, 2025

Debuting in fall 2025, the specialized curriculum in the forensic science master’s program reflects how electronic evidence is an expanding frontier in fighting crime.

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.