TRUMBULL COLLEGE: September 21, 2026
Yay, the sun is back! Yesterday was rough! Enjoy this last day of summer and the official shift to fall tomorrow! :)
We’re settled in for the term, so I want to draw your attention to the Academic Strategies Program – please make use of their workshops (Usually noted with “ASP” à tonight there’s one about notetaking at 6pm!) and their amazing mentoring program. Most workshops and meetings are held right around the corner in the Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning. Plus, Alice includes the upcoming ASP workshops if you scroll down to that section below.
Please also look at the Tutoring section below. I want to draw your attention to our Trumbull Writing Tutor: Adam Sexton. He’s awesome. Please scroll down for a blurb about him and a link for making an appointment. There are also a number of options for STEM tutoring, from course-based tutors to drop-in hours. You can find more info by clicking here. Please remember that all of these tutoring services are free of charge.
I’m also sending one of my regular wellness reminders – temperatures suddenly dropped, some folks are already under the weather, and you probably all noticed that your workload is suddenly picking up! It’s that time. Don’t forget: Getting REST is very important and Vitamin C is your friend (orange juice is a great source!)! Stay well and get well soon if you already got sick. Also, I just booked my family for Saturday morning flu shots! Flu shot clinics have begun – more info here: https://campushealth.yale.edu/yale-flu-and-covid-vaccine-program.
Meeting with me
To make an appointment, please use the Calendly scheduling tool, https://calendly.com/dean_c, or reach out to Alice with any scheduling issues. For in-person meetings, please come to the office. We’re right here in Trumbull G104, which you can access across from Entryway A or through Entryway G. Zoom meetings (including open Zoom office hours) will be through my Zoom page: https://yale.zoom.us/my/skchandhoke.
My OPEN ZOOM office hours for each week are listed on the top of my Calendly page (there’s a small text blurb at the top of the page that is updated regularly). When you click on the Zoom link, you will be placed into a waiting room. I will speak to students (one-on-one) in the order they “arrive.” My upcoming Open Hours are Friday, September 25th (10am-12pm noon).
Please note that I teach on Wednesday mornings during the fall term.
ACADEMICS
Double credit: If you are interested in petitioning to earn double credit in a single-credit course, please read the relevant section in the YCPS, and then consult with me. The deadline to submit this petition is Midterm, but I recommend that you do so well before that date.
Yale Degree Audit: Yale Degree Audit is a tool that tracks your progress toward the bachelor’s degree. You can learn about – and access! – Degree Audit at https://registrar.yale.edu/student-records/degree-audit. Degree Audit displays the Yale College degree requirements that you have already completed and those that are still pending. A “Look Ahead” feature shows you how future course enrollment might apply toward your degree. If you believe that academic information in your degree audit is incorrect, contact our office.
UPCOMING DATES AND DEADLINES (5pm unless noted)
Thursday, September 24…Last day to withdraw from a course offered in the first half of the fall term (e.g. BIOL 1010/1030) without the course appearing on the transcript
Saturday, September 26…Withdrawal from Yale College on or before this date entitles a student to a rebate of one-half of fall-term tuition. See Undergraduate Regulations
Thursday, October 1…Applications close for Spring 2027 Term Abroad
TUTORING
Advising Resources: http://advising.yalecollege.yale.edu
Academic Strategies Program: https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/academic-strategies-program
Sc/QR Tutoring: https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/learning/help-with-stem/stem-tutoring
Language Tutoring: https://cls.yale.edu/programs/language-tutoring
Writing Center/Tutors/Partners: https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/undergraduates/undergraduate-writing-and-tutoring; https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/undergraduates/writing-center
Trumbull Writing Tutor: Adam Sexton is Trumbull’s Residential College Writing Tutor. He is eager to work one-on-one with any and all Trumbullians on writing of every kind, from academic papers to creative writing to fellowship applications. A Senior Lecturer and Course Director in English, Adam has taught at Yale since 2013 and has served as Trumbull’s Writing Tutor since 2014. He also coordinates the TC Mellon Forum. To make a tutoring appointment with Adam, go to https://www.yalewco.com/
Academic Strategies Program. The Academic Strategies Program (ASP) is just one of the ways that the Office of Educational Opportunity (OEO) helps students identify and work towards their academic and experiential learning goals. Visit https://poorvucenter.yale.edu/learning to find out other ways OEO and the Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning can help. The ASP helps students navigate the “hidden curriculum” at Yale, the invisible set of underlying assumptions and expectations about how to do well as a student. We will feature ASP workshops in each Dean’s Notes – but be sure to check out OEO’s other offerings.
First-Year Essentials 4: How to Cultivate Faculty Mentors & Ask for Letters of Recommendation. Want to get to know your professor better, but not sure where to start? Need a letter of recommendation, but not sure who to ask? Join us! This workshop discusses techniques for initiating conversations with faculty, cultivating strong relationships with them, and requesting recommendations in a way that builds on those connections to help you get where you want to go.
Monday, September 21, 4-5pm, Poorvu CTL, Room 120B
Tuesday, September 22, 5-6pm, Poorvu CTL, Room 118A
Thursday, September 24, 5-6pm, Poorvu CTL, Room 120A
ASP Workshop - How to Take Notes Effectively. Not sure what’s worth writing down—or how to use your notes later? You’re not alone. This workshop breaks down different note-taking approaches and helps you find a system that actually supports your learning. With guidance from Academic Strategies Peer Mentors, you’ll explore how to take notes that make studying easier, keep you focused in class, and work across different types of courses. Monday, September 21, 6-7pm, Poorvu CTL, Room M104A
Senior Thesis Power Hours (w/ How to Strategize for Your Senior Thesis). Writing a Senior Thesis is HARD—but it’s way more fun with snacks, support, and friends who get it! Drop in anytime to this two-hour session, hosted by the Yale College Writing Partners and Academic Strategies Peer Mentors, for: Facilitated & structured focus time + breaks | Delicious snacks + seltzer water | optional 1:1 help from Academic Strategies Peer Mentors | the camaraderie you need to keep those ideas flowing. A splendid time is guaranteed for all. Monday, September 21, 7-9pm, Poorvu CTL, Room 120A
ASP Workshop - How to Organize Your Time. Time management isn’t just about being busy—it’s about making time for what matters. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn strategies for balancing your coursework, extracurriculars, and life outside of Yale. With the help of ASP Peer Mentors, you’ll explore different approaches to scheduling, planning, and managing overwhelm—then start crafting a system that works for you. Tuesday, September 22, 6-7pm, Poorvu CTL, Room M104A
Eli Whitney + Transfer Student Caffeinated Commons. Join us for community, conversation, and caffeine! Drop by this relaxed weekly hangout hosted by the Academic Strategies Program’s Eli Whitney & Transfer peer mentors—sometimes there’s a theme, workshop, or discussion, and sometimes just snacks and good company. Whether you’re here to chat, decompress, connect, or set up your weekend, you’re always welcome.
Wednesday, September 23, 3-5pm. Poorvu CTL, Room 118A
Thursday, September 24, 9:30-11:30am, Poorvu CTL, Room 118A
ASP Workshop - How to Read Analytically for Social Science Classes. Social science texts can be dense, tricky, and time-consuming. This workshop breaks down how to identify key arguments, sift through details, and come to class ready to contribute—led by students who’ve developed strategies that really work! Tuesday, September 24, 4-5pm, Poorvu CTL, Room M104A
ASP Workshop - How to Get the Most out of Your Language Classes. Learning a language takes daily commitment—and it’s easy to fall behind! This workshop offers peer-tested strategies for staying engaged, reviewing effectively, and building habits that support steady progress, even when the workload piles up. Friday, September 25, 2-3pm, Poorvu CTL, Room M104A
ASP Workshop - How to Optimize Your Reading. Not all reading strategies are created equal. This workshop introduces flexible, evidence-based techniques for reading more effectively across disciplines—whether you’re prepping for class, writing a paper, or studying for exams. Learn how to approach texts with purpose, not just persistence. Friday, September 25, 3-5pm, Poorvu CTL, Room M104A
CAREER STRATEGY
The Office of Career Strategy (OCS) offers career advising, professional school advising, employment and internship opportunities, and career development resources. The office works with students and alumni to clarify career aspirations, identify opportunities, and offer support at every stage of career development. Schedule a weekly OCS newsletter tailored to your interests and check out https://ocs.yale.edu/channels/student for events, opportunities, resources, and reminders from OCS. For job postings and employer events, look at the OCS Blog, CareerLink, and the Common Good and Creative Careers (CGCC) sections.
Employers in New Haven this week! Check the OCS Events Listing for event times & registration details:
* Endeavor Global Inc. New York-based non-profit that supports high-growth entrepreneurs in 45+ markets around the world
* Bain & Company. Management Consulting firm with offices in 67 cities worldwide
* Radial Equity Partners. New York–based private equity firm focused on investing in middle market consumer and industrial businesses
Resume Reviews (& more!) continue in Trumbull Buttery every Wednesday 8-10pm. Stop by to get your resume reviewed, ask about Fellowships, and more with an OCS & Fellowships Marketing Outreach Coordinator. No appointment necessary.
FELLOWSHIPS AND FUNDING
Yale and outside funding options can help support research, study abroad, public service, unpaid internships, and self-designed projects, in New Haven and around the globe. Postgraduate fellowships support independent projects, graduate study, and much more. The Office of Fellowships and Funding helps students identify funding opportunities and navigate the application process. Visit https://funding.yale.edu to learn more.
How to Pivot: Reworking Your Funding Application for New Opportunities. You spent weeks working on a funding application and just learned that it was unsuccessful. Do you give up? No — you pivot! This interactive workshop will share practical advice and mindset tips to help you bounce back from a disappointing application outcome. Wednesday, September 23, 1-2pm, 55 Whitney Ave, Room 305
Richard U. Light Fellowship Information Session #2. Learn more about funding for intensive language study in China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan for Summer and Academic Year. To be eligible to apply, students are required to attend at least one information session. Wednesday, September 23, 4-5pm, Online Event (register for link)
STUDY ABROAD
Applications for Spring 2027 Study Abroad are open! Please note that approval for term-time study abroad is a two-step process; you must both apply to Yale Study Abroad for approval, and directly to your program for admission. For Yale Study Abroad approval, the deadline is October 1, 2026 at 11:59pm. This deadline is stringently forced, with no exceptions. That said, the application is not binding; if approved for spring study abroad, you may still choose to withdraw or otherwise adjust your plans in coordination with our office. As for program admission, deadlines vary by program; you should be able to find this information, and the relevant application, directly on your chosen program’s website.
Renew Your Passport. You need an up-to-date passport to even apply for Yale summer programs. The deadline is in January, but don’t wait until winter break to get started. Even if you are not yet sure that you will study abroad, you should have a valid passport at least three months in advance, if possible. All passports should be valid at least 6 months beyond the end date of your anticipated study abroad program. Yale students For additional information, visit https://studyabroad.yale.edu/resources/travel-planning-logistics.
Event: Demystifying Financial Aid for Study Abroad. Wondering how financial aid works when you study abroad? Join Yale Study Abroad and Undergraduate Financial Aid to learn how your financial aid can apply to study abroad opportunities, what costs may be covered, and what you need to know when planning your budget. Friday, September 25, 1-2pm, Poorvu CTL, Room 118A
Study Abroad Programs are visiting Yale this week. Join an Information Session as you consider your possibilities …
* Academic Programs Abroad. APA is an independent study abroad program for students seeking an enriching French language study experience. Stop by to meet with an APA representative about their summer and semester study abroad opportunities. Monday, September 21, 1:30-2:30pm, 55 Whitney Ave, Room 305
* NYU Global Programs. Join an NYU rep to learn how you can explore new places, experience different cultures, and earn academic credit while studying away. During this session, you’ll learn about: Available study away programs and destinations | Program costs and financial aid | Visiting Student application requirements and deadlines | Housing, travel, and what to expect while abroad. Monday, September 21, 3-4pm, 55 Whitney Ave, Room 305
* SIT Study Abroad. Join Tye Tavaras, University Relations Manager for School for International Training (SIT) Study Abroad, for a discussion that highlights SIT Study Abroad summer programs. Tuesday, September 22, 4-5pm, 55 Whitney Ave, Room 305
* CET Osaka. If you are studying Japanese Language and interested in an immersion program with a language pledge, then you should attend this information session to learn more about CET Japan. CET Japan study abroad students are motivated learners interested in a term packed with language progress. With CET’s intensive curriculum, your commitment to full-time language pledge, and your housing with a local Japanese roommate, language isn’t just in the classroom in Osaka—it’s in everything you do. This program is offered during the semester or summer. Thursday, September 24, 2-3pm, 55 Whitney Ave, Room 305
* CET Beijing. If you are studying Chinese Language and interested in an immersion program with a language pledge, then you should attend this information session to learn more about CET Beijing. At CET Beijing, you take 20 hours/week of Chinese language classes with some of the best teachers in the field. Your hours are broken up between core classes, where you focus as a group on grammar, drill, and discussion, and supplementary hours where you get more individualized attention. Outside of the classroom, you live with local roommates who sign the same language pledge as you do. This program is offered during the semester, Summer, and Janterm. Thursday, September 24, 4-5pm, 55 Whitney Ave, Room 305
Upcoming Deadline: Gilman Scholarships. The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program (Gilman Program) provides up to $5,000 in merit-based scholarships to outstanding American undergraduate students with high financial need to pursue credit-bearing academic studies and career-oriented internships abroad. The Gilman-McCain Scholarship provides awards of $5,000 for child and spousal dependents of active or activated United States military personnel during the time of application to study or intern abroad on credit-bearing programs. Apply by Thursday, October 1, 2026 (11:59pm). Full details, eligibility criteria, and application links are at https://www.gilmanscholarship.org.
Thinking about opportunities to study abroad? Head to the “Get Started” tab to search programs that fit your personal and academic interests, check application deadlines, review costs and funding options, get advice on your plans, learn about fulfilling distributional and major requirements with study abroad coursework, and more.
TAKE NOTE
AI in Yale College: How Students are Integrating AI Tools into Learning. Curious about specific AI tools, how they can aid your learning, or how other students are wrestling with the ethical concerns of this technology? Join a panel hosted by the Student AI Liaisons (SAIL) & the Poorvu Center North to explore how students in Yale College have integrated various AI tools into their undergraduate experience. All are welcome! High-quality snacks and drinks provided! TODAY, Monday, September 21, 7-8pm, Poorvu North (Marx Library), Young Family Study Center
Summer Bulldogs 2027 Internship Fair. To kick off the 2027 summer internship hiring cycle, 1stGenYale is excited to hold our second annual in-person fair on Friday, September 25th. At the fair, you will get a chance to promote your skills and talents, meet with interested employers and get a head start on connecting about next summer’s internship opportunities. Depending on the employer’s timeline, you would then apply through Yale’s Career Link or the employer’s platform. Bring your resume and business cards; the Office of Educational Opportunity is ready to guide you through the process of preparing these important networking materials ahead of time. Friday, September 25, 3-5pm, Poorvu CTL, 301 York Street
A Life of Many Colors: Honoring the Life, Legacy, and Allyship of Dolly Parton. On 9.25 (like “9 to 5”), we’re encouraging the Yale community to break out the pink, denim, and other Dolly-inspired attire and spend some time with us in the “Dollyverse.” Visit the Yale LGBTQ Center, meet the community, and learn more about their programs, resources, and work. Life of Many Colors is both a celebration of Dolly Parton’s life, legacy, and longstanding connection with LGBTQ communities. Guests can contribute to a collaborative and colorful art piece called Dolly’s Quilt of Many Colors; visit the Cup of Ambition Coffee Bar and enjoy Dolly-inspired foods and desserts in our Stonewall Cafe; explore the Imagination Library and Book Lady display in the Stonewall Library; add a memory or message to our Letters for Dolly Guest Book that we will be sending to her family; learn about and enjoy Dolly music and media that has influenced generations throughout the center. RSVP requested, but not required. Come for a few minutes or stay awhile … dream, create, read, eat, listen, learn, connect, and help carry forward a legacy of imagination, kindness, and love. Friday, September 25, 3-5pm, Yale LGBTQ Center, 135 Prospect Street
YC3
Time Management Makeover: From Procrastinator to Pro! Tired of pulling all-nighters and feeling behind? Join Brian Hamilton, Community Wellness Specialist, for this time management session that will give you practical tools to stay organized, focused, and ahead of deadlines. Don’t let procrastination run your semester! Monday, September 21, 3-3:45pm, Good Life Center Lounge at Schwarzman
Take it Easy Tuesday: Fall DIY Tote Bags. Take it Easy Tuesday (TIET) is a YC3 program, where we encourage students to participate in rest through creative outlets. For the month of September, we’ll be inviting students to design and personalize their own DIY Fall tote bag. We will have goodies for students to put in their tote bags. Tuesday, September 22, 2-4pm, Outside of Schwarzman Center in Hewitt Quadrangle
Sweet Dreams – Sleep Workshop Part 2. Join Angie Makomenaw for a relaxing and creative workshop where science meets art! Together we will dive into the fascinating world of sleep—learning why it’s essential for health, memory, mood, & academic success. During this 2-part series (Wednesdays), you’ll be able to create your own personal dreamcatcher, reflect on your sleep habits, and set intentions for restful nights ahead! Wednesday, September 23, 4:30-5:30pm, Good Life Center Lounge at Schwarzman
Yale Library
Discover Yale Library. Do you want a chance to win a key to your own study room in Bass Library? Pick up a passport in Bass, Sterling, Arts, or Marx Library and collect stamps as you visit libraries. One winner will be selected on Wednesday, October 14. Full details at guides.library.yale.edu/DiscoverYaleLibrary.
This week’s Library Tours. Attend an upcoming library tour for a chance to learn about essential spaces and services for students. These tours are also a great opportunity to get a library Passport stamp! All tours require advance registration & day-of Yale ID:
* Beinecke Library | Tuesday, September 22 4-4:45pm
* Yale Film Archive | Wednesday, September 23, 3-5pm
* Sterling Library | Thursday, September 24, 4-5pm
Introduction to Statistical Programming in R. Learn R by using it to answer a real statistical question. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll work through a complete analysis while learning the core programming concepts and practices needed to continue exploring R independently. Tuesday, September 22, 10am-12pm noon, Rosenkranz Hall, 115 Prospect St, Library Classroom 01
Let’s Find Architectural Plans, Drawings, and Images. Are you looking for architectural drawings or articles on a historic building or structure? Learn how to get started with building research and where to find relevant resources at Yale Library. Tuesday, September 22, 1-1:45pm, Online Event (register for link)
Introduction to Digital Humanities. You may have heard the term “digital humanities” and wondered what it means—or you’re encountering it for the first time and want to learn more. Join us for an engaging introduction to the field. Wednesday, September 23, 10-11am, Bass Library, Room L01-A & L01-B
Next Steps with Zotero. Already using Zotero? Let’s customize Zotero to match your needs. In this workshop, learn advanced tips & tricks to make Zotero even more organized and efficient for your workflow. Wednesday, September 23, 11-11:30am, Online Event (register for link)
30 Minutes to a Better Selfie. Join us for a virtual 30-minute session covering how to be a more informed creator and consumer of social media images, followed by a discussion on where your images go once they’re published online. Thursday, September 24 at 3pm, Online Event (register for link)
Let’s Find Books for Class. Save a trip to the bookstore by learning how to optimize Quicksearch to find books (including ebooks and audiobooks). Bring your course syllabus! Friday, September 25, 10-10:30am, Online Event (register for link)
Request A Personal Librarian. Did you know all undergraduate students have a personal librarian? When, where, and how you connect with us is up to you. See full details at https://library.yale.edu/help-and-research-support/personal-librarians-for-undergraduates.