The broad goals of the organization, TripleG (or the Geography Grad Group), are to build strong ties between graduates students, faculty and staff within the department of geography at Michigan State University. Specifically, the functions of TripleG include:
- The
building of solidarity, community, and fun.
Exchanging stories and giving support about the unique experience of being a graduate student and more specifically a geography grad student a MSU. TripleG provides times and spaces for this. Also, by knowing each other it builds a friendly more productive work environment. For example TripleG has a bulletin board with photos and information about the grads. - The
presentation of a unified voice for Geography Graduate students.
To have a unified and stronger voice on issue that effects the department and our program directly. Keeping lines of communication open between grad students and faculty is important. For example, TripleG has an elected representative in the faculty meetings to make our opinions known. - The continued building of departmental status and respect. To have a real meaningful impact on the department decisions based on a long term respectful and thoughtful unified voice. For example by being organized the department can request input in a more systematic and transparent way.
- The
sharing of information.
For example: Software information, programs, class recommendations etc. - The
building/recruitment of the Geography Graduate program.
Spreading the word about our departments strengths to attract top quality grads and new faculty to build status and clout as a department. For example, getting information that is helpful to potential student, and new grad students to them allowing for a much smoother transitions and a more informed decision making process. - The
furthering of Funding opportunities.
Clear and open access to funds through all available avenues. - The
development of continuity of representation, information, and community.
To keep up all the work TripleG does year to year so grads build a wealth of information and support services. For example, keeping records of meeting decisions and general information on our webpage for future grads to use. - The
promotion of academic collaboration and scholarship.
TripleG promotes continued excellence in academics by giving mutual feedback for papers and presentations. Collaborating on research and ideas; for example, organizing panels at meetings.
-
TripleG seeks to operate
independently from other Michigan State University organizations, though
it may seek to cooperate with them in a synergistic manner.
Any MSU student may be a member; however, the group is aimed at Graduate students in Geography. This organization will not discriminate on the basis of age, color, gender, disability status, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or weight.
In order to become an official member of the organization one should e-mail the current TripleG secretary and indicate ones desires to become a member. Additionally, one must register with the online forum community, which can be accessed at http://www.tripleg.geo.msu.edu/forum. A TripleG member remains in good standing by obeying the rules written in this constitution, by participating in the online community, and by attending meetings. On campus members must attend one meeting per semester; off campus members must participate in the online forum.
Currently there is a $5 per semester fee for all TripleG members. This money is used for a variety of TripleG related expenses including providing food for meetings.
- For a PDF version of the entire TripleG consitiution click Here.