University of Chicago Bookstore Building
970 East 58th Street, Room 401
Chicago, Illinois 60637 GradLounge@uchicago.edu
The Graduate Student Lounge is home base for UChicago’s graduate student population. Located on the fourth floor of the UChicago Bookstore, the Lounge is a space where graduate students from across programs can drop in for individual study, small-group collaboration, and socializing.
In addition to two bookable meeting spaces, we feature a quiet space, kitchenette with daily refrigeration service, free daily locker rentals, coffee, tea, and light snacks. We also house the offices of the Diversity Advisory Board and the Graduate Student Council.
The Graduate Student Lounge is supported by a team of Graduate Service Specialists, who serve as resources for campus information and services.
Reservations may be made at the Graduate Student Lounge Information Desk or via e-mail at GradLounge@uchicago.edu.
Reservations requested via e-mail are not valid until the requestor receives a confirmation e-mail.
To ensure student access to the spaces, we limit reservations to 1 hour.
If the room is free at the conclusion of the reservation, the individual may reserve the room again.
Please note that one may reserve a room for no more than 3 consecutive hours. Please note that spaces may only be reserved by current University of Chicago graduate students.
Lounge Room 405 is a “smart” conference room, perfect for virtual meetings, small study sessions, meetings, and presentations. Room occupancy must be limited to six individuals.
Lounge Room 411 is a space best suited for small study sessions and meetings. Room occupancy must be limited to six individuals.
Reservations must be made at the Graduate Student Lounge Information Desk.
Reservations run throughout the day until the close of the Graduate Student Lounge each day.
Unclaimed items will be removed at 5 PM each day. Please note that spaces may only be reserved by current University of Chicago graduate students.
Grad Lounge Room 405
Grad Lounge Room 411
Reflections from Graduating Grads: What did you study? What’s next?
Piyush Kontu Master of Science, FinMath
What did you study?
I was in the Financial Mathematics Master of Science in the Mathematics Department. I thoroughly enjoyed the program, and some of my fondest memories were in the fall 2021 quarter when the program held its pre-course-work programs to get us prepared for the interviews and summer internships.
What are some favorite memories/lessons/experiences from your time here?
Some of my favorite classes were to attend Options Theory by Prof. Roger Lee, Portfolio Theory by Prof. Mark Hendricks, and Python Programming by Prof. Sebastian Donadio.
The dedication and support we received from our Career Services and program director were unmatched. It got me really comfortable in returning to academia after five years. Our Academic Services teams here were always supportive and looked after us in every way possible.
What will you be doing next?
After graduating last year, I joined State Street, one of the world’s largest asset managers, as an assistant vice president for quantitative research. I’ll primarily be working in investment research in the ESG space and contributing toward research papers and indicators.
Devika Lakhote Ph.D., Public Policy Studies
I received my PhD in Public Policy Studies from the Harris School of Public Policy. I studied the effects of large infrastructure investments on targeted populations in India. I met some incredibly kind and smart peers during my 5 years at the University of Chicago who helped me through difficult times of graduate school (especially during the pandemic). I learned that no matter where you are or what you do, it is very important to build a strong community of supportive friends and colleagues.
After graduation, I will be joining the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) as a Data Scientist. I will use econmetrics and machine learning methods to evaluate the true impact of policies and programs in developing countries.
Charlotte Long Master of Divinity
What did you study?
I am currently receiving my Master of Divinity. I focused on gender in Christianity, with a particular interest in women’s leadership roles, both historically at pivotal moments in Christianity, but also how/if women’s leadership transforms or mitigates modern religious movements.
What are some favorite memories/lessons/experiences from your time here?
I got so much done while I was here, it is hard to choose a favorite. My fieldwork year was done at Bethany House of Hospitality, an apartment building and safehouse for young women who have just arrived as refugees or migrants. It was an incredibly humbling and powerful year and clarified how local social workers and organizers are at the heart of keeping refugees safe. My chaplaincy unit at Rush Hospital was also a transformative time that really strengthened my pastoral skills and confidence in interpersonal work. MDiv banquets were always a hilarious and dreamy time, and I loved quiet moments studying on the fourth floor of Swift Hall with friends.
What will you be doing next?
This summer I am doing two part-time internships. At Religions for Peace, I will be helping with their interreligious leadership movements for global peace, as well as some public education writing on forgiveness. The second internship is with the Oxford Initiative’s Global Women’s Narrative Project, which focuses on trauma-sensitive ways to bring everyday women’s experiences of war, loss, family and migration into our conversations on gender policy. I’m very excited for both and have no idea where they will lead me. I hope by September, I will have gained the skills and fortitude to put myself on the job market.
Priscilla Ramos Rico Master of Arts, Clinical Social Work
I am currently studying Clinical Social Work at the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. One of my favorite experiences has been working as a Graduate Services Specialist front desk in the Graduate Student Lounge and being able to meet students from different graduate programs than I am in.
Upon graduation in June although still unsure of where exacting I will be working, I plan on staying in Chicago. I am interested in working with and hopefully plan on working with teens and adolescents providing therapy.
Caleb Sponheim Ph.D., Computational Neuroscience
What did you study?
I conducted research into the patterns and structure of brain activity in a part of the brain responsible for movement commands.
What are some favorite memories/lessons/experiences from your time here?
I will always think fondly of the community that the neurosciences programs cultivate here at UChicago. It was that warm community which brought me to the program, and kept me happy, comfortable, and supported throughout my tenure here.
What will you be doing next?
I’ll be joining Nielsen Norman Group as a UX Specialist, focusing on conducting quantitative user experience research and teaching courses on quantitative research methods.
Yuqing Zhu Ph.D., Computational Neuroscience
What did you study?
My program is Computational Neuroscience. For my thesis, I used a type of computer model—a spiking neural network—to simulate and study how populations of neurons in the brain support everyday animal behaviors, such as seeing motion and responding to it.
What are some favorite memories/lessons/experiences from your time here?
I love the friendships I’ve formed here. I am super grateful for the duo of the Pub & Doc Films after work—seeing certain films there was definitely a highlight of my time on campus. I loved calling up friends on warm days to go for a walk and a dip in the lake. And there were always so many things to do together in the city—from attending art shows to getting groceries at Joongboo to going out dancing. I’ve really loved my everyday life here in Chicago.
A lesson I’ve learned is that you never have to do things alone. The neuroscience community here is so amazing, and I am very grateful for the scientific, career and personal support I did receive—oftentimes without even asking.
What will you be doing next?
During my time in Chicago, I’ve also been growing as a visual artist. I’ll be opening my first solo show and starting in the fall, I will be a visiting assistant professor of neuroscience at Pomona College. I will be teaching undergraduate courses on neuroscience and AI, as well as quantitative skills for neuroscience research.
Jose Antonio Kast Adriasola
Graduate Program: Masters of Public Policy (MPP) Hometown: Santiago, Chile Education: P. Universidad Católica de Chile, J.D.; Universidad de los Andes, M.A. Applied Philosophy.
I’m a Chilean lawyer interested in environment and energy policy, and non-profit development. My last job before coming to Chicago was as consultant for social projects and initiatives at a non-profit organization.
I decided to come to Chicago not only because the University is great, also because the city is great (even, as unpopular it might be, it’s weather). Other than math, here I’ve developed my cooking skills, so I could say my time here has been very productive and I’m loving it.
Tanya Estrada Gomez
Graduate Program: Dual Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Social Work Hometown: Los Angeles, California Education: California State University, Northridge; B.A. Criminology & Justice Studies
Tanya Estrada Gomez (she/her/ella) is a third-year dual degree master’s student studying Public Policy and Social Work with a concentration in Social Administration. In addition to her dual degree, she is pursuing certificates in Latin American & Caribbean Studies and International Policy & Development. Tanya is completing her social work placement on campus with Student Support Services located at the Center for Identity + Inclusion (CI+I). In addition to working as a GSS, Tanya is a Building Manager at CI+I and a Human Rights Leader for the Pozen Family Center for Human Rights. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, watching movies and TV shows from the ’90s and early 2000s, and learning how to roller skate.
Lilly Gullickson
Graduate Program: Master of Public Policy Hometown: Eagan, MN Education: University of Wisconsin-Madison; B.B.A. Entrepreneurship and Risk Management
I am a first year MPP student and my policy focus is on education and social inequality. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in May 2022, and studied entrepreneurship and risk management with an educational services certificate. Outside of school I am a second year Don Lavoie fellow at George Mason University, and a member of the UChicagoGRAD Diversity Advisory Board. My life goal is to become a social entrepreneur and create businesses with social impact. Until I reach that goal, I am interested in gaining experience in consulting and policy analysis. In my free time I enjoy playing with my cat Lola, facetiming my family, hanging out with friends, and finding new shows on Netflix. A fun fact about me is I bartend at The Cove Lounge on the weekends.
Hourui Guo
Graduate Program: Master of Science in Computational Analysis and Public Policy Hometown: Wuhan, China Education: New York University, Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Economics I’m a first-year CAPP student, and I completed my undergraduate studies at NYU, where I earned a BA in Mathematics and Economics. My academic journey and background make me passionate about applying data science to address real-world challenges both in policy areas and industries. Outside the academic sphere, I’m a massive fan of public transportation (but not so much the CTA), and I’ve got a real soft spot for civil aviation. In fact, I’ve been a member of the NYU Aviation Club for four years! Looking forward to meeting you soon.
Gayathri Jayaraman
Program: MS Computational Analysis and Public Policy, Harris School of Public Policy Hometown: Delhi, India Languages Spoken: English, Hindi, Tamil
I am a first-year graduate student from India interested to contribute at the intersection of data and policy. Beyond my academic endeavors, I am deeply involved in the realm of performing arts and happen to be a professional Indian classical dancer. Interacting with people from varied cultural backgrounds is a source of great joy for me, hence working at the Grad HQ is time well spent.
Dhairya Karna
Graduate Program: Master of Computer Science Hometown: Delhi, India Education: Delhi Technological University, B. Tech. in Electrical Engineering
I am interested in how to use data, statistical methods, machine learning and AI to challenge outmoded industry standards. I find it intriguing to delve into emerging trends and analyze the factors that contribute to their popularity.
Fun fact about me is I am a music enthusiast. I love playing guitar during my free time. I have played bass guitar in 5 jazz concerts during my high school days in Delhi.
Olesia Khrapunova
Program: Master of Computer Science (MPCS) Hometown: Kemerovo, Russia Languages: Russian, French
I love technology and creativity, on a constant search to find ways to combine both. I am currently studying Computer Science with focus on AI/ML. I am also a dancer, have gone through jazz and latin phases and currently in my heels dancing period. I enjoy getting to know people from all over the world, so don’t hesitate to come say hi if you see me at the desk.
Yi (Lisa) Li
Graduate Program: Master of Public Policy Hometown: Beijing, China Education: UIUC, Champaign, Illinois; B.S., Mathematics, Sociology, and Economics
I am pursuing my master’s in public policy to start my career in data or research analysis. In my spare time, I love to watch YouTube or cook, as well as try different restaurants. My favorite legendary singer is Michael Jackson! I admire his talents and generous contribution to charity.
Kshitij Mittal
Graduate Program: Master of Science in Analytics Hometown: New Delhi, India Education: VIT Vellore, India; B. Tech. in Mechanical Engineering
I am a Data Science professional currently pursuing Master of Science in Analytics at UChicago. For me, Data Science is a medium for understanding human stories better. It never stops at modeling, but how well you can connect the dots to understand the true story with your limited data lens.
Along with Data Science, I am always in pursuit of new experiences and stories through traveling. This has helped me better understand societal and consumer trends, adding another layer of rich human insights to traditional quant heavy analytics.
Amir Ali Rajani
Program: Masters in Public Policy Graduation Year: 2025 Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan Languages: English, Urdu, Gujrati (can understand and speak)
Prior to starting this program, I was a Vice President at the largest commercial bank in Pakistan. Believes in having fun at work. Take pride in serving others. Was a boy scout for 10 years. Like to cook, love to eat. Like to watch soccer.
Akshay Ramdev
Program: Applied Data Science Hometown: India Languages Spoken: English, Hindi
Just an ordinary data guy who likes to follow his passions and dreams. Balancing work with fun makes life interesting, is what I endorse. Love for sports, music, travelling and being gregarious garnished with a good sense of humor makes me well absorbed in all fabrics of life. Love to hear inspiring talks, stand-up comedy and make contacts for lifetime
Aishwarya Sivaramakrishnan
Graduate Program: Master of Public Policy (MPP), Harris School of Public Policy Hometown: Trivandrum, India Education: BA (Hons.) in Economics, Krea University
I am a first year MPP student at the Harris School of Public Policy, interested in education policy and child rights. In addition to working with advocacy groups to lobby for grassroots-level changes in educational institutions in India, I have also taught English as a Second Language to both adults and school students. I enjoy reading contemporary romance/YA novels (I love giving recommendations!), binge-watching shows with my roommate, baking, and (window) shopping. A fun fact about me—I know five languages and would love to learn more!
Jeongmin Shin
Graduate Program: Master of Public Policy (MPP) Hometown: Incheon, South Korea Education: Korea University, Seoul; B.A., Philosophy
After earning a bachelor’s degree, I worked for an airline company for four years as a flight attendant. I joined Harris to learn and polish quantitative skills and now specialize in energy & environmental and financial policies.
In my free time, I enjoy singing, watching movies, and exploring the city. And I love to try out something new and fun—I was on a TV quiz show in 2020 and won the competition!
Rachel Sun
Graduate Program: Master’s Program (AM/MSW) in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration Hometown: San Jose, California Education: University of Washington, B.A. International Relations and History
I’m a second year social work student interested in examining the effects of immigration, labor organizing, race, and gendered violence in migrant Asian American women spaces. I love chickens, my cat Rover, and playing badminton. A fun fact is I have lived all my life along the west coast (San Jose -> Seattle) and miss the Pacific Ocean deeply!
Yijing Sun
Graduate Program: Master of Science in Applied Data Science Hometown: Beijing, China
I’m originally from Beijing and have lived in various cities in the U.S, including NYC, Boston, St. Louis, and Philadelphia. Over the years, I’ve worked as a statistician in the healthcare industry and a social media influencer in food, cooking & lifestyle. As a cat lover, I’ve always wanted of adopting a feline companion. Hopefully, it will come true soon! If you are planning to visit China or curious about Chinese culture, feel free to talk with me!
