February 22-28, 2010

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
  • Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
  • Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. ETHICS BOWL 2010-sign up now
Register by Friday, Feb 26, to test your sense of ethics and communication and critical thinking skills during the 3rd annual Ethics Bowl organized by the Graduate School. Consider, discuss and resolve case-study based ethical dilemmas with fellow students and faculty on Tuesday, March 2, 3:00-4:30pm in the GLC Multipurpose Room. You may sign up as a team of 3-4, or as an individual and be assigned to a team by the organizers. Teams may include current VT students, faculty or staff, but team leaders must be graduate students. Judges include VT faculty and a guest from Lockheed Martin.

3. EATING ISSUES AND BODY IMAGE AWARENESS WEEK
A series of activities and events will mark the eating issues and awareness week of Feb 22-26. The keynote address will be on Tuesday, Feb 23, 7:00pm in the GLC Auditorium.

4. LaTeX WORKSHOP II
Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 23 and 24, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Room F (same presentation both nights)
This workshop is designed to address intermediate level concerns of LaTeX users. It will cover more extensive preamble options (e.g. creating and renewing commands, page layout, title/author information, internal/external referencing), environments (e.g. equations, tables, figures and floats in general), creating a final LaTeX file from multiple LaTeX files, and a brief introduction to citation management (BibTeX) and presentations (via the beamer package). The presentation will leave some time for a Q&A session. Questions: Contact  Jonathan Duggins.

5. BLACK HISTORY MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, February 24th, 11:30-1:30, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in celebration of Black History Month.  Meet and greet fellow African American graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the African American community at Virginia Tech.  If you are interested in attending, please sign up for the lunch.  For more information, please contact Jane Rorrer by e-mail or by phone (540) 231-2494.

6. SPEAKERS ON LEADERSHIP & SKILLS IN AN HOUR (SPLASH): FINANCIAL HEALTH
Wednesday, Feb 24, 1:30pm, Brush Mountain A
Financial consciousness is a leadership attribute; train yourself for financial independence and understanding through exercises designed to get participants thinking. This is a two part series: Part 1 on Monday at 5:30pm, Part 2 on Wednesday at 1:30pm. For further information contact Marcela Uribe, doctoral student in education, at .

7. BONE-MARROW REGISTRY DRIVE TO HELP RECENT GRAD

Thursday, Feb 25, 7:30am-5:30pm in 219 Squires
The Biology Graduate Student Association is sponsoring a Bone-Marrow Registry Drive: the process involves filling out some health history forms and a simple cheek swab to determine your genetic information.  A recent graduate was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma recently and he’s in need of a bone marrow donor.  In addition to the cheek swabs to join the registry, the group is helping raise funds for "Be the Match," the bone marrow registry, by hosting a bake sale outside Squires 219.

8. CINEMATECH SCREENING SERIES
Thursday, Feb 25, 7:00pm in 1045 Pamplin
This month, the CinemaTech screening series presents Akira Kurosawa’s "Throne of Blood" with an introduction by Kurosawa specialist Dr. Stephen Prince of the School of Performing Arts & Cinema at Virginia Tech. Please contact doctoral student Anja Haelg Bieri for more information about this series.
Last Thursdays every month:
Mar 25: Karl Precoda presents " Hell’s Hinges"
Apr 29: Ashley Maynor presents "Playtime".

9. GRADUATE NETWORK FOR COMMUNITY-ENGAGED SCHOLARSHIP
Friday, Feb 26, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
All graduate students interested in becoming involved with graduate student engagement in service and community are invited to attend. Have a slice of pizza, learn about opportunities for community service or support for community-engaged scholarship in your research, and network with other graduate students and groups. Keynote Speaker: Andy Morikawa, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of the NRV. Spring semester meetings will be held on the last Friday in February and March, culminating with a poster session highlighting graduate student community-engaged scholarship in April. Sponsored by:  CSECP- Center for Student Engagement & Community Partnerships. To learn more, check out the website.

10. FROM VINTAGE TO VELOUR: PARTYING THROUGH THE DECADES – NEW DATE!!!
Friday, Feb 26, 7-9pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The party is back on! Break out your poodle skirts, go-go boots, leg warmers, and skinny jeans for this welcome back party sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Dress up in fashion from your favorite decade, listen to a variety of music from old-school until now, and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Bring a picture of yourself from the past to share! It will be a totally cool and rad event. Be there or be square!

11. LET’S TALK ABOUT TEXT CONFERENCE //POLY-PERFORMANCE READING EVENT
Saturday, Feb 27, 9:00am-4:30pm//8:00-10:00pm Shanks Hall//Gillie’s
The VT English Graduate Student Organization invites you to its annual conference. Graduate students from VT and elsewhere will present papers; Keynote by Geoffrey Sirc, Professor at the U of Minnesota on "Mixtape as Composition." Pre-registration is available. EGSO also invites you to the conference-affiliated PolyPerformance event at Gillie’s that evening from 8:00-10:00 (no registration necessary, admission free); creative writers and performers may present material that evening. More information: visit the event site or contact conference co-chairs Melissa Smith or Katherine Sullivan.

12. LUNCH WITH THE PRESIDENT
Monday, Mar 1, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
Chat with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Dean DePauw! Lunch will be provided. All graduate students are invited to attend. Sign up by Feb 22: Questions? Contact Rebecca French, Grad Rep to VT BOV.

13. GRADUATE STUDENT PHOTO & ART CONTEST 2010 – enter by March 10
Help us decorate the GLC and win an award during Grad Ed Week! The Graduate School seeks submissions of photographs and artwork by graduate students for display in the Graduate Life Center. All selected entries will be displayed in the GLC on a temporary, rotating basis. Enter by March 10. This year’s theme: The NRV through Graduate Students’ Eyes. The new set of photos and artwork will be unveiled during Graduate Education Week, March 22-26. Download the submission form or read more about the contest on our website.

14. WALK-IN STATISTICAL CONSULTING
A statistical consultant is available Mon-Fri 12:00-2:00pm through May 6 to answer your quick questions or to help with research projects requiring less than 30 minutes of assistance. The LISA Walk-in Consulting Service is located in 401 Hutcheson Hall near the elevator by the east side stairwell. Knock loudly. For more in-depth questions or longer projects, complete the LISA Request Form and a team of statistical collaborators will be assigned to work with you. Note: LISA does not assist with class projects or homework. Closed: Spring Break (March 6-14) and on the Day of Remembrance (April 16).  To learn more, visit the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA).

15. MOVIE MANIA – SURVEY OF INTEREST
The GLC Fellows are working on bringing a series of movies to the GLC that would interest graduate students. The Fellows would appreciate your assistance in selecting the kind of movies you would like to see. Please complete the survey. If you have any questions, contact Josey Chacko.

16. GLC RESIDENT FELLOW POSITIONS OPEN FOR 2010-2011
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students to live in the GLC and take on Residence Life and programming duties. An ideal candidate would have previous Residence Life experience. Compensation includes a free room in the GLC, a monthly stipend and a partial tuition waiver. Application materials must be turned in to the Graduate Student Services office (110 GLC – Lauren Keister) by noon on Friday, Feb 26. For more information contact Katie Greenleaf, 231-5691 or Lauren Keister, 231-9561.  Download applications.

17. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP POSITION AVAILABLE 2010-11

Assessment coordinator graduate assistantship position available for the next academic year in the Division of Student Affairs’ Communications & Marketing Department in New Hall West. The position reports to the Associate Director of Administration for Communications and to the Chief of Staff. Duties include developing and implementing assessment strategies that lead to continuous improvement of programs and services that support the division’s mission.  Must have master’s degree; experience working with assessment of student affairs programs; understanding of accreditation criteria and standards; collaborative attitude; data collection, management and analysis skills; ability to write and present clear and concise reports.  The position would likely pay at step 13. Contact Kimberle Badinelli, 1-5258 to apply or for further information.  Apply by March 1.

18. JOB FAIR IN NORTHERN VA GRAD CENTER (FALLS CHURCH, VA)
Attend the 19th Annual National Capital Region Job Fair sponsored by the Virginia Tech Alumni Association. More than 65+ professional and high tech companies from Virginia, Maryland, and DC will be recruiting for all levels and disciplines. No cost to attend and all job seekers are welcome. Parking is limited, so please take the Orange Line Metro to the West Falls Church – VT/UVA Metro Station. Register online and submit your resume by March 5. Even if you can’t attend, you may submit your resume for inclusion in the resume book provided to all recruiters.

19. EVENING WITH THE INDUSTRIES

Wednesday, Mar 17, 6:30pm, Old Dominion Ballroom in Squires
Sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers, Evening with the Industries can help you meet potential employers from all backgrounds of engineering. This is a sit down dinner prior to CAMEO’s Careerfest in March. Cost: $10. Pre-registration and payment are required. Contact Coco McBride  to register.

20. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – final posting
Abstract submission deadline Feb 26. The 26th Annual GSA Research Symposium will be held on Mar 24 in the Graduate Life Center, and the GLC Plaza. The symposium includes poster and oral presentations and video and performance categories. Students from the National Capital Region will participate through video-Conferencing. $9500 in prizes will be awarded! The keynote speaker is 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, a lead author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. If you have questions, please contact the GSA Research Symposium Chair, Ganesh Balasubramanian.

21. SUSTAINABILITY SPEAKER SERIES – 2nd posting

The GLC Speaker Series is looking for volunteers wishing to present their work in an inter-disciplinary environment pertaining to sustainability. Sustainability, in this context, is broadly defined and submissions are welcome from all disciplines. If you wish to relate issues of sustainability to the earthquake in Haiti, this is a welcoming forum to do so. If interested, please submit a brief statement of your research/talk to Meredith Katz. Speaker series will run throughout the Spring 2010 semester.

22. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/travel_fund for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto at lcavuoto@vt.edu with any questions.

23. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDS AVAILABLE

Cycle II of the Gradate Research Development Program (GRDP) is now open through Feb 26, 2010. GRDP is a competitive research funding program administered by the GSA to support qualified research and innovative ideas proposed by VT graduate students. Applications go through a rigorous review process by a panel of graduate students and faculty. Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/research_program to learn more about this opportunity. All questions should be directed to the program chair, Mr. Amine Chigani, achigani@vt.edu.

24. AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY SEEKING NEW MEMBERS – 3rd posting
Application are accepted for the AEL Grad Honor Society: Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) is the academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Apply by Feb 26 at http://www.graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/honors_awards/ael/application.html. The induction ceremony for new members will take place during Graduate Education Week, Mar 22-26.

25. GSA STUDENT FEES COMMITTEE NEEDS YOUR FEEDBACK
The GSA Student Fees Committee was established a couple of years ago to address the issues and concerns regarding graduate student fees at VT. The comprehensive fees have increased in recent years while assistantship stipends have not. This committee is committed to helping explore possible solutions to this growing problem but they need your help. Please fill out a brief survey to give feedback about your concerns and needs on this topic. If you have any questions please contact the GSA Fees Committee Chair, Sonal Mazumder.

26. GET INVOLVED WITH CITIZEN SCHOLARS
Does your research benefit the local or global community?  Would you like to
help out Haiti but aren’t sure how? Learn more about how to get involved with the Citizen Scholar Experience project. Email Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu any questions or concerns.

27. HOKIES HELPING HAITI & PARTNERS IN HEALTH

The graduate student community raised $1000 in the collection jars in the GLC. You contributed $500 and the deans matched it! Special thanks to all of you who have contributed, and to the students in Computer Science and Drs. DePauw, Rankin, Blieszner and Pérez-Quiñones.

28. UPCOMING EVENTS:

CLOGGING – WOMEN’S MONTH DANCE SERIES
Tuesday, Mar 2, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join a few Hoorah Cloggers in an easy clogging lesson and learn to do a few traditional clogging steps yourself.  Learn a bit about local Appalachian history, music and dance and impress all your friends next time you go dancing!  Please wear shoes that have slippery soles (leather, hard plastic, etc. (Tennis shoes are hard to dance in). Questions?  Lindsay Moss at lcmoss@vt.edu

HOOP DANCE – WOMEN’S MONTH DANCE SERIES
Tuesday, Mar 2, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
In this one-hour workshop, Becca of Wild Earth Hoops will instruct participants on the basics of hoop dance including hooping on the waist, hips and hands. More advanced instruction will be available at the end of the workshop for those familiar with hoop dance.  Grab your favorite Sister Friend and come see what the hoopla is all about!  Hoops will be available for the duration of the workshop. Questions?  Lindsay Moss at lcmoss@vt.edu

AMATEUR READIO TEST SESSION
Tuesday, Mar 2, 8:15pm in Dogwood Room in Squires
The VT Amateur Radio Association will hold an amateur radio test session. The test fee is $14, payable by cash (preferably) or check (made out to VT Amateur Radio Association). Photo ID required (Hokie Passport or a driver’s license is sufficient). Please plan on arriving five to ten minutes early. All three license classes will be offered (Technician, General, and Extra).  If you pass the first test, you may take the next test (all the way up to Extra).  You may bring a calculator, but you may not store any data in it that was not programmed at the factory. Contact ECE grad student Mike Benonis mjb8h@vt.edu for more information. VTARA Website: <http://www.vtara.org.vt.edu>

CLIMATE CHANGE DOCUMENTARY
Wed. March 3; 7:00pm, GLC Student TV Lounge
Come out and hear from a fellow graduate student who attended COP15 to watch the documentary “Home” about mother earth and our life.  Scientists tell us that we have 10 years to change the way we live, avert the depletion of natural resources and the catastrophic evolution of the Earth’s climate.  Participate in a lively discussion before and after the film.  Questions? Xiaochen Zhang at zxc@vt.edu.

MONTHLY BOOK CLUB
Thursday Mar 4, 6:00-8:00pm, Easy Chair Coffee Shop
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc will hold its monthly Book Club with special guest discussion leader Dr. Gena Chandler, asst professor of English. Each month the club reads a different book and then meets to discuss it.  The book for March is Victoire: My Mother’s Mother by Maryse Conde (participants secure their own copies). If you are a graduate student who enjoys extra-curricular reading and lively discussion, please join. All are welcome.  For more information please contact Alicia Feagins:  afeagins@vt.edu

February 15-21, 2010

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
– Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
– Writing support: Mondays (4-6pm) and Wednesdays (4-7pm), Student Lounge

2. SNOWDEAN CHALLENGE 2010
What would the dean of the Graduate School look like if she were a snow(wo)man? Build your image of the dean into a snowman on the GLC lawn. Some props may be available through the Graduate School. Challenge stands until all the snow melts or Monika retires, whichever comes first. Best snowdean entries will be photographed with the real dean (she doesn’t know it yet; we’ll see if she reads the Monday postings…) and the photos displayed on the Grad School website. The creator of the best entry will receive a box of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream in the flavor of his/her own choosing.

3. HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING SESSION
Tuesday, Feb 16, 5:30pm in GLC Room C
The Graduate Honor System (GHS), charged with enforcing the Graduate Honor Code and improving and upholding academic integrity at Virginia Tech, is seeking new student and faculty panelists to work with the Honor System in this academic year and beyond. To become a panelist, attend one of the hour-long training sessions. To learn more about the GHS and its role in the University community, please visit the GHS site or send questions to ghs@vt.edu.

4. GRAD FAIR
Wednesday, Feb 17, 11:30am–7:30pm, Holtzman Alumni Center
Get all your graduation needs in one location: cap and gown, graduation announcements, commencement information, diploma frames, class rings and more. 
Free pizza and drinks! Plus iTunes and University Bookstore Gift Card Drawings.

5. FREE FITNESS ASSESSMENT
Wednesday, Feb 17, 4:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Free to all graduate students who want to learn about their fitness levels and the programs that can help them reach their fitness goals. Seven health-related components will be measured by trained staff members from Rec Sports to establish your fitness level: cardio-respiratory endurance; body composition; muscular strength; muscular endurance; flexibility; resting heart rate; and blood pressure. Stop by the GLC anytime between 4pm and 7pm.

6. ETD SERIES: COPYRIGHT
Thursday, Feb 18, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Room F
Presenter Gail McMillan of University Libraries will help you with copyright matters as you prepare to write your thesis or dissertation.
 
7. GALILEO SKETCH COMEDY SHOW
Friday, Feb 19, 8:00pm in GLC Auditorium
Come out for a great laugh by the renowned sketch comedy group- Galileo Players. "I laughed so hard I cried. I especially liked the intellectual content of the show. Whoever said science isn’t funny obviously has never seen the Galileo Players," said a 2007 VT grad student. Get your tickets early online , stop by the GSA office or purchase them at the door for just $5.00. Get them early before they sell out! Questions?Contact Lindsay Moss
 
8. SUPPORT/COUNSELING GROUP FOR GRADS
Tuesdays, Feb 8-Apr 19, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you have a loss of drive or passion for things personally and professionally? Do you have many doubts? Are you finding it hard to make decisions? Are you having a tough time balancing career, family, and friends? If you are 21-29 of age and ask these or similar questions of yourself, this group may be just for you. If you are interested in attending the support/counseling group or have any questions, please contact Jodie Kern-Bowen by email or 540-231-1719 on VT campus.

9. SIGN UP FOR GRADUATE SCHOLARS SOCIETY SPRING 2010
It’s not too late to join one of the GSS discussion groups if you are interested in exploring important issues outside of your discipline. This semester’s topics include Haiti, Islam, Free Speech and Political Correctness, and the Changing Nature of Higher Education in the 21st Century. Sign up online  or email Eric Hodges.

10. GRADUATE STUDENT PHOTO & ART CONTEST 2010 – enter by March 10
Help us decorate the GLC and win an award during Grad Ed Week! The Graduate School seeks submissions of photographs and artwork by graduate students for display in the Graduate Life Center. All selected entries will be displayed in the GLC on a temporary, rotating basis. Enter by March 10. This year’s theme: The NRV through Graduate Students’ Eyes. The new set of photos and artwork will be unveiled during Graduate Education Week, March 22-26. More information>>

11. ETHICS BOWL 2010-sign up now
Test your sense of ethics, communication and critical thinking skills during the 3rd annual Ethics Bowl organized by the Graduate School. Consider, discuss and resolve case-study based ethical dilemmas with fellow students and faculty on Tuesday, March 2, 3:00-4:30pm in the GLC Multipurpose Room. You may sign up as a team of 3-4, or as an individual and be assigned to a team by the organizers. Teams may include current VT students, faculty or staff, but team leaders must be graduate students. Register by Friday, Feb 26, 12:00 noon.

12. GLC RESIDENT FELLOW POSITIONS OPEN FOR 2010-2011
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students to live in the GLC and take on Residence Life and programming duties. An ideal candidate would have previous Residence Life experience. Compensation includes a free room in the GLC, a monthly stipend and a partial tuition waiver. Application materials must be turned in to the Graduate Student Services office (110 GLC – Lauren Keister) by noon on Friday, Feb 26. For more information contact Katie Greenleaf, 231-5691 or Lauren Keister, 231-9561.  Download application here.

13. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP POSITION AVAILABLE 2010-11
Assessment coordinator graduate assistantship position available for the next academic year in the Division of Student Affairs’ Communications & Marketing Department in New Hall West. The position reports to the Associate Director of Administration for Communications and to the Chief of Staff. Duties include developing and implementing assessment strategies that lead to continuous improvement of programs and services that support the division’s mission.  Must have master’s degree; experience working with assessment of student affairs programs; understanding of accreditation criteria and standards; collaborative attitude; data collection, management and analysis skills; ability to write and present clear and concise reports.  The position would likely pay at step 13. Contact Kimberle Badinelli, badinell@vt.edu or 1-5258 to apply or for further information.  Apply by March 1.

14. SUSTAINABILITY SPEAKER SERIES
The GLC Speaker Series is looking for volunteers wishing to present their work in an inter-disciplinary environment pertaining to sustainability. Sustainability, in this context, is broadly defined and submissions are welcome from all disciplines. If you wish to relate issues of sustainability to the earthquake in Haiti, this is a welcoming forum to do so. If interested, please submit a brief statement of your research/talk to Meredith Katz at mekatz@vt.edu. Speaker series will run throughout the Spring 2010 semester.

15. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit the GSA website for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto at lcavuoto@vt.edu with any questions.

16. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDS AVAILABLE

Cycle II of the Gradate Research Development Program (GRDP) is now open through Feb 26, 2010. GRDP is a competitive research funding program administered by the GSA to support qualified research and innovative ideas proposed by VT graduate students. Applications go through a rigorous review process by a panel of graduate students and faculty. Visit the GSA website to learn more about this opportunity. All questions should be directed to the program chair, Mr. Amine Chigani, achigani@vt.edu.

17. AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY SEEKING NEW MEMBERS – 2nd posting

Application are accepted for the AEL Grad Honor Society: Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) is the academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Apply online by Feb 26. The induction ceremony for new members will take place during Graduate Education Week, Mar 22-26.

18. LEADERSHIP HONOR SOCIETY SEEKS MEMBERS
Omicron Delta Kappa is a national leadership honor society that recognizes the highest achieving individuals in different leadership areas at our university.  The Alpha Omicron Circle at VT began in 1933. Every VT president has been a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, along with other highly regarded students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Join this long standing tradition and apply for membership by Feb 17. Applications: http://odk.org/audience/prospective_members/membership_application_form. Send  questions to odkmembership@vt.edu or visit www.odk.org.vt.edu for more information.

19. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM

Abstract submission deadline Feb 26. The 26th Annual GSA Research Symposium will be held on Mar 24 in the Graduate Life Center, and the GLC Plaza. The symposium includes poster and oral presentations and video and performance categories. Students from the National Capital Region will participate through video-Conferencing. $9500 in prizes will be awarded! The keynote speaker is 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, a lead author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Please visit www.gsasymposium2010.uusa.vt.edu for more information. If you have questions, please contact the GSA Research Symposium Chair, Ganesh Balasubramanian, at bganesh@vt.edu.

20. GSA STUDENT FEES COMMITTEE NEEDS YOUR FEEDBACK
The GSA Student Fees Committee was established a couple of years ago to address the issues and concerns regarding graduate student fees at VT. The comprehensive fees have increased in recent years while assistantship stipends have not. This committee is committed to helping explore possible solutions to this growing problem but they need your help. Please fill out a brief survey to give feedback about your concerns and needs on this topic. If you have any questions please contact the GSA Fees Committee Chair, Sonal Mazumder at sonalm08@vt.edu.

21. GET INVOLVED WITH CITIZEN SCHOLARS

Does your research benefit the local or global community?  Would you like to
help out Haiti but aren’t sure how? Learn more about how to get involved with the Citizen Scholar Experience project. Email Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu any questions or concerns.

22. REGISTER FOR CONFERENCE ON HIGHER EDUCATION PEDAGOGY
Register now for this free conference on Feb 18-19 at The Inn at Virginia Tech. This annual conference is focused on teaching excellence and the scholarship of teaching and learning in higher education, featuring two invited keynote speakers (Lisa Lattuca and Mary Taylor Huber), 42 research- and practice-based sessions, and over 40 posters. Registration is open to faculty, administrators, and graduate students. Conference attendance is free and includes lunch both days as well as a printed copy of the conference proceedings to be distributed following the conference. For more information and registration, visit http://www.cider.vt.edu/conference/.

23. APPLICATIONS SOUGHT FOR GOVERNER’S FELLOWS PROGRAM

Applications are sought for the 2010 Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program. Applicants must be graduating seniors or enrolled as degree candidates in a graduate or professional program. Application and selection procedures are available at: www.governor.virginia.gov/ServingVirginia/Fellows.cfm. Selection is based on merit without regard to race, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, or political affiliation. Fellows will be required to work full-time in the Virginia state government from Jun 7 through Jul 30, 2010. Virginia Tech provides a stipend to support selected fellows. Online applications and submission by mail of two recommendations and an official transcript must be received in the governor’s office by Friday, Mar 5, 2010. For additional information please call (540) 231-6272.

24. UPCOMING EVENTS:

EATING ISSUES AND BODY IMAGE AWARENESS WEEK
A series of activities and events will mark the eating issues and awareness week of Feb 22-26. For a full listing of programs, visit www.healthcenter.vt.edu/he/eventcalendar/eibiaw.htm. The keynote address will be on Tuesday, Feb 23, 7:00pm in the GLC Auditorium.

LaTeX WORKSHOP II
Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 23 and 24, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Room F
This workshop is designed to address intermediate level concerns of LaTeX users. It will cover more extensive preamble options (e.g. creating and renewing commands, page layout, title/author information, internal/external referencing), environments (e.g. equations, tables, figures and floats in general), creating a final LaTeX file from multiple LaTeX files, and a brief introduction to citation management (BibTeX) and presentations (via the beamer package). The presentation will leave some time for a Q&A session. Questions: Jonathan Duggins at dugginsj@vt.edu.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, February 24th, 11:30-1:30, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in celebration of Black History Month.  Meet and greet fellow African American graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the African American community at Virginia Tech.  If you are interested in attending, please sign up for the lunch at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1265741099573.  For more information, please contact Jane Rorrer by e-mail jrorrer@vt.edu or by phone (540) 231-2494.

FROM VINTAGE TO VELOUR: PARTYING THROUGH THE DECADES – NEW DATE!!!
Friday, Feb 26, 7-9pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The party is back on! Break out your poodle skirts, go-go boots, leg warmers, and skinny jeans for this welcome back party sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Dress up in fashion from your favorite decade, listen to a variety of music from old-school until now, and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Bring a picture of yourself from the past to share! It will be a totally cool and rad event. Be there or be square!

LUNCH WITH THE PRESIDENT
Monday, Mar 1, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
Chat with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Dean DePauw! Lunch will be provided. All graduate students are invited to attend. Sign up by Feb 22 at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1265902593844 Questions? Contact Rebecca French, Grad Rep to VT BOV at rafbovgradrep@vt.edu.

February 8-14, 2010

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • Walk-in counseling: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from G)
  • Career services walk-in advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room

2. JOB SEARCH CLUB SPRING 2010
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:00pm in GLC Room C
Career Services offers a unique opportunity for you to join a Job Search Club.  Members share one common link – a need or desire to obtain a job.  For six weeks, the Job Search Club members will meet weekly to discuss and practice job search skills, techniques and strategies. The graduate student club will meet on the following dates:  February 2, 16, 23 and March 2, 16, and 23. Registration is required.  To register, fill out this survey. If you have questions about the job search club, contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu.

3. QUARTER-LIFE CRISIS SUPPORT/COUNSELING GROUP FOR GRADS
Tuesdays, Feb 8-Apr 19, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you have a loss of drive or passion for things personally and professionally? Do you have many doubts? Are you finding it hard to make decisions? Are you having a tough time balancing career, family, and friends? If you are 21-29 of age and ask these or similar questions of yourself, this group may be just for you. If you are interested in attending the support/counseling group or have any questions, please contact Jodie Kern-Bowen at jkern5@radford.edu or 540-231-1719 on VT campus.

4. LaTeX WORKSHOP I
Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 9 and 10, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Room F
This workshop is designed to give an introduction to the world of LaTeX, a type-setting program for creating professional scientific documents.  It will cover the different compilers and front-ends, where to obtain them, how to install them and how to create a basic document (document classes, the basic preamble, basic environments and sectioning).  The presentation will leave time for a Q&A session.  For more advanced interests, please see the announcement for LaTeX Workshop II (Feb 23-24).  Questions: contact Jonathan Duggins.

5. PEACE CORPS INFORMATION SESSION
Tuesday, Feb 9, 5:30-6:30pm, Squires Student Center, Room 219
Participate in a special info session to learn more about Peace Corps service. A video presentation will feature the experiences and projects of a variety of volunteers in their host countries, followed by a question and answer session. Presenters will review the variety of Peace Corps projects, including agriculture, English teaching, water & sanitation, NGO development, business advising, and youth development. Don’t miss this chance to get an in depth review of the qualifications and process of becoming a volunteer. For more information contact Alex Frane, peacecorps@vt.edu.

6. PANEL DISCUSSION ON HAITI: LESSONS FROM THE PAST, CHALLENGES AHEAD
Wednesday, Feb 10, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Phi Beta Delta International Honor Society hosts this panel discussion on Haiti and the road to recovery from the recent earthquake, with support from Hokies Helping Haiti and the GSA. Panelists will share first-hand experiences in Haiti, including Patrick Guilbaud, the director of a Haitian exchange program; Laura Zanotti, a political science professor; Chris Strock, a doctoral candidate who was working in Haiti at the time of the earthquake; and Inesse Semeah, a representative from the office of equity and inclusion. For more information contact Betty Watts, bettyw@vt.edu in the Office of International Research, Education, and Development. 

7. GSA FAMILY GAME NIGHT

Thursday, Feb 11, 6:00-8:00pm, GLC Room F
Get ready to buy Boardwalk in Monopoly, know whodunnit in Clue, and retire in Life with the Graduate Student Assembly, your family and friends! Hosted by the GSA, game night is complete with many family games, pizza and other snacks. The event will be held on. Please RSVP https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1265600767161) and bring your family and friends! If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jenna Rae Vercillo (vercillo@vt.edu) or Lindsay Moss, VP Programs (lcmoss@vt.edu).

8. SIGN UP FOR GRADUATE SCHOLARS SOCIETY SPRING 2010
It’s not too late to join one of the GSS discussion groups if you are interested in exploring important issues outside of your discipline. This semester’s topics include Haiti, Islam, Free Speech and Political Correctness, and the Changing Nature of Higher Education in the 21st Century. Sign up through this survey or email Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu.

9. JOURNAL ARTICLE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FEB 12

Peer-reviewed articles for the new student journal Public Knowledge Journal are due Friday, Feb 12. The theme is Public Information in a Democracy. For more information see our website at www.pkjournal.org or email editor@pkjournal.org.

10. INVITATION TO EBONY AFFAIR
The Black Graduate Student Organization invites you to the 13th Annual Ebony Affair, a semi-formal banquet that recognizes outstanding faculty and students and serves as an opportunity to recruit potential graduate students, provide exposure to various cultural expressions, and facilitate networking opportunities among faculty, staff, and students. Purchase tickets for $25 by Feb 10 or for $30 after Feb 10 online at www.bgso.org.vt.edu or during office hours in the BGSO office in GLC Room 23B 4m-5pm Monday-Friday. Contact Krystal Lewis klewis@vt.edu with questions.

11. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP POSITION AVAILABLE 2010-11
Assessment coordinator graduate assistantship position available for the next academic year in the Division of Student Affairs’ Communications & Marketing Department in New Hall West. The position reports to the Associate Director of Administration for Communications and to the Chief of Staff. Duties include developing and implementing assessment strategies that lead to continuous improvement of programs and services that support the division’s mission.  Must have master’s degree; experience working with assessment of student affairs programs; understanding of accreditation criteria and standards; collaborative attitude; data collection, management and analysis skills; ability to write and present clear and concise reports.  The position would likely pay at step 13. Contact Kimberle Badinelli, badinell@vt.edu or 1-5258 to apply or for further information.  Apply by March 1.

12. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/travel_fund for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto at lcavuoto@vt.edu with any questions.

13. HAITI RELIEF: FILL THE JAR OR THE BAG BY FRIDAY!

The Graduate School has placed a change jar in the Information and Registration area (120 GLC) to collect support for Haiti. The Graduate School deans will match your donation for whatever is collected by Friday, Feb 12! Checks can be made out to Hokies United or to Partners in Health (tax deductable). If you are interested in donating a health kit, the bags with instructions can also be picked up in 120 GLC. For more information please contact Dannette Beane at dannette@vt.edu.

14. AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY SEEKING NEW MEMBERS
Application are accepted for the AEL Grad Honor Society: Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) is the academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Apply by February 26. The induction ceremony for new members will take place during Graduate Education Week, Mar 22-26.

15. NANOVT STUDENT ORGANIZATION

NanoVT, a new student organization, is pleased to announce the launch of its website: http://www.nanovt.org.vt.edu. NanoVT is committed to supporting students at Virginia Tech in all research aspects of micro and nanotechnology and hopes to create a new bridge between students, faculty, research laboratories as well as local companies. The group also hopes to recruit undergraduates and incoming graduate students by exposing them to motivational speakers in different areas of micro- and nano- technologies.

16. STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE NOW
Visit Student Activities to download your application. All materials must be received by Monday, Feb 15 at 5:00pm for consideration. The awards ceremony will be on Apr 29. These awards recognize individual students and student organizations for their achievements.

17. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN
The 26th Annual GSA Research Symposium will be held on Mar 24 in the Graduate Life Center, and the GLC Plaza. The symposium includes poster and oral presentations and video and performance categories. Students from the National Capital Region will participate through video-Conferencing. $9500 in prizes will be awarded! The keynote speaker is 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, a lead author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Abstract submissions begin January 31, 2010. Please visit the symposium website for more information. If you have questions, please contact the GSA Research Symposium Chair, Ganesh Balasubramanian.

18. GET INVOLVED WITH CITIZEN SCHOLARS
Does your research benefit the local or global community?  Would you like to
help out Haiti but aren’t sure how? Learn more about how to get involved with the Citizen Scholar Experience project. Email Eric Hodges any questions or concerns.

19. FREE TAX ASSISTANCE
New River Community Action offers free assistance with taxes for VT employees, including graduate students, whose income is less than $49,000. Appointments required – call 231-3213 or email to worklife@vt.edu to schedule one. Service offered in New Hall West on Mondays, 1:00-5:00pm, Feb 1-Apr 15.

20. REGISTER FOR CONFERENCE ON HIGHER EDUCATION PEDAGOGY
Register now for this free conference on Feb 18-19 at The Inn at Virginia Tech. This annual conference is focused on teaching excellence and the scholarship of teaching and learning in higher education, featuring two invited keynote speakers (Lisa Lattuca and Mary Taylor Huber), 42 research- and practice-based sessions, and over 40 posters. Registration is open to faculty, administrators, and graduate students. Conference attendance is free and includes lunch both days as well as a printed copy of the conference proceedings to be distributed following the conference.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR EVALUATION OF ASSESSMENT TOOL – 3rd posting
A doctoral student in the School of Education is looking for graduate students to evaluate a learning assessment tool. The procedure includes (1) reading training materials of the assessment agent system, (2) trying out the assessment agent system, and (3) completing a questionnaire to present your ratings, comments and suggestions about the system. The entire process can be done in approximately 1 hour. The evaluation will be conducted online at the time and place of participant’s choice. If interested or have questions, please email to Jianhua Liu.

22. APPLICATIONS SOUGHT FOR GOVERNER’S FELLOWS PROGRAM
Applications are sought for the 2010 Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program. Applicants must be graduating seniors or enrolled as degree candidates in a graduate or professional program. Application and selection procedures. Selection is based on merit without regard to race, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, or political affiliation. Fellows will be required to work full-time in the Virginia state government from Jun 7 through Jul 30, 2010. Virginia Tech provides a stipend to support selected fellows. Online applications and submission by mail of two recommendations and an official transcript must be received in the governor’s office by Friday, Mar 5, 2010. For additional information please call (540) 231-6272.

23. UPCOMING EVENTS:

HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING SESSION
Tuesday, Feb 16, 5:30pm in GLC Room C
The Graduate Honor System (GHS), charged with enforcing the Graduate Honor Code and improving and upholding academic integrity at Virginia Tech, is seeking new student and faculty panelists to work with the Honor System in this academic year and beyond. To become a panelist, attend one of the hour-long training sessions. Learn more about the GHS and its role in the University community, or send questions to ghs@vt.edu.

FITNESS ASSESSMENT
Wednesday, Feb 17, 4:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
FREE to all graduate students who want to learn about their fitness levels and the programs that can help them reach their fitness goals. Seven health-related components will be measured by trained staff members from Rec Sports to establish your fitness level: cardio-respiratory endurance; body composition; muscular strength; muscular endurance; flexibility; resting heart rate; and blood pressure. Stop by the GLC anytime between 4pm and 7pm.
 
GALILEO SKETCH COMEDY SHOW
Friday, Feb 19, 8:00pm in GLC Auditorium
Come out for a great laugh by the renowned sketch comedy group- Galileo Players. "I laughed so hard I cried. I especially liked the intellectual content of the show. Whoever said science isn’t funny obviously has never seen the Galileo Players," said a 2007 VT grad student. Tickets are just $5 available through the GSA. Buy your ticket today before they sell out!  Contact: gsa@vt.edu.  

BLACK HISTORY MONTH LUNCH
Wednesday, February 24th, 11:30-1:30, GLC Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in celebration of Black History Month.  Meet and greet fellow African American graduate students and faculty as well as the Graduate School deans.  This is also an opportunity to share ideas and discuss issues related to the African American community at Virginia Tech.  If you are interested in attending, please sign up for the lunch.  For more information, please contact Jane Rorrer by e-mail  or by phone (540) 231-2494.

February 1-7, 2010

1. LUNCH WITH THE DEAN – SIGN UP NOW!
Thursday, Feb 4, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
Meet Graduate School Dean Dr. Karen DePauw and several graduate student leaders at this free lunch and learn about the latest in graduate education. Share your perspectives in a casual setting. Sign up here.

2. STITCH ‘N B*TCH: A KNITTING GROUP AT THE GLC
Monday, Feb 1, 5:00-6:00pm, Room B in the GLC
Ever been interested in learning how to knit?  Already knit but want to connect with other knitters at VT? SNB is open to all levels of knitters from the very beginner to the pro.  Gatherings every 2 weeks.  If you’re interested in attending, please fill out this short survey  or contact GLC Fellow Jeanne Mouton. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.

3. JOB SEARCH CLUB SPRING 2010
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:00pm in GLC Room C
Career Services offers a unique opportunity for you to join a Job Search Club.  Members share one common link – a need or desire to obtain a job.  For six weeks, the Job Search Club members will meet weekly to discuss and practice job search skills, techniques and strategies. The graduate student club will meet on the following dates:  February 2, 16, 23 and March 2, 16, and 23. Registration is required.  To register, fill out this survey. If you have questions about the job search club, contact Amy McPherson.

4. HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING SESSIONS
Tuesday, Feb 2, 5:15-6:15pm, Room D in the GLC
Wednesday, Feb 3, 9:00-10:00am, Room D in the GLC
The Graduate Honor System (GHS), charged with enforcing the Graduate Honor Code and improving and upholding academic integrity at Virginia Tech, is seeking new student and faculty panelists to work with the Honor System in this academic year and beyond. To become a panelist, attend one of the hour-long training sessions. Learn more about the GHS and its role in the University community, or send questions to the chief justice.

5. GRADUATE SCHOLARS SOCIETY INTEREST MEETING
Wednesday, Feb 3, 12:30 in GLC Room G
If you are interested in exploring important issues outside of your discipline, consider joining the Graduate Scholar Society (GSS). This semester’s topics include Haiti, Islam, Free Speech and Political Correctness, and the Changing Nature of Higher Education in the 21st Century. Attend the interest meeting this Wednesday with free lunch. Learn more and/or sign up for the interest meeting, or email Eric Hodges if you have any questions.

 6. CAREER SERVICES WALK-IN ADVISING AND OTHER ASSISTANCE
Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
Amy McPherson, Associate Director of Career Services, is available to graduate students every Wednesday (except during spring break) to assist with career preparation questions, resume review and more. No appointment necessary. Review career services highlights for graduate students

7. YOUR FIRST REAL JOB: ENTERING THE WORK FORCE
Wednesday, Feb 3, 3:00-5:00pm, Holtzman Alumni Center Assembly Hall
This event is offered by the Alumni Association to provide practical information to students who are seeking their first full-time career position. Topics include workplace 101, money and other financial considerations, and building a successful career. Door prizes available. Presented by Experts in Action. Contact Gwen Harrington if you have any questions.

8. EFFECTIVE READING WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Feb 3, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room C
Educational researchers estimate that at best we retain only about 10 percent of the information that we read. Want to improve on that estimate in your academic reading? The key to becoming a more effective reader is first to learn how academic information in published papers is structured and then to discipline one’s self to hunt for information actively rather than passively wait for the information to appear on the page. This workshop will describe how one can read more actively and purposely in order to locate needed information, increase comprehension of that information, and boast retention of it for later use.

9. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center conference room
A free weekly drop-in evening child care program for kids 2-12, provided by the women of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. No need to pre-register. Take a break, study or attend a lecture, or catch up on work while your kid(s) are watched in a safe and fun environment.

10. STUDENT AFFAIRS JOB SEARCH WORKSHOP

Job Interview Simulation: Friday, Feb 5, 1:00–5:00PM; GLC Room F (tentative)
Are you ready to get your dream job in Student Affairs? Do you need more help to prepare for the search and interview process? From deciding on jobs that fit you to preparing for the placement conferences and on-campus interviews, all the way to accepting that perfect position, these workshops will provide a vigorous preparation and interview simulation to make sure you are prepared for your Job Search in Student Affairs. For more information or to register as a “candidate in training,” please contact Kelley Woods, Assistant Director for Residence Life at kjwoods@vt.edu  or 540-231-9812.

11. EXPECTANT GRADUATE STUDENTS SUPPORT GROUP

Graduate students are starting a new group to support pregnant graduate students and graduate students’ spouses through the sharing of ideas, resources, and moral support. If you are interested in joining such a group, please fill out this short survey. A meeting will be scheduled shortly for those who complete the survey.

12. GSA TRAVEL FUND APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED NOW
The GSA Travel Fund Program (TFP) offers awards to support the cost of presenting at a conference.  Master’s students may receive up to $350 and doctoral students up to $500.  The application period for travel between January 1 and June 30 will be open from February 1 to March 5.  Visit http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs/travel_fund for instructions on how to apply.  Please contact Lora Cavuoto with any questions.

13. HAITI RELIEF: FILL THE JAR OR THE BAG
The Graduate School has placed a change jar in the Information and Registration area (120 GLC). Please help fill the jar (change, cash, or checks are welcome!) and the Graduate School deans will match your donation! Checks can be made out to Hokies United or to Partners in Health (tax deductable). If you are interested in donating a health kit, the bags with instructions can also be picked up in 120 GLC. For more information please contact Dannette Beane.

15. APPLICATIONS FOR GRAD BOV REP POSITION ACCEPTED
Apply to be the 2010-2011 Graduate Student Representative to the Board of Visitors! Represent your fellow graduate students to the administration of Virginia Tech and “Be the change!” The application can be found at http://www.bovgradrep.grads.vt.edu/. Questions? Contact Rebecca French at rafbovgradrep@vt.edu.

16. GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS 2010 – deadline Feb 5

A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($500-$1000 each) and award certificate. Consider applying or discuss the possibility of your nomination by your advisor/department for any of the following awards that will be given out during our annual awards banquet on March 25, 2010:
Students must be nominated for:
– Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (2) in social sciences and humanities
– Graduate Student Teaching Excellence
– Graduate Student Service Excellence
Students must apply for:
– Graduate Man and Woman of the Year
For additional information on the specifics and requirements for each award, visit our website.  Nomination/Application deadline is February 5, 2010.

16. STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE NOW

Visit UUSA’s website to download your application. All materials must be received by Monday, Feb 15 at 5:00pm for consideration. The awards ceremony will be on Apr 29. These awards recognize individual students and student organizations for their achievements.

17. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN
The 26th Annual GSA Research Symposium will be held on Mar 24 in the Graduate Life Center, and the GLC Plaza. The symposium includes poster and oral presentations and video and performance categories. Students from the National Capital Region will participate through video-Conferencing. $9500 in prizes will be awarded! The keynote speaker is 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Andrew Weaver, a lead author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Abstract submissions begin January 31, 2010. Learn more about the symposium or contact the GSA Research Symposium Chair, Ganesh Balasubramanian with questions.

18. GET INVOLVED WITH CITIZEN SCHOLARS

Does your research benefit the local or global community?  Would you like to
help out Haiti but aren’t sure how? Learn more about how to get involved with the Citizen Scholar Experience project or email Eric Hodges any questions or concerns.

19. FREE TAX ASSISTANCE
New River Community Action offers free assistance with taxes for VT employees, including graduate students, whose income is less than $49,000. Appointments required – call 231-3213 or email to worklife@vt.edu to schedule one. Service offered in New Hall West on Mondays, 1:00-5:00pm, Feb 1-Apr 15.

20. REGISTER FOR CONFERENCE ON HIGHER EDUCATION PEDAGOGY
Register now for this free conference on Feb 18-19 at The Inn at Virginia Tech. This annual conference is focused on teaching excellence and the scholarship of teaching and learning in higher education, featuring two invited keynote speakers (Lisa Lattuca and Mary Taylor Huber), 42 research- and practice-based sessions, and over 40 posters. Registration is open to faculty, administrators, and graduate students. Conference attendance is free and includes lunch both days as well as a printed copy of the conference proceedings to be distributed following the conference.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR YOGURT SENSORY STUDY – 2nd posting
Food Science master’s student seeks 100+ subjects to participate in a 10 minute online attitudes survey and 15 minute sensory taste panel for a new flavor of low fat yogurt enriched with healthy fats.  Read a detailed description of the project.  If not interested in tasting please fill out the survey!  If you have questions contact Marnie Rognlien.

22. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR EVALUATION OF ASSESSMENT TOOL – 2nd posting
A doctoral student in the School of Education is looking for graduate students to evaluate a learning assessment tool. The procedure includes (1) reading training materials of the assessment agent system, (2) trying out the assessment agent system, and (3) completing a questionnaire to present your ratings, comments and suggestions about the system. The entire process can be done in approximately 1 hour. The evaluation will be conducted online at the time and place of participant’s choice. If interested or have questions, please email to Jianhua Liu.

23. UPCOMING EVENTS:

LaTeX WORKSHOP I

Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 9 and 10, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Room F
This workshop is designed to give an introduction to the world of LaTeX, a type-setting program for creating professional scientific documents.  It will cover the different compilers and front-ends, where to obtain them, how to install them and how to create a basic document (document classes, the basic preamble, basic environments and sectioning).  The presentation will leave time for a Q&A session.  For more advanced interests, please see the announcement for LaTeX Workshop II.  Questions: Jonathan Duggins at dugginsj@vt.edu.

GALILEO SKETCH COMEDY SHOW
Friday, Feb 19, 8:00pm in GLC AUDITORIUM
Come out for a great laugh by the renowned sketch comedy group- Galileo Players. "I laughed so hard I cried. I especially liked the intellectual content of the show. Whoever said science isn’t funny obviously has never seen the Galileo Players," said a 2007 VT grad student. Tickets are just $5 available through the GSA. Buy your ticket today before they sell out!  Contact: gsa@vt.edu.