Incoming student portal

Here we have all the information of what the past and present graduate students have compiled that they can think of which could possibly be helpful for incoming PhD and Masters students

Academic decisions and success

There are many ways to succeed in the Stony Brook Physics graduate program, and success really depends on your own background, your interests, and the kinds of research opportunities you are searching for. Here we have compiled suggested paths towards success based on our collective prior experience:

• [[ ]] - advice for theory students who already have masters degress
• [[ ]] - advice for students who did not previously obtain degrees in physics
• [[ ]] - etc.

Additionally here are more general resources:

• A list of willing available current grad students in different research areas who you should feel free to contact with any questions - (password protected)
• A list of current professors and research groups with brief descriptions and advice for joining and collaborating - (password protected)

Before you arrive

The 2017 orientation schedule is available here.

• Getting to campus - for when you first arrive, especially if you're flying in

• Getting housing - if you don't know where you'll be living when you get to campus yet, or you're thinking of moving out of on-campus housing

• Health Form Information - What you need to know about the health forms you'll have to bring

• Things to bring - what to pack before you leave

• Course placement - what to know about placing out of courses

• Mentorship program - as of 2017 every student gets two faculty mentors and two senior graduate student mentors

Once you arrive

• Methods of transportation - for getting around the Stony Brook area once you've arrived

• Fees and finances - What you need to know about the money situation of a new student

• Taking the comprehensive exams (Should I take the comps?) - Tips on whether or not to take the comprehensive exams, and information for if you decide to

For international students

• SIM cards - Information about SIM cards for international students who will be arriving without working phones

• Social Security Numbers - an essential part of living and working in the US

For master's students

• Applying for PhD Programs - tips for Masters (or undergraduate) students who are planning to apply