Umang: The Indian Graduate Student Association

About Us

Umang is the Indian Graduate Student Association at Washington University in St. Louis. We are a vibrant community that serves as a home away from home for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and others of Indian origin. Our purpose is to foster a sense of belonging and community among our members while also celebrating the rich cultural heritage of India.

Our Mission

At Umang, our mission is multifaceted:

1. Building Connections: We provide a platform for closer interaction among Indian graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and professionals at Washington University. Through various events, meetups, and networking opportunities, we help our members build lasting friendships and professional connections.
2. Supporting New Students: We understand that moving to a new country can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer logistical support, advice, and guidance to incoming Indian graduate students. From navigating campus life to settling into St. Louis, Umang is here to ensure a smooth transition for our members.
3. Celebrating Indian Culture: We are passionate about promoting awareness and appreciation of Indian culture within the WashU community. Our cultural events, festivals, and workshops bring the vibrant colors, sounds, and traditions of India to life on campus. Whether it’s Diwali, Holi, or an Indian classical dance performance, Umang provides a platform to celebrate and share our heritage with the broader university community.
4. Social Responsibility: Umang is committed to supporting and promoting social causes related to India. We organize fundraisers, awareness campaigns, and volunteer activities that contribute to the betterment of communities both in India and the U.S. Our members are encouraged to engage in meaningful initiatives that make a positive impact.
5. Professional Development: We facilitate interaction with eminent professionals from various fields, providing our members with opportunities to learn, grow, and excel in their careers. Through guest lectures, panel discussions, and mentorship programs, Umang connects students with industry leaders and academics who can guide them on their professional journeys.
6. Collaborative Engagement: Umang actively collaborates with other student associations at WashU and Indian associations in the wider St. Louis community. These collaborations enhance our ability to offer diverse and enriching experiences to our members while fostering a spirit of unity and mutual support among different cultural groups.

Join Us

Whether you’re an incoming student, a seasoned professional, or simply someone interested in Indian culture, Umang welcomes you to join our community. We offer a wide range of activities and resources designed to support your academic, cultural, and social journey at Washington University. For more information or to get involved, please follow our social media page and you will find all the links in the bio! We look forward to connecting and celebrating with you!

You can also contact us at umang@wustl.edu!