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Graduate Studies

Open Circle McMaster

Open Circle McMaster is a diverse and consensus-based community where McMaster students can discuss life, spiritual and societal issues, as well as find volunteering opportunities available in the broader Hamilton community.

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Personal Discovery Course for grad students Learn More

A self-development series free from cost, stress, and research. Explore personal values. Create your own life mission statement. This course features four 1.5-hour workshops with interactive group exercises, community support of other grad students, Personal Discovery coach (at least one meeting with staff coach), and personal reflection exercises for every session.

Check our calendar for the next session.

McMaster student volunteers support elementary school literacy programs Read the story

Read about the Open Circle experience of Health Research Methodology PhD student Yi Wang. Wang is one of 300 students who volunteer through Open Circle in programs like LAF, designed to serve the campus community and beyond.

Community Volunteer Circles (CVC) Volunteer Circles

CVC opportunities are available across Hamilton and give volunteers a chance to learn about and help address issues affecting various communities.

Make a difference while gaining experience.

Reflection Circles Reflection Circles

A reflection circle is respectful and safe place to explore mindfulness practices, creative expression, and participate in open discussions.

Themed circles happen weekly:

  • Body, Mind, Spirit
  • Creativity
  • Meditation
  • Movement Meditation (monthly)

At this time, all circles are virtual.

Grief Support Sharing Circle Grief Support Circle

A monthly mutual support group for students who are experiencing loss or anticipatory grief.

At this time, this circle is virtual.

Becoming Yourself Series Becoming Yourself Series

The course includes weekly 50-minute zoom workshops with interactive group exercises, self-awareness and mindfulness practices to try at home, and a meeting with a staff coach. You will be guided in practicing daily mindfulness exercises in your own time and submit a short weekly reflection about your experiences of these exercises.

This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students.

Upcoming events and sessions from Open Circle McMaster