Professional Development Attendance Policy

Participation in Professional Development workshops is an important opportunity to practice professionalism, time management, and respect for others’ time and effort. To ensure that all graduate students and postdoctoral scholars have equitable access to these learning experiences, the following attendance expectations apply:

Attendance & Cancellations

If you are registered for a workshop or event but can no longer attend, you are expected to cancel your registration at least 24 hours before the start of the first session. This allows participants on the waitlist to join and helps facilitators prepare accurately for the group they will be supporting.

Registrants who do not attend and do not cancel at least 24 hours in advance will be recorded as a “No Show.”

Students or postdocs who accumulate three (3) No Shows will lose the ability to register for Professional Development workshops and events for one semester following the third recorded No Show.

If an Unexpected Conflict Arises

We understand that graduate students and postdoctoral scholars have demanding schedules and that unexpected conflicts can occur. If you are unable to cancel through the registration system within the 24‑hour window, please email profdev@purdue.edu as soon as possible. Communicating promptly is a professional courtesy and ensures we can adjust materials and activities appropriately.

Why Attendance Matters

Our workshop facilitators generously volunteer their time and expertise. They design materials, exercises, and discussions based on the number of registered participants. When attendance numbers are inaccurate, it affects the workshop experience for everyone. Canceling your registration—even on short notice—is a professional action that reflects respect for your peers and facilitators.

Access to Workshop Materials

To preserve the value of these interactive learning experiences, materials will be provided only to participants who attend the workshop or event.