October 19-25, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 9/21

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays, 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
  • Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
  • LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. GLC 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT
Monday-Friday, Oct 19-23
Graduate students are invited to participate in the hunt and win prizes (Kindle Fire, fitbit, and more). Clues are posted on our social media outlets throughout the week (https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC and https://twitter.com/VTGradCommunity among others). Submissions are accepted in three forms: photos via social media or by email to grads@vt.edu, or raffle ticket submissions. Check our social media for the clues starting today. Good luck!

3. ENVISIONING VT: BEYOND BOUNDARIES
Monday, Oct 19, 7:30-8:30pm, Torgersen 1060
Virginia Tech is currently engaged in a campus-wide visioning initiative that will address two interrelated goals: advancing Virginia Tech as a global land-grant institution, and strategically addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the changing landscape of higher education. Graduate students are invited to join project co-chair Rosemary Blieszner, committee member Karen DePauw, and Beyond Boundaries staff in a Graduate Student Input Session to share their ideas about the next generation of Virginia Tech.  Refreshments will be provided.

4. WORLD STATISTICS DAY: ENVISIONING THE 21ST CENTURY GLOBAL LAND GRANT TO BUILD RESEARCH CAPACITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Tuesday, Oct 20, 5:00-7:00pm, Goodwin Hall Auditorium
VT’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) hosts this event to highlight its in-progress effort to teach statistical and data-science methods in developing countries in a bid to help scientists solve real-world problems and make true data-based decisions. Provost Thanassis Rikakis will provide opening remarks, followed by LISA Director Eric Vance. Additional speakers include Ian Crandell of Valley Center, California, and doctoral student in statistics who taught statistics in Nigeria, and Karl Markgraf, associate vice president of international affairs at Virginia Tech.

5. VA SCIENCE FESTIVAL PRESENTS: COMMUNICATING SCIENCE
Tuesday, Oct 20, 7:00-8:30pm, Alexander Black House (204 Draper Avenue)
Attend this exciting workshop, based on the “Communicating Science” program designed by Alan Alda to help scientists understand how to use theatre improv and other exercises to be better communicators. Audience members will be invited to participate in sample communication exercises. Contact Andrae Hash for more details hashas@vt.edu.

6. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Oct 20, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A in front of Au Bon Pain at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Posted on behalf of grad student Amr Nabil, anabil@vt.edu.

 

7. CRANWELL INT’L CTR GLOBAL AMBASSADOR PROGRAM INTEREST MEETINGS

Tuesday, Oct 20, 4:00pm, Cranwell’s Community Room in Harper Hall

Friday, Oct 30, 1:00pm, Cranwell’s Community Room in Harper Hall

The Global Ambassadors program is an engaging leadership development program designed for current VT students seeking to develop their global leadership skills. Global Ambassadors are charged with welcoming new international students to the VT community and continuing meaningful interactions with students and the community throughout the academic year. For more information, application and reference form, visit www. International.vt.edu.

8. SUMMON USABILITY STUDY
Wednesday, Oct 21, 11:00am-12:00pm, 3310 Torg (along the bridge)
Thursday, Oct 22, 1:00-2:00pm
Participate in the Library’s usability study on Summon, to help improve the search engine. No experience with Summon is necessary; come any time during the scheduled hour; takes 10 minutes or less. Participants will receive a gift bag. For more information contact Tracy Gilmore, tgilmore@vt.edu, at University Libraries.

9. NATIVE AMERICAN CONNECT LUNCH
Wednesday, Oct 21, 12:00-1:00pm, 238 GLC (Graduate School conference room, 2nd floor GLC)
Would you like to connect with other graduate students and faculty/ staff that identify with the Native American community? If yes, don’t miss out on this great opportunity. The Graduate School hosts this luncheon to facilitate dialogue and fellowship. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXbQu1hn93OmC9 if you plan to attend. If you have any questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

10. WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR? – AN EVENING OF PROTEST MUSIC
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:00pm, P. Buckley Moss Museum, Gilbert St, Bburg
Part of #BigReadNRV. For the featured music event of the NRV’s Big Read, Mark and Jeff will play songs of protest against war, from "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye" to "Devils and Dust,” complete with superb coffee from local roaster/brewer: Strange Coffee. Join for a night of music, discussion, and great conversation in a lovely venue. Suggested donation $15 VETERANS IN SOCIETY FUNDRAISER. http://monkeyhouseconcerts.net/upcoming_concerts__reservations. Posted on behalf of grad student Heather Lyne, hlyne27@vt.edu.

11. NAPPY EDGES & GOLDY LOCKS: THE RACE AND GENDER POLITICS OF HAIR
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:30pm, 3100 Torg
For African Americans, attitudes toward and responses to hair go beyond “big hair” and a “bad hair day.” This presentation examines the complex racial and gender identity politics of head hair. From Barbie, Britney, and Rapunzel to Pocahontas and Beyoncé, Lester shows how a national controversy was generated around the issue of African American hair in a children’s book, Carolivia Herron’s Nappy Hair, and how the issue of hair is central to certain ideals of beauty and femininity. An interactive presentation, this one uses dolls, folklore, music, literature, advertisements, and commercials to interrogate the extent to which African Americans have and have not moved from internalized problematic notions of “good” and “bad” hair. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Devon Lee, devonlee@vt.edu.

12. MELANCHOLY PLAY: A CONTEMPORARY FARCE BY SARAH RUHL
Wednesday-Friday, Oct 21-23, 7:30pm, Theatre 101
Dive into a deep well of sadness with Tilly as every character falls in love with her melancholic outlook. Laugh, cry, and sing along with a play that connects us to the beauty of life and death. Free tickets may be reserved in advance online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/melancholy-play-oct-21-23-free-tickets-18401143315. Directed by MFA grad student Kristin Rose Kelly.

13. THESIS THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 8:30am-3:30pm
Need a quiet space to work on your thesis, dissertation, or course work? Gotta study for exams? Absolutely have to get that article out, like, yesterday? Thesis Thursday is your answer! This weekly gathering is for grad students who want to keep accountable to a regular work time and need a guaranteed quiet place to work. Meet each Thursday just a few blocks off campus at 107 Church Street – 2nd floor of the State Farm office (entrance on Church Street). Free coffee and wi-fi, plus multiple spots to sit and study alone or in groups. Stop in any time during study hours. Limited parking available. For more details, contact grad student Morgan Franke at fmorg14@vt.edu.

14. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, starting Oct 8, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

15. GLC CAFÉ: DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN MUG; WE’LL GIVE YOU ONE!
Thursday, Oct 22, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. This week, however, is extra special! Stop by the Multipurpose Room to get a special-edition anniversary mug, enjoy some freshly brewed coffee or tea from ABP along with their signature cookies, and add your mark to a community art project celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC. Leave your fingerprint on our canvas and forever be part of the GLC!

16. KIDS NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP-IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, starting Sep 10, 2015 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

17. OPEN ACCESS KEYNOTE: SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION IN THE ERA OF BIG DATA AND BIG COMPUTATION
Thursday, Oct 22, 7:00pm, Davidson 281
Featured speaker Dr. Victoria Stodden from the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, offers this keynote address as part of Open Access Week 2015. All graduate students are welcome and encouraged to attend.

18. GLC 10th ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION
Friday, Oct 23, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join the Graduate School, Housing and Residence Life, and Student Engagement and Campus Life, and other supporters and friends of the GLC to commemorate the opening of the Graduate Life Center in 2005. Enjoy a display of the building’s history, view the newest entries in our traditional graduate student photo and art contest, add your finger mark to a GLC canvas, and enjoy some refreshments. Short remarks at 4:00pm. Please register by emailing to grads@vt.edu; add GLC 10 in the subject line. See http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/GLC10.html for more details.

19. GSA FALL BEER AND WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Oct 23, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its fall beer and wine social, which will once again showcase local, national, and international beer and wine, while providing graduate students the opportunity to network among researchers and colleagues. Bring proper identification for those 21+ who wish to drink. Admission: $10 for general, $5 for GSA delegates, and $5 for non-drinking participants. This event is cash only and open to the public. Want to gain free admission? Volunteer to help with the event! If you are interested in volunteering, contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1619367071647599/.

20. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP FALL RETREAT – register now!
Friday, Oct 23, 8:00pm – Sunday, Oct 25, 12:00pm, near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $30 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/fall-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) with any questions.

21. GRADUATE STUDENT TAILGATE
Saturday, Oct 24, 1:00-3:00PM, Lawn between GLC and University Club
Join your fellow graduate students for a VT vs. Duke football tailgate at the Graduate Life Center! Music, lawn games, some snacks and drinks provided. We hope to see you there! If you have questions, email grads@vt.edu. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.

22. DURGA PUJA AND DANCE NIGHT
Sunday, Oct 25, 2:00-9:30pm, Commonwealth Ballroom in Squires
The VT Indian Student Association and Bengali Student Association are coming together to have a mega celebration of Durga Puja and Dance Night. Durga Puja is a festival of Hindus celebrated by worshipping Goddess Durga, and marks the victory of Good over Evil. Dance Night celebrates Garba Dance of Gujarat (with Dandiya Sticks) along with all other types of Indian dances ranging from Bollywood to Freestyle. Details at https://www.facebook.com/events/805021026285478/. Posted on behalf of grad student Garima Malhotra.

23. FINANCIAL AID GRAD E-NEWSLETTER
Check out the latest edition of Scholarships & Financial Aid’s Grad E-news at http://www.finaid.vt.edu/Graduate-Students/Grad-Student-E-Newsletter-Oct-2015.pdf! Topics include scam aler, special message for those graduating in December, the impact of the continuous enrollment requirement on financial aid and more!

24. SIGN UP FOR THE CRANWELL COURIER – 1st posting
A key component of Cranwell International Center’s mission is to provide opportunities for intercultural engagement between the VT international community and Blacksburg’s residents from all backgrounds. In that spirit, they publish a weekly newsletter, the Cranwell Courier, which lists upcoming events that are focused on diversity, inclusion and global citizenship as well as a variety of fun local activities throughout the New River Valley. Subscribe online at http://international.us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=78700cc006b0eb4ee596c8572&id=ace51269ad, or view the latest edition at http://eepurl.com/bCx_l5.

25. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR CULTURAL SHOW FOR DIWALI – 1st posting
The Indian Students Association invites all interested students to participate and showcase their talent this Diwali season at Virginia Tech. Be a part of one of the biggest cultural shows on campus with singing, dancing, acting and entertaining! Students interested in participating at the Diwali cultural show should contact grad student Trisha Sanwal (trishas@vt.edu)  by Oct 23.

26. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM FALL APPLICATION CYCLE -1st posting
If you’re planning to travel or have traveled to present your research at a scholarly conference between Jul 1 and Dec 31, 2015, consider applying for the Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP). Domestic/international travel by master’s/doctoral students are eligible. Applications accepted for the fall cycle from Monday, Oct 19 to Sunday, Nov 6, 2015 at 11:59 PM. Visit http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/ for details and to apply. New this cycle: must submit a certification letter signed by your advisor or  committee member or department head; this will replace the ‘proof of peer review’ requirement in previous application cycles. The certification letter will be posted on the TFP application site. Contact Marie Stettler Kleine or Omchand Mahdu, TFP Co-Chairs at gradtravelfund1516@vt.edu with questions.

27. APPLICATION LIVE – INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RESEARCH EXPERIENCE (IRES) IN U.K. – 2nd  posting
Open to VT engineering students (ugrad, or graduate student graduating after May 2016) in ECE, ISE, ME, MME or MSE or students in other disciplines who have taken course work in power electronics or human factors. Minimum GPA of 3.0 in major. Must be a U.S. citizen/permanent resident. Apply by Oct 30, 2015. The application can be found online at www.eng.vt.edu/international/ires/. Must provide an official transcript(s), personal statement and two letters of recommendation. Submit application and required documents and any questions to: Heather Lyne engabroad@vt.edu.

28. EVENING CHILD CARE NOW AVAILABLE! – 2nd posting
The Little Hokie Hangout is offering evening slots starting 10/13. These slots will be for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 4-7pm. The Little Hokie Hangout is a parent cooperative child care program being offered by the Graduate School to Virginia Tech families. For a registration form and more information please email childcare@vt.edu.

29. NEW GRAD COURSE FOR SPRING ON STEM WORKFORCE POLICY – 2nd posting
Dr. Denise Simmons, assistant professor in the VT Myers-Lawson School of Construction, is offering a new graduate course in spring 2016 on STEM workforce policy. Would you like to develop a policy brief and a program informed by policy? Ever wonder how policy impacts STEM initiatives? If so, visit https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_40oCAP1ozuKuE3r to learn more about the course and indicate your interest and availability. For more information contact Dr. Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

30. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Remaining Fall 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Oct 27, 4:30-6:30 pm: Multivariate Clustering Analysis;
  • Tuesday, Nov 3, 4:30-6:30 pm: Intro to SAS University Edition;
  • Tuesday, Nov 10, 4:30-6:30 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
  • Tuesday, Nov 17, 4:30-6:30 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
  • Tuesday, Dec 1, 4:30-6:30 pm: Visualizing and Analyzing Spatial Data with R;

31. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – deadline today!
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC  by participating in the next GLC photo and art contest! Theme: (Snapshots) of Graduate Student Life. Get creative and submit whatever depicts you as a grad student. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 19.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

32. PART-TIME WAGE POSITION OPENING IN OFFICE OF ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION – 2nd posting
The Alternative Transportation Assistant will provide customer service to patrons, including  instructing patrons in bicycle maintenance and repair, registering bikes for faculty, staff, and students, answering questions about alternative transportation programs offered by the university, as well as assisting visitors with daily visitor parking permits and staffing the customer service desk. Learn more at https://listings.jobs.vt.edu/postings/60463. International students may not be eligible for this position if it requires more than 20 hrs/wk of work.

33. TWO ASSISTANTSHIP OPENINGS IN TLOS – 3rd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a  unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) (www.tlos.vt.edu)  is seeking two Graduate Assistants to work with the instructional design and course development, digital media, video editing and production, graphics and web development, digital imaging, assessment, project management and research staff of the unit. These GAs will provide direct support to faculty developing courses and will also be focused on the transition of courses from Scholar to Canvas and adherence to accessibility requirements. Graduate students with experience in any of the above areas are encouraged to submit a resume or CV attached to an email to lbaab@vt.edu, describing how their talents and abilities could contribute to the work of the unit.

34. FORMER CO-TEACHERS SOUGHT FOR GRADUATE RESEARCH STUDY – 1st posting
Grad students in a qualitative methods in educational research class are conducting a study on co-teaching to explore the perceptions of interactions that take place during that experience. Anyone who has engaged in co-teaching at VT within the past two years may participate in a face-to-face interview of about 45-60 minutes. The interview will be audio-recorded and can occur in your office or another quiet area of your choice. Open-ended questions will be related to co-teaching experience, educational philosophy, and perceptions of your co-teaching partner’s approach to teaching. Participation is voluntary and confidential. For more information or to sign up, contact grad student John Morelock at morelock@vt.edu.

35. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH DAY – 1st posting
The Math Department will be hosting an event this fall that will bring middle school students to campus for a morning of math activities with the goal of encouraging girls to remain interested in mathematics. Volunteers are needed for Friday, Nov 13 with visiting students arriving around 9:00am and leaving by 1:00pm (setup starting at 8 and cleanup until 2). Volunteers are needed to help lead or aid in activities, guide students on campus, and help with other day-of tasks, including set up and clean up. Volunteers do not need to stay for the entire event. If interested or would like to know more, email doctoral student Mandy Welch (welcha1@vt.edu).

36. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR EYE GAZE & EMOTIONS PROJECT – 1st posting
The Eye Gaze & Emotions Project of VT’s Psychology Department is seeking children between ages of 6-9 to contribute to the understanding of how kids read emotion. Parents/legal guardians complete questionnaires and children complete in-lab        tasks and computer games. Receive between $10-$20 and a toy for your child! Contact Lauren at (540) 231-9735; EyeGazeEmotions@gmail.com if interested.

37. CHILD VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATE TRAINING OPPORUTUNITY – 1st posting
The VT Clinical Psychology graduate program seeks parents with children between the ages 7–17 to participate in a volunteer child assessment. This is a training exercise for entry level doctoral students in the Clinical Psychology program. The assessment will consist of 3 sessions, each lasting approximately 2-3 hrs. The graduate student will administer cognitive, achievement, and behavioral assessments tests to your child. The parent will also be asked to complete a diagnostic interview with the student. If you are interested in volunteering your child for this assessment, contact Rachel Miller-Slough (rlm527@vt.edu) and provide your contact information (email and phone number) and a rough idea of when you would be available during October. A graduate student will then contact you to schedule the sessions. Assessments are conducted at the Child Study Center (460 Turner St.), supervised by Dr. Susan White (Dir of Child Assessment Clinic). Volunteers receive $30.

38. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY  – 2nd posting
VT researchers seek mostly female and some male participants for a 2-hr study on performing push trim tasks. The study simulates an industrial task to establish acceptable limits of dynamic forces that will be very important to predict industrial recommendations. Participants will be asked to perform a repetitive task simulating automotive trim assembly, involving striking activities with the hand/fist. The experiment will be done a laboratory setting in the ISE department. Must be age 18-30, female or male, no current or recent history of musculoskeletal problems. Participants will be paid $10/hr. For more information contact Helen Nogueira at nogueira@vt.edu.

39. STUDENT CONDUCT COMMITTEES SEEK VOLUNTEERS – 2nd posting
The Office of Student Conduct is seeking graduate students to serve on Student Conduct Committees that adjudicate hearings for behavioral, non-academic interventions of individuals and organizations in the Virginia Tech community. Qualified candidates should demonstrate ethical decision-making, the ability to work as part of a team, and a commitment to Virginia Tech’s values and the Student Code of Conduct. Students who participate develop listening skills, empathy, and a deeper knowledge of the various facets of student experience at Virginia Tech. The office is especially interested in graduate student volunteers, as well as international and other underrepresented minority volunteers. Apply at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/81556 or contact Cathryn Schwing at cschwing@vt.edu. This message is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

40. ONLINE SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
A VT faculty member is seeking to know more about what activities you and other VT students choose to participate in. Participating in activities outside the classroom can help students develop critical professional skills, and this survey aims to find out if this is true for VT students. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_2fpqCVFIhCCylOl and encouraging others to do it as well. The link provides instructions for survey takers; explains consent, your rights, drawings for gift cards, age requirements; and lists contact persons. Any student in any major at VT can respond to the survey. For more information contact Dr. Denise Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

41. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS ABOUT COLLEGE AVE PROMENADE IN DOWNTOWN BLACKSBURG – 2nd posting
A team of Qualitative Research graduate students is conducting research to describe how the College Avenue Promenade creates places for gathering that engage VT graduate students and facilitates social interactions. The College Avenue Promenade (CAP) area is located outdoors on College Avenue in downtown Blacksburg and runs from the edge of the Virginia Tech campus near Squires to the Cellar restaurant. Qualification for the interview: VT graduate students who are at least 18 and have used the CAP at least once. Participants will be asked to take part in a 45-60 minute audio recorded interview at the Graduate Life Center. If you are interested in participating or have any questions, contact Karen Gilbert at karengilbert@vt.edu, 540-231-0722.

42. CHILDREN AGES 8-12 WITH TEMPER ISSUES SOUGHT FOR NEW TREATMENT STUDY – 3rd  posting
Children ages 8-12 are currently being enrolled for a free treatment study for anger and irritability. The treatment is designed to teach children to regulate their emotions, and will be conducted in 13 weekly sessions. Families will also receive $70 for completing assessment sessions for the study. If interested in enrolling your child in this study, please contact Amber at MoodReg@gmail.com or call 540-231-9735 for more information.

43. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE STUDY – 3rd posting
Graduate student researchers are conducting a study to investigate how specific actions affect balance. The study takes approximately 15-20 minutes and will involve standing still for two minutes and performing one of several actions, such as silently counting. Qualifications are: 18-30 years of age, no problems balancing, no history of dizziness, no recent knee or ankle injuries, and no concussions within the previous year. You will be compensated $10 for participating. The protocols in this study have been approved by the VT IRB (IRB#15-795). If interested, contact Peter Fino, 559 Whittemore Hall, fino@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS @VT FOCUS GROUP TO EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES
Tuesday, Oct 27, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F

If you consider yourself a non-traditional student (characterized by one or more of criteria including 30 or over for grads; have family and/or work responsibilities; first-generation; veteran; etc), join this focus group discussion hosted by grad student and citizen scholar Robin Atkins, as part of a Citizen Scholar Seminar project. The outcome of the focus group will inform the creation of a resource fair and panel discussion. For more information contact Robin at atkinsrw@vt.edu, 231-9457.

TOUR OF VIRGINIA TECH’S WARE LAB
Wednesday, Oct 28, 12:45pm, Meet in GLC Lobby
Join fellow graduate students for a behind-the-scene’s tour of Virginia Tech’s advanced engineering lab, the Ware Lab. Led by an engineering graduate student, the tour will feature current projects in the robotics lab, machine shop, Formula SAE lab, and more! Meet in the GLC lobby by the Welcome Center at 12:45 and walk over together. Space is limited, so please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6hU9stGeaLXXVkN in advance.

GLC MOVIE NIGHT
Wednesday, Oct 28, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Lounge
Celebrate the season with a Halloween themed movie! The Graduate Fellows will be hosting a movie night full of fun, food, and frights. If you get scared, you can always hug the Donaldson Brown Bear. If you have any questions, email GLC Fellow Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu.

MY SISTER’S KEEPER: THRIVING IN A COMPETITIVE FIELD
Thursday, Nov 5, 11:00am, Owen’s Dining Roo
Join a conversation with Desiree Reed-Francois,  Executive Associate Athletics Director/SWA at Virginia Tech. Lunch will be served. Please register by Nov 1 at  http://goo.gl/forms/sRBP1z1sbH. Program sponsored by Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP), and posted on behalf of grad student Delight Yokley, b18409y@vt.edu.

October 12-18, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 9/21

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays (starting Sep 23), 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
  • Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
  • LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. STUDENT SELFIES NEEDED FOR GLC BROCHURE
Monday, Oct 12, 3:00-4:00pm, Meet in GLC Lobby
The Graduate School is working a University Relations graphic designer on a new GLC map/brochure which will also include "selfie" photos of graduate students at various locations in the building. The Grad School needs your help! If you are interested in being in a "photoshoot" this afternoon and potentially have your picture in the print product, please meet in the GLC Lobby by the Welcome Center at 3:00pm. Selfies will be taken at selected spots throughout the building with the guidance of the graphic designer leading the project. You bring your smile, and we will bring you free coffee!

3. MILK SENSORY PANELS
Monday 10/12: 10:00am-5:00pm- Carol Lee Donut Super Snack
Tuesday 10/13: 10:00am-5:00pm- DOUBLE gift card points
All at HABB1 Bldg, Rm 205, corner of Duck Pond Dr and Washington St SW
Sensory evaluation on milk – see if you can identify different samples. Only takes ~15 minutes. Come and bring your friends! 144 panelists needed each day. Anyone 18+ years old who does not have milk allergies is encouraged to participate. Get free snacks every day for participating. Contact master’s student Hayley Potts at hpotts45@vt.edu for more information.

4. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Oct 13, 7:00pm, GLC Student Org Suite conference area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the second Tuesday of every month. Join the group to learn more about anxiety disorders and OCD, hear success stories from those who have worked to overcome their anxiety and OCD, and receive support in an informal setting. Family members and significant others are also welcome. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact the Psychological Services Center at 231-6914, visit www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc or email ajsmith1@vt.edu.

5. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Oct 13, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A in front of Au Bon Pain at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Posted on behalf of grad student Amr Nabil, anabil@vt.edu.

6. PARENT SUPPORT GROUP LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Oct 14, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Join fellow Hokie parents for this monthly meeting. As always, lunch is provided, and spouses/partners and children are more than welcome. This month’s speaker is Jessica Wirgau, president of Smart Beginnings, who will talk about programs and initiatives in the area relevant to families with young children, and the importance of quality early childhood education. Please email childcare@vt.edu with any questions. Register at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-october if you plan to attend.

7. ARABIC COFFEE HOUR
Wednesday, Oct 14, 4:30-5:30, Major Williams Atrium
During this informal gathering, students, faculty, and anyone interested in Arabic will have the chance to enjoy Arabic coffee and sweets, practice their Arabic, and learn more about the Arabic program (particularly the new Arabic minor). Participants will have a chance to learn about VT Arabic Oman for summer 2016, VT’s first Arabic study abroad program, with guest speacker Rachel Fitzgerald form the Global Education Office who will discuss different scholarships available and explain the application process of VT Arabic Oman. Learn more about this opportunity to visit the Middle East, improve your Arabic language skills, and experience Arabic culture. Free snacks and sweets available. This free event is hosted by the Arabic Language Club and the Arabic Program. This message is posted on behalf of grad student Turki Al Zahrani, turki82@vt.edu

8. WHY DID PANGEA BREAK UP? – A RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTATION
Wednesday, Oct 14, 5:30-6:30pm, 2062 Derring (Museum of Geosciences)
250 million years ago all the continents were together as the supercontinent of Pangea, but after 50 million years Pangea began to rift apart forming the continents of today. There have been many suggestions for what caused the rifting of Pangea, but none so far really fit with all the geologic data. In this talk graduate student Lisa Whalen discusses the latest idea for why Pangea may have broken up and some interesting things about Pangea she discovered along the way. Come support graduate students learning to communicate their science and enjoy free ice cream after the workshop. Send questions to Lisa at lashley@vt.edu.

9. BABY NIGHT AT THE LYRIC
Wednesday, Oct 14, 7:00pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy an evening out with no cooking, dishes, or a babysitter! Baby night is a chance for new parents to get out and see a movie they want to see, not just an animated or children’s film, without having to leave your baby at home. All babies and grown-ups are welcome (recommended for babies age 1 and under)! Dimmed lighting, reduced volume, changing facilities in the auditorium, stroller parking in the lobby.

10. THESIS THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 8:30am-3:30pm
Need a quiet space to work on your thesis, dissertation, or course work? Gotta study for exams? Absolutely have to get that article out, like, yesterday? Thesis Thursday is your answer! This weekly gathering is for grad students who want to keep accountable to a regular work time and need a guaranteed quiet place to work. Meet each Thursday just a few blocks off campus at 107 Church Street – 2nd floor of the State Farm office (entrance on Church Street). Free coffee and wi-fi, plus multiple spots to sit and study alone or in groups. Stop in any time during study hours. Limited parking available. For more details, contact grad student Morgan Franke at fmorg14@vt.edu.

11. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, starting Oct 8, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

12. GLC CAFÉ: GLC-10TH ANNIVERSARY PROJECT
Thursday, Oct 15, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Stop by this week to add your mark to a community art project celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC. Leave your fingerprint on our canvas and forever be part of the GLC!

13. KIDS NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP-IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, starting Sep 10, 2015 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

14. GLC HAPPY HOUR
Friday, Oct 16, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC side patio (Bookstore side behind the shrubs), or GLC student lounge in case of rain
Celebrate fall break at the GLC happy hour on the GLC side patio. Graduate students and faculty are invited to enjoy good conversation over a glass of wine or beer and light snacks. Cash bar: wine $5/glass; beer $4/bottle; soft drinks $2; light snacks provided by the Graduate School. Cash or credit card accepted. Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu with questions.

15. SALT MARSH SUITE – INSTALLATION AND PERFORMANCE
Member opening: Friday, Oct 16, 5:00-9:00pm, 7:00 and 7:15pm; tickets are $10
Gallery performances: Saturday, Oct 24, 12:00-2:00; free and open to the public
Salt Marsh Suite, an installation and performance co-directed by Virginia Tech’s Carol Burch-Brown and Ann Kilkelly, is showing at the Taubman Museum in Roanoke, Virginia from October 3 through January 10. Details are at: http://www.taubmanmuseum.org/main/exhibitions/salt-marsh-suite. All grad students are invited! Posted on behalf of ICAT grad assistant Kristin Kelly, krkelly@vt.edu.

16. APPLICATION LIVE – INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RESEARCH EXPERIENCE (IRES) IN U.K. – 1st posting
Open to VT engineering students (ugrad, or graduate student graduating after May 2016) in ECE, ISE, ME, MME or MSE or students in other disciplines who have taken course work in power electronics or human factors. Minimum GPA of 3.0 in major. Must be a U.S. citizen/permanent resident. Apply by Oct 30, 2015. The application can be found online at www.eng.vt.edu/international/ires/. Must provide an official transcript(s), personal statement and two letters of recommendation. Submit application and required documents and any questions to: Heather Lyne engabroad@vt.edu.

17. EVENING CHILD CARE NOW AVAILABLE! – 1st posting
The Little Hokie Hangout is offering evening slots starting 10/13. These slots will be for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 4-7pm. The Little Hokie Hangout is a parent cooperative child care program being offered by the Graduate School to Virginia Tech families. For a registration form and more information please email childcare@vt.edu.

18. NEW GRAD COURSE FOR SPRING ON STEM WORKFORCE POLICY – 1st posting
Dr. Denise Simmons, assistant professor in the VT Myers-Lawson School of Construction, is offering a new graduate course in spring 2016 on STEM workforce policy. Would you like to develop a policy brief and a program informed by policy? Ever wonder how policy impacts STEM initiatives? If so, visit https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_40oCAP1ozuKuE3r to learn more about the course and indicate your interest and availability. For more information contact Dr. Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

19. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GRAD JOURNAL ‘SPECTRA’ – 2nd posting
Spectra, the ASPECT (Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought) graduate journal, is currently seeking submissions for its next issue.  Submissions on research at the intersections of the social sciences, the natural sciences, the humanities, and the arts are especially encouraged.  Potential submissions can include essays, reflection pieces, book reviews, and multimedia.  Abstracts for consideration are due by Oct 15.  For more info go to https://spectrajournal.org/index.php/SPECTRA/announcement/view/6.  Email any questions to Jordan Laney and Anthony Szczurek at editor@spectrajournal.org.

20. PEO INTERNNATIONAL PEACE SCHOLARSHIP FOR INTL GRAD WOMEN – 3rd posting
This scholarship is designed for women who are qualified for admission to full-time graduate study, working toward a graduate degree in the college or university she will attend. Requirements: Applicants must not hold U.S. or Canadian citizenship or permanent residency; must submit a witnessed statement certifying that upon completion of degree program, she will return to her own country to pursue her professional career; must have a full year of course-work remaining and be enrolled and on campus for the entire school year. Doctoral students who have completed coursework and are working on dissertation only are not eligible as first-time applicants. The maximum scholarship for one year of study is $10,000, based upon need (year runs from August to August). Complete details are available at http://www.peointernational.org/about-peo-international-peace-scholarship-ips. Send questions to Terry Arthur at arthurt@cs.vt.edu.

21. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Remaining Fall 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Oct 20, 5:00-7:00 pm: World Statistics Day Celebration: Re-envisioning the 21st Century Global Land Grant University to Build Research Capacity in Developing Countries;
  • Tuesday, Oct 27, 4:30-6:30 pm: Multivariate Clustering Analysis;
  • Tuesday, Nov 3, 4:30-6:30 pm: Intro to SAS University Edition;
  • Tuesday, Nov 10, 4:30-6:30 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
  • Tuesday, Nov 17, 4:30-6:30 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
  • Tuesday, Dec 1, 4:30-6:30 pm: Visualizing and Analyzing Spatial Data with R;

22. INTERDISCIPLINARY HONOR SOCIETY NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting new applications for membership up through Friday, Nov 20. IDR was founded at Virginia Tech in 2011 by graduate students to promote and facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and the society offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Plus, there is food at meetings! Any students, graduate or undergraduate, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines, including science, engineering, business, or education, are encouraged to apply. More details about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

23. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – one more week to go!
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC  by participating in the next GLC photo and art contest! Theme: (Snapshots) of Graduate Student Life. Get creative and submit whatever depicts you as a grad student. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 19.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

24. PART-TIME WAGE POSITION OPENING IN OFFICE OF ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION – 1st posting
The Alternative Transportation Assistant will provide customer service to patrons, including  instructing patrons in bicycle maintenance and repair, registering bikes for faculty, staff, and students, answering questions about alternative transportation programs offered by the university, as well as assisting visitors with daily visitor parking permits and staffing the customer service desk. Learn more at https://listings.jobs.vt.edu/postings/60463. International students may not be eligible for this position if it requires more than 20 hrs/wk of work.

25. TWO ASSISTANTSHIP OPENINGS IN TLOS – 2nd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a  unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) (www.tlos.vt.edu)  is seeking two Graduate Assistants to work with the instructional design and course development, digital media, video editing and production, graphics and web development, digital imaging, assessment, project management and research staff of the unit. These GAs will provide direct support to faculty developing courses and will also be focused on the transition of courses from Scholar to Canvas and adherence to accessibility requirements. Graduate students with experience in any of the above areas are encouraged to submit a resume or CV attached to an email to lbaab@vt.edu, describing how their talents and abilities could contribute to the work of the unit.

26. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY  – 1st posting
VT researchers seek mostly female and some male participants for a 2-hr study on performing push trim tasks. The study simulates an industrial task to establish acceptable limits of dynamic forces that will be very important to predict industrial recommendations. Participants will be asked to perform a repetitive task simulating automotive trim assembly, involving striking activities with the hand/fist. The experiment will be done a laboratory setting in the ISE department. Must be age 18-30, female or male, no current or recent history of musculoskeletal problems. Participants will be paid $10/hr. For more information contact Helen Nogueira at nogueira@vt.edu.

27. STUDENT CONDUCT COMMITTEES SEEK VOLUNTEERS – 1st posting
The Office of Student Conduct is seeking graduate students to serve on Student Conduct Committees that adjudicate hearings for behavioral, non-academic interventions of individuals and organizations in the Virginia Tech community. Qualified candidates should demonstrate ethical decision-making, the ability to work as part of a team, and a commitment to Virginia Tech’s values and the Student Code of Conduct. Students who participate develop listening skills, empathy, and a deeper knowledge of the various facets of student experience at Virginia Tech. The office is especially interested in graduate student volunteers, as well as international and other underrepresented minority volunteers. Apply at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/81556 or contact Cathryn Schwing at cschwing@vt.edu. This message is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

28. ONLINE SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
A VT faculty member is seeking to know more about what activities you and other VT students choose to participate in. Participating in activities outside the classroom can help students develop critical professional skills, and this survey aims to find out if this is true for VT students. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_2fpqCVFIhCCylOl and encouraging others to do it as well. The link provides instructions for survey takers; explains consent, your rights, drawings for gift cards, age requirements; and lists contact persons. Any student in any major at VT can respond to the survey. For more information contact Dr. Denise Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

29. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS ABOUT COLLEGE AVE PROMENADE IN DOWNTOWN BLACKSBURG – 1st posting
A team of Qualitative Research graduate students is conducting research to describe how the College Avenue Promenade creates places for gathering that engage VT graduate students and facilitates social interactions. The College Avenue Promenade (CAP) area is located outdoors on College Avenue in downtown Blacksburg and runs from the edge of the Virginia Tech campus near Squires to the Cellar restaurant. Qualification for the interview: VT graduate students who are at least 18 and have used the CAP at least once. Participants will be asked to take part in a 45-60 minute audio recorded interview at the Graduate Life Center. If you are interested in participating or have any questions, contact Karen Gilbert at karengilbert@vt.edu, 540-231-0722.

30. CHILDREN AGES 8-12 WITH TEMPER ISSUES SOUGHT FOR NEW TREATMENT STUDY – 2nd posting
Children ages 8-12 are currently being enrolled for a free treatment study for anger and irritability. The treatment is designed to teach children to regulate their emotions, and will be conducted in 13 weekly sessions. Families will also receive $70 for completing assessment sessions for the study. If interested in enrolling your child in this study, please contact Amber at MoodReg@gmail.com or call 540-231-9735 for more information.

31. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE STUDY – 2nd posting
Graduate student researchers are conducting a study to investigate how specific actions affect balance. The study takes approximately 15-20 minutes and will involve standing still for two minutes and performing one of several actions, such as silently counting. Qualifications are: 18-30 years of age, no problems balancing, no history of dizziness, no recent knee or ankle injuries, and no concussions within the previous year. You will be compensated $10 for participating. The protocols in this study have been approved by the VT IRB (IRB#15-795). If interested, contact Peter Fino, 559 Whittemore Hall, fino@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

GLC PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT
Monday-Friday, Oct 19-23
Graduate students are invited to participate in the hunt and win prizes (Kindle Fire, fitbit, and more). Submissions are accepted in three forms: photos via social media or by email to grads@vt.edu, or raffle ticket submissions. Check our social media outlets (https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC, and https://twitter.com/VTGradCommunity for the clues starting next Monday!

NATIVE AMERICAN CONNECT LUNCH
Wednesday, Oct 21, 12:00-1:00pm, 238 GLC (Graduate School conference room, 2nd floor GLC)
Would you like to connect with other graduate students and faculty/ staff that identify with the Native American community? If yes, don’t miss out on this great opportunity. The Graduate School hosts this luncheon to facilitate dialogue and fellowship. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXbQu1hn93OmC9 if you plan to attend. If you have any questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR? – AN EVENING OF PROTEST MUSIC
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:00pm, P. Buckley Moss Museum, Gilbert St, Bburg
Part of #BigReadNRV. For the featured music event of the NRV’s Big Read, Mark and Jeff will play songs of protest against war, from "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye" to "Devils and Dust,” complete with superb coffee from local roaster/brewer: Strange Coffee. Join for a night of music, discussion, and great conversation in a lovely venue. Suggested donation $15 VETERANS IN SOCIETY FUNDRAISER. http://monkeyhouseconcerts.net/upcoming_concerts__reservations. Posted on behalf of grad student Heather Lyne, hlyne27@vt.edu.

NAPPY EDGES & GOLDY LOCKS: THE RACE AND GENDER POLITICS OF HAIR
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:30pm, 3100 Torg
For African Americans, attitudes toward and responses to hair go beyond “big hair” and a “bad hair day.” This presentation examines the complex racial and gender identity politics of head hair. From Barbie, Britney, and Rapunzel to Pocahontas and Beyoncé, Lester shows how a national controversy was generated around the issue of African American hair in a children’s book, Carolivia Herron’s Nappy Hair, and how the issue of hair is central to certain ideals of beauty and femininity. An interactive presentation, this one uses dolls, folklore, music, literature, advertisements, and commercials to interrogate the extent to which African Americans have and have not moved from internalized problematic notions of “good” and “bad” hair. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Devon Lee, devonlee@vt.edu.

OPEN ACCESS KEYNOTE: SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION IN THE ERA OF BIG DATA AND BIG COMPUTATION
Thursday, Oct 22, 7:00pm, Davidson 281
Featured speaker Dr. Victoria Stodden from the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, offers this keynote address as part of Open Access Week 2015. All graduate students are welcome and encouraged to attend.

GLC 10TH ANNIVERSARY CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 22, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC with a special weekly café in the Multipurpose Room. Get a special-edition GLC mug (while supplies last!), and enjoy coffee and refreshments from ABP, our GLC partner. Add your fingerprint to our canvas and forever become part of the GLC! Learn more about our anniversary events at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/GLC10.html.

GLC 10th ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION
Friday, Oct 23, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join the Graduate School, Housing and Residence Life, and Student Engagement and Campus Life, and other supporters and friends of the GLC to commemorate the opening of the Graduate Life Center in 2005. Enjoy a display of the building’s history, view the newest entries in our traditional graduate student photo and art contest, add your finger mark to a GLC canvas, and enjoy some refreshments. Short remarks at 4:00pm. Please register by emailing to grads@vt.edu; add GLC 10 in the subject line. See http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/GLC10.html for more details.

GSA FALL BEER AND WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Oct 23, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its fall beer and wine social, which will once again showcase local, national, and international beer and wine, while providing graduate students the opportunity to network among researchers and colleagues. Bring proper identification for those 21+ who wish to drink. Admission: $10 for general, $5 for GSA delegates, and $5 for non-drinking participants. This event is cash only and open to the public. Want to gain free admission? Volunteer to help with the event! If you are interested in volunteering, contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1619367071647599/.

INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP FALL RETREAT – register now!
Friday, Oct 23, 8:00pm – Sunday, Oct 25, 12:00pm, near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $30 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/fall-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) with any questions.

GRADUATE STUDENT TAILGATE
Saturday, Oct 24, Start time TBA, Lawn between GLC and University Club
Join your fellow graduate students for a VT vs. Duke football tailgate at the Graduate Life Center! The game time has not been announced, but the tailgate will start two hours before kick-off. Music, lawn games, some snacks and drinks provided. We hope to see you there! If you have questions, email grads@vt.edu. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.

October 5-11, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC — updated 9/21

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays, 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
  • Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
  • LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. WHAT DOES THE GLC MEAN TO YOU? TELL US!
Monday-Friday, Oct 5-16 (except Wednesdays), 12:00-8:00pm, GLC Lobby
The GLC is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and we want to know what you like about the GLC. Share a favorite memory, funny story, or what you think is the best thing about the GLC. Drop by the GLC Lobby and record a short video. If you don’t want to be in the video alone, bring a friend! All videos will be edited together and shown in various places/events. For questions, email grads@vt.edu.

3. MILK SENSORY PANELS
Wednesday 10/7: 10:30am-5:00pm- Ice Cream Super Snack
Thursday 10/8: 10:00am-5:00pm- Homemade Cookies Super Snack
Monday 10/12: 10:00am-5:00pm- Carol Lee Donut Super Snack
Tuesday 10/13: 10:00am-5:00pm- DOUBLE gift card points
All at HABB1 Bldg, Rm 205, corner of Duck Pond Dr and Washington St SW
Sensory evaluation on milk – see if you can identify different samples. Only takes ~15 minutes. Come and bring your friends! 144 panelists needed each day. Anyone 18+ years old who does not have milk allergies is encouraged to participate. Get free snacks every day for participating. Contact master’s student Hayley Potts at hpotts45@vt.edu for more information.

4. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Oct 6, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A in front of Au Bon Pain at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Posted on behalf of grad student Amr Nabil, anabil@vt.edu.

5. SHORT STATS COURSE FOR GRADS: T-TESTS AND ANOVA
Tuesday, Oct 6, 4:30-6:30pm, 1080 Torgersen Hall
In science it is often important to address the question of whether mean responses differ from one another between groups. When one is interested in the difference between means of two groups, the most common statistical procedure is known as the t-test. When there are two or more groups, the typical approach is to employ the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Taught by Kris Patton, this short course will review the concepts behind two-sample and paired t tests and one and two-way ANOVA models.  Course attendees will learn the basic motivation and assumptions of each method.  Hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, and measures of effect size will also be described for each approach. Visit the LISA website at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu to register and learn more.

6. LGBTQ CONNECT LUNCH
Wednesday, Oct 7, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room F
Would you like to connect and network with other graduate students and faculty/staff that identify with the LGBTQ community or are community allies? If yes, don’t miss out on this great opportunity. The Graduate School hosts this luncheon to facilitate dialogue and fellowship. Register at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/connect_lunch if you plan to attend. If you have any questions, contact Dannette Gomez Beane at dannette@vt.edu.

7. DISTINGUISHED LECTURE: DIGITAL MEDIA USE AND THE EXPERIENCE OF CHILDHOOD IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Wednesday, Oct 7, 7:00-8:00pm, Fife Theatre, Moss Arts Center
Hosted by the Department of Communication, this presentation by Amy Jordan explores the role of media technologies in defining the experience of childhood. Jordan teaches at the University of Pennsylvania, where she is also Director of Graduate Student Professional Development. Her work has been funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute of Child Health and Development, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. She presently serves as co-editor of the Journal of Children and Media and President of the International Communication Association. Free and open to the public. Posted on behalf of grad student Anjelica Smith, anjelica@vt.edu.

8. THESIS THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 8:30am-3:30pm
Need a quiet space to work on your thesis, dissertation, or course work? Gotta study for exams? Absolutely have to get that article out, like, yesterday? Thesis Thursday is your answer! This weekly gathering is for grad students who want to keep accountable to a regular work time and need a guaranteed quiet place to work. Meet each Thursday just a few blocks off campus at 107 Church Street – 2nd floor of the State Farm office (entrance on Church Street). Free coffee and wi-fi, plus multiple spots to sit and study alone or in groups. Stop in any time during study hours. Limited parking available. For more details, contact grad student Morgan Franke at fmorg14@vt.edu.

9. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, starting Oct 8, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

10. GLC CAFÉ: GLC-10 COMMUNITY ART PROJECT + HOME-BAKED COOKIES
Thursday, Oct 8, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Stop by this week to add your mark to a community art project celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC and enjoy some home-baked cookies.

11. KIDS NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP-IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, starting Sep 10, 2015 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

12. BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: DR. RACHEL WILLIAMS
Friday, Oct 9, 12:30-1:45pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Rachel K. Williams, director of strategic initiatives and services at General Dynamics. Learn about Dr. William’s journey through graduate school and the steps she took to build a highly successful professional career, balancing work and life. Free lunch provided; registration is requested at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1443639639581.

13. INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TAILGATE
Friday, Oct 9, 5:30-7:30pm, 417 Clay Street (behind tennis courts; access on walkway from Washington Street)
All members of Virginia Tech’s international community are invited to this community celebration before a home football game. Traditional tailgate food will be served. Hosted by the Cranwell International Center, Global Education Office, Graduate School, International Support Services, and Language and Culture Institute. Please complete this survey to register: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1441304595029.

14. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GRAD JOURNAL ‘SPECTRA’ – 1st posting
Spectra, the ASPECT (Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought) graduate journal, is currently seeking submissions for its next issue.  Submissions on research at the intersections of the social sciences, the natural sciences, the humanities, and the arts are especially encouraged.  Potential submissions can include essays, reflection pieces, book reviews, and multimedia.  Abstracts for consideration are due by Oct 15.  For more info go to https://spectrajournal.org/index.php/SPECTRA/announcement/view/6.  Email any questions to Jordan Laney and Anthony Szczurek at editor@spectrajournal.org.

15. PEO INTERNNATIONAL PEACE SCHOLARSHIP FOR INTL GRAD WOMEN – 2nd posting
This scholarship is designed for women who are qualified for admission to full-time graduate study, working toward a graduate degree in the college or university she will attend. Requirements: Applicants must not hold U.S. or Canadian citizenship or permanent residency; must submit a witnessed statement certifying that upon completion of degree program, she will return to her own country to pursue her professional career; must have a full year of course-work remaining and be enrolled and on campus for the entire school year. Doctoral students who have completed coursework and are working on dissertation only are not eligible as first-time applicants. The maximum scholarship for one year of study is $10,000, based upon need (year runs from August to August). Complete details are available at http://www.peointernational.org/about-peo-international-peace-scholarship-ips. Send questions to Terry Arthur at arthurt@cs.vt.edu.

16. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Remaining fall 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Oct 13, 4:30-6:30 pm: Calculating Sample Sizes and Power for Research;
  • Tuesday, Oct 20, 5:00-7:00 pm: World Statistics Day Celebration: Re-envisioning the 21st Century Global Land Grant University to Build Research Capacity in Developing Countries;
  • Tuesday, Oct 27, 4:30-6:30 pm: Multivariate Clustering Analysis;
  • Tuesday, Nov 3, 4:30-6:30 pm: Intro to SAS University Edition;
  • Tuesday, Nov 10, 4:30-6:30 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
  • Tuesday, Nov 17, 4:30-6:30 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
  • Tuesday, Dec 1, 4:30-6:30 pm: Visualizing and Analyzing Spatial Data with R;

17. INTERDISCIPLINARY HONOR SOCIETY NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 2nd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting new applications for membership up through Friday, Nov 20. IDR was founded at Virginia Tech in 2011 by graduate students to promote and facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and the society offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Plus, there is food at meetings! Any students, graduate or undergraduate, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines, including science, engineering, business, or education, are encouraged to apply. More details about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

18. CHILDCARE SPACES STILL AVAILABLE FOR FALL AND SPRING – 3rd posting
The Little Hokie Hangout still has space available! If you are interested in learning more about the Parent Cooperative CHILD CARE option offered through the Graduate School, email childcare@vt.edu for information or to express interest. This conveniently-located program is for children approaching 2 years of age through 5 years of age, and is designed to fit your scheduling needs! Schedule a visit to take a look at the Little Hokie Hangout!

19. PAPERS, WORKSHOPS, PERFORMANCE PIECES AND PANEL PROPOSALS INVITED – 3rd posting
Scholars, activists, and artists from the humanities, social and natural sciences, visual and performing arts, life sciences, disability studies, STEM fields, and queer and feminist science studies are invited to submit papers, panels, workshops, new media, art, and performance pieces that explore the intersections of gender, bodies & technology in contexts ranging from virtual reality labs and engineering classrooms to grassroots movements and queer and feminist hacking spaces. Proposals should be submitted by Nov 15, 2015 to genbodtech@gmail.edu. See complete CFP at: http://www.cpe.vt.edu/gbt/. The “Gender, Bodies & Technology: (In)Visible Futures” event will take place in The Hotel Roanoke, Apr 21-23, 2016. For more information or questions contact Christine Labuski, GBT Coordinator and Conference Director, chrislab@vt.edu. Posted on behalf of grad student Rayanne Streeter, streetrc@vt.edu.

20. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR 10TH ANNIVERSARY GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – still posting!
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC  by participating in the next GLC photo and art contest! Theme: (Snapshots) of Graduate Student Life. Get creative and submit whatever depicts you as a grad student. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 19.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

21. TWO ASSISTANTSHIP OPENINGS IN TLOS – 1st posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a  unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) (www.tlos.vt.edu)  is seeking two Graduate Assistants to work with the instructional design and course development, digital media, video editing and production, graphics and web development, digital imaging, assessment, project management and research staff of the unit. These GAs will provide direct support to faculty developing courses and will also be focused on the transition of courses from Scholar to Canvas and adherence to accessibility requirements. Graduate students with experience in any of the above areas are encouraged to submit a resume or CV attached to an email to lbaab@vt.edu, describing how their talents and abilities could contribute to the work of the unit.

22. CHILDREN AGES 8-12 WITH TEMPER ISSUES SOUGHT FOR NEW TREATMENT STUDY – 1st posting
Children ages 8-12 are currently being enrolled for a free treatment study for anger and irritability. The treatment is designed to teach children to regulate their emotions, and will be conducted in 13 weekly sessions. Families will also receive $70 for completing assessment sessions for the study. If interested in enrolling your child in this study, please contact Amber at MoodReg@gmail.com or call 540-231-9735 for more information.

23. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE STUDY – 1st posting
Graduate student researchers are conducting a study to investigate how specific actions affect balance. The study takes approximately 15-20 minutes and will involve standing still for two minutes and performing one of several actions, such as silently counting. Qualifications are: 18-30 years of age, no problems balancing, no history of dizziness, no recent knee or ankle injuries, and no concussions within the previous year. You will be compensated $10 for participating. The protocols in this study have been approved by the VT IRB (IRB#15-795). If interested, contact Peter Fino, 559 Whittemore Hall, fino@vt.edu.

24. SCHOOL-DAY PERFORMANCE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – 3rd posting
Since the Center for the Arts’ opening in 2013, nearly 8,000 students, teachers, parents, and chaperones have participated in Kindergarten-12 arts activities at the Moss Arts Center (MAC). School-day performances are here again and volunteers are needed to ensure that the students’ experience is top notch. If you are interested in helping, please email Donna Thompson at tdonna27@vt.edu for more information and schedule.

25. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR EYE, GAZE & EMOTIONS TREATMENT STUDY – 3rd posting
If you are a parent or legal guardian of a child/children who are having problems with all of the following: * breaking rules, arguing or fighting; * seem insensitive to punishment; * lack concern or empathy for others, contact VT researchers about a free IRB-approved research study on the VT campus for children ages 6-9. Parents/legal guardians complete questionnaires and children complete in-lab tasks and computer games.  Receive between $10-$30 per assessment session, up to $100 total. Contact Lauren at (540) 231-9735; Email:EyeGazeEmotions@gmail.com.

26. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR SOCIAL ANXIETY STUDY – 3rd posting
Free confidential research study for eligible individuals who are anxious or nervous in social situations; struggle with talking to members of the opposite sex; constantly concerned that they may do or say something that will embarrass them. Participants must be ages 18-55; research study involves brain imaging in social anxiety. If you are interested, or would like more information, contact the VT Social-Cognitive-Affective-Neuroscience Laboratory at (540) 231-8504 or email to  VT.scanlab@gmail.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

DANCE OF NATIONS AUDITIONS – SIGN UP NOW!
The Council of Intl Student Organizations (CISO) invites groups to participate in the annual Dance of Nations program to be held Nov 11 in the GLC Auditorium, showcasing a variety of solo to large group performances from around the world. Auditions will be held Mon, Oct 12, 6-8pm; Tue, Oct 13, 5.30-7.30pm; Fri, Oct 16, 6-8pm. Fill out this online form at http://goo.gl/forms/A4YYXnBxsQ by Oct 10 to be scheduled for an audition slot. Slots are limited and will be allotted first come, first served. Send questions to Haseeb Chaudhry at haseeb7@vt.edu.

FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Oct 13, 7:00pm, GLC Student Org Suite conference area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the second Tuesday of every month. Join the group to learn more about anxiety disorders and OCD, hear success stories from those who have worked to overcome their anxiety and OCD, and receive support in an informal setting. Family members and significant others are also welcome. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact the Psychological Services Center at 231-6914, visit www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc or email ajsmith1@vt.edu.

WHY DID PANGEA BREAK UP? – A RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTATION
Wednesday, Oct 14, 5:30-6:30pm, 2062 Derring (Museum of Geosciences)
250 million years ago all the continents were together as the supercontinent of Pangea, but after 50 million years Pangea began to rift apart forming the continents of today. There have been many suggestions for what caused the rifting of Pangea, but none so far really fit with all the geologic data. In this talk graduate student Lisa Whalen discusses the latest idea for why Pangea may have broken up and some interesting things about Pangea she discovered along the way. Come support graduate students learning to communicate their science and enjoy free ice cream after the workshop. Send questions to Lisa at lashley@vt.edu.

GRADUATE STUDENT TRIP TO JOE’S TREES
Saturday, Oct 17, 10:00am – 1:00pm, Meet in the GLC Lobby
Join the GLC Fellows for a fun-filled trip to Joe’s Trees. It’s their Farm Festival Weekend, with exciting activities such as a hayride to the pumpkin patch, corn maze, horse rides, awesome jellies and jams, and much more. Registration required at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1443151974781. Transportation is limited, so sign-up soon! Be sure to bring money for lunch, pumpkins or whatever else you want to buy. For more information about Joe’s Trees, check-out their website at http://joestrees.com/. If you have questions, e-mail GLC Fellows at kmpark07@vt.edu or scarlet7@vt.edu.

NAPPY EDGES & GOLDY LOCKS: THE RACE AND GENDER POLITICS OF HAIR
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:30pm, 3100 Torg
For African Americans, attitudes toward and responses to hair go beyond “big hair” and a “bad hair day.” This presentation examines the complex racial and gender identity politics of head hair. From Barbie, Britney, and Rapunzel to Pocahontas and Beyoncé, Lester shows how a national controversy was generated around the issue of African American hair in a children’s book, Carolivia Herron’s Nappy Hair, and how the issue of hair is central to certain ideals of beauty and femininity. An interactive presentation, this one uses dolls, folklore, music, literature, advertisements, and commercials to interrogate the extent to which African Americans have and have not moved from internalized problematic notions of “good” and “bad” hair. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Devon Lee, devonlee@vt.edu.

INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP FALL RETREAT – register now!
Friday, Oct 23, 8:00pm – Sunday, Oct 25, 12:00pm, near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $30 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/fall-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) with any questions.