1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
– Career services advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, Study Room
– Counseling: will start next week Green Room (across from Room G)
– GLC Café: Thursdays, 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room
– Statistical consulting by LISA: Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
– Writing support: Thursdays 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room; contact Emily Love, remily4@vt.edu
2. VOTE ON FAVORITE ENTRIES TO WINTER BREAK CHALLENGE
The most popular entries to the winter break challenge (find an appropriate collective noun that best describes a group of grads) have been posted on the Graduate School’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Virginia-Tech-Graduate-School/348802603577. See the list and vote on your favorite entry!
3. LUNCH WITH THE DEAN – Sign up now!
Tuesday, Jan 24, 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 for the lunch at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1325697915497
4. WRITING A WINNING RESUME
Wednesday, Jan 25, 5:30pm, GLC Room F
If you are planning an industry-, government-, or non-tenure-track educational job search, having a well polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview. Start early to be ready for September and October career fairs and on-campus interviews. Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.
5. GRAD SCHOLAR SOCIETY PRESENTS: NUCLEAR KOOL AID
Thursday, Jan 26, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC (room TBD)
The GSS provides this forum for an open discussion on current nuclear energy issues such as uranium mining in Virginia, safety of nuclear power plants after the Fukushima accident, radiation hazards in society, nuclear-weapons proliferation, nuclear-waste, nuclear-medicine and more. Contact Wes Cardwell at wcardwel@vt.edu if you have any questions about this event.
6. GLC CAFE
Thursdays, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee and tea and socialize with your fellow grads. Special hosts: Spoke’n Beans, a grad-student-run fair-trade/environmentally conscious local business that roasts and sells great coffee (see http://www.spokenbeans.com/). Bring your own mug if you can. Please contact us at grads@vt.edu if you have any comments or suggestions about this event.
7. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT: DROP IN CHILDCARE FOR STUDENTS
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Ctr (206 Washington St)
A drop-in evening of childcare for kids 2-12 (must be toilet-trained) of any VT student. Fun, crafts, toys, games, new friends and a snack. For questions or more information contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu.
8. FULBRIGHT INTEREST MEETING
Thursday, Jan 26, 7:00pm, The Cellar
Attend the first get together this year and get to know fellow Fulbright Scholars (current and alumni) at Virginia Tech and enjoy a couple of hours of conversation in a multicultural and diverse group. Please RSVP at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1327016377655. Contact Fulbright alum Tobias at ecker@vt.edu with questions and comments about this initiative.
9. GRAD SCHOLAR SOCIETY PRESENTS: UNIVERSITY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Friday, Jan 27, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room F
This GSS group will begin with brief introductions on how the VT Office of Emergency Management (OEM) makes decisions, and what different parties are involved. Then discussions will be centered around the difficulties of solving emergency management problems, response time and other topics of interest to the group. Contact Wes Cardwell at wcardwel@vt.edu if you have any questions about this event.
10. BGSO PRESENTS: OVERCOMING STRUGGLES AS A MINORITY IN YOUR FIELD
Saturday, Jan 28, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
The Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) invites you to this presentation on "Overcoming struggles and biases as a minority to become successful in your field". Dr. Suzanne Weekes, Director of the Center for Industrial Mathematics and Statistics and associate department head and professor in mathematical sciences at Worchester Polytechnic Institute will lead this discussion and share lessons learned from her experiences.
11. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS
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 29, 2012:
– Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (2) in social sciences and humanities
– Graduate Student Teaching Excellence
– Graduate Student Service Excellence
– Graduate Man and Woman of the Year
– Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs
Additional information on the specifics and requirements for each award can be found at
http://www.graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/honors_awards/graduate_awards/index.html Nomination/Application deadline is February 3, 2012.
12. GRADUATE SCHOOL FEATURED GRADUATE STUDENT
Nominate yourself, a friend, or fellow graduate student to be recognized on the Graduate School website as a Featured Graduate Student! This program is designed to showcase the diversity of perspectives graduate students bring to our community and to present a more personal side of graduate student life. To view the Graduate School’s current featured graduate student and to nominate a graduate student, go to http://graduateschool.vt.edu/profiles/featured_grad/index.html?month=1&year=2012
13. PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRADUATE ASSISTANTS – not too late to sign up!
It is not too late to enroll in payroll deduction of your comp fees if you are on a graduate assistantship! Graduate students on assistantship appointment may pay their comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction during the fall and spring semesters. To be eligible for this program, students must commit to paying the full-time comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction. Enrollment is managed through Hokie SPA and students must sign up _each_ semester in which they wish to take advantage of this opportunity. Visit http://www.graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/assistantships/index.html#compfees for details.
14. SPRING 2012 GRAD SCHOLAR SOCIETY DISCUSSIONS
Do you need a break from your studies and research? If so, then you are invited to join fun discussions of stimulating topics. January 27th is the university emergency preparedness discussion. The GSS website lists the current and future available topics with descriptions and confirmed dates. Light refreshments will be served at the first meeting of each discussion group…So check it out! http://gss.grads.vt.edu/current_groups.html. Contact Wes Cardwell with any questions and discussion suggestions: wcardwel@vt.edu
15. L2Ork SPRING RECRUITMENT
The Linux Laptop Orchestra (L2Ork) is recruiting: open to all majors, all students; no prior experience required. To join L2Ork, enroll in MUS 3314 (grad students please contact Dr. Bukvic before enrolling). The class offers opportunities for touring with the ensemble. More information at these links: http://l2ork.music.vt.edu, and http://www.youtube.com/vtdisis. Contact Ico Bukvic with any questions: ico@vt.edu.
16. WRITING CENTER SUPPORT
The Writing Center has moved to the Learning Commons (near Room 2031), 2nd floor of the Newman Library. Their hours are 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday- Friday; call 231-5436 for an appointment. For more details about Writing Center services and how they may assist you, visit www.composition.english.vt.edu/wc. Special support for grad students is still available in the GLC on Thursdays (see weekly services listing above).
17. JOIN WOMEN IN TRANSPORTATION VT CHAPTER
Are you a female grad student interested in the transportation industry? Are you currently looking for a job or seeking expertise on your transportation-related research? If so, consider joining the Women In Transportation Virginia Tech Student Chapter. Benefits include: networking opportunities in the industry;
relevant programs and guest speakers; meetings with top level transportation managers; travel support for conferences; professional mentorship programs, scholarships; leadership training; and much more. If interested, contact Renee LoSapio at rlosapio@vt.edu with subject line "WTS Student Interest."
18. BOV GRADUATE REPRESENTATIVE APPLICATION FOR 2012-2013 NOW AVAILABLE
If you are interested in applying to be the next VT Graduate Student Representative to the BOV (Board of Visitors) please visit http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php to download the application. All applications will be due no later than 5pm on Friday, Feb 10, 2012 in the VP of Student Affairs Office in 112 Burruss Hall. If you have any questions or wish to learn more about the position, please contact the current graduate BOV representative, Michelle McLeese, at mmcleese@vt.edu or bovgradrep@vt.edu.
19. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR "KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY" SPRING 2012
The VBI, Virginia 4-H, and other members of the VT community are asking for volunteers to assist with logistics of the spring 2012 Kids’ Tech University (KTU; http://kidstechuniversity.vbi.vt.edu), a program for 450 kids ages 9-12 designed to spark an interest about science, technology, engineering, and math. Your help is needed on any one or all of the following days: Jan 28, Feb 25, Mar 24, and Apr 7, 2012, 9:00am to 4:00pm. All events are on Saturday and lunch is provided where appropriate. In the morning there is an interactive session followed by Q & A, a lunch break, then hands-on activities. Any time you can help is greatly appreciated, If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out this survey: http://kidstechuniversity.vbi.vt.edu/volunteers.php. If you have any questions, please contact KTU’s volunteer coordinator, Ms. Maria Laubenbacher, at maria@vbi.vt.edu.
20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are sought for a research study investigating the effects of asymmetric biomechanics and neuromuscular control of the human trunk. The study involves several non-invasive and low-risk biomechanical tests and movements tasks. Experimental sessions will last about 2 hrs and participants will be compensated $15/hr. To qualify, must be between the ages of 18-70, have no current or recent (1 year) history of physical disorders affecting the lower back, moderately physically active (exercise 2-3 times/wk) and normal body weight (non-obese). Final eligibility will be determined based on age, height, and weight. Protocols have been approved by VT IRB (IRB #11-518). If interested, please complete a brief survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1326758197301. Responses to the survey will be used to anthropometrically match individuals. Contact Brad Hendershot at hendershot@vt.edu with any questions.
21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are sought for a study investigating the effects of flexion on the biomechanics and neuromuscular behavior of the human torso. The study consists of six separate experimental sessions (each lasting approximately 1 hr) and participants will be compensated $10/hour. To qualify you must be 18-29 and regularly exercise at least 2-3 times/wk. For more information or to inquire about participation, please contact Neema at neema@vt.edu. Please include your age, gender, and general availability when responding.
22. GSA FOLLOW-UP SURVEY NEEDS YOUR HELP!
Five years ago the GSA sponsored a survey of graduate students to determine the need, and willingness to pay, for statistical assistance in research. They are now sponsoring a short follow-up survey (5-15 minutes), and ask that all graduate students complete this regardless of whether you have used statistical assistance: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1326655920270. Your responses are greatly appreciated and needed! If you have questions about this survey, please contact GSA cabinet member Michelle McLeese at mmcleese@vt.edu.
23. UPCOMING EVENTS:
COFFEE AND CONVERSATION
Monday, Jan 30, 5:00-6:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Meet other graduate students and enjoy refreshments and good conversation along with graduate student leaders. Submissions to the Winter Break Challenge will be revealed and participants can vote on their favorite entries.
LEARN TURKISH AT VT
Classes begin Thursday, Feb 2, 6:00pm
Experienced teachers are offering Turkish language classes at Cranwell International Center through the Intercultural Understanding Club. You don’t need to know any Turkish to start Turkish classes: the Intercultural Understanding Club offers Turkish courses from beginner to advanced levels. Spring program: 1.5-hr class per week, four classes per month. For this semester, every student will have Turkish conversation partner as well. Please register here: http://www.icuc.org.vt.edu/turkish. For questions: hsuren@vt.edu.
WELCOME BACK SOCIAL
Friday, Feb 3, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Come to the GLC for free food, good music, games, and to welcome back your fellow graduate students. Because we are in the dog days of winter, the social will be "campfire" themed. Although university regulations prohibit having an actual campfire indoors, there will be hot chocolate, hot cider, s’mores, barbecue, vegetarian options, and possibly even GLC ghost stories! Visit several "campfires" around the multipurpose room with various games and activities at each. If you’ve never experienced sitting around a campfire with close friends and family, this is your chance! This event is co-sponsored by the GLC Fellows and GSA. If you have any questions, please email GLC Fellow Eric Hodges at hodgeseb@vt.edu
DIALOGUE WITH THE DEAN
Tuesday, Feb 7, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
Discuss graduate student life and university policy over lunch with graduate dean Dr. Karen DePauw. This is your opportunity to address issues that matter most to you! Space is limited, so please register here if you wish to attend: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1325689689558. This event is sponsored by the GSA. With questions contact Swetha Kumar, GSA VP of Programs, at swethak@vt.edu.
GSA VALENTINE’S SPEED DATING – register now!
Friday, Feb 10, 7:00pm-9:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Stuck in the library or lab too often to get out there and meet that special someone? The Graduate Student Assembly and Queer Grads and Allies are here to spark up your romance! The annual Graduate Speed Dating event is the perfect venue to meet and mingle with other single graduate students. This event is free and drinks and appetizers will be provided. Detailed information and the registration link is available on the GSA website at http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/. Space is limited, so reserve your spot quickly! Questions, contact Swetha Kumar, VP of Programs at swethak@vt.edu.
I LOVE BLACK HISTORY MONTH: SPEED NETWORKING LUNCHEON
Tuesday, Feb 14, 11:30am-1:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The Black Graduate Student Organization and the Graduate School’s Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives invite you to this networking event. Please register here if you are interested in attending: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1326730219084. For more information contact Dannette Gomez Beane at dannette@vt.edu.