GradGather began as BU Meetup, a project we started as graduate students at Boston University. We wanted an easier way to meet people from other departments and build connections outside our usual circles. With early support from BU's Office of Student Wellbeing, we launched a pilot in 2023 to see if there were others who wanted a more casual and intentional way to build connections.

We were delighted that over 2,000 students signed up, resulting in hundreds of small group conversations over coffee, walks on campus, or anything else the group was up for.

This year, we've launched GradGather, a platform that makes connecting with other grad students easier and more flexible. The core concept is the same: students from different programs get matched into small groups at their convenience. We have more opportunities for connection than ever before and look forward to expanding GradGather so that anyone can use it to bring communities closer together.

We'd love for others to help shape what comes next. Feel free to reach out with questions or suggestions.