About the Event
Join us for an engaging online session with Esther Pandian-Riske, Director of the University of Chicago’s Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL), Graduate Student-at-Large: Business (GSALB), and Returning Scholars (RS) programs.
Designed for prospective students considering graduate-level study, this session offers a closer look at how these flexible, for-credit programs can help you advance your academic and professional goals—and gives you the chance to connect directly with the Director of the programs.
In this session, you will:
- Learn how GSAL students take graduate and undergraduate courses across UChicago’s divisions—including Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Divinity, Public Policy, Social Work, Business, and Law.
- Explore how GSALB students experience the Chicago Booth School of Business’s rigorous, discipline-based approach to business education.
- Ask your questions directly to the Director and receive personalized guidance on the application process.
- Receive an application fee waiver simply by attending.
Discover how the Graduate Student-at-Large programs can help you shape your educational path and prepare for your next step—whether graduate school admission, career advancement, or academic enrichment.
Who's Speaking
Esther Pandian-Riske
Esther Pandian-Riske, MA, MAPSS is the Program Director of the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) Program at the University of Chicago. Originally from Singapore, she brings a global perspective to her role, shaped by her own experience as an international student. She holds two Master’s degrees from the University of Chicago: a...
Esther Pandian-Riske, MA, MAPSS is the Program Director of the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) Program at the University of Chicago. Originally from Singapore, she brings a global perspective to her role, shaped by her own experience as an international student. She holds two Master’s degrees from the University of Chicago: a Master of Arts from the Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences and a Master of Public Policy from the Harris School of Public Policy Studies.
With over 20 years of academic advising and leadership experience, Esther has held key roles across prestigious institutions, including Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Illinois at Chicago Honors College, Dean of Multicultural Affairs at the Latin School of Chicago, and Assistant Dean of Students for the Graduate Division of the Social Sciences at the University of Chicago.
In her role at GSAL, Esther is dedicated to fostering an exceptional academic experience for her students. She specializes in guiding students as they explore research interests, map out courses, and connect with faculty and admissions directors to successfully transition into MA or PhD programs. She also facilitates a vibrant community through initiatives such as the weekly Thursday Graduate Students’ Happy Hour, which connects current students with alumni to promote networking, mentorship, and camaraderie. Esther welcomes the opportunity to connect with prospective students, current participants, and alumni, offering guidance and support at every stage of their academic and professional journeys
Esther’s work is rooted in a genuine commitment to helping students succeed. Through her guidance and emphasis on building connections, she ensures that students make the most of their time in the GSAL program while feeling supported every step of the way.