The graduate students, most of whom are US citizens or permanent residents, come from diverse backgrounds representing the best departments of chemical engineering in the US and the world. Although their experiences are varied, the students form a supportive peer group, not only in research and the classroom but also in the nonacademic arena.

Graduate Student Activities in Chemical & Biological Engineering
The Graduate Student Forum, run by and for the graduate students, schedules social and sporting events throughout the year. In addition to GSF activities, the department sponsors a departmental retreat for faculty and graduate students in the early fall to welcome new students; rising second year graduate students organize the event.

Undergraduate Organizations
One of many undergraduate clubs and organizations, the Northwestern Chapter of AIChE, run by ChBE undergraduates, organizes an annual debate as well as social functions within the department. Debate teams include undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty.

The Society of Women Engineers
The Society of Women Engineers, a national program that encourages women in engineering and science fields, sponsors career and social events for both undergraduate and graduate students and faculty. In addition, SWE organizes a variety of community outreach programs such as Career Day.

SECMA: The Science and Engineering Committee on Multicultural Affairs
The Science and Engineering Committee on Multicultural Affairs (SECMA), composed of faculty members, graduate students, and administrators, was established in December 2004 with the goal of recruiting and retaining underrepresented graduate students in academic careers in Sciences and Engineering. SECMA organizes recruiting activities in the spring in addition to sponsoring colloquia and student activities throughout the year.