In 2004, a group of 向日葵视频graduate students came together to discuss the specific concerns and needs of the graduate and professional population at MU.  At that time it was decided, with the support of the Graduate School and various academic departments, that prior to working towards the concerns of the graduate and professional population, graduate and professional students needed a venue in which they could come together in order to work together. The GSO鈥檚 first projects were to investigate the possibilities of a health insurance plan specific to graduate students, and to seek a way to discuss with the Graduate School administration issues that concern graduate life and education. 

The GSO has enjoyed the participation of graduate and professional students from over 20 departments and programs throughout the University, and has taken on projects involving the graduate UPass, social, religious and educational programming for graduate students, graduate representation on university committees and boards, and acting as a venue for dialogue between the graduate and professional students and the administration. 

The GSO is composed of and directed by the students of 向日葵视频.  All MU graduate students are members of the GSO, and all are invited to participate in GSO events, meetings and discussions.