# The grad experience
**Source**: https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/graduate-student-life/grad-experience
**Parent**: https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/graduate/why-ucalgary/graduate-student-life
At UCalgary, you'll find a supportive environment for all aspects of graduate student life.
## Adjusting to life in grad school
Between the requirements of research, classes and working with your supervisor, graduate studies can be demanding. Many students find that success comes with a healthy balance between work and wellbeing.
UCalgary’s grad student programs are designed to help you succeed in your new environment, whether that means conquering a heavy schedule, getting outdoors or meeting new friends along the way.
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### Welcome Centre
This summer-term service provides support for new-to-Calgary students. Last year, the Centre interacted with over 3000 students from 60 countries and 10 provinces. When planning your arrival or looking for accommodations, the Welcome Centre can help.
[Learn more](https://www.ucalgary.ca/student-services/welcome-centre)
### Graduate Students' Association
The GSA provides programs and services that help you look after your health and wellbeing, including your social needs.
- Health and dental benefits
- Cost of living calculator
- Social events
- Mentorship program
- Last Defence Lounge
[Learn more](https://gsa.ucalgary.ca/)
### International Student Services
International Student Services provides support services and customized advising for all University of Calgary international students adjusting to life and study in Canada.
- Global Families Program
- Language Bank
- Global Friendship Program
- English Language Program
[Learn more](https://live-ucalgary.ucalgary.ca/student-services/iss/home)
## Active Living
UCalgary is home to one of North America’s largest campus-based recreation departments, with facilities and programs for everything from rock climbing to swimming to hiking to skating. Rent outdoor gear to explore Alberta's stunning natural environment!
[Learn more](https://active-living.ucalgary.ca/)
### Student Wellness Services
### Student Wellness Services
The Wellness Centre is dedicated to creating a healthy campus community, with services for health, mental health, support and outreach, and a series of events, programs and workshops.
[Learn more](https://www.ucalgary.ca/wellness-services)
### The Graduate College
### The Graduate College
Grad students are invited to join a community of exceptional scholars to share ideas and work collaboratively on projects connected to the university’s research priorities.
[Learn more](https://www.ucalgary.ca/gradcollege/)
## Graduate student orientation (GradO)
Help for incoming students transitioning to graduate studies
[Learn more](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/current-students/newly-admitted/graduate-orientation)
## Leadership and Student Engagement
Take part in meet-ups, leadership training and festivals celebrating student life on campus
[Learn more](https://ucalgary.ca/student-services/leadership)
Ready for graduate study at UCalgary?
[Explore programs](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/explore-programs)