About the program

The Emerging Scholars in Communication Program aims to expand access to graduate education for students from underrepresented groups, including those impacted by racism and its intersections. The four-week workshop series explores career pathways available to communication PhDs, the nuts and bolts of the application process, and how to flourish in graduate school as an underrepresented student. Participants will also meet current MA/PhD students and faculty to learn about their unique journeys and get answers to questions about everything from how to fund grad school to managing mental health.

Dates: May 2025
May 2 (in-person), May 6, 13, 20 (virtual)

Location: UW Seattle

Application Deadline: January 10, 2025

Meet the Director

Hi, I’m Professor Timeka Tounsel and I am delighted to be leading the Department of Communication’s new initiative to expand access to graduate education. This program is important to me because I remember how difficult it was to get into graduate school. No one had spoken to me about the possibilities of doctoral education until my senior year, and so, by the time I decided to pursue a PhD there were only a few weeks left to research programs and apply. I also remember how clueless I felt once my program started. It took years to get to a point where I no longer felt like an impostor. I want your experience to be better. If you’re interested in communication and curious about earning a PhD, I encourage you to apply.

How to apply

Undergraduate students currently enrolled at UW Bothell, UW Seattle, or UW Tacoma with sophomore, junior, or senior standing are eligible to participate in the program. Students from underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

To apply, complete the application form at this link: https://forms.office.com/r/yzqci3FRK9 and submit an unofficial transcript to commscholars@uw.edu.

Contact

If you’d like to get in touch with us or have questions about the program, send an email to commscholars@uw.edu.